Family Day OutSavedTell us the basics. We’ll match activities to your family, your journey, your budget, and the weather on the day.
All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
Why it matchesThis is a week-long festival with a varied programme of events. You can expect a mix of things to see and do for the whole family in Birr.
Why it matchesFamilies can visit a traditional farm with animals, walk through fields and meadows, and explore an ancient fairy fort. There's also a bouncy castle and a picnic area.
Why it matchesFamilies can meet farm animals, play on indoor slides and in ball pits, or enjoy outdoor activities like go-carts and a sledge run. There is a separate area for toddlers.
Why it matchesThis is a show with songs and puppets based on the Acorn Wood stories. It is put on by the same people who did Dear Zoo Live and Dear Santa.
Why it matchesHire bikes in Portumna and cycle to the Forest Park, Castle, Abbey, swimming park, or the Famine Workhouse. You get a helmet, hi-viz, and a map with routes.
Why it matchesExplore the castle grounds, see the historic telescope and science exhibits, and let the kids enjoy the adventure playground. There are over 5,000 plant species in the gardens.
Why it matchesJoin Wild Food Mary to ramble through her garden or woodlands, finding edible plants, flowers, fruits and fungi. Learn about foraged food and help prepare a feast in her kitchen.
Why it matchesExplore interactive exhibitions about the castle's history. In the courtyard, see Norman life and play medieval games. Climb the towers for views of Limerick City and County Clare.
Why it matchesExplore the eastern shore of Lough Derg by road or water, visiting harbours and villages. You can tour castles, take a waterbus cruise, go for forest walks, or enjoy a floating playground.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the ground floor of Portumna Castle, see the formal and walled kitchen gardens, and enjoy the views of Lough Derg. There is a playground and walking trails.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy cycling, kayaking, walking, and exploring heritage sites like a 17th-century castle and abbey. There are also nature walks and mountain bike trails.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy woodland walks, a playground, and picnic areas in Cratloe Wood. It's a good spot for a relaxing day out in nature.
Why it matchesTake a boat trip on the River Shannon and Lough Derg. You can sit on the open deck for views of the mountains or relax inside. The owner shares local stories and folklore.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore a 17th-century castle and wander through formal gardens, including a willow maze and a restored kitchen garden with old-fashioned planting.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk in the extensive grounds and the seventeenth-century terrace garden at Glenstal Abbey. You can also take part in the community's worship or visit the Icon Chapel by arrangement.
Why it matchesHave a wander around O'Driscoll Garden Centre in Thurles and see all sorts of plants, from trees and shrubs to herbs and climbing plants. You might find something unusual for your own garden.
Why it matchesFamilies can hire a Carrickcraft cruiser to explore Ireland's waterways. The boats have a shower, toilet, kitchen, and heating, and fit two to six people. Staff can suggest places to visit.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore Limerick's history through archaeological finds, local crafts like lace and silver, and military items at this free museum.
Why it matchesFamilies can go behind the scenes at Thomond Park Stadium, home of Munster Rugby. The tour includes the dressing rooms, dugout, and a walk down the tunnel. There is also an interactive museum with memorabilia and a film about the club.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a walk through this historic city park, admiring the colourful flowers, lawns, and trees. There are monuments like the Richard Russell fountain and a bandstand to see.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore Clonohill Gardens, which are set at the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains. There is a looped trail through woodland and a gravel pathway with various plants.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy walking or cycling along the lakeside paths, trying out paddleboarding on the canal, or exploring the historic towns of Killaloe and Ballina. There are local shops and cafes to visit.
Why it matchesFamilies can go for a walk through the woods, enjoy a picnic, and look out for local wildlife. In spring, a large area of the woodland is covered in bluebells.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk through the woods, look for birds and other wildlife, or have a picnic by Doon Lake. You can also go fishing here.
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