Ireland’s family activity finder

Why it matchesNational Heritage Week has free events all over Ireland, with guided walks, talks, craft demonstrations, exhibitions, and family activities. There are things to do for all ages.

Why it matchesFamilies can step back in time at Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum, exploring 8,000 objects from 19th-century rural Ireland. See old shops, a school room, kitchen, dairy, farm machinery, and sporting memorabilia.

Why it matchesMeet farm animals and birds, then let the kids run wild in the outdoor playgrounds or the indoor inflatable and soft play areas. They also have special events for holidays.

Why it matchesBaysports is an outdoor adventure centre with an inflatable waterpark, including a junior waterpark for younger children. You can also try kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, or boat trips.

Why it matchesExplore Athlone Castle, learn about its history and battles through multimedia displays and interactive games. There are picnic facilities in the courtyard and views of the town.

Why it matchesThis festival in Athlone offers plenty to see and do, running alongside the Athlone River Festival. It's a free event for families to enjoy.

Why it matchesThis festival celebrates Athlone's Viking heritage with longboat and kayak battles, street theatre, markets, and children's activities. You can also go on heritage walks and boat trips.

Why it matchesExplore the ruins of Roscommon Castle and learn about its history. Afterwards, enjoy the adjacent Loughnaneane Park, which has a playground, a wildlife area with a viewing deck, and a turlough.

Why it matchesFamilies can go horse riding, with treks for different skill levels and lessons available. There is also an arts and crafts room, an enchanted forest, a toddler playground, and garden or forest walks.

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 matchesFamilies can pet and feed animals, explore playgrounds, and follow a fairy trail. There's an indoor and outdoor picnic area, and a coffee shop for refreshments.

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 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 matchesThis festival offers four days of traditional Irish music in Ballinasloe. You can enjoy live performances, attend workshops, listen to talks, and experience lively pub sessions. There are also competitions and free outdoor shows.

Why it matchesTake a boat trip from Athlone Castle up the River Shannon to Lough Ree. You can listen to commentary on local history and Viking tales, or just enjoy the scenery.

Why it matchesTake a boat trip on a Viking-themed ship along the River Shannon. You can go north to Lough Ree or south to Clonmacnoise. There is commentary about the history and wildlife.

Why it matchesTake a boat trip from Athlone, through the lock gates and down the river. You will see wildlife and plants, and pass the round tower of Clonmacnoise. You can also use the water taxi around Athlone and Lough Ree.

Why it matchesFamilies can browse plants, outdoor furniture, homeware, and gifts. There is also a restaurant for meals and women's fashion to look at.

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 a 17th-century castle and wander through formal gardens, including a willow maze and a restored kitchen garden with old-fashioned planting.

Quick summary