Tell 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 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 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 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 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 matchesHire bikes, electric bikes, or bikes with child seats, trailers or tag-alongs, and cycle the Royal Canal Greenway or through Longford Forest. There are free maps and advice on routes.
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 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 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 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 matchesChildren can feed the animals at Mollie Moo's Pet Farm. There are also playgrounds, crazy golf, go karts, a sandpit, chess, and an interactive village called Mooville for families to enjoy.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the historic house, wander through the Victorian Walled Garden, and discover follies like The Jealous Wall. There are four play areas for children, a fairy garden, and 10km of walking trails.
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 matchesFamilies can explore a heritage park with reconstructed historical sites, walking trails, a pet farm, and playgrounds. There are also tea rooms and an exhibition on Irish culture.
Why it matchesLough Boora Discovery Park has walking and cycling trails, a sculpture park, and a fairy trail. You can hire bikes and there is a cafe at the visitor centre. Fishing is also available.
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 browse plants, outdoor furniture, homeware, and gifts. There is also a restaurant for meals and women's fashion to look at.
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 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 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 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 matchesThis is a scenic driving route through the Slieve Bloom mountains with several viewing points. You can stop to take in the views of the hills and the landscape.
Quick summary
Your starting point, children’s ages and practical limits.
Opening times, weather, travel time, cost and suitability.
Compare clear recommendations and understand every match.