The Newport Shepherds
Why it matchesWatch skilled sheepdogs at work and learn about their role in Irish farming. You can even try training a dog yourself.
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 matchesWatch skilled sheepdogs at work and learn about their role in Irish farming. You can even try training a dog yourself.
Why it matchesThis festival offers stargazing, talks, workshops, and seashore safaris. By day, explore the landscape; by night, enjoy nightscapes, music, and a Lantern Walk.
Why it matchesThis festival in Newport celebrates local heritage and music with street entertainment, live concerts, and events for children.
Why it matchesFamilies can try out lots of traditional Irish musical instruments in interactive workshops. You will learn to play a song together.
Why it matchesFamilies can learn about the Old Irish Goat through exhibits, a film, and an art display. You can also see the goats and browse local crafts in the shop.
Why it matchesHire bikes, electric bikes, or bikes with child trailers to cycle the Great Western Greenway. Pick up and drop off at different locations along the route. Roadside assistance is included.
Why it matchesHire bikes, including ones for children, tag-alongs and carriages, to cycle the Great Western Greenway. Helmets, locks and high-vis vests are provided.
Why it matchesThis outdoor adventure park has a huge net park, zip lines, climbing, a giant swing and slide, pedalos, a road train, and a playground. There are lots of food options too.
Why it matchesRent bikes, including kids' bikes and trailers, to cycle the Great Western Greenway or other routes around Westport. Get advice on routes or book an escorted tour.
Why it matchesExplore the historic house and gardens, or head to the Adventure Park for some outdoor fun. There are woodland trails and places to eat, with camping and glamping too.
Why it matchesThis indoor play village has a Wild West-themed climbing frame, slides, a ball pit, and sports areas. There is also a separate play area for toddlers and a sensory room.
Why it matchesMeet two Irish Wolfhounds, Spéir and Máirtín, on Bertra Beach. You can pet and cuddle them, watch them play, and learn about their history and care from Aidan. There are chances for photos too.
Why it matchesThis family-friendly festival in Foxford offers four days of traditional Irish music, song, dance, and storytelling. You can enjoy concerts, sessions, workshops, and cultural events with talented performers.
Why it matchesThis free heritage day at Céide Fields offers demonstrations of wildcrafts and gold panning, along with other fun activities for all the family.
Why it matchesTake a boat trip from Blacksod to see the bay and islands. You can choose a relaxed trip on a passenger boat or a high-speed RIB tour for more excitement.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the aquarium to see Irish marine life and exotic creatures. There is also a museum about Achill Island's history, including a traditional boley house. You can get coffee and souvenirs.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore an interactive exhibition about nature and the night sky, then take a walk on the Tóchar Daithí Bán Trail for views or the Nature Trail to a pond and sensory area. There is a cafe on site.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy sea kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, guided walks, and powerboat rides around Clew Bay. Equipment is provided, and there is a hot tub for relaxing after the activities.
Why it matchesFamilies can go for a swim in the main pool or the kids' pool, and there's a playground right next door. Adults might use the gym or book a treatment.
Why it matchesWalk across the old railway viaduct, which has seven arches, and get some grand views of the river and the area around it. It's part of the Great Western Greenway.
Why it matchesTake a 15-minute ferry trip across the fjord, or hire a boat with a crew for five hours to explore Bellacragher Bay, visit islands, snorkel, fish, or have a BBQ.
Why it matchesThis is an embarkation point for a ferry to Inis Bigil. You can park your car here and catch the ferry, which also has a connecting bus service to Ballycroy.
Why it matchesVisit Inishbiggle island for a walk and to explore. You can experience traditional island life and see the scenery. There is a festival in August.
Why it matchesHire a motorhome to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, seeing different views each morning. You can visit villages, historic spots, or do outdoor activities like hillwalking or surfing.
Your starting point, children’s ages and practical limits.
Opening times, weather, travel time, cost and suitability.
Compare clear recommendations and understand every match.