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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.
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