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 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 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 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 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 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 explore plants and flowers, shop for local produce, and enjoy food from the village. There are workshops for children, and a farmers market every Saturday.
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 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 matchesVisit a working wind farm with a sensory garden and a learning hub about renewable energy. You can walk or cycle around the farm, or take part in a free 5km run on Saturday mornings.
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 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 the grounds, lake, and woodland at Emo Court, or take a guided tour of the house to see the period rooms and learn about the servants' lives. There are tearooms for a break.
Why it matchesThis is a private hire dog park where families can bring their dog to run around off-leash in a secure, fenced area. There's agility equipment and sheltered seating.
Why it matchesExplore the ruins of a historic castle on a hilltop and take in the stunning views of the Laois countryside. It's a chance to see a significant Anglo-Norman site.
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.
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 explore the formal gardens, woodland walks, and a lake at Emo Court. It is a good spot for a picnic, with plenty of space to roam and discover trees and sculptures.
Why it matchesBrittas is a Coillte forest recreation site in Clonaslee forest with waymarked walking trails. Families can enjoy walks like the Ricket's Rock Loop or the Brittas Loop.
Why it matchesFamilies can visit Durrow Abbey, a Coillte forest recreation site in Ballydaly forest, open all year round. There is a car park on site.
Why it matchesFamilies can go for a walk in Lacka Forest. There are two waymarked trails, a shorter one at 1.2 km and a longer one at 4.8 km.
Why it matchesFamilies can go for a walk in Garryhinch forest, choosing between two waymarked trails. It is a good spot for a bit of fresh air and a stretch of the legs.
Why it matchesFamilies can go for a walk in Glasderry Wood, a Coillte forest recreation site. There is a car park on site. Check the Coillte page before visiting.
Why it matchesFamilies can go for a walk in Carrick Wood, a Coillte forest recreation site. There is a short waymarked trail called the Spire Walk, which is 0.4 km long.
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