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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
Why it matchesFamilies can walk an alpaca or learn about them and their wool. You can see how products are made from their fleece and yarns.
Why it matchesVisit the Shannon Dolphin Centre to learn about the bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon Estuary. See real skeletons, hear dolphin sounds, watch a film, and explore marine specimens. Children can enjoy goggle boxes, colouring, and a giant jig
Why it matchesExplore the historic walled gardens, find your way through a maze, play giant chess, and see the Victorian glasshouse. There is also an audio-visual display about the area's history.
Why it matchesTake a short trip on a diesel replica of the original Lartigue Monorail. See how the unique switching system works. Visit the museum to watch films and see models and displays about the railway.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a festival of stories, music, and songs inspired by the Irish Rambling House tradition. There are performances, workshops, and events for children.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore the museum, see World War II exhibits, and board a replica flying boat. There is a 3D show about Irish coffee, and a chance to taste it. You can also see maritime exhibits and river views.
Why it matchesFamilies can enjoy a water park with inflatable challenges, a Kiddy Splash Park for smaller children, and Swan Pedalos at Kilrush Marina. Wetsuits and buoyancy aids are included.
Why it matchesFamilies can stay in a bell tent or wooden cabin at this glamping site. There are yoga and meditation classes, a labyrinth, and woodland to explore. Nearby are beaches, coves, walking and cycling routes, horse riding, and dolphin watching.
Why it matchesExplore Scattery Island with OPW guides who will tell you about its history, from monks to Vikings. Look out for wildlife and enjoy the fresh air. Kids get activity sheets for the ferry trip.
Why it matchesTake a ferry to Scattery Island and explore a monastic site with a round tower, churches, and a lighthouse. OPW guides lead a walking tour, and you can spot wildlife.
Why it matchesTake a boat trip to Scattery Island and explore its monastic ruins, round tower, and lighthouse. There is a shorter walk and a colouring map for children, and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching.
Why it matchesThe Pollock Holes are natural swimming pools in the sea at Kilkee. At low tide, you can walk across the flagstones and swim or snorkel in the clear Atlantic water. Watch out for small pollock.
Why it matchesFamilies can take a ferry across the Shannon Estuary from Tarbert to Killimer, County Clare. You can also walk along the coast and see the Tarbert Lighthouse.
Why it matchesFamilies can wander through this garden with over 3,000 trees and shrubs, divided into sections for different European countries. There are monuments and a bust of the poet Schiller to see.
Why it matchesFamilies can see a life-size bronze statue of the famous uilleann piper Willie Clancy. In July, the area hosts a summer school with music and dance.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk along the quays at Carrigaholt Bay, see the 15th-century castle, and watch the fishing boats. You might also see dolphin watching trips leaving from here.
Why it matchesSee the natural sea arch at the Bridges of Ross and take in the sea air. In autumn, you might spot seabirds before they head off for winter.
Why it matchesFamilies can drive or walk along the Loop Head Drive, see the lighthouse, and look for seabirds and dolphins. There are wildflowers and natural arches to spot.
Why it matchesFamilies can explore twisty paths with views of the Shannon Estuary, look for wildlife like dolphins and otters, and enjoy a picnic. There are also historical connections to flying boats.
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