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All ages · up to 60 min · any budget
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 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 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 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 matchesMeet farm animals and birds, then let the kids run wild in the outdoor playgrounds or the indoor inflatable and soft play areas. They also have special events for holidays.
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 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 matchesExplore the eastern shore of Lough Derg by road or water, visiting harbours and villages. You can tour castles, take a waterbus cruise, go for forest walks, or enjoy a floating playground.
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 17th-century castle and wander through formal gardens, including a willow maze and a restored kitchen garden with old-fashioned planting.
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 visitor centre has interactive displays and multi-sensory exhibits about the history of Inis Cealtra, its religious past, and the local community. You can also learn about the wildlife of Lough Derg.
Why it matchesFamilies can walk, cycle, or kayak along the Lough Derg Blueway, enjoying the lake's natural beauty and wildlife. It's a place to slow down and observe nature.
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 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.
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