Family-Friendly Attractions: Fun for All Ages in Ireland

11/06/2024

Ireland is a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and modern amusements. Whether you're traveling with young children, teenagers, or grandparents, Ireland has something for everyone. Here’s our guide to some of the best family-friendly attractions across the country, ensuring fun for all ages.

 

Emerald Park, County Meath

Emerald Park combines the best of both worlds: an amusement park and a zoo. Located in Ashbourne, County Meath, it features thrilling roller coasters, a water park, and a variety of rides suitable for all ages. The zoo section includes tigers, meerkats, and other fascinating animals. The also has plenty of picnic areas and restaurants, making it easy to spend a full day there.

Image: Emerald Park

Fota Wildlife Park, County Cork

Situated on Fota Island near Cork, this wildlife park offers a unique experience where animals roam freely in naturalistic habitats. Families can walk among kangaroos, lemurs, and other animals, providing a close-up encounter with wildlife. Fota Wildlife Park also has playgrounds and picnic areas, ensuring a full day of fun and relaxation.

 

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, County Clare

Step back in time at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. This medieval castle, complete with dungeons and towers, provides an exciting adventure for children. The adjacent folk park recreates 19th-century Irish village life with traditional cottages, shops, and a school. Interactive exhibits and live demonstrations of crafts and cooking make it an educational and entertaining experience.

 Courtesy Eamon Ward

 

The Irish National Stud and Gardens, County Kildare

For families with an interest in horses and nature, the Irish National Stud and Gardens is a perfect destination. Located in County Kildare, the stud farm is home to some of Ireland’s finest racehorses. The Japanese Gardens and St. Fiachra’s Garden offer serene landscapes to explore. 

 

Galway Atlantaquaria, County Galway

Ireland’s largest native species aquarium, Galway Atlantaquaria, is located on the scenic Salthill Promenade. The aquarium features a variety of marine life from Ireland’s coasts and rivers. Interactive touch pools and feeding demonstrations make it a hit with kids, while the educational exhibits engage visitors of all ages.

 

The Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant’s Causeway is a must-see for families visiting Northern Ireland. The unique hexagonal basalt columns create a dramatic landscape that fascinates both children and adults. The visitor center offers interactive exhibits explaining the geological formation and myths surrounding the site. The coastal paths provide stunning views and opportunities for family hikes.

 

 © Chris Hill Photographic 2011


Whether its fun filled action packed vacations or special quiet time your loved ones; they are equally important. If it’s horse riding, cycling, boating, walking, world-class golf, swimming or surfing you’re looking for you will find it with us. Here in Select Hotels of Ireland we understand the importance of ‘family friendly’ and we can advise on the perfect location to suit to your family.