Touring Ireland (or anywhere) with kids requires some extra thought to make sure everyone is happy and enjoying themselves. These places are all especially fun for or welcoming to children, or are places you might like to have in mind as a backup if the weather is not cooperating.
There is general advice about touring Ireland with kids, and also, because cities can be specially exhausting, a series of suggested itineraries for how to spend time around Dublin as a family. Look out for the Fun for Kids icon as you browse the site for places that children will especially enjoy.
A visit to Blarney Castle and a chance to kiss the Blarney stone are fixtures on many Irish tour itineraries, but is it actually a must-see or …
This vast enclosed park in Dublin houses a Zoo, residences for the president of Ireland and the US ambassador as well as a herd of wild deer.
Killykeen is a large forested area beside Lough Oughter in Co Cavan, which as well as good walks has an interesting ruined castle on an Island and a …
One of the oldest lighthouses in the world, the light from Hook Head has been shining its beacon more or less continuously for over 800 years.
Charles Fort is a massive structure, with walls up to 6m thick and five defensive bastions around its perimeter.
This small garden is managed and staffed by the residents of Camphill, a movement composed of individuals, many with special needs, who live together …
The history of early Ireland is brought vividly to life here, through reconstructed buildings and re-enactments of the life and work of Irish people …
Marble Arch caves are Ireland largest caves, both in terms of the extent and the sheer hugeness of some of the internal spaces.
Located on the shore of the remote and lovely Killary Fjord, this busy and popular adventure centre offers, among other things, kayaking, wind …
A particular good example of Ireland Norman castles, Cahir Castle has been well restored and visitors, especially younger ones, will enjoy exploring …
It's one of the great tragedies of Ireland that a once extensive local railway network was allowed to disappear.
Located in the wonderful Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo is one of Ireland's most popular visitor attractions and is a perennial kid's favourite.
Duncannon Fort in Wexford is a star shaped fort which has had an important role in defending Waterford Port for more than 800 years.
Emo Court is a Gandon designed Georgian house at the centre of a huge landscaped estate of gardens, walks and grand vistas.
This is the way a zoo should be - with animals kept in large enclosures designed to emulate their natural habitats - not just better for the animals …
Once home to the world's largest telescope, Birr Castle has a fascinating collection of scientific and engineering items from Ireland's past.