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Along with long walks and beach trips, visits to heritage hotspots are an essential ingredient in the recipe for the perfect Irish family getaway.
Between castles, historical re-enactments and everything in between, Ireland's Ancient East boasts a wealth of heritage experiences the whole family can enjoy.
We've hand-picked 10 attractions that are not only educational, but also entertaining, exciting and inspiring.
Add these experiences to your next getaway in Ireland's Ancient East and level-up your short break.
With its three-storey keep and magnificent 20-sided tower, this Anglo-Norman castle is a sight to behold for visitors of all ages. Modern walkways now allow visitors to safely explore the castle's interior, and you'll get plenty of historical insight from your expert tour guide. After your visit, take a moment to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and relax on the banks of the River Boyne.
Refuel afterwards with a family lunch in Shaw's of Summerhill – an authentic pub packed full of character.
Cork City Gaol Heritage Centre is an immersive experience that gives families a fascinating glimpse into what life was like inside its walls. You'll wander the halls and hear the stories of the men and women who were imprisoned here. You can even opt to get locked into a prison cell that once held Countess Markievicz.
After your tour, pop into Market Lane for family lunch. The menu here is loaded with tasty options and a stacked children's menu.
This unique attraction is devoted to the role horses have played in Ireland's heritage and it's a big hit for the young and the young-at-heart. At Fethard Horse Country Experience, you'll get up close and personal with champion stallions and explore all things equine through an interactive exhibit.
Enjoy an al fresco family meal afterwards in Cluain Restaurant in nearby Clonmel.
This castle overlooks the beautiful Carlingford Lough, and a tour of this striking castle is bound to wow visitors of all ages. Book your spot on your next short break and take in centuries of history and legend in a picture-perfect location.
Afterwards, indulge your family with a round of hot chocolates and plenty of sweet treats at Ruby Ellen's Tea Rooms.
On your next family getaway, unleash your inner potter and let the creativity flow with Busy Bees Ceramics. Select from a range of mugs, plates, bowls, dinosaurs and fairies, roll up your sleeves and get crafty.
To make the experience even more enjoyable book in advance and enjoy tea, coffee and cupcakes as you work on your creation.
Unearth 9,000 years of history against the backdrop of the breathtaking Bog of Allen. In addition to exhibitions and multimedia displays, Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park has plenty of activities to keep younger visitors entertained, including a pet farm, a treasure hunt, an outdoor play area and a road train.
All that exploring will have worked up an appetite, so swing by the Purple Heather Café - an on-site restaurant - for lunch.
Food is an essential part of our country's rich cultural tapestry and where better to get a foodie education than at Cork's Marina Market? With 35 vendors serving everything from Korean fried chicken to pizza, you're bound to find ways to satisfy every family member's appetite. Stroll through the market with something tasty in hand, chat to the locals and soak up the atmosphere.
After filling up, take in the sights of the city with a family ramble along the banks of the River Lee.
At the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre, history comes alive through life-size models and re-enactments. On your next short break, live and breathe this fascinating moment in Irish history while exploring the picturesque grounds and house. This summer, there are plenty of theatre experiences geared towards families, including Pride and Prejudice and Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.
Once you've taken in the history, enjoy a moment of calm - and some tasty food - surrounded by flowers at the centre's café.
Dive headfirst into Ireland's sheep-farming culture on your next short break with a visit to Irish Working Sheepdogs in Ballymore Eustace at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains. Sit back and watch an adorable (and clever) pack of border collies do what they do best, all against the stunning mountainside.
Afterwards, head to the award-winning Ballymore Inn for a family meal.
The colourful town of Cobh in Co. Cork boasts some pretty impressive history. It was after, all, the fateful Titanic's last port-of-call. On the Titanic Trail, your family will weave through the town, passing landmarks and picking up some fascinating tidbits about Ireland's maritime heritage along the way.
For a post-tour bite, we recommend Jacob's Ladder Restaurant at the WatersEdge Hotel.
So, what are you waiting for? Add some family fun to your next getaway with these heritage hotspots.
Start planning your next short break at DiscoverIreland.ie
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