You don’t have to travel far to find some fun in Ireland if you’re armed with a plan of action. A good coastal destination for an Irish family event measures up to any holiday activity abroad. Show the little ones how cool their country is and embrace what’s new in Ireland this weekend.
Make some picnic snacks for the little mini-break, and get ready to chill out in one of these places:Â
Curved Street, Temple Bar (around the corner from the Wall of Fame) – Tours from 10am every day.
Why go? If you are looking for a rocking way to spend a weekend afternoon, you need to bookmark this 75-minute tour. A guided walk  includes photographs and memorabilia from The Script, Rory Gallagher, Phil Lynott, Van Morrison and Sinead O’Connor in the venue that they all performed in, at one stage or another.
What’s cool?  U2 frontman, Bono himself signed a blank cheque for a big fan and this artefact is now on display in the museum. Oh, Bono you old show-man, you.
How much? Families, €50. Adults, €16. Children, €12.
Just 5km off the M1, at Drogheda, Co Meath – tours at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm.
Why go? Sheep, horses and poultry never fail to enthrall young children and the fresh air will do Mum and Dad the world of good too. This cool farm is set the majestic Boyne Valley region of Ireland, so there’ll be plenty of photo opportunities too. Meet Dexter the calf up close and personal and see baby chicks attempting to fly. There are amazing picnic facilities and really fun farm walks to enjoy.
What’s cool? This is the largest indoor farm facility in Ireland. Toy tractor peddle-cart racing for kids is the coolest new activity for your little ones to try. Yep, told you it was worth a visit.
How much? Families, €24. Adults, €7. Children, €7.
3. Canal Bank Market Fair
Portobello Square, Dublin 8 – August 15 and 16, 11am – 6pm
Why go? There will be vinyl records on sale, vintage clothing, good handmade arts and crafts from graduates of Irish art colleges and artisan food and beverage stalls for the market lovers in all of us. If you fancy live music and a relaxed vibe take yourself here this weekend – the face-painter for the festival is super talented so bring the camera.
What’s cool? This festival is funded by Dublin City Council, and it’s one of their best for families. Fact.
How much? FREE unless you make a slick vintage purchase or grab a refreshing drink on the banks of the canal.
Tip? Bring factor 50 sunscreen. An overcast day in Ireland can still leave you exposed to the sun’s harmful rays.
4. Christchurch
Opposite Jurys Inn, Christchurch, Dublin 8 (you simply cannot miss it) – Choir recitals on Sunday: 11am, 3.30pm.
Why go? The crypt in this Medieval church, built in 1028, is a truly incredible site. Religion aside, the venue is a spectacular example of architecture in Dublin City. It is home to the oldest medieval vault in the UK and Ireland and is a labyrinth of cool, underground tunnels. There are musical recitals within the natural acoustics of the space regularly, including this weekend.
What’s cool? Genius pencil artist, Henry Sharpe takes NCAD students down to deathly silent vaults in Christchurch to teach them how to use light and shade in pencil sketching. Cool, but kinda scary too.
How much? Families, €15. Adults, €6. Children, €2.
5. Wicklow Gaol
Kilmantin Hill, Wickow town – 10.30pm – 4.30pm
Why go? An engaging experience for visitors who might like to know a bit more about Irish history and paranormal activity, this 18th-century prison features spooky creaking doors that close and open by themselves, making the tour a hair-raising experience for little (and not so little) people. Visit the ‘Jailers Rest’ for a nice frothy cappuccino (at 10 per cent off with your ticket), to calm the nerves afterwards. Bliss.
What’s cool? There is a genealogy centre on site where you can track your family tree and discover whether you are actually related to Henry Ford and yet, still can’t get it together and learn to drive (recording personal note to self).
How much? Families, €20. Adults, €8. Children, €5.
Tip? While you’re there, why not visit the stunning backdrop of Glendalough and take a few family snaps?
Summer adventures make for thirsty adventurers. Fill a cooler with Capri Sun pouches, which now come with a clever easy-opening pouch… so no more spills!
With a range of 12 great fruity flavours and no artificial sweeteners, flavours, colours or preservatives, kids and mums agree that Capri-Sun is Ireland’s favourite juice drink.
