Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.
There’s no need to break the bank for an unforgettable family day out.
That cool autumn weather is settling in, and it’s inspiring us to start planning great short breaks to make the most of it.
Thankfully in Ireland, there are plenty of affordable ways to keep our kids entertained as they embrace this beautiful season. Fill your next city break with museum visits or get out and about and check out the changing leaves with outdoor attractions around the country – all without breaking the bank.
Looking for inspiration? You’ve come to the right place. Here are some of our favourite affordable family activities that deserve a spot on your next short break.
Birr Castle Demesne, Gardens & Science Centre Co. Offaly
Autumn is made for long, family walks to really take in the changing season, and Birr Castle Demesne is the ideal place to do exactly that. Step back in time with a guided discovery tour of the outdoors, visit the Historic Science Centre and afterwards, let your little ones explore the grounds to their hearts’ content. As well as the beautiful gardens and woodlands, there’s a treehouse playground, which is a massive hit with younger visitors.
Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI), Dublin
The Museum of Literature in Ireland celebrates our nation’s greatest storytellers, and it’s a hit with kids and adults alike. As you enjoy Dublin in that fresh autumn weather, take a break and step inside MoLI’s immersive exhibitions, wander the tranquil Reader’s Garden and enjoy the museum’s current exhibition, A City of Words. The LitLab on level 4 invites younger visitors to take part in fun activities and games, and on Sundays, children are welcome to enjoy Storytime. Adult tickets cost €14.50 while children’s rates cost €12, though a variety of family rates are available.
The Achill Experience Aquarium & Museum, Co. Mayo
As well as being a place of astounding natural beauty, Achill Island is home to Mayo’s first and only aquarium. A 45-minute tour of The Achill Experience’ Aquarium brings you face-to-face with a wide array of marine life, including catsharks, crabs, thornback rays, starfish and sea urchins. The museum, meanwhile, offers fascinating insights into Achill’s history. Adult tickets cost €13, while children over two years-old can attend for €6.50.
Little Museum of Dublin
Dublin’s city centre is home to the Little Museum of Dublin, a Georgian house that showcases the very best of Dublin, making it truly fascinating for children and adults alike. Right now, the museum is undergoing some renovations so until it reopens, check out the pop-up exhibition on Pembroke Street. After your visit, take a stroll to the nearby St. Stephen’s Green Park and allow your children to explore even more with the Big Little Treasure Hunt. There, they’ll be kept busy learning and having fun, as they take in the changing leaves and feel the crunch of the crisp autumn leaves underfoot.
Beyond The Trees, Avondale House & Forest Park, Co. Wicklow
For a truly autumnal family walk, head out to Avondale House & Forest Park in Co. Wicklow and embark on the fully accessible Treetop Walk. This walkway has a natural gradient, allowing you to rise up to the trees’ levels at 23 metres, before leading you towards the magnificent viewing tower, and its panoramic views of Wicklow. Indeed, it’s a gorgeous way to take in that crisp fresh air amongst the trees. It’s also suitable for prams. Afterwards, slide back down on Ireland’s longest slide to solid ground. Adult tickets cost €16, while children’s tickets cost €13, though family rates are available.
Suir Blueway, Co. Tipperary
For an active family day out, make your way to the Suir Blueway in Co. Tipperary. Bring your bikes and enjoy a cycle along this picturesque trail, which connects Carrick-on-Suir to Clonmel, with the Comeragh Mountains in the background. Shorter routes to suit younger cyclists can be selected – we’d recommend the Suir Side to Carey’s Slip linear route, which is a 5km return journey. Another, slightly longer option is the Cahir Castle to Swiss Cottage Route, which is an 8km return journey.
The Blueway is free to explore on your own bike, but bike rentals are also available from Treacy’s Blueway Bike Hire in Carrick-on-Suir, adult prices start from €18, while children’s start from €10.
For more ideas on how to make the most of your short break in Ireland, visit discoverireland.ie
Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.
From fascinating exhibits, thrilling walking trails and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the very best of Ireland without breaking the bank.
So what are you waiting for? Book a day out that’s fun for the whole family today.
The Leave No Trace principles help us make as little an impact as possible on the incredible Irish landscape as we explore the outdoors. Keep outdoor areas safe, clean and free from waste/hazards, and help protect the natural environment. Love this place, leave no trace.
Brought to you by DiscoverIreland.
