Brought to you by Iarnród Éireann
Making plans for the long weekend? We've got you covered...
With Paddy's Day weekend fast approaching, you're probably not the only one searching for activities that'll keep the kids occupied during their time off.
And seeing as there's an extra Bank Holiday to account for this year, we thought we'd put together our top spots to visit with kiddies over the long weekend.
And when it comes to getting there, we've got that covered too.
That's because all of these spots are easily accessed by train, like
Dublin, Cork, Westport, Waterford or
Kilkenny.
After two years of travel restrictions, Iarnród Éireann want us to get back to making memories by making travel stress-free and comfortable for the whole family, wherever you're going. All you need to do is kick back, relax and enjoy the journey!
You can book your trip with Iarnród Éireannl
right here.
In the meantime, here are our top picks for Bank Holiday weekend activities...
Dublin Zoo
If you're looking for a day-trip that combines exciting wildlife with outdoor adventures, a family trip to
Dublin Zoo ticks all the boxes.
Always an exciting day out, kids can meet Dublin's resident wildlife including the dholes, which are the latest species to take up residence at the zoo. Plus, there's plenty of on-site options to grab a bite to eat during your visit and some picnic spots if you want to bring along your own snacks.
St Patrick's Festival Kilkenny
If you're looking to celebrate Paddy's Day somewhere new this year, the
St Patrick's Festival Kilkenny has a jam packed itinerary for the Bank Holiday weekend.
Running from Tuesday 15th until Sunday 20th March, Kilkenny city will be lit up green to celebrate the big day. Throughout the weekend, you can expect a show-stopping St Patrick's Day parade, some amusement rides, loads of live musical performances and a fireworks display.
Westport House, Mayo
Westport House has long been one of the West's most exciting family attractions, and it's easy to see why.
For thrill-seekers, the on-site Pirate Adventure Park has loads of exciting rides and slides for kids aged 3 to 12 years old, including the ever-popular Cannonball Run slide and the Pirates Plunge Flume ride. Other attractions include a mini zip line, mini ferris wheel and the Swan Pedalo bikes on the lake. Plus, you have 430 acres of Irish outdoors to explore, as well as Westport House itself.
Tramore, Waterford
It might not be summer weather just yet, but a family trip to the beach has its appeal all year round.
Waterford's coastline is the perfect spot, as you've got a sandy golden strand to explore, plus loads of other activities too. As well as spending the day enjoying Tramore beach, kids can also have some fun on the exhilarating amusement rides nearby, play a round of mini golf or try their hand at some exciting watersports.
Ballyhass Adventure Park, Cork
Located in Mallow, Co. Cork,
Ballyhass Adventure Park is the ultimate spot for outdoor adventures with kids this Paddy's Day weekend.
Ballyhass offers a huge selection of water, height and land based adventure activities, so there's sure to be something here to suit everyone. Some of the activities on offer include the Aquapark, kayaking, high ropes and archery, to name but a few. However, some activities have age or height restrictions so be sure to check this out before booking your family adventure.
Taking a train trip is more than getting from A to B, it’s about making the most of your time. From travelling alone to unwind to making memories with family, your time is better spent on the train.
Book on irishrail.ie for best value, flexible fares
Brought to you by Iarnród Éireann 
