11 of the best fun playgrounds in Dublin

Looking for some great new playgrounds in Dublin to bring the kids to?

Play is vital to children, and in today's world, more important than ever, really. And the same can be said for time spent outdoors, and being in unstructured physical activity. Which is why playgrounds are a godsend, mama. They provide entertainment, fun and challenges, build motoric skills and yield plenty of good, aul' fresh air. Fancy trying somewhere new? Here are 11 of the best playgrounds in Dublin right now – perfect if you are stuck for fun things to do this bank holiday weekend: 1. Cabinteely Park One of the best playgrounds in Dublin, if you ask me. This park is so perfect for a family outing, and one I often visit myself with my own two kids. There are loads (seriously; loads) of different climbing frames, slides and interactive things to do, but my kids' favourite is no doube the giant sand pit. There is a water pump and a little sit-on digger, and really, once water is present near sand, you are talking hours and hours of fun. 2. The Giant's Garden, Merrion Square If you happen to be in the city centre with young children, the little playground just inside the gates at Merrion  Square is a must-see. There is a large wooden climbing frame with rope bridges and a big slide at the end, and swings too. 3. Marlay Park Playground Vast, and with something to do for almost all ages, from toddlers to tweens, you can't go wrong with the playground in Marlay Park. PS: If you go on a Saturday, there is a farmer's market down the other end of the park, meaning you can get yourself a nice cup of coffee to sip on as the kids play. 4. People's Park Playground, Dun Laoghaire Like Marlay, People's Park also has a huge farmer's market every Sunday, so if you go that day, be prepared for the playground to be pretty crowded. However, it is worth a visit none the less, with plenty of different climbing frames and slides, swings and everything else you would want. 5. Malahide Castle Playground Malahide Castle is so with a visit on a sunny day, both for the castle itself, the gorgeous Avoca store that is there, and also for the big playground on the grounds of the castle. The large playground has separate areas for younger and older children, with wood chipping and spongy materials under every piece of equipment. 6. Ardgillan Castle Playground This playground is such a find, and one the kids will forever beg you to go back to once you've been. There is a vast variety of climbs and swings and slides, and is also great if you happen to also have a baby in tow, as there is lots of seating around the grounds, as well as toilets and a baby-changing station. Even better? The views out over the sea are second to none. 7. Rathfarnham Castle Playground This adventure playground is extremely popular with locals, and when you visit, you'll see why. There are tons of things to see, try and explore, and is also suitable for children with extra sensory needs. My own children love the rotating buttons to stand on and the hoops you can climb through. 8. Kilruddery House Sandpit Not so much a playground, but rather a huge sand pit, Kilruddery House is perfect on a sunny day. Bring your buckets and some spades and grab yourself a coffee from the little coffee shop beside the pit, and you are good to go. Even better? Bring a picnic and eat your lunch right there in the grass. 9. Bushy Park Playground Inside Bushy Park there is a brilliant little playground with tons of things to do, for both younger and also for school-aged kids. 10. Belgrave Square Playground, Rathmines A very popular playground with locals, this little gem is such a nice find if you happen to be in the area. I love how it's fenced in, meaning you won't have to worry about your tots escaping without you noticing. There is a wooden climbing frame, see-saw, swings, and a couple more bits to keep the kids entertained for a bit while you rest your weary self on one of the many benches. 11 St. Stephen's Green Playground This is a brilliant playground, but often extremely busy, especially on the weekends. There is so much to do, and everyone, from toddlers to tweens, are catered for. Just be prepared to have several heart-attacks if you lose sight of the kids and run around in a panic trying to find them again! We would love to compile similar playground guides for other cities and areas of Ireland too, parents, so please send us on your tips of the best playgrounds in your area.