Summer is almost here and with it will come the long school holidays, stretching out gloriously in front of us.
If you are planning to spend some, or even all of it in Ireland, then read on for some ideas to help keep children of all ages entertained, active and loving summer in the Emerald Isle.
Active kids
Ireland is blessed with easily accessible, stunningly beautiful coastlines offering a plethora of activities for sporty children.
From paddle boarding, water-skiing and surfing to sailing, hiking and fossil hunting, Ireland’s beaches and coastal resorts are fantastic for keeping the whole family fit all summer long.
Other options for active kids include numerous golf clubs, tennis courts, gyms and leisure centres located across the island and open all summer long.
Historical Ireland
History buffs may well appreciate a look round the Irish Emigration Museum in Dublin, or the City Sightseeing hop on-hop off bus that shows off the many delights of the Republic of Ireland’s vibrant capital city.
Another historical delight is Blarney Castle and Gardens in County Cork, where, folklore has it, you can also kiss the famous Blarney Stone to receive the gift of eloquence.
Explore Ireland’s links to the tragedy of the sinking of HMS Titanic at the Titanic Experience in Cobh in County Cork.
This moving museum is based in the original White Star Line Ticket Office, close to the departure point for the final group of passengers who boarded the fateful ship in 1912.
Nature fans
Ireland’s diverse nature and expansive countryside is second to one.
Nature fans are spoilt for choice. Ancient forests and woodlands offer fascinating walking and wildlife-watching options with trees for the kids to climb and signposted family trails to keep youngsters amused along the way.
Other options include the many wildlife parks, sanctuaries and nature attractions around the country.
Examples include Dublin Zoo in Dublin, Burren Birds of Prey Centre in Clare, Connemara National Park in County Galway, The Donkey Sanctuary in Liscarroll, County Cork, Secret Valley Wildlife park in Wexford and Wild Ireland in Burnfoot, County Donegal.
Adrenaline adventurers
Children will love to let off some steam after months coped up in the classroom.
This can easily be done during a trip to Ireland. Rollercoaster fans will enjoy a trip to Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park) in County Meath, which also has a fantastic zoo and lots of space to run around.
The Aqua Dome in Tralee, County Kerry lives up to its name with plenty of pools, wave machines and water slides to explore.
Funtasia Theme Park in Drogheda, County Louth has plenty for adults and children too, including Pirate’s Cove for small adventurers and casinos for the grown-ups.
Great for wet weather fun.
Culture vultures
Ireland is famed for its folk dancing and lively music.
You can enjoy concerts, theatre, comedy nights, outdoor film showings, opera and dance in several different locations.
Look online for full details of music festivals happening too, including the famous Longitude Festival in Dublin at the end of June, All Together Now Festival in Waterford in early August and Electric Picnic in County Laois in mid-August.
Check out Ireland’s links to famous writers and artists too, including James Joyce, Oscar Wilde and Francis Bacon.
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