Day Trips
Our Day Trips is your guide to the best family-friendly adventures just beyond Dublin! You've exhausted Dublin Itineraries and are looking to escape the capital, get some fresh air into your lungs and survive a relatively short car journey! While Dublin offers endless activities, venturing outside the city can be a fantastic way to experience Ireland’s beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and coastal charm—all within a day’s reach. Here's a few of our favourite adventures.
Day Trip to Howth
Take the DART Train or Boat to Howth
Howth is a charming fishing village about 30 minutes from Dublin. Kids will love the train ride, which offers scenic views along the coastline. Or take a trip from Dublin City to Howth via Dun Laoghaire, on The Dublin City Cruise, with highlights including the Convention Centre, Poolbeg Lighthouse, Dalkey Island, Dun Laoghaire Harbour, Howth Cliffs, Ireland’s Eye and Howth Lighthouse.
Howth Cliff Walk
Stretch your legs with the family-friendly Howth Cliff Walk, which offers stunning views of Dublin Bay and Howth Lighthouse. It’s an easy trail and a great way to enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty.
Seal Watching at Howth Harbour
After the cliff walk, head to the harbour, where you can often spot seals swimming and playing near the docks. It’s a delightful experience for kids and a great photo opportunity!
Lunch at Crabby Jo's Seafood Restaurant
Crabby Jo’s is a family and tourist friendly restaurant serving the best of Irish seafood. Located beside Wrights of Howth's renowned seafood shop on the West Pier, it offers fresh fish and kid-friendly options in a casual setting. The seafood chowder is delicious and a local favourite!
Before getting the DART or return boat trip back, stroll through Howth Market for souvenirs and crafts, and end with a sweet treat at Gino’s Gelato!
Day Trip to Malahide
Malahide Castle & Gardens
Take a train to Malahide, a coastal town just north of Dublin. The highlight here is Malahide Castle, a magnificent 12th-century castle with expansive grounds, perfect for a family adventure. Guided tours of the castle’s lavishly decorated rooms are available, offering insights into the castle’s history and the lives of the Talbot family who lived there for centuries.
Discover the Fairy Trail & Playground
Kids can enjoy the Fairy Trail on the castle grounds, where they’ll find whimsical fairy doors and little surprises along the path. Malahide Castle also has an impressive playground with climbing structures, slides, and plenty of space to run around – an ideal stop for little explorers.
Lunch at Avoca Café (on Malahide Castle grounds)
The Avoca Café at Malahide Castle is a family-friendly spot serving fresh, locally-sourced dishes and a variety of kid-friendly options. Enjoy lunch here in a bright, relaxed setting with views of the surrounding gardens. Avoca’s homemade desserts and pastries are a must-try treat to fuel the rest of the day.
Explore the Walled Garden and Butterfly House
Explore the enchanting Walled Garden and Butterfly House. The gardens are filled with vibrant flowers and plants, making it a lovely spot for a family stroll. The Butterfly House is always a favourite with kids, who can see colourful butterflies up close as they flutter through the tropical plants.
Walk Along Malahide Beach
On your way back, take a short detour to Malahide Beach, where the family can enjoy a breezy coastal walk. Kids will love exploring the sand and watching boats in the harbor, and it’s a relaxing way to end the afternoon before heading back to Dublin.
Day Trip to Killruddery House and Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Killruddery House & Gardens
Start your day early by driving or taking a short train ride south from Dublin to Killruddery House & Gardens, just outside Bray in County Wicklow (around 30 minutes by car). This beautiful estate is family-friendly and filled with charm and activities for everyone to enjoy. Explore the gardens, where kids can run, play, and even discover the small farm area with animals. Kids will love the garden’s nature trails, and enchanting walled garden. There's also a charming Farm Market (on weekends), where you can browse gorgeous fresh local produce and artisan products.
Tea Room or Picnic Break
The Killruddery Tea Room offers lovely treats and light bites, perfect for a mid-morning snack to recharge. Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic spots on the grounds while soaking up the garden views.
The beautiful grounds, historic house, and scenic café make this a lovely spot for lunch. The café at Killruddery offers farm-to-table meals made with ingredients grown on the estate, with options to please all ages. The beautiful grounds, historic house, and scenic café make this a lovely spot for lunch. The café at Killruddery offers farm-to-table meals made with ingredients grown on the estate, with options to please all ages.
Glendalough
After exploring Kilruddery, continue your journey deeper into County Wicklow to reach Glendalough, the scenic “valley of two lakes” (about 40 minutes by car). This ancient monastic site is nestled in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and offers breathtaking scenery that’s perfect for family exploration.
Explore the Monastic Site and Visitor Centre
Start at the Glendalough Visitor Centre to learn about the area’s fascinating history, then wander over to the Monastic City. The site features a 1,000-year-old round tower, historic churches, and atmospheric ruins that offer a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past. Kids can explore the ancient structures and learn about St. Kevin, who founded this important monastic site.
Picnic or Lunch at Glendalough’s Local Café
You’ll find picnic tables scattered around Glendalough, perfect for a family picnic with views of the lakes and mountains. Alternatively, there are cozy cafés in the area serving light lunches, sandwiches, and local specialties.
Family-Friendly Walk to the Upper Lake
After lunch, set off on the gentle walk to Glendalough’s Upper Lake. The walking path is accessible and stroller-friendly, making it ideal for families with younger kids. As you walk, take in the stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, and peaceful lake views that make Glendalough one of Ireland’s most beloved outdoor spots.
Wildlife Spotting and Nature Play
Once at the Upper Lake, kids can look for wildlife like deer, ducks, and woodland birds. The area offers plenty of room for them to play, explore, and enjoy nature, with safe spots along the lake where they can dip their toes and enjoy a bit of free play in the great outdoors.
As you head back to Dublin, consider stopping in Enniskerry or Bray for dinner. Both towns offer family-friendly restaurants with a range of options. If you’re in the mood for something cozy and casual, The Martello in Bray has a great atmosphere and kid-friendly menu, making it a perfect spot to end your day trip.
Day Trip to Beyond the Trees at Avondale House, Co. Wicklow
Beyond the Trees Avondale, nestled in County Wicklow, offers a captivating family day trip less than an hour from Dublin. This immersive experience combines nature, adventure, and history, making it ideal for families seeking an engaging outdoor outing.
Embark on a fully accessible 1.4 km treetop walkway that meanders through diverse tree species, including Yew, Larch, Fir, Oak, Spruce, and Giant Redwoods. Along the way, interactive play areas and interpretive points provide educational insights into the forest's ecosystem. The journey culminates at a 38-meter-high viewing tower, offering panoramic 360° views of Wicklow's lush countryside. For an added thrill, an optional 90-meter spiral slide awaits adventurous visitors, though queues can be long during peak times.
Adjacent to the Seed Café, the historic Walled Garden has been transformed into a vibrant space featuring a state-of-the-art children's playground. Designed with input from young visitors, the playground includes elements like a Wizard’s Hideaway, Jungle Explorer Rope Pyramid, and various slides and swings, ensuring hours of fun for children.
Seed Café
The Seed Café offers a delightful menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy homemade soups, quiches, fresh salads, and sandwiches while overlooking the picturesque Walled Garden. The café's outdoor terrace provides a perfect spot for families to relax and refuel.
Avondale House
Step back in time with a visit to Avondale House, the birthplace of Irish forestry and home to Charles Stewart Parnell. Explore the preserved interiors, including the mustard-yellow drawing room and Parnell's grandfather's Wooton desk, offering a glimpse into 19th-century estate life.
Day Trip to Emerald Park
For families seeking a thrilling day out filled with rides, wildlife, and unforgettable memories, Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park) is an ideal destination. Located in County Meath, just a short drive from Dublin, Emerald Park combines the fun of a theme park with the adventure of a zoo, making it a fantastic choice for a family-friendly day trip.
Thrilling Rides and Attractions
Emerald Park offers an exciting mix of rides for all ages, from gentle carousel rides for younger children to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters for teens and adults. Don’t miss the Cú Chulainn Coaster, Europe’s largest wooden roller coaster, or the water splash rides that are sure to delight on warm days. The Junior Zone has plenty of options for little ones, including mini rides and interactive play areas.
Explore the Zoo and Animal Encounters
Emerald Park is also home to a wide range of animals, offering families a zoo experience in the heart of Meath. Kids will love seeing animals like meerkats, lemurs, and tigers up close, while learning about animal care and conservation. Don’t miss the Birds of Prey display, where children can see majestic birds like eagles and owls in action. Many areas of the zoo include interactive and educational displays, perfect for young animal lovers.
Family Adventure Trails and Playground
After exploring the rides and zoo, take a stroll along one of the park’s Nature Trails, which offer a more relaxed pace and scenic views. The trails are perfect for families looking to explore the surrounding landscape and spot local wildlife. For a bit more action, head to the Viking Voyage play area, where kids can burn off energy on slides, climbing frames, and interactive play structures.
Lunch and Dining Options
Emerald Park has a variety of dining options for families. Choose from quick bites like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches at Dino Bite or head to the Lodge Restaurant for a sit-down meal. Picnic areas are also available if you prefer to bring your own food. With vegetarian and kid-friendly menu options, there’s something for everyone.
Practical Information
Location: Ashbourne, Co. Meath (approximately 40 minutes from Dublin)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (seasonal times may vary)
Cost: Entry fees vary; combo passes are available for rides and zoo access.
Facilities: Multiple restaurants, picnic areas, gift shop, restrooms, stroller rentals, and parking.
Emerald Park is a must-visit for families looking for a fun-filled day combining the best of theme parks and animal encounters. With rides, playgrounds, wildlife, and dining options, this is one day trip that promises excitement and adventure for everyone in the family.
Day Trip to Powerscourt Estate, Co. Wicklow
Powerscourt Estate in County Wicklow is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking destinations for a family day trip. Just a short drive from Dublin, Powerscourt combines magnificent gardens, a historic mansion, and family-friendly attractions, offering an unforgettable day out for all ages.
Explore Powerscourt Gardens
Start your day by wandering through the gardens, which stretch over 47 acres of themed landscapes. Kids will love exploring the Italian Garden with its formal terraces, statues, and ornamental ponds. Don’t miss the Japanese Garden, filled with winding paths, bridges, and vibrant plant life, or the Walled Garden with its colourful flower beds and fountains. There are plenty of spots for family photos, so have your camera ready!
Visit the Powerscourt Waterfall
Take a short drive (or walk if you’re feeling adventurous) from the main estate to Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland’s highest waterfall. Set within a forested area, this spot is ideal for picnics and outdoor play. The waterfall is surrounded by walking trails, and you’ll often see families enjoying a game of frisbee, spotting local wildlife, or having a leisurely lunch at the picnic tables nearby.
Lunch at Avoca Café
The on-site Avoca Café offers a delicious selection of locally sourced meals, with plenty of kid-friendly options. With fresh salads, sandwiches, hot meals, and treats, the café is perfect for a family lunch. Enjoy a cozy indoor seat or head out to the terrace for views over the gardens.
Explore Powerscourt House and Shops
After lunch, take a stroll through Powerscourt House to explore the boutique shops offering unique gifts, Irish crafts, and artisanal products. Don’t miss the Powerscourt Distillery Tasting Room (for the adults!) and the Tara’s Palace Museum of Childhood, which showcases a fascinating collection of dolls and toys that will intrigue both kids and parents alike.
Day Trip to Newgrange and Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre
For families seeking a mix of history, mystery, and scenic beauty, a day trip to Newgrange in County Meath is ideal. This ancient monument, older than the pyramids, offers kids and adults alike a fascinating look into Ireland's ancient past. The nearby Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre provides insightful exhibitions that make learning fun and engaging for all ages.
Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre
At Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre you’ll find interactive exhibits explaining the history of Newgrange and the other ancient tombs in the area, Knowth and Dowth. The centre’s displays are family-friendly, featuring models, videos, and artifacts that bring the Stone Age to life for younger visitors. It’s the perfect place to learn about the construction, purpose, and myths surrounding Newgrange.
Kids will love the hands-on exhibits and scale models of the tombs. The centre also offers accessible restrooms, a café, and a gift shop for souvenirs.
Guided Tour of Newgrange Tomb
After the Visitor Centre, hop on the shuttle bus to Newgrange itself, where a guide will lead you through this world-renowned passage tomb. The tour includes a visit inside the tomb, where you’ll learn about the winter solstice phenomenon, when sunlight floods the inner chamber—a mystical experience that has fascinated people for centuries. The structure’s massive stones, intricate carvings, and incredible history make it a truly memorable experience for all ages.
Kids will be amazed by the size of the stones and the idea of a hidden chamber. The tour guides provide engaging explanations to keep the whole family captivated.
Lunch at Brambles Brú na Bóinne Café
After exploring Newgrange, return to the Visitor Centre for lunch. You can bring a picnic and enjoy it at the outdoor seating area or go to Brambles for a tasty selection of sandwiches, soups, and snacks. The café offers kid-friendly options and a scenic view, making it a relaxing spot for a family meal.
Walk Along the Boyne River
Finish your day with a leisurely stroll along the **Boyne River**, where you can enjoy views of the peaceful landscape that surrounds the site. The pathways are easy to navigate and great for stretching little legs after a busy day. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife along the riverbanks, providing kids with a chance to spot local flora and fauna.
Day Trip to Belfast
Belfast, the vibrant capital of Northern Ireland, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly day trip from Dublin. Just a two-hour drive or train ride away, Belfast offers an exciting blend of history, culture, and attractions, making it perfect for families eager to explore.
Titanic Belfast
Start your day at the award-winning visitor attraction located at the site where the Titanic was built. The interactive, family-friendly exhibits offer a fascinating look into the story of the Titanic, from its construction to its fateful voyage. Kids and adults alike will be captivated by the life-size reconstructions and the hands-on displays, making it an engaging way to learn about this iconic ship’s legacy.
W5 Science and Discovery Centre
Just a short walk from Titanic Belfast, W5 is an interactive science and discovery cantre perfect for curious minds. It’s packed with hands-on exhibits, science demonstrations, and exciting themed zones designed to entertain kids of all ages. With everything from climbing frames and role-play areas to robotics displays, W5 will have kids exploring, playing, and learning for hours.
Lunch in the Cathedral Quarter
For lunch, head to Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter. This bustling district is filled with family-friendly eateries serving everything from classic fish and chips to international cuisine. Look for The Muddlers Club or The Dirty Onion for casual dining, or pack a picnic to enjoy in Custom House Square if the weather is nice.
Belfast Botanic Gardens and Palm House
After lunch, unwind with a stroll through the Belfast Botanic Gardens. The gardens are a serene retreat where kids can run around, and the Victorian-era Palm House is home to tropical plants, vibrant flowers, and fascinating sculptures. Don’t miss the Tropical Ravine where exotic plants thrive in a unique indoor rainforest setting.
Explore the Ulster Museum
Located within the Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum offers a diverse collection of exhibits that cover natural history, art, and ancient artifacts, with a focus on Ireland’s history. The museum’s kid-friendly displays include dinosaurs, an Egyptian mummy, and an engaging Game of Thrones tapestry. Admission is free, making it a great addition to a family day out.
With its blend of interactive museums, historic landmarks, and scenic parks, Belfast offers an unforgettable family day trip packed with discovery and fun.
Day Trip to Carlingford Adventure Centre and Sky Park
Day Trip to Carlingford Adventure Centre
For an action-packed family day out, Carlingford Adventure Centre, in County Louth is the perfect choice. Just over an hour’s drive from Dublin, Carlingford offers thrilling outdoor activities, stunning natural scenery, and a medieval village to explore, making it a great day trip for families with kids of all ages.
Morning Activities at Carlingford Adventure Centre
Start your day at the Carlingford Adventure Centre where a huge range of family-friendly activities awaits. Whether you’re into land, sea, or sky adventures, the centre has something for everyone. Choose from activities like zip-lining, laser tag, archery, kayaking, plus many more.
Sky Park is Ireland’s largest aerial adventure park with ziplines, rope bridges, and challenging obstacles for all ages.
Skypark is brilliantly designed for all age groups. For the little ones (ages 3–6), there’s the Skynet Giant Adventure, a safe, netted play area with bouncing nets, slides, treehouses, and tunnels. The Kids Zone includes a sandpit, mini diggers, swingball, puzzles, and other gentle games—perfect for curious young explorers.
Children aged 6–12 have loads to keep them engaged too. They can test their balance on Skypark Junior, a fun, low-level aerial course designed specifically for kids aged 5–8. There’s also footgolf, mini golf, and disc golf, which are brilliant for friendly family competition. Older kids in this age group can even try axe throwing in a controlled and supervised environment.
For tweens and teens (ages 12–16), the thrills step up a notch. The Aerial Adventure Course is the star of the show, featuring over 30 challenges such as zip lines, monkey bars, log swings, and high ropes courses at heights up to 40ft. There’s also laser combat, a 3-hour woodland tag game that gets everyone moving and strategizing. The zip lines offer a real rush with views over Carlingford Lough and the surrounding countryside.
Skypark is also perfect for families with a mix of ages. You can purchase an All-Inclusive Adventure Pass which gives access to everything: aerial courses, mazes, archery, climbing walls, and more. And if you want a slower pace, take a walk up Slieve Foye, the highest peak in County Louth, or enjoy a paddle in a kayak or canoe on the lough—perfect for soaking in the scenery together.
For refuelling, there’s a café on-site with hot food, snacks, and drinks, or you can bring your own picnic and make use of the benches and outdoor seating. From burgers and crepes to toasted marshmallows and donuts, there’s something to keep everyone happy.
Day Trip Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens
Day Trip to the Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens
For a unique mix of nature, heritage, and tranquillity, the Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens in County Kildare offers a day of discovery and relaxation perfect for families. Just an hour from Dublin, this beautiful site lets you explore the world of thoroughbred horses, wander serene Japanese-style gardens, and enjoy family-friendly trails and picnic spots.
Tour the Irish National Stud
Start the day by discovering Ireland’s celebrated National Stud, where some of the world’s finest thoroughbred horses are raised and trained. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the chance to see majestic horses up close, including foals in the springtime. Visitors can learn about the care, training, and breeding of these remarkable animals, with tour guides sharing interesting insights into the Irish racing industry.
The tour is engaging for children, with friendly guides who explain the history of the stud farm in a fun way. Kids will enjoy meeting the horses and watching them in action.
Explore the Japanese Gardens
Next, wander over to the Japanese Gardens, created over a century ago and renowned as some of the finest of their kind in Europe. The gardens are a journey through life, symbolized in winding paths, tranquil ponds, and lush plantings. Children will love exploring the bridges, hidden nooks, and scenic viewpoints.
Let kids follow the “Path of Life,” a loop that passes through fun features like the Bridge of Life and the Hill of Ambition. The gardens provide ample photo opportunities and tranquil spots for relaxing.
The Fairy Trail and St. Fiachra’s Garden
The Fairy Trail adds a touch of magic to your visit, with whimsical fairy houses hidden along a woodland path. This enchanting walk encourages children to imagine a world of fairies while enjoying nature. Afterwards, head to St. Fiachra’s Garden, inspired by Ireland’s monastic past, with ponds, rock formations, and quiet spaces that are both educational and beautiful.
For young explorers, the Fairy Trail is a hit with young children, and St. Fiachra’s Garden offers a tranquil setting with fish-filled ponds and shaded benches for a restful break.
Picnic or Lunch at The Restaurant
Enjoy a family lunch, where Local ingredients are used wherever possible, providing a sound foundation for dishes with distinctive homemade style with kid-friendly options available. Alternatively, bring a packed picnic and enjoy it on one of the lawn areas or at the outdoor tables. The café offers a cozy atmosphere with views of the gardens.
The Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens is a fantastic destination for families looking for a blend of nature, culture, and fun. With horses, gardens, and a bit of magic from the Fairy Trail, it’s a memorable day out in a serene setting that offers enjoyment for all ages.