Recently updated on July 11th, 2023 at 04:47 pm
Steeped in legend and mythology, with more unique family experiences to shake a stick at, Ireland is the perfect holiday destination for the young (and young at heart). Keep hot on the trail of leprechauns with Ireland’s last Leprechaun Whisperer, practise your skills at a Game of Thrones archery experience and feel the wind in your hair as you visit a typical Irish farm by the Wild Atlantic Way.
These are our top 7 unique family experiences in Ireland.
1. Learn the secrets from a Leprechaun Whisperer
A day out with Ireland’s last Leprechaun Whisperer is sure to fire the imagination of the whole family. After remnants of a leprechaun were found in 1989 in County Louth, Kevin Woods devoted his time to tracking down evidence of the mythological creatures. Fast forward to today, Kevin has published a book based on the leprechauns’ lives and shares his plight with other keen believers on these enlightening tours delving into Ireland’s most famous folklore characters. Join Kevin as he tells of how the last leprechauns of Ireland became a protected species by the E.U and shares his stories in the underground cavern where the leprechauns and fairies gather.
Experience this on: Shamrocks and Leprechauns
2. Kiss the Blarney Stone
Shrouded in mystery and intrigue, the Blarney Stone in Cork is one for the storytellers. Legend has it, those who dare to climb the steps and hang upside down to plant a kiss on the boulder will be granted the gift of eloquence. No surprise then, that the term ‘blarney’ has come to mean ‘clever, flattering or coaxing talk’. The stone itself is situated about eight kilometres from Cork on top of an ancient Irish castle, so with a little imagination (dragon hunting, anyone?), a visit is sure to entertain the kids. Â
Experience this on: Britain and Ireland Panorama
3. Meet Atlantic Sheepdogs on a typical Irish farm
Take to the wide-open fields of The Atlantic Sheepdogs Farm in Streedagh and watch these intelligent animals do what they do best. Owner, Martin will share with you why he loves working with his trusty companions and will explain just how important these special dogs are to the workings of a typical Irish farm. Overlooking Streedagh Beach on the Wild Atlantic Way, there’s no better setting to learn about Irish farming history and meet the enthusiastic furry friends that make this region so unique.
Experience this on: Shamrocks and Leprechauns
4. Channel Game of Thrones at a film-set archery experience
GoT fans, rejoice. This medieval-inspired archery experience will have the whole family feeling the thrill of firing arrows at White Walkers and revelling in the chance to dress up in Game of Thrones-themed costumes. Set in the Winterfell Castle courtyard, where filming of the show actually took place, you’ll hear about what went on ‘behind-the-scenes’ while having ample opportunity to recreate your favourite scenes for your Instagram followers. For those less familiar with the cult TV show (especially the little ones), you can still look forward to the theatrical experience, dress-ups and stunning scenery.
Experience this on: Shamrocks and Leprechauns
5. Admire Ireland’s finest thoroughbreds at the Irish National Stud Farm
Get up close with champions of years gone by at the successful stud farm that has produced winners of all five Classic Races in the United Kingdom. Gifted to the Crown in 1915, the Irish National Stud Farm in County Kildare now invites visitors from around the world to learn about the racing history of the country and enjoy the tranquil surrounds of the property’s Japanese Gardens, Saint Fiachra’s Garden and The Horse Museum. Kids can burn off some energy at the designated play area, while families can dine on fresh flavours at The Japanese Gardens Restaurant, all while soaking up the stud’s royal charm.
Experience this on: Britain and Ireland Highlights
6. Celebrate Ireland’s maritime history at Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum
Delve into Ireland’s maritime and aviation history at this interactive museum that is guaranteed to entertain the kids for hours. Home to the world’s only full-size replica of the B314 flying boat, your family will have the chance to step aboard and learn about the vessel, which once carried royalty and the rich and famous across the Atlantic Ocean. In the accompanying maritime museum, hear stories of the River Shannon and what life was like on Foynes port for the workers who relied on the famous waterway, before taking to the interactive exhibits to test your own maritime skills. Â Â Â Â
Experience this on: Shamrocks and Leprechauns
7. Visit Ireland’s largest working Windmill & home of Kerry’s model railway
Standing proud in Tralee Bay, Blennerville Windmill is somewhat of an artform – its wings turning gracefully in the breeze to now grind wheat for the region of Country Kerry. Having been restored to its former glory in 1984, this hulking piece of machinery from 1800 boasts a rich heritage, which guests can learn of through a myriad of displays in the Visitor Centre. View examples of 19th and early 20th-century agriculture equipment and read of the town’s fascinating emigration history, before entertaining the kids with the model railways and bird watching platform, complete with telescope.
Experience this on: Shamrocks and Leprechauns
Ready to embark on a family trip to Ireland? Gather the troops and head to our website for more information on what Ireland trips we have on offer./