Day 1
Lough Boora Bog
Lough Boora Parklands encompasses 250 acres of cutaway bog, carefully restored to a wonderful wildlife sanctuary. With hundreds of wildlife and fish, plus 6 lakes, there is endless exploring. These breathtaking wetlands are now also home the most creative environmental sculptures in all of Ireland. The artists, inspired by the rich natural and industrial legacy of the bog lands, have created a series of large-scale sculptures that are now part of the Parklands permanent collection.
If your kids tire easily, rent a bike and pop them on the back! A range of traditional and hybrid bikes are available from €3 per person per hour. Plus helmets for all, child seats, and two seater trailers, catering for even the smallest toddlers.
Birr Outdoor Educational Centre
Not for the faint hearted, Birr Outdoor Educational Centre is based on the banks of the River Shannon. Choose from a range of water sports, adventure activities, rock climbing and gorge walking. Or teach them something new, with ecology courses including mountain navigation and orienteering. To book, visit their website here.
Birr Castle Gardens
The Treehouse Adventure Area at Birr Castle Gardens is open from 9.00 until 18:00 daily in the summer and until 16:00 from Oct – Jan. It features Ireland’s largest treehouse along with sand pits, climbing frames, slides and much more. Dogs are not permitted within the playground area. Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times within the gardens and treehouse area.
Evening at the Hotel
After that adventure packed day, the kids are sure to be tired. Take a nap in your spacious Family Room, which features multi-channel TV. If they are still full of energy, book in a slot at our indoor heated Swimming Pool & Kiddies Pool. Before enjoying dinner for all the family in The Court Bar & Restaurant.
Day 2
Horse Riding at Annaharvey Farm
For a great Equestrian Experience, Annaharvey Farm has it all. Whether your little ones are horse-riding pros, or this will be their first time, the choice ranges from cross-country fences to fun rides around the farm. With indoor and outdoor arenas also available, you are guaranteed a most enjoyable horseback riding experience no matter what the weather. A private 30 minute lesson is €35, and bookable here on their website.
Belvedere House & Fairy Gardens
This magnificent early 18th century home of Robert Rochfort, Earl of Belvedere, comprises of 160 acres of parkland with 6kms of magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks to roam. A multimedia presentation tells the story of Belvedere, full of intrigue, romance and revenge. There is an animal sanctuary and children’s play area, and also a delightful tram which provides guided tours around a section of the parkland. Day admission is €6.40 for Adults, €3.20 for Children aged 4-16, and free for under 3s. Tickets must be booked in advance at Belvedere-House.ie.
Hushabye Alpaca Farm
Located a mere 10 minute drive from the hotel, a visit is Hushabye Alpaca Farm is a must. This family run farm is set in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, in the center of Ireland – home to Irelands friendliest Alpaca Herd. While visiting the Alpacas, you can even engage with them and take them for a walk, have a cuppa and perhaps pop in to their popular farm shop for a little token gift to take home.
3pm Lilliput Adventure Centre
Lilliput Adventure Centre is located in Johnathan Swift Park, on the shores of Lough Ennell. It’s fabulous, unspoiled beauty, along with forests and lake, offer a unique and idyllic location. You can take part in specialised courses in canoeing, hill walking, rock climbing or first aid, to mention a few. Discover more at LilliputAdventure.com