Mid-term break can be a hectic time for many parents.The kids are hanging around the house, and getting more restless with every moment that passes.
Why not make the next mid-term count, and use this time to create some lovely family memories while exploring some of Ireland’s most exciting spots.
1. Adventure in Westport
One of Co Mayo’s most family-friendly towns, Westport is packed full of activities that will keep the kids smiling well into the week. At the Pirate Adventure Park at Westport House, enjoy pedal boating, a pirates' swinging ship, plunge log flume rides, bouncy castles and pedalo boats on the lake. Westport is also the kick-off point for the Great Western Greenway, which offers stunning views all along the route to Achill.
2. Outdoor activities in Kerry
In Kerry, Hidden Ireland Adventures offers an array of great outdoor pursuits for those keen on exploring the southwest. Try an archaeology/history tour of Skellig Michael, hiking in the Reeks or canoeing on the Lakes of Killarney. Those with a thirst for learning about the past can head to the magnificent Muckross House in Killarney National Park, where on the traditional farms visitors can get a taste of what rural life in traditional Ireland.
3. Sailing in Cork
Sailing breaks are a fantasitc way to get out and enjoy Ireland's spectacular coastline. Find your sea legs in the sheltered waters of Bantry Bay with lessons at West Cork Sailing and Powerboating Centre. There you can complete intensive yachtmaster training, take a cruising course, charter a skippered yacht or simply paddle around the harbour in a kayak or a canoe.
4. Water sports in Louth
Louth, Ireland's smallest county, is also big on water-based activities. At the Carlingford Adventure Centre, the kids can learn to windsurf, followed by lots of other family-friendly amenities including laser combat and high ropes.
5. Dublin Zoo
Dublin Zoo is one of the country's most visited attractions, and it's easy to see why. Relax in the Meerkat restaurant or the new all-weather play forest, or take a trip over to the gorilla compound. Teens can even go behind the scenes and see what the life of a zookeeper is like. Family tickets cost from €45.50.
6. Viking Splash
This is a great mid-term activity that allows you to take in all the unique sights of Dublin in the most fun way possible. Get on board an authentic Second World War vehicle that treks across the city and then goes into the Liffey. Tours depart regularly from St Stephen's Green in the city centre.
7. Culture in the capital
Attractions in the city centre are plentiful, from the National Museum in Kildare Street, and the Science Gallery in Pearse Street to the National Wax Museum in Foster Place and the fantastic Little Museum of Dublin in St Stephen's Green. Children will also find much to enjoy on the jam-packed schedule at The Ark, Dublin's foremost cultural centre for little ones.
8. Fish-spotting in Galway
While in Galway, take the family to the Galway Atlantaquaria at Seapoint Promenade, home to 170 fascinating sea and freshwater species. Where else in the west will the kids get the chance to hold starfish or spiny spider crabs in the palm of their little hands?
9. Biking in Offaly
In Co Offaly, the Pilgrim's Road from Ballycumber to Clonmacnoise has a clearly marked cycle route where cyclists can visit early Christian monastic sites. Hire bikes in Lough Boora Parklands, which has two brilliant new cycle paths offering up to 14km of
scenic routes. There, eagle-eyed cyclists will find large-scale sculptures made from industrial materials taken from the bog, including old trains, rail line and timber.
10. History lesson in the Garden County
Just because school is closed for the week, it shouldn't mean that learning stops. Wicklow Historic Gaol at Kilmantin Hill is famous for bringing to life tales of crime, cruelty, and exile. Everyone will enjoy the original gaol dungeon, which is open again for the first time in more than 100 years.
In Co Offaly, the Pilgrim's Road from Ballycumber to Clonmacnoise has a clearly marked cycle route where cyclists can visit early Christian monastic sites. Hire bikes in Lough Boora Parklands, which has two brilliant new cycle paths offering up to 14km of
scenic routes. There, eagle-eyed cyclists will find large-scale sculptures made from industrial materials taken from the bog, including old trains, rail line and timber.
10. History lesson in the Garden County
Just because school is closed for the week, it shouldn't mean that learning stops. Wicklow Historic Gaol at Kilmantin Hill is famous for bringing to life tales of crime, cruelty, and exile. Everyone will enjoy the original gaol dungeon, which is open again for the first time in more than 100 years.
Image via Pinterest.
