One of the most important things when planning your staycation this year is to make sure that there is plenty to entertain the kids. Whether you are travelling with toddlers or school going children, the range of activities in your destination is always something to consider- hail, rain, or shine. Luckily for you the Boyne Valley is the perfect destination to bring the kids to in Ireland this summer. Spend the night with one of our accommodation providers or plan an entire week of family fun!
You will find some great special offers available now in our specials offers blog here.
You will find lots of things to do in the Boyne Valley for all ages, but here are our top spots for the kids this summer!
Situated just outside Kilmessan and only a short drive from Trim, Beewise is A 5 acre woodland site with an educational meandering walk through tree facts and wildlife wooden tree stumps. There is an observation hive to see the honey bees in action, wildflower areas, and children's activities such as willow tee-pee and tunnel, wobbly bridge of life, sensory area, maze, what's in the box, etc. There are numerous benches & picnic tables throughout the walkway to sit, relax and watch the wildlife. Suitable for all ages to enjoy.
Guided by Ross Kenny, a skilled boat builder and storyteller, paddle through the hidden beauty of the Boyne Canal, an ancient waterway. As you learn about the stories and history that are home to this magical place, prepare to be charmed by the gentle sounds of nature within an enchanting landscape of native trees, wild plants and flowers, bird and wildlife that mirror onto the water. The boat trip is perfect for kids of all ages and the perfect family day out!
As well as providing Kayaking trips to discover the beautiful waterways of the Boyne, Boyne Valley activities also have a floating through time tour that makes the perfect family experience.
Stay for a longer break and book the young ones in onto one of their 3 day summer camps-a fantastic introduction to paddling and water confidence.
Parents can chill out at the river side coffee dock, Boyneista, and just watch the world float by to the sound of the river Boyne.
Causey Farm
Situated between Kells and Athboy, the Causey Farm Ice Cream experience is one not to be missed this summer. It starts with a trail and as you follow along, you’ll find games to play, puzzles to solve, bubbles to blow (giant ones!) and acres and acres of green countryside freedom. Causey Farm is just that – a working farm, which is home to cattle, sheep, ponies, pigs (they have some very cute piglets right now), hens, geese, a retired turkey and his wife and a noisy gaggle of giggling geese.
Situated in Bettystown (Theme park) and Drogheda (Waterpark), Funtasia is the perfect family day out when the weather isn’t playing ball. Or a great place to visit when you have had enough of the sun this summer.
Discover the thrills and spills galore to be had in Funtasia’s 35,000 sq ft Water Park. You can enjoy the adrenaline rush of their Sky climb aerial assault course, go bowling, try disco roller skating or even their own indoor climbing wall. Funtasia Water Park has a huge range of activities for every age group. For the younger ones they have a wonderful multi-level play area, while the young and the young at heart can enjoy our many fairground attractions. There is bingo and a state-of-the-art casino. And if all that activity has worked up a hearty appetite you can dine in style at Funtasia’s Pharaoh’s restaurant.
Both parks will reopen on July 5th.
Loughcrew Estate
Loughcrew Estate & Gardens are full of history, beauty, fantasy and atmosphere, making any visit a magical experience. Situated just 5kms from Oldcastle, Loughcrew Estate is the perfect day out for the entire family. The Fairy Trail is an exciting interactive sensory trail which gets children exploring Loughcrew Gardens and it is now open all year round!
To complete the treasure hunt style trail, they will get an activity booklet and map and will have to solve clues and answer questions to get to the next part of it. It will get your children using their imaginations and embracing the outdoors and they may even spot some fairies as they explore! It is a great activity for grandparents and parents to enjoy too.
Be sure to pick up your children’s activity booklet from the ticket office and spend a lovely day having fun as a family. Fairy houses, giant ants and a fairy forest await!
If you are looking for a family activity in the Boyne Valley to wear the children out the look no further than Navan Adventure Centre. Situated just outside Navan, Navan Adventure Centre offers an action-packed outdoor experience and fun for all the family. They offer a wide range of outdoor activities including archery, footgolf and many more with social distancing throughout. Their Family Fun Package offers 5 amazing activities (Mini Golf, Bouncy Inflatables, Pedal Go-Karting, Football Golf and their all-new adventure playground!) suitable for 3 to 12 year olds. Booking is essential.
Rock Farm Slane
As well as a beautiful place to stay, Rock farm in Slane offer a host of exciting activities for the entire family to enjoy. Get on your bike and spend the day on one of their electric bikes! Rock Farm Slane has 8 electric bikes available for hire all year round for guided tours, self-guided routes or general hire in the Boyne Valley. These tours are certified as Gold rated activities by Ecotourism Ireland.
Kayaking and Rafting are an ideal family activity! At Rock Farm Slane, they have the River Boyne at their door step. With a host of activities for all ages and levels why not include a watersport as part of your stay in the Boyne Valley.
Escape the beach for the afternoon and visit the tranquil surrounds of Sonairte. Sonairte [pronounced SON-ART-A] is an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness and sustainable living. The name Sonairte is derived from a middle Irish word meaning “positive strength”. It is situated in a farm complex of noteworthy historical interest on the banks of the River Nanny near Laytown. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a walk in the walled Organic Garden and adjacent Nature Trail with spectacular views of the River Nanny, a browse in their Eco Shop, visit their Bee Museum, and try a delicious meal in the café.
Tayto Park
The home of fun in the Boyne Valley. Your family visit would not be complete without a day out in Tayto Park. Check out all of our accommodation providers for some great value offers that include a day out at Tayto Park here.
From The Cú Chulainn Coaster, Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster with an inversion, to the newest attraction Lemur woods, Tayto Park’s first immersive experience which sees you walk amongst the lemurs in their new home! Playgrounds, face painting, a zoo with over 100 different animals, The Viking Voyage, Ladybird Loop, Grand Carousel and The Nissan Driving School, Irelands first driving school. That’s just to mention a few! Young and old will enjoy an action-packed day at Tayto Park!
Whether you are planning a chilled holiday with toddlers or an action packed holidays to keep the older kids entertained, you will find all you need in the Boyne Valley.
Be sure to visit our website on www.discoverboynevalley.ie to plan your trip. We have a list of recommended accommodation from self-catering, B&B’s, guesthouses, camping and glamping, and the finest hotels in Ireland.
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