The Japanese Gardens and National Stud are a good combined day out. The world famous Japanese Gardens are situated 45km south of Dublin just outside Kildare Town in the 1,000 acre Tully estate, now known as The Irish National Stud. The gardens have been carefully preserved as one of the gems of Ireland’s Heritage. St. Fiachra’s Garden was created to celebrate the Millennium. There are 4 acres of woodland and lakeside walks. The centre of the garden is dominated by fissured limestone Monastic cells and within these cells there are hand crafted Waterford Crystal rocks and plants such as ferns and orchids. Guided tours are given of the Irish National Stud, which is home to some of Ireland’s finest thoroughbreds. One ticket covers all four attractions.

The Newbridge Silverware showrooms are home to the Newbridge Silverware factory where for 70 years craft workers have been producing the famous cutlery and jewellery. Newly open onsite is the Newbridge Silverware Museum of Style Icons which is a permanent exhibition dedicated to design and style excellence which teenagers are sure to enjoy-especially girls. The museum features signature pieces from Ireland's most notable designers and showcases artefacts associated with some of the most legendary Stars of the Silver screen including Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, Bette Davis, Gloria Swanson and many more. The Gold Medal award winning "Silver Restaurant" is also located on site.

The Bog of Allen Nature Centre, Lullymore is an international centre for peatland education, conservation and research. Here you can explore the history of peat and the unique flora and fauna associated with bogs. Programmes for group visits include guided walks across the Bog of Allen, workshops on peat-free gardening and composting and visits to the Habitats and Gardens at the Nature Centre. The gardens include Flytraps - an exhibition of insect eating plants from all over the world; lake, fen and bog habitats typical of the Bog of Allen and a Wildlife conservation garden. Admission is €5. Self Guiding Tours for individual visitors.

Ballindoolin House Gardens in Carbury offers tours of the reception rooms at set times. Nearby is a restored Victorian Walled Garden and families may enjoy browsing in the craft shop and relaxing in the tea room eating home made country cakes.

Larchill Arcadian Garden in Larchill, Kilcock provides family friendly scenic walks through parkland and beech avenues. There is a picturesque eight acre lake with two fairytale island folies, a formal walled garden with shell lined tower and a decorative gothic farmyard. There are also home-made teas, organic coffees, Panini, toasted sandwiches and ice creams in the spacious Barn Tearooms.

The Steam Museum, Lodge Park Heritage Yard, Straffan has a Power Hall exhibits unique, stationary steam engines from the 1830s. The Model Hall displays the Richard Guinness Collection of Inventors and early large size prototype railway models. Opening times are limited so call ahead to check on 01 627 3155

Straffan Butterfly Farm, Ovidstown, Straffan is an indoor all weather centre - a mini visit to an exotic tropical environment here in Ireland. It is an opportunity to see at close range some of the world’s most exotic creatures and observe their interesting life cycles. Families can relax in the tropical butterfly house among colourful blooms and exotic plants while butterflies fly and feed around them.

Abbeyfield Country Pursuits has clay pigeon shooting, archery and horse riding. Morning ride outs, lead rein and lessons are available for children 4 year olds and upwards.

The Curragh Racecourse offers a good experience of Classic Racing and Classic Hospitality set in the beautiful Kildare countryside. Few sporting events match the excitement, glamour and enjoyment of a day at the races. The racecourse facilities feature a variety of bars and restaurants and a lively family friendly area with playground and supervised crèche. 

Ireland visitor discounts is a fantastic free downloadable discount voucher for leading Irish cultural and heritage visitor attractions. You should download a form for each member of the family and bring this with you when you are travelling. Discounts include two for the price of one in leading tourist attractions, free admission at some attractions and between 10 and 20% off other attractions. This really could make a considerable saving for your family.