There are lots of family friendly and child friendly things to see and do with the kids. Have a look also at our Family Events section for forthcoming family friendly events to entertain the kids and what to do for free.

Westport House and Country Park is a great day out with the kids with lots to see and do. Located in the grounds are many attractions for children of all ages, including a log flume ride, swan pedalos, a miniature railway, dungeons, funny mirrors, slippery dip, pitch & putt, jungle world (soft indoor play area), children's playground and an animal and bird park. Recently introduced is a new attraction of wax work figures which is a tribute to the west of Ireland's extraordinary international literary, music and arts achievements - close proximity of Westport House is Parkland Camping for caravans and campers, with special offers that include admission to the attractions.

Clew Bay Heritage Centre, The Quay, Westport is situated in a 19th century building and traces the history of Westport and the Clew Bay area from pre Christian times to the present. Westport is a heritage town and one of its outstanding features is the elegant tree-lined boulevard, known as The Mall. Artefacts, documents and photographs connected with the general Westport area provide a basis for the presentation of local history, customs and traditions. The Centre houses a genealogical research facility.

The holy mountain of Croagh Patrick in Westport is an ancient site of pilgrimage with breathtaking views over island strewn Clew Bay. This is manageable for most older members of the family and worth a trip even if you only get as far as the base with younger kids and toddlers.

The Museum of Country Life in Turlough Park, Castlebar has exhibitions that portray the lives of ordinary people who lived in rural Ireland in the period 1850 – 1950. Emphasis is placed on the continuity of lifestyles, which were established for several hundred years and which lasted well into the 20th century. The museum is situated in the grounds of Turlough which has been fully restored and serves as the main office as well as the education/reception area and is used to show visitors how families like its original owners lived. There is a programme of events in their Education & Outreach Department.

Beneath the wild boglands of North Mayo lies Ceide Fields, in Ballycastle the most extensive Stone Age monument in the world. Here families can see field systems, dwelling areas and megalithic tombs of 5,000 years ago. In addition, the wild flora of the bog is of international importance and is bounded by some of the most spectacular rock formations and cliffs in Ireland. The Visitor Centre houses displays and exhibitions in English and Irish.

O’Malley Ferries provides transport with two ships operating to and from Clare Island. The ships have sundecks for families to enjoy good views of Clew Bay. Sites on the island include Granuaile’s castle, the Abbey, Clare Island Lighthouse, Bronze Age forts and neolithic burial tombs. The island also hosts several events throughout the year including a feile ceoil weekend, a regatta and a bard summer school.

Knock Museum is situated beside the peaceful rosary way on the grounds of Knock Shrine. Inside the museum is a reconstruction of a thatched cottage, typical of the type of home in Co. Mayo at the time. The cottage contains the traditional half door and hag bed.

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.

You will find lots of family friendly travel tips and advice in our research and advice section to help you book the right family holiday. Check out also the experiences of other parents and travellers in our parents forum and add your own experiences as we are a great believer in real parent's experiences as the best measure of whether somewhere will suit you for your family holiday. 

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