🌳Drumshanbo Town Park

Lough Allen Beach is a beautiful freshwater beach on the shores of Lough Allen near Drumshanbo, County Leitrim. It holds Blue Flag status, ensuring clean water and safety, making it a top family destination. The gently sloping sandy beach is ideal for young children to paddle and swim. Facilities include a large car park, public toilets, changing rooms, a playground, and picnic tables. Lifeguards are on duty during summer months. The surrounding area offers scenic lakeside walks and stunning views. - Safe swimming area - Playground for kids - Picnic spots - Free parking - Lifeguards in summer Practical tip: Arrive early on sunny days as it can get busy. Suitable for all ages, from toddlers to teenagers.

Lough Scur Nature Reserve is a tranquil 9-hectare site on the shores of Lough Scur in County Fermanagh. Managed by the Ulster Wildlife Trust, it features a boardwalk trail through wet woodland and alder carr, offering excellent opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. The reserve has bird hides overlooking the lake, perfect for quiet observation. - **Family highlights**: Easy, flat circular walk (approx. 1.5 km) suitable for buggies; free entry; car park on site. No café or toilets, so come prepared. - **Ages**: Suitable for all ages; young children will enjoy the boardwalk and spotting ducks. Older kids can use the bird hides and learn about wetland habitats. - **Practical tips**: Wear waterproof footwear as the trail can be muddy. Bring binoculars and snacks. Reserve is open daily during daylight hours.

A well-maintained playground located within Leitrim Village Amenity Park, alongside the River Shannon. Features include: - Swings, slides, climbing frames, and a zip wire - Soft safety surfacing - Picnic tables and benches for families - Adjacent walking trails and green space Free entry, open year-round. Suitable for toddlers through to older children. Parking available on Main Street. A peaceful spot for a family outing, though no shelter from rain.

Discover Ireland's coal mining heritage at the Arigna Mining Experience, a unique underground tour led by former miners. Families can explore the tunnels and learn about the lives of miners through engaging exhibits and firsthand stories. - Highlights: Helmet and lamp provided for the underground tour; interactive displays; a simulated blast experience. - Ages: Suitable for children aged 6 and up; younger kids may find the dark tunnels intimidating. - Facilities: On-site café, gift shop, and picnic areas. Parking available. - Practical tips: Wear sturdy shoes and a warm layer (underground is cool). Tours are guided and last about 1 hour.

A gentle, paved walk along the Shannon-Erne Waterway in County Leitrim, ideal for families with young children. The flat path offers scenic views of the canal, locks, and surrounding countryside, with plenty of opportunities for spotting wildlife like swans, ducks, and herons. - **Highlights:** Picnic tables, benches, a small playground near the village, and easy access to the water's edge. Kids can watch boats navigating the locks or feed the ducks. - **Ages:** Suitable for all ages, including toddlers in pushchairs and older kids on bikes or scooters. The walk is short (approx. 1.5 km), so it's manageable for little legs. - **Facilities:** Free parking at the village centre, public toilets nearby, and a couple of cafes/shops in Keshcarrigan for snacks. No admission fee. - **Practical tips:** Bring binoculars for birdwatching and sun protection on clear days. The path is not lit, so visit during daylight hours.

Lough Key Forest & Activity Park is a family-friendly destination in County Roscommon, Ireland, featuring a unique interactive maze known as 'The Maze'. The maze is a fun challenge for kids and adults, with twisting paths and hidden surprises. Beyond the maze, the park offers a wide range of outdoor activities including a tree canopy walk, boat trips on Lough Key, playgrounds, cycling trails, and a zip line. Facilities include a visitor centre with café, gift shop, and indoor play area for younger children. Practical tips: wear comfortable walking shoes, bring rain gear, and allow at least half a day to explore. The maze is suitable for ages 4 and up, with younger children accompanied by adults.

A family-friendly walking trail through the Sliabh an Iarainn Forest Recreation Area in County Leitrim. The main loop trail is about 5 km and offers gentle gradients, making it suitable for children and beginners. Highlights include the summit viewing tower with panoramic views of Leitrim and surrounding counties, and a children's playground at the trailhead. - Trail length: ~5 km loop, 1.5–2 hours. - Facilities: Car park, picnic tables, toilets, playground. - Terrain: Mostly forest paths, some uneven sections; sturdy footwear recommended. - Best for ages 5+, but pushchairs may struggle on steeper parts.

Enjoy a leisurely guided barge trip along the Shannon-Erne Waterway, starting from Ballinamore, County Leitrim. The trip offers stunning views of the Irish countryside, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as swans, herons, and kingfishers. Children will love operating the locks and learning about canal history. - Suitable for all ages; baby buggies welcome. - Facilities include a small café and toilets at the departure point. - Bring waterproofs and snacks; no food served on board. - Trips last approx. 60–90 minutes, ideal for short attention spans.

Carrick-on-Shannon Leisure Centre is a family-friendly facility offering a 25m swimming pool, children's pool, gym, and sports hall. Highlights include swimming lessons, birthday party packages, and a soft play area for younger kids. Facilities include changing rooms, a cafe, and ample parking. Practical tips: book swimming sessions in advance during holidays; suitable for all ages with dedicated children's sessions. - Swimming pool with separate children's area - Soft play zone for toddlers - Sports hall for indoor activities - Cafe serving snacks and drinks

A modern, inclusive playground located alongside the picturesque River Shannon in Carrick-on-Shannon town centre. The playground features a variety of equipment for different ages, including swings, slides, climbing frames, a roundabout, and sensory play panels. There is a dedicated toddler area with smaller, safer equipment, making it suitable for younger children. - - Benches and picnic tables are available for parents, and the surrounding marina area offers scenic walking paths and green spaces. - The playground is fully enclosed and surfaced with soft rubber mulch for safety. - Public toilets are nearby at the marina, and parking is available on the street or in nearby car parks. - It is a popular stop for families exploring the town, especially during warmer months.