🏰Rock of Dunamase

Portlaoise Leisure Centre is a modern facility offering a 25m swimming pool, a separate children's pool with interactive water features, and a soft play area. The centre also includes a fully equipped gym, fitness studios, and a café. Ideal for families with kids of all ages, the leisure centre provides a safe and fun environment for swimming lessons, family swims, and birthday parties. The children's pool has a splash zone with small slides and fountains, while the soft play area is perfect for toddlers. Practical tips: Bring swimwear and towels, as rentals may not be available. The café serves snacks and drinks. Weekday mornings are quieter for younger children. Check online for session times and family ticket discounts.

A 50-acre public park in Portlaoise featuring a large lake, woodland walks, and a children's playground. Highlights include a fairy trail, ancient ring fort, and picnic areas. The park is free and open year-round, with flat paths suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. Facilities include public toilets and ample parking. It's ideal for families with kids of all ages, especially for outdoor exploration and nature walks.

Portlaoise Library is a welcoming public library located in the heart of Portlaoise, County Laois. It offers a dedicated children's section with a wide range of books, audiobooks, and educational resources for all ages. - Regular free events include storytime sessions, arts and crafts workshops, and seasonal activities for kids. - Facilities include free Wi-Fi, computer access, and a quiet study area. The library also has a toy library and a sensory-friendly corner. - Practical tip: No booking is required for general visits, but some events may need registration. The library is stroller-friendly and has baby-changing facilities.

Emo Court is a stunning neoclassical mansion set in 80 acres of parkland and gardens in County Laois, Ireland. Families can explore the grand interiors, stroll through the walled garden, and enjoy the lake and woodland walks. There is a children's playground and plenty of space for picnics. Facilities include a café and gift shop. The estate is open seasonally, check website for times. - Highlights: house tour, walled garden, lake, woodland trails, playground. - Suitable for all ages; little ones will love running in the gardens. - Practical tips: wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring a picnic, and visit the café for refreshments.

Abbeyleix Bog is a rare and precious raised bog in County Laois, Ireland, offering a unique natural experience for families. The site features a well-maintained 1.5 km wooden boardwalk loop that takes you through the heart of the bog, perfect for young explorers and pushchairs. - Highlights include the fascinating bog flora and fauna, informative interpretation panels, and a viewing platform. Kids will love spotting dragonflies, butterflies, and maybe even frogs. - Suitable for all ages, with a gentle, flat path that is accessible for buggies and wheelchairs. - Facilities: free car park (limited spaces), picnic tables, and public toilets. No café on site, so bring your own snacks. - Practical tip: Wear sturdy shoes as the boardwalk can be slippery when wet. Best visited on a dry day. The bog is exposed, so bring sun protection or jackets depending on weather.

Athy Heritage Centre-Museum is a local history museum housed in the historic Town Hall in Athy, County Kildare. It offers engaging exhibits on the town's rich past, including the Shackleton family and other notable local figures. Children will enjoy interactive displays, hands-on activities, and the chance to learn about the famous explorer Ernest Shackleton. The museum features a dedicated children's corner with puzzles and dressing-up costumes, making it a fun and educational stop for families. The centre also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year. Facilities include a gift shop and accessible toilets. The compact size means a visit typically lasts 1-2 hours. Admission is free, though donations are welcome. It's an ideal rainy-day activity and a great way to introduce kids to history in an engaging, informal setting.

Athy Town Park is a well-maintained public park in the heart of Athy, County Kildare. It features a large playground with equipment suitable for toddlers and older children, including swings, slides, and climbing frames. The park has open green spaces ideal for picnics and ball games, along with a scenic riverside walk along the River Barrow. Families can enjoy the 'Astro' football pitch, a skate park, and a sensory garden. Public toilets and ample parking are available nearby. The park is free to enter and is a popular spot for local families year-round.