If you’re in search of the perfect staycation location with endless options, but want to avoid Ireland’s bigger, more crowded cities, your sights should be firmly set on County Kildare. While in very close proximity to Ireland’s capital city, Kildare also provides a more relaxed, laid back atmosphere for those looking for excitement without the added hustle and bustle.
Visitors to Kildare are constantly amazed at how much is on offer, from scenic strolls and family friendly activities to award-winning restaurants and world-famous attractions. And it’s not just tourists that are enthralled by all Kildare has to boast about; natives of the county continue to discover more about their homeplace through exciting daycations just a stone’s throw from their doorstep.
So, whether staycation or daycation, where should you start when creating an itinerary for a fun, family friendly 24 or 48-hours in Kildare? Here is a little inspiration…
Kildare is one of the most family friendly spots in Ireland, with a multitude of activities to choose from across the county. The hotel offering is also second to none.
Killashee Hotel in Naas is just one of the fantastic family hotels now taking bookings – offers spacious family rooms, a Children’s Passport, Mini Explorer Bug Hunt Kits, on-site playground and much more. The grounds at Killashee also provide ample entertainment for children, with the Johnny Magory Irish Wildlife & Heritage Trail, children’s library, and playroom, 220 acres of woodlands, parklands, and gardens and a 25m swimming pool.
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With the accommodation in the bag, a great first stop is Kildare Farm Foods Open Farm & Shop . Entry to the Open Farm is free of charge and it is a buggy and wheelchair accessible destination, allowing visitors to see a wide variety of animals in a natural and relaxed setting. The farm is home to camels, ostrich, emu, pigs, goats, cows, deer and sheep. Ride the Indian Express Train around the farm before visiting the hatchery and aquarium, and why not play a round of Crazy Golf in indoor Indian Creek or visit the Teddy Bear Factory?
After a busy day of exploring, little tummies can be refuelled at The Tractor Café, which serves a tasty family friendly menu, so whether it’s lunch or afternoon tea you’re in the market for, you’ll enjoy good wholesome food.
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Next on the agenda is Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park with its beautiful gardens, woodland walks, train rides and fairy trail. There are also historical exhibitions to pique the interest of the adults in the group, including The County Exhibition for the 1798 Rebellion. This beautiful attraction provides ample opportunities for family fun, with a large adventure play area, crazy golf, the Funky Forest Indoor Play Centre, and a pet farm with its famous Falabella ponies.
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From land to sea, Kildare has oodles to offer those angling for an outdoors adventure. Athy Boat Tours offer bespoke tours along the Barrow Navigation, which are catered to the preferences of each group – and may even feature and on-board picnic or lunch on the riverbank! A barge trip along the Grand Canal, courtesy of bargetrip.ie , is also a memorable way to spend a few hours while taking in some of Kildare’s most picturesque scenery.
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A post shared by Ger Loughlin (@bargetrip)
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For a treat that will wow both kids and grown-ups alike, head for The Irish National Stud & Gardens ; a unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty that is home to some of the most magnificent horses and sumptuous gardens to be found anywhere in the world. This one is an absolute must during any trip to Kildare.
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On the subject of fresh and fabulous food, Kildare is renowned for its local producers and family friendly eateries. A memorable dining experience can be found at one of the county’s many popular restaurants, such as Flannagan’s Bar at the Silken Thomas in Kildare town
With your appetite for adventure and great food fully satisfied, it’s time to head back to the hotel – where you can start planning your next trip to unbeatable Kildare!
For more information on inspirational daycations, staycations and offers in the County of Kildare, stay tuned to www.intokildare.ie or follow the hashtag #intokildare on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
Another must-visit attraction opening for the Easter break in 2022 for adventure seekers is The Kildare Maze – Leinster’s largest hedge maze no less – which can be found in the North Kildare countryside. Explore the 1.5acre hedge maze with over 2km of paths and from the viewing tower, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside or simply the maze itself – the St Brigid’s Cross. The wooden maze provides an exciting challenge, and the route is changed frequently to keep visitors on their toes! The Kildare Maze also boasts an Adventure Trail, Zip Wire, Crazy Golf and for younger visitors, a toddler’s play area. The picnic area offers the perfect spot for a well-deserved break after all that action.
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