Photo Credit – Shutterstock
Visit Cork’s off-shore islands
Cork’s coast has numerous islands that are always popular among families for a day out. There are several to choose from with each possessing their own desirable qualities and attractive aspects for a family trip, and are all no more than a 20 minute boat ride away from the West Cork coast. Whether you want to stroll among scenery or have a family picnic on Sherkin Island’s secluded beach, visit a yester-year prison on Spike Island or view some exotic foreign flora and climb a castle on Garnish Island, there are so many options to choose from. Most of these islands will feature restaurants or pubs offering food and a space to relax so this day out is one for families of all ages and fitness levels.
For a full list of Cork’s offshore islands and accessibility information, see westcorkislands.com.
The Titanic Experience Cobh
Located in the heart of Cobh, this historical day out is an experience like no other as you are taken away on a journey of education and insight into the sinking of the world’s most famous ship. Upon arrival you will receive a ticket with the name of one of 123 real passengers who boarded the ship in 1912, and you will find out at the end if you survived the trip. Featuring an interactive tour-guide, as well as virtual boarders and staff relaying real experiences from the ship, this tour is jammed with exciting yet educational aspects. Children will learn about the living conditions of boarders dependent on class and wealth and be exposed to a cinematic experience of the ships disastrous end.
Adult fares from €9.50. Children aged four to 16 enter from €6.50, while students and seniors enter at discounted rate of €8.00. For more information see titanicexperiencecobh.ie.
Fota Wildlife Park
The famous wildlife park has been in the business of preserving and caring for exotic flora and fauna for 35 years now and is a guaranteed day of excitement and fun for children of all ages. Fota is home to several different species in danger of extinction, featuring faimilar furry faces such as cheetahs, apes, giraffe, lions, flamingos and so many more! Getting up close and personal with some of the world’s most well-known and beautiful wildlife is an experience your little ones will value forever.
Adult fares from €16.50, while children under 16 start from €11.00. Students and seniors get a discounted rate of €12.00, while toddlers go FREE.
For more information see fotawildlife.ie.
Trabolgan Holiday Village
This famous holiday spot in Midleton has entertainment, adventure sports and exciting waterpark features suitable for everyone from toddlers to teens. Including an abundance of water rides such as sub-tropical pools, indoor water centre, crazy golf, zip wire adventures, archery and more, there is no shortage of exciting and adrenaline boosting activities in Trabolgan to keep youngsters active and busy throughout your stay.
Ticket fares from €10.00 per person, with toddlers under two years of age for FREE. For more information see trabolgan.com.
Blackrock Castle and Observatory
Visiting this fully interactive astronomy centre will ensure your children feel like they are in flight among the stars. Featuring a guided tour that will help you both understand the castle’s history and location, as well as the inner workings of the professional astronomical observatory. Venturing up to the structures heights turrets to see unique views of Cork’s Harbour, intense planetarium shoes and galactic fun and games will be the makings of a dream day for any young space enthusiasts.
Ticket fares from €6.50 for adults and €4.50 for children and seniors. Children under five go FREE. For more info see bco.ie.
Indoor entertainment
Cork has no shortage of indoor adventure centres to keep little ones busy on rainy days. Leisure Plex in Cork City provides a play zone, bowling, arcade and laser tag adventures, while Supernova in Ballincollig is home to a roller rink and play area as well. Chuckies Playzone in Wilton is ideal for younger kids, as is Monkey Maze in Glanmire.
For more info see Leisureplex.ie, Supernova.ie, Chuckies.ie and Monkeymaze.ie.
Theater
Cork is home to one of the finest theatres in the country, the Cork Opera House. During the year various performances from travelling artists and theatre schools take place here and there is always a few child friendly gigs to attend. During the Christmas period it’s home to the Christmas Panto and children can be treated to an array of appropriate concerts, plays and shows throughout the year.
For more information visit corkoperahouse.ie
