Family Activities and Attractions

Adventure for all the family

Family holidays that pack in the fun – right here in Northern Ireland. 

The time has arrived to book a short break – will your next giant adventure be a family one?  Great! Because you’re just a small step away from making some wonderful memories in Northern Ireland. From awe-inspiring scenery to world-class attractions and experiences, it’s all on our doorstep– and it’s all wrapped up in that giant spirit we’re famous for. When you do decide on your break, your safety will be taken very seriously, so you and your family can holiday with complete confidence. Look out for the We’re Good To Go mark on accommodation, restaurants, bars, as well as other attractions and experiences.* In the meantime, all the inspiration you need for your next family getaway is right here.

*All activities and attractions featured hold the We're Good to Go industry standard which shows they have agreed to comply with Covid-19 safety guidelines.

The great outdoors is truly great in Northern Ireland. There’s miles of sandy beaches to explore with safe, shallow water and easy access for paddling and swimming - Cushendun along the Causeway Coastal Route has the perfect beach for these. Staying on the water, family-friendly water sports are all on offer at Let's Go Hydro - try and tackle the inflatable obstacle course on water which includes a floating trampoline!

Looking for something more challenging for the kids? This is their chance to try zip-lining at Colin Glen Forest Park. Moonlight kayaking? Try Far and Wild in Derry~Londonderry.  Driving a hovercraft? Make a bee-line for Limitless Adventure Centre. Kids paintballing?  Visit Todds Leap.

The exhilaration isn’t all physical, though. Because Northern Ireland is alive with history and the natural world too. Here, one unique attraction after another will fire the imagination of visitors of all ages. Try star-gazing at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, deer spotting at Gosford Forest Park or travel through underground caves and see the stalactites and stalagmites at Marble Arch Caves. Nature is on display here in a way that’s sure to inspire. 

Meanwhile our many museums and monuments tell the story of Northern Ireland’s extraordinary history with a unique flair, entrancing visitors young and old. Follow the emigrants’ trail at the Ulster American Folk Park. Experience the place where the Titanic was built and launched. Travel back in time to the Georgian era at Hillsborough Castle and Gardens. Step back in time to 2000 years ago with a visit to an Iron Age dwelling at the Navan Centre and Fort.  Or take a walk around the 17th century walls of Derry~Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe. Then come right back to the present at one of our many world-class shops or restaurants.

Whatever you want to pack into your family holiday, start planning it now. Then, when the time is right, you’ll be well and truly ready for that giant adventure!  If you're looking for inspiration why not start with our Giant Guide to Short Breaks in Northern Ireland.

Always follow current COVID-19 travel advice and guidelines before planning and while visiting.  Visit nidirect.gov.uk. Check ahead with providers before visiting and book in advance where applicable.