Family Activities and Attractions in Northern Ireland

Ready for a giant summer adventure at unmissable value? It’s all on your doorstep in Northern Ireland. Get ready to make wonderful memories on fun-filled days and action-packed adventures. From awe-inspiring scenery to world-class attractions and experiences, it’s all on your doorstep, and it’s wrapped up in that giant spirit we’re famous for.

Enjoy a ramble on the sprawling grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, which gets more breath-taking especially during these brighter days or head to the coast to experience the awe-inspiring sea-spray that dashes against the Giant’s Causeway.

Interested in history and the natural world? Try star-gazing at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, deer spotting at Gosford Forest Park or travel through underground caves to uncover stalactites and stalagmites at Marble Arch Caves.

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. 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.

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Awaken your Giant Spirit

Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Hunt

Embark on an adventure this summer with Disney Winnie the Pooh Hunny Hunt. Help Pooh find his missing hunny and on the way find Rabbit's Garden, Eeyore's Cabin and Piglet's Burrow, inspired by Disney Winnie the Pooh.
1. 28 Jun 202531 Aug 2025
Portrush Surf School

Join a group lesson on your own or with your friends, for a full 2 hours of water time in waist depth water. Fun at the beach guaranteed.
Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary

Enjoy a diver's view of marine life from around the world without getting wet. An underwater Tunnel Experience, friendly sharks and a Dwarfcrocodile, a Waddle of Penguins, all star in Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre.
1. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
2. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is “the place for space”. Watch an amazing Full Dome Theatre show and explore the Universe. Immerse yourself in the latest scientific research in the exhibition area and take a relaxing walk through the Astropark taking in our trails.
Family Friendly Accommodation in Northern Ireland

As a family you'll be spending your days trekking through forest parks, exploring new towns and villages and maybe even splashing in the sea, so it’s essential that everyone gets a good night’s sleep. The sea and country air will be a strong ally in your battle of the night-time wind down, but even if that doesn’t help we have plenty of cosy places where you can lay your hat and call home.
National Trust Sites

There are over 20 National Trust sites scattered across Northern Ireland, including the Giant's Causeway, Castle Coole in Enniskillen, Mount Stewart in Newtownards and Rowallane Gardens in Saintfield. These destinations showcase the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical importance of the region.
Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo is set on the beautiful slopes of Cave Hill and is home to over 100 amazing animal species, many of which are endangered in the wild.
1. 3 Apr 20251 Oct 2025
2. 2 Oct 20252 Apr 2026
Marble Arch Caves

Marble Arch Caves- Magical, Unique and Memorable. The Marble Arch Caves is a major tourist attraction, set in the picturesque foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, just a short journey from the Island town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
W5

W5 is an award-winning science and discovery centre, firing the spirit of discovery with limitless fun for everyone including eight new zones packed full of interactive exhibits that will excite and inspire.
1. 1 Jan 202531 Dec 2025
Oakfire Adventures

Check out our Zip Trekking Experience, Tree Trek Adventure or our combi package the Full Aerial Challenge exciting grown-up fun in the great outdoors.
Tayto Tours

A 'Taste of Home', Tayto crisps have been part of growing up in Northern Ireland. Come and see how we make such tasty crisps and snacks!
1. 1 Jan 202531 Dec 2025
Activities at Lusty Beg Island Resort

Idyllic 75-acre private island set in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands offering a variety of activities on land and water.
Ulster Folk Museum

Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage skills are preserved and celebrated to help shape future generations.
1. 1 Mar 202530 Sep 2025
2. 1 Oct 202528 Feb 2026
Ulster American Folk Park

Journey back in time at the Ulster American Folk Park, from the Old World of Ulster to the New World of America. Learn what life was like in rural Ulster, step on board the full-scale emigrant ship and enjoy craft demonstrations performed by guides in traditional costumes.
1. 1 Mar 202531 Oct 2025
2. 1 Nov 202528 Feb 2026
Carrickfergus Castle

Get ready to step back in time at Carrickfergus Castle, an incredible Norman castle nestled in the charming seaside town of Carrickfergus, County Antrim, right on the shores of Belfast Lough. For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape whether approached by land, sea or air. The castle now houses historical displays as well as cannons from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Strangford Lough Activity Centre

Strangford Lough Activity Centre offer a variety of land and water activities throughout Northern Ireland. Whatever your adventure, we’ll help you realise it. We are run by a team of qualified experienced instructors & guides.
1. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999
2. 1 Jan 000131 Dec 9999

Ideal Days Out with Kids

Awaken your Giant Spirit

Jill’s ‘un-Fer-gettable’ short break at Lusty Beg Island and Marble Arch Caves

With luscious landscapes and enchanting caves, Fermanagh offers lots to discover. Join Jill McDowell (@HomeAtRoseCottage) and her family as they explore all this beautiful county has to offer during an ‘un-Fer-gettable’ short break!
Embracing the Causeway Coast with FlipFlopsAndFloaties

If you're seeking inspiration for your next mid term adventure, check out where Tara O’Byrne (@flipflopsandfloaties) and her family took themselves off exploring during a recent short stay along the Causeway Coastal Route.
Giant Adventures in Armagh

Life can be hectic at times so it’s nice to hit pause and spend time away with family. Check out what Donna-Louise Todd (@Mrs.Houseproud)and her family got up to as they have a giant adventure in Armagh.
13 family fun attractions

Whether you're seeking high energy activities, looking to explore historical castles and islands, or wanting to learn about something new, Northern Ireland has it all. Find inspiration in our curated list perfect for families, including the likes of Enniskillen Castle, We Are Vertigo and W5 amongst others!
Ten plus adventures for teenagers

Here's lots of brilliant things to do with teenagers in Northern Ireland. Whether yours are into water sports, rally driving, zorbing or ziplining - there’s an experience for them here.
Fun Ideas for Days Out during School Holidays

We've pulled together inspiring ideas on where to go and what to do during the school holidays. From exploring museums and learning about space, to burning off energy in inflatable parks... there's something for every kind of day out.