10 Things For Under 10s In Northern Ireland

Keeping younger children entertained can be a challenge, especially when you're trying to find days out that appeal to curious toddlers, energetic little explorers and growing imaginations. Fortunately, if you're looking for things to do with younger kids, Northern Ireland is packed with attractions that are tailor-made for under 10s.

The beauty of family days out in Northern Ireland is the variety on offer. One weekend could be spent following magical storybook trails, while the next might involve spotting sharks, discovering the wonders of science via hands-on exhibits or adventuring through outdoor play parks. Rain or shine, there are plenty of family attractions that make it easy to turn an ordinary day into an adventure.

If you're looking for things to do in Northern Ireland with kids, we've rounded up 10 favourite attractions for younger families. From much-loved classics to hidden gems, these experiences offer some of the best family fun in Northern Ireland and are guaranteed to keep under 10s entertained.

Explore Things To Do

1. W5 Belfast
2. Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary
3. Belfast Zoo
4. Gruffalo & Stickman Guided Walk
5. Armagh Observatory & Planetarium
6. Slieve Gullion Forest Park
7. The Narnia Trail
8. WWT Castle Espie
9. Pickie Fun Park
10. Ulster American Folk Park

W5, Belfast

Belfast's award-winning science and discovery centre   is one of the most reliably excellent family attractions in Northern Ireland. Over 250 interactive exhibits across eight themed zones cover everything from space and nature to optical illusions and film production. Always weatherproof, always engaging, and conveniently located right alongside Titanic Belfast for a full Titanic Quarter family day out.

Exploris Aquarium

Located an hour from Belfast on the shores of Strangford Lough, Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry features a variety of indoor and outdoor marine and wildlife exhibits. Visitors can walk through an underwater glass tunnel in the new Ocean Tank, view native Irish Sea species, and explore a tropical zone with over 100 species of coral reef fish. The complex includes a fully licensed restaurant, an outdoor picnic area, and a local visitor information point, with the aquarium open daily from 10:00 to 17:00.

Belfast Zoo

Located on the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Zoo covers 55 acres and is home to more than 100 animal species, including many that are endangered in the wild. Visitors can look out over Belfast Lough while exploring the site, which features a large playpark, picnic areas, cafés, and a gift shop. As an accredited member of global zoo organisations, the site focuses on conservation and education, offering a variety of public events throughout the year.

Gruffalo & Stickman Guided Walk

Explore the Gruffalo trail at Colin Glen, located just a short drive from Belfast city centre. Visitors can complete the woodland walk for free to spot characters from the story, including the mouse, fox, owl, and snake. Alternatively, families can book a guided Gruffalo and Stickman trail, which includes a storytelling session along the route, as well as a book and certificate for children to take home.

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium offers a hands-on look at space and astronomy. Visitors can watch shows about the night sky in the Digital Full Dome Theatre or explore the exhibition area, which includes interactive workshops and Ireland's largest meteorite. The facility also features a dedicated Sensory Space and 14 acres of landscaped grounds known as the Astropark, where you can walk among scale models of the solar system, historic telescopes, and a Human Orrery.

Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Adventure Playpark and Fionn's Giant Adventure

Set in the heart of the Ring of Gullion, Slieve Gullion Forest Park is one of Northern Ireland’s most magical family destinations. Known as Ireland’s Mountain of Mystery, the park offers an unforgettable mix of outdoor adventure, enchanting storytelling, and beautiful natural scenery, perfect for families looking for a full day of fun.

The Narnia Trail

This family loop trail takes you through woodland at Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor. The famous writer, C S Lewis, as a young boy, spent much holiday time in the Mournes and Rostrevor in particular, allowing him to imagine, dream and wonder, and inspiring his creation of the magical world of Narnia. This family trail seeks to capture the imagination of children of all ages.

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre

WWT Castle Espie is an extraordinary day out for the whole family. Escape the everyday, reconnect with nature, and experience the wonder of wetlands on the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Get up close to ducks and geese in the World Wetland Aviary. Join the keepers for daily Diving Duck Talks and Handfeeding Sessions too. Visit Castle Espie all year round and discover new trails, activities and wildlife highlights every time!

Pickie Fun Park

Pickie Fun Park is one of the top visitor attractions in Northern Ireland and provides a fun day out for all. Visitors will enjoy well-loved favourites such as the Pickie Puffer steam train and the giant Pickie pedal swans, as well as a range of new and exciting features including a splash pad, children’s electric cars and an 18-hole nautical themed mini golf course.

Ulster American Folk Park

The Ulster American Folk Park offers a look into the history of emigration from Ulster to North America. Visitors can explore traditional rural farmhouses and step on board a full-scale replica of an emigrant ship to learn about the historic journey across the Atlantic. The outdoor museum features live demonstrations of traditional crafts like wool spinning and willow weaving led by costumed guides. A full visit typically takes between two and three hours, which includes time to see the family-friendly exhibition based on the children’s novel Under The Hawthorn Tree.