Official tourism website for Northern Ireland

10 things for under 10s in Northern Ireland

Below you'll find suggestions of some of the best places for young families. We've included quirky activities, hidden gems and big hitters unique to Northern Ireland, all of which are perfect for families with young kids.

Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary

New Under the Sea Experience Offically opened on 15th August. Book now >>  Experience our Sea Creatures through an under water Glass tunnel in our new Ocean Tank. Located 1 hour from Belfast on the shores of Strangford Lough, visitors to Exploris Aquarium in Portaferry will be wowed with a diver’s view of marine life around the…

W5

W5 is an award-winning science and discovery centre, located in the Odyssey complex at the gateway to Belfast’s Titanic Quarter. Explore eight new zones, packed with over 250 interactive exhibits, that excite and inspire, with exhibits and experiences covering everything from climate change and nature to film and TV production, optical illusions, built…

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.  Spread across 55 acres, visitors can enjoy fantastic views over Belfast Lough while exploring the zoo’s large playpark, grabbing a bite at one of the cafés, or relaxing in the spacious picnic…

Gruffalo & Stickman Guided Walk

It’s Ireland’s only official Gruffalo Trail; a Julia Donaldson-endorsed walk.  Step into the glorious world of the Gruffalo. Enter the deep, dark wood, meet the clever little mouse, the fox, the owl, the snake, before stumbling upon those knobbly knees and turned out toes and that poisonous wart on the end of his nose: The Gruffalo! You can…

Armagh Observatory and Planetarium

The Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is Northern Ireland's leading astronomical research and education facility. It offers visitors a unique experience which makes it "the place for space". In the Planetarium’s Digital Full Dome Theatre you can sit back, relax and experience the wonders of our Universe. Take a tour of the night sky, and…

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. ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’ have sold over 100…

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. Visit Castle Espie all year round and discover new trails, activities and wildlife highlights every time! Get up close to ducks and geese in our World Wetland…

Pickie Fun Park

Pickie 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…

Ulster American Folk Park

Journey back in time at the Ulster American Folk Park, from Ulster to America. Wander the well-trodden pathways and traditional farmhouses, learning what life was like in rural Ulster. Step on-board the full-scale emigrant ship, experience what the cramped quarters were like on the dangerous journey to America, and find out how Ulster peoples emigration had…

Whether you're the type of family that enjoys planning ways to spend each day of your holiday, or you're the type that go away only to spend the entire time in nearby play parks, you'll know the benefit of having an action packed itinerary, full of fun things to do and cool places to visit.

Here are some of our favourite things for under 10s to enjoy...

Try the underwater tunnel experience at Exploris Aquarium

Enjoy a diver's view of marine life or visit the otters and seals in outdoor enclosures.

Science meets fun at W5

Be inspired and get excited over 250 interactive exhibits at W5 or step into a living storybook world.

Meet the animals at Belfast Zoo

Say hi to the 130 species of animal at Belfast Zoo, including elephants, penguins, pandas and of course the reptiles - are you brave enough?

Somewhere for families to stay

Many Northern Ireland hotels have a "Families Welcome Scheme". This means they have lots of family-friendly facilities and amenities to help make your stay that little bit easier.

You'll find cots and children's beds available, as well as storage for buggies, high chairs and suitable crockery for little hands. They have enhanced safety features too including cordless blinds for extra peace of mind, and should be able to offer family-sized or interconnecting rooms (in serviced accommodation), or stair gates and baby baths (in self-catering accommodation). Essentially, if you book one of the following places to stay, overthinking your accommodation won't be necessary. Is it time to start packing yet? 

Check out some of our Family Friendly Accommodation.