Best Family Days Out In Cork
As one of the biggest cities and counties in Ireland, Cork has more to offer families than most. The city is easily accessible by car, train, bus or even plane, making it easy to plan a few days away with the family. From fun family activities, interesting local attractions, breath taking walks and real-life adventures, we’ve collected the best options for a brilliant family day out in Cork:
Fota Wildlife Park
The estate was eventually sold to University College Cork following the death of Mrs Dorothy Elizabeth Bell, the last of the estate’s owners and it’s now managed by the Irish Heritage Trust, while the 100-acre gardens and arboretum are under the joint care of the Trust and Office of Public Works (OPW).
The gardens are home to thousands of animals and plants, both native and exotic so you can spend the day exploring and learning about the animals onsite, from the lions to the kangaroos.
If you are looking for things to do in Cork with kids, throughout the year Fota Wildlife Park also offers activity days for children, take a look at the schedule when you are planning your visit.
West Cork Model Railway Village
The West Cork Model Railway Village appeals to both young and old alike. Exploring the old railways of the 1930s-1950s and the towns that sprung up around them as miniature models before taking the road train through Clonakilty to see the life-size versions up close is truly captivating and enjoyable for the whole family.
With spectacular views of Clonakilty Bay, it’s also the perfect place to break for lunch and enjoy the scenery alongside a cup of tea and a delicious homemade scone.
Cork City Gaol
A former prison turned museum, Cork City Gaol is a history buffs dream. The tour offers the experience of what it was like to be a 19th-century prisoner and you can still see some original graffiti on the walls.
Interestingly, the building also used to house Cork’s first radio station. After ceasing operations as a prison in 1923, Radio Eireann took over the building in 1927 to broadcast Cork’s first radio station, 6CK, form the main building. It remained a broadcasting house until the 1950s before falling into disrepair before reopening as a visitor attraction in 1993.
Blackrock Castle Observatory
Just outside the city centre, Blackrock Castle Observatory gives you and your family the chance to explore outer space. The astronomy centre hosts a number of exhibits throughout the year, as well as a “tour of the universe” and the opportunity to beam your own message toward a nearby star using its radio telescope.
There are a number of special events on here throughout the year and you can also host children’s birthday parties at the observatory as well.
LeisureWorld Churchfield
Looking for family fun in Cork? LeisureWorld is perfect for an active day out. LeisureWorld Churchfield offers three swimming pools, including a 25-metre pool, a children’s pool and a toddler pool with a play zone, a large water slide and 8 Astroturf Pitches. There’s also 2 gyms with sauna and steam room facilities onsite for parents.
One of the swimming pools is dedicated to learners so no matter what level the children are at, there will be a pool they can enjoy. If you are interested in organising lessons, there are a number of options available so just check out the LeisureWorld website for more information.
Fitzgerald’s Park
When all else fails or you’ve run out of ideas, grab a picnic basket and head to Fitzgerald’s Park in the city centre for an old-fashioned family day out. Featuring the locally loved “shaky” bridges, go for a family walk, visit the beautifully landscaped gardens, and playground for the kids. Fitzgerald’s Park offers the perfect backdrop to a fun-filled family outdoor adventure in Cork
If you need to take shelter indoors, the Cork Public Museum is also in the park and can be accessed free of charge. Here you can learn all about the local history of the city.
Family trips are our speciality at Clayton Silver Springs. Our spacious family rooms are the perfect base for the whole family to relax after a day of exploring Cork. We have special offers across our different family packages including discounted admissions to local family attractions. We’ve also got:
- Kids Club and activities
- Outdoor Playground
- Children’s menu at our family-friendly restaurant
- Family Friendly Swimming Pool
Create magical memories on your family holiday at Clayton Silver Springs.
