Kilkenny is glorious in the sunshine, but anyone who lives here knows the rain is never far away. Having a few weather-proof ideas up your sleeve makes all the difference, so we’ve pulled together 10 brilliant rainy day activities for kids in Kilkenny that are perfect for those grey, drizzly afternoons.
Kilkenny offers a whole host of family-friendly activities, from woodland walks and medieval history to world-class craft and design. When it comes to rainy day activities in Kilkenny, there really is no shortage of ways to keep the kids entertained.
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Raining in Kilkenny? Don’t Worry!
Visit the National Reptile Zoo
Check out the snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles and more at the National Reptile Zoo in Hebron Business Park, Kilkenny City. There’s plenty to explore, including an Animal Encounter Zone, a Nocturnal Realm, education rooms, a coffee shop and a play area — a brilliant indoor option whatever the weather is doing outside. It’s worth checking current opening hours and admission details before you visit.
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Take in a Show
Located in the heart of Kilkenny City, the Watergate Theatre has been keeping audiences entertained since 1993 with local, national and international theatre productions, live music, dance, comedy and much more. Check their current listings for family shows before you visit.
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Get Reading!
Visit your local library and find out what classes and events they run throughout the year. Your local library branch is a wonderful, free resource for families.
Libraries typically host a popular annual summer reading programme, and many branches run or host parent and toddler groups, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts classes, book clubs, and games and activities sessions.
Not to mention free computer access and the option to borrow books, music and DVDs. For a change of scenery, why not visit a different branch?
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Go Bowling
Indoor activities the whole family can do together are a great way to spend a rainy day. Try your hand at family bowling at the K-Bowl Family Entertainment Centre at MacDonagh Junction. Check their current opening hours before you head out.
Visit an Indoor Play Centre
Getting the kids to burn off some energy in a safe, supervised space is a great rainy day activity, and Kilkenny has several options, including:
- Jellietots Playcentre, Loughboy Industrial Estate
- The Playstation, Hebron Business Park
While not strictly a play centre, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre also has a soft play area for young children, and there are cafés in Workhouse Square where you can grab a bite to eat. It’s worth checking ahead for any weekend entertainment that might be on.
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Make a Splash
Go for a splash at the Watershed, which offers something for all the family, including a 25m lane pool, a 5m learner pool, and a Fun Pool for the kids.
You don’t have to be a member to enjoy the facilities, as “Pay As You Go” options are usually available — check current pricing and session times before you visit.
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Indulge Your Creative Side
If your kids love getting crafty, it’s worth checking out drop-in art studio Art It at Priory House, MacDonagh Junction.
Children aged 5–12 can enjoy an hour or two while parents shop, taking part in the studio’s rotating activities, from working with clay to painting, printing and all manner of imaginative craft projects. Check ahead for current sessions and availability.
The Butler Gallery at Kilkenny Castle
Inspiring culture seekers since 1943, the Butler Gallery is located in the former kitchens of Kilkenny Castle, right in the heart of Kilkenny City.
The gallery has traditionally been free to visit, with a Children’s Programme and Youth Programme running throughout the year — check their current opening days and event calendar before you go.
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National Design & Craft Gallery
The National Design & Craft Gallery is located in the former stable yard of Kilkenny Castle, in the centre of the medieval city. The gallery has traditionally been free to visit, with workshops running periodically, so check their website before you go to see what’s on. There are also a number of craft-based shops to browse, plus a restaurant, café and food court nearby.
The gallery sits in the Castle Yard, across the road from Kilkenny Castle, and is wheelchair accessible with dedicated disabled parking bays close by. Pay and Display parking can be found along Castle Road or in the nearby Ormonde Street Car Park.
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Get Outside
Sometimes, you’ve just got to get out and get wet! There are lots of fun rainy day games that kids will enjoy, from mud-building to rain races.
Alternatively, pop on the rain gear and wellies and go for a walk. Most kids love splashing in puddles, and it’s often a great way to release pent-up energy after being cooped up indoors. There are lots of great family walks in Kilkenny that would fit the bill, rain or shine.
Warm up afterwards with a hot bath, dry clothes and a hot chocolate. Then why not pull out a board game or snuggle up on the couch with a movie — the perfect end to a wet day.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best rainy day activities in Kilkenny for young kids?
Indoor play centres such as Jellietots Playcentre and The Playstation are great for younger children who need to burn off energy, while the free soft play area at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre is a handy option for a quick visit.
Is there anywhere free to visit in Kilkenny on a rainy day?
Yes — your local library is a free resource with classes and events throughout the year, and galleries such as the Butler Gallery and the National Design & Craft Gallery have traditionally offered free entry, though it’s worth checking current details before you go.
What can families do together indoors in Kilkenny when it rains?
Family bowling at K-Bowl, a swim at the Watershed, or a creative session at Art It are all great options for the whole family to enjoy together, whatever the weather.
Are there indoor activities in Kilkenny suitable for a wide age range?
Yes — places like the National Reptile Zoo and the Watergate Theatre offer experiences that tend to appeal across different ages, making them good choices for families with children of varying ages.
More Rainy Day Inspiration
If you’re planning ahead for the next wet spell, you might also like:
- 50 Fun Rainy Day Activities For Kids
- 10 Boredom Busting Rainy Day Activities for Kids
- 10 Galoshingly Good Rainy Day Activities for Kids Outdoors
- Top Spots in Ireland for Swimming and Splashing Fun with the Family
Save These Ideas for Later
No printable this time, but it’s worth bookmarking this page or saving it to your favourites so you’ve got a ready-made list of rainy day ideas for Kilkenny whenever the forecast turns wet.
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Do you have any other suggestions for rainy day activities for kids in Kilkenny? Leave a comment below and let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
