If you’re looking to get out and about with the kids, there’s nothing better than a day in the fresh air exploring. Wexford has plenty of countryside to choose from, so we’ve rounded up our favourite places for great family walks in Wexford that are perfect for a family-friendly day out.
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Whether you prefer to walk on the beach, on a hillside or through the woods, Wexford has the answer. Pack a picnic and enjoy the fresh air together as a family, rain or shine!
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Walks in Wexford to Enjoy as a Family
#1. John F Kennedy Arboretum
The JFK Arboretum covers 252 hectares with planned walks and over 4,500 types of trees and shrubs from temperate regions all over the world.
The lake is the most popular part of the Arboretum, and there’s also a huge labyrinth for kids to explore, a playground with picnic area, a mini train, and a seasonal café.
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#2. Courtown Woods
Originally an old oak woodland, Courtown Woods is a great place for a family walk. The area is known for its variety of wildlife, including otters, swans and ducks.
You can choose from four different walks: the River Walk (1.9km), Top Walk (1.2km), Canal Walk (1km) or High Cross Walk (1km).
Ballinatray Bridge, once among the tallest viaducts in Ireland, can be seen along the way, as well as a yew tree planted in the 1870s that, though felled many years ago, continues to grow beside the River Walk. In late spring, there’s a spectacular carpet of white wild garlic flowers as well as bluebells.
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#3. The Three Rocks Trail
The Three Rocks Trail is an 8km trail across Fort Mountain and Shelmalier. There are shorter loops for families, picnic areas and great viewing points.
#4. Tintern Abbey
© Fáilte Ireland
Tintern Abbey Trails include 3km of trail through 200-year-old beech and oak trees in Saltmills, New Ross. Visitors can view the remains of the nave, chancel, tower, chapel and cloister, and can join guided tours of the property, which in the 16th century became living quarters for the Colclough family.
This is a shorter, tranquil woodland walk and will only take about an hour.
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#5. Edenvale
Edenvale-Crossabeg-Castlebridge is a lovely river walk with a waterfall and the ruins of an old house that will give the children a real sense of adventure. There are steep steps in parts, and it’s a good spot for salmon fishing too.
#6. Dunanore Woods
Running along the River Slaney, Dunanore Woods take their name from Dun na Oir and legends of buried treasure. They’re beautiful all year round, especially in spring, with an abundance of bluebells and trees over a century old.
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#7. Carrigbyrne Hill
Carrigbyrne Hill is a 5km trail through mainly coniferous forest, and a great place to walk as a family thanks to its natural, historical and cultural interest. There are a few different trails to choose from, each with its own character.
Walks here can be as long or short as you like, and each turn brings breathtaking views across the valleys surrounding the hill. Look out for the megalithic standing stones dotted around the hill, and there are plenty of spots to picnic and rest along the way.
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#8. Curracloe Nature Trail
The gorgeous Curracloe Beach, famous for its appearance in the film Saving Private Ryan, is a 15-minute drive from Wexford town. A nature trail runs through the dunes and continues for 5km to Raven Point, through the Raven Nature Reserve — a sanctuary for birds such as geese, and wildlife including the red squirrel.
A looped walk of the area takes you to the tip of the Raven Point spit through the wood and back again via the beach.
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Do you have a favourite family walk in Wexford? Leave a comment below and let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Wexford walk is easiest for buggies and young children?
Several of these trails have gentler, more level paths that suit younger children, such as the lakeside walk at JFK Arboretum and the short woodland trail at Tintern Abbey. Surfaces can vary with the weather and time of year, so it’s worth checking conditions before you set off, especially if you’re bringing a buggy.
Is there anywhere to picnic along these walks?
Yes — JFK Arboretum, Carrigbyrne Hill and several other spots on this list have picnic areas, so packing a lunch is a lovely way to make a day of it.
Which walk is best for older children looking for more adventure?
Edenvale, with its steep steps and old ruins, and Curracloe’s dune and forest trail out to Raven Point both offer a bit more of a challenge and sense of exploration for older kids.
Do I need to pay for parking or entry at these sites?
Arrangements vary by site and can change from time to time, particularly at heritage locations like JFK Arboretum and Tintern Abbey, so it’s best to check directly with the site before you travel.
Related Articles
- Fun and Free Things to Do in Wexford with Kids
- Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Wexford
- Our Pick of the Best Beaches in Ireland for Families
- Top Picnic Places in Ireland for Families
Before You Go
Save this guide for your next family day out in Wexford, or browse more outdoor adventure ideas on MyKidsTime for your next trip.
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