Think winding rivers and secret coves, small trails heading into the forest, and leisurely strolls along quiet streams. Think paddling or cruising along reeded banks before heading across open water to even more adventure — inflatable waterparks, shoreside castles, tree-top walks and winding zip-lines.
This is “Head into the Blue,” Waterways Ireland’s invitation to put the phones down and spend quality time together, exploring some of Ireland’s most beautiful inland waterways and trails.
Think how much your family would enjoy learning new skills together — paddling, boat handling, cycling or horse-riding. Add in comfortable waterfront stays with great food, and you’ve got memories that build one on top of the other, whether it’s a short day out or a full week away.
Head into the Blue with Waterways Ireland and make your next trip one to remember. Whether you’re into paddling, walking, cycling or simply love the outdoors, there’s a route with your family’s name on it.
The whole family can experience the beauty and invigorating spirit of Ireland’s waterways and walking trails — exploring history, culture, crafts and nature along the way. Walk, stroll, relax, try your hand at pottery, or get active with zip-lining, boating, canoeing, island-hopping, running or cycling.
Check out the latest offers from Waterways Ireland and find the one that suits your family.
Top 10 Family Activities on the Blueways
#1. Cruising on Lough Erne
Cruise the dramatically beautiful and tranquil shores of Lough Erne and island-hop its many treasures — from the monastic round towers on Devenish Island to National Trust castles and estates in Fermanagh. Or moor the boat just metres from Enniskillen’s theatre, shopping, museums and restaurants.
#2. Pottery in Tipperary
Try a hands-on ceramics workshop with Marina Postir Ceramics at Neddy’s Cottage, Dromineer, Tipperary — a lovely change of pace for families who fancy getting creative together.
#3. Parkrun in Laois
Take part in the Parkrun at Vicarstown on the Barrow, Laois. Breathe in the fresh air on either a junior or senior run. No one is excluded — these are inclusive, fun and very doable. Embrace the jog!
#4. Exploring the Shannon Blueway, Leitrim
Explore by walking or cycling the Battlebridge Lock to Acres Lake loop trail, and visit the iconic Acres Lake floating boardwalk that lets you “walk on water.” This route can be done from either direction, and the easy-grade “Snake in the Lake” walk has four separate trailheads for exploring the wildlife and lush beauty of the Shannon Blueway.
#5. Cycle or Walk in Clare
Cycle or walk from Killaloe, Clare, along the trail to Twomilegate, then follow your senses into Ballycuggaran Forest for a walk under the pine trees.
#6. River Strolls and Cycles in Kilkenny & Galway
Relax and enjoy the many scenic inland routes on offer. Stroll or cycle from Graiguenamanagh on the Barrow towpath, Kilkenny, stopping at St Mullins for coffee and cake before heading back to the village.
In Galway, the buggy-, bike- and wheelchair-friendly Portumna Forest Park Walking Trail (1.4km) is a gentle looped trail along a wide, smooth forest road and timber boardwalk.
#7. Zip-Lining in Roscommon
Get exhilarated on any of the five ziplining circuits through the trees at Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon. With levels ranging from kids and beginners to athletes looking for a real challenge, plus up to 88 activities between the tree-top platforms, there’s plenty to keep the whole family busy.
#8. Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Longford, Cavan and Beyond
Paddle the Blueway Camlin Loop from Clondra for a family adventure in Longford, or try the wide, tree-lined stretches of the Barrow, which flows through six counties. Stand up paddle on the Lough Derg Blueway, or canoe the family-friendly route on the Shannon-Erne Waterway in Cavan. While you’re there, head inland to Cavan Burren Park, a UNESCO-listed prehistoric landscape and sacred megalithic space.
#9. Camping in Antrim
Stay overnight and camp at Movanagher Campsite, then paddle the Movanagher Canal on the River Bann. Afterwards, take a tour of the Lough Neagh Exhibition at the Lock-Keeper’s Cottage in Toomebridge, Antrim.
#10. Moor Up in Offaly
Moor up on the Grand Canal and take in nature and art together in a fresh way. Bring the bikes onto the off-road trails and follow the sculpture trail at Lough Boora, Offaly.
Check out the latest offers from Waterways Ireland and find the perfect one for your next family break.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Head into the Blue”?
It’s a Waterways Ireland initiative encouraging families to explore Ireland’s rivers, lakes and canals through walking, cycling, paddling and other outdoor activities, with a range of accommodation and activity packages available.
Are these activities suitable for young children?
Many of the routes and activities listed — such as the Portumna Forest Park trail, the Acres Lake boardwalk, and junior Parkrun options — are specifically designed to be family- and buggy-friendly. Always check individual activity providers for age and ability guidance before booking.
Do I need to book in advance?
Some activities, such as ceramics workshops, camping and guided experiences, are likely to need advance booking. Check directly with the individual providers or via the Waterways Ireland site for current availability.
Is this a good option for a rainy day?
Several of these activities — cruising, indoor pottery workshops, and shorter forest or towpath walks — work well even when the weather isn’t perfect, making the Blueways a handy option to keep in your back pocket for family days out.
Related Articles
- Best Outdoor Family Days Out in Ireland
- Family-Friendly Walking Trails Around Ireland
- Top Tips for a Family Camping Trip
Save These Ideas for Later
Ten activities, one country, endless family memories waiting to happen. Bookmark this page or share it with the family so you’ve got a ready-made list next time you’re planning a day out or a longer break.
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