We are spoiled for choice in Wexford when it comes to fabulous outdoor spaces. Whether you’re after a woodland walk, a beach with room to run, or somewhere new to pack a picnic, this county has it all. Here are some of our favourite spots to head out to — the best outdoor places in Wexford to get out and about with the kids.
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Best Outdoor Places in Wexford for Families
The Three Rocks Trail
The Three Rocks Trail is one of our favourite spots for a picnic in Wexford. Coillte manages an 8km trail across Forth Mountain and Shelmalier, and there are plenty of shorter loops for families too, with picnic areas and great viewing points along the way.
Irish National Heritage Park
Image: © Tourism Ireland
Visit the Irish National Heritage Park in Ferrycarrig. It’s well laid out and good for all ages, with plenty of places to picnic. One of our favourite spots is past the Viking boats on the way up to the Norman and round towers — the view from up there is well worth the climb!
Carrigbyrne Hill
Carrigbyrne Hill is a 5km trail through a forest of mainly coniferous trees, great for family walking and cycling.
John F. Kennedy Arboretum
The John F. Kennedy Arboretum is a good place to bring the bikes, as small legs will get around more easily here. It has lovely walks, some really striking trees, and a pond where you can feed the ducks and watch the fish dart about. There’s also a miniature railway to enjoy.
The playground area has plenty of picnic tables, a café, a small maze, a great slide, and a house grown out of hedging.
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Curracloe Nature Trail
Curracloe Nature Trail is a delightful 800-metre walk through seashore and sand dunes. Wexford is famous for its beautiful beaches, and this trail shows off why — it’s stunning at any time of year.
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Raven Nature Reserve in Curracloe
Take the bikes along part of the Raven Point Loop at the Raven Nature Reserve, where you might spot red squirrels or watch for seals basking on the sandbanks.
Curracloe Beach
If you get as far as Curracloe Beach on your walk through the Raven Nature Reserve, you’ll be standing somewhere with real film history — it doubled as Omaha Beach in Saving Private Ryan. Along with Courtown Beach, it’s known for catching some great gusts, making it a favourite with kite flyers.
Wexford has over 200km of coastline, so it’s no wonder everyone wants to come to the sunny south east. Every beach offers its own opportunities for family fun and outdoor adventure.
Some beaches are known for their Blue Flag status or amenities like toilets and parking, while others are simply beautiful stretches of sand with nothing else needed. Even the stonier beaches have plenty to offer — they’re brilliant for rock pooling, skimming stones, and in some spots, a bit of gentle rock climbing.
So gather the kids into the car, drive along the coast, and explore a beach you’ve never visited before.
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Article written by Carol from Carnsore
Have your say! Do you have a favourite outdoor place in Wexford to go with the kids? Tell us in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best outdoor place in Wexford for a family picnic?
The Three Rocks Trail and the Irish National Heritage Park are both excellent choices, with plenty of picnic spots and lovely views. The John F. Kennedy Arboretum also has picnic tables and a café if you’d rather not carry everything yourself.
Are these outdoor spots suitable for young children or buggies?
Many of them are. The Irish National Heritage Park is well laid out and manageable for all ages, and the Curracloe Nature Trail is a short, gentle walk. Forest trails like Carrigbyrne Hill and the Three Rocks Trail have some uneven ground, so a carrier may suit younger children better than a buggy.
Which Wexford beach is best for families?
Curracloe Beach and Courtown Beach are both popular with families, especially for kite flying and long walks. With over 200km of coastline in Wexford, it’s well worth exploring a few different beaches to find your family’s favourite.
Can you cycle at these outdoor spots?
Yes — the John F. Kennedy Arboretum, Carrigbyrne Hill, and the Raven Nature Reserve are all good options for family cycling, with paths suited to different ages and abilities.
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- Great Family Walks in Wexford
- Great Family Walks in Wexford: Carrigbyrne Hill
- Free Fun Things to Do in Wexford with Kids
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