Whenever the weather brightens up, it’s the perfect excuse to get outdoors with the kids. Leitrim is full of lovely spots for a family day out, from waterfalls and woodland trails to a floating boardwalk and even a stretch of coastline. Here are some of the best outdoor places in Leitrim for families to explore together.
Outdoor Places in Leitrim for Families
Derrycarne Wood
About 3.5km north of Dromod, Derrycarne Wood has lovely nature trails and picnic areas — a great choice for an easy woodland walk with younger children.
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Tullaghan Beach
Many people don’t realise Leitrim actually has a coastline — about 3 miles of it, tucked between Sligo and Donegal. Head to Tullaghan Beach for some sand fun and a change of scenery from the county’s usual woodland and lakes.
Carrick on Shannon
Along the river in Carrick on Shannon, the Slí Walking Route runs for 5.5km, starting near the bridge opposite the remains of Carrickdrumruske Castle. It’s a lovely riverside walk in parts and works well for buggies and older kids on bikes.
Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk
At Drumshanbo, Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk is Ireland’s first floating walkway, running 160m out over the Shannon — a real novelty for kids to walk (or wobble!) along. Nearby you’ll also find Drumshanbo Outdoor Swimming Pool, plus an interactive visitor centre and a kids’ playground, making Acres Lake an easy spot to fill a whole afternoon.
Fowleys Falls
Fowleys Falls in Rossinver has a trail that’s perfect for preschoolers. It runs close to the river and the falls themselves, with picnic tables at one end for a well-earned break. It’s a real hidden gem and an easy walk for younger legs.
The Organic Centre and Eco Park
The Organic Centre, on the south-western shores of Lough Melvin, is a lovely spot to explore gardens, follow a butterfly trail, or send the kids off on a bug hunt. There’s a small playground and picnic area, plus an eco-park with 17 acres of woodland walks.
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Glencar Waterfall
Glencar Waterfall sits near Glencar Lake, 11km west of Manorhamilton. It’s particularly impressive after rain and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. On-site facilities include a children’s playground, picnic areas, café facilities, tourism information, and ample parking.
Glencar Waterfall inspired W.B. Yeats, and features in his poem ‘The Stolen Child’:
“Where the wandering water gushes
From the hills above Glen-Car,
In pools among the rushes
That scarce could bathe a star”
Glenfarne Demesne
Glenfarne Wood is located 1.5km north of Glenfarne on the Manorhamilton/Enniskillen road, within Glenfarne Demesne, once part of the Tottenham Estate. There’s car parking, a picnic area, and a boat quay at the lake.
Two trails run through the demesne: the Glenfarne Demesne Cycle/Walk Trail (cycle-friendly, about 4km) and the Lough Macnean Trail (2.5km). Keep an eye out for the sculptures along the way, and stop at Myles Big Stone for a great view over Lough MacNean and the surrounding countryside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best outdoor place in Leitrim for younger children?
Fowleys Falls and Derrycarne Wood are both great choices for preschoolers and younger kids, thanks to their short, easy trails and picnic spots.
Is there a beach in Leitrim?
Yes — Leitrim has a short stretch of coastline around Tullaghan Beach, between Sligo and Donegal.
Are these outdoor spots buggy-friendly?
Many of the trails mentioned, such as the Carrick on Shannon Slí Walking Route and Acres Lake Floating Boardwalk, are suitable for buggies, though surfaces can vary, so it’s worth checking conditions before you set off.
Is there somewhere to swim outdoors near these spots?
Drumshanbo Outdoor Swimming Pool, near Acres Lake, is a heated pool with a shallow end open during the summer months.
Related Articles
- Best Picnic Spots in Leitrim
- Nature Walks in Leitrim
- Family-Friendly Outdoor Adventures Around Ireland
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