With all the vagaries of the Irish weather, we have to grab the opportunities to get outdoors whenever we can.  So here are some of the best outdoor places in Meath to get out with kids and enjoy the fine scenery in the Royal County.

Don’t miss our best content straight to your inbox! Sign up now and get our FREE newsletters packed with fun ideas and things to do with the kids, family-friendly recipes, expert advice, parenting tips and great competitions.

Best Outdoor Places in Meath

Balrath Wood Play Trail

This lovely gem, Balrath Wood, is situated near Kentstown, approximately 10km from Navan. It has a range of nature walks, free parking, playground areas and picnic tables.

You will find a cool Play Trail with play equipment as you go through the woods. It’s also wheelchair accessible. There are four Play areas at Balrath Woods:

• To reach the ‘Shaky Bridge’ head along the Wheelchair Path and turn left just before the Pond.
• You’ll find the Swing, which is suitable for children with disabilities, located straight ahead past the pond.
• Further along the Wheelchair Path you will find two ‘Play Ponies’ suitable for small children.
• Turn right off Wheelchair Path, and continue until you come to the Climbing Web.

Mullaghmeen Forest

With over 1,000 acres to explore and some 14 miles of routes to suit various abilities, as well as picnic spots, it’s easy to while away an afternoon at Mullaghmeen Forest in North Meath.

You May Also Enjoy The Best Picnic Places for Families in Meath

Hill of Tara

Climb the Hill of Tara, the famous ancient ceremonial and burial site near Skryne and pretend that you are an ancient King or Queen of The Royal County! The Hill has a public car parking area as well as toilets that are close to the site. There’s also a coffee shop on site for refreshments afterwards

Kells Girley Eco Bog Walk

The Kells Girley Eco Bog Walk is such a magical spot – possibly one of our favourite places! It is located (and signposted) about 7km out the N52 Kells to Mullingar Road and is a truly unique walk that makes for a great day out with older children.

It is a Waymarked Loop Walk that is 5.6km long. The flora and fauna on display is amazing in its diversity. Wear sturdy shoes and bring drinking water. Note: not suitable for buggies.

Loughcrew Cairns

Another magical place, Loughcrew Cairns is an ancient burial grounds located near Oldcastle. Again, it is more suitable for older children as there’s a bit of a hike to get up the hill, but the views from the top are so worth it!

You May Also Enjoy Fun Family Walks in Meath 

Dalgan Park

There are over 6km of walks in this lovely park, Dalgan Park, just outside Navan, as well as woods to explore and a riverside walk beside the River Boyne. The main looped walk is very accessible for buggies, wheelchairs or bicycles.

Keep in mind that Dalgan is the workplace of the Columban brothers, so do pay attention to the signs and follow the rules. It is also a nature reserve.

Sonairte

Visit Sonairte (The National Ecology Centre) in Laytown, an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness. It’s the perfect day out with kids as you can enjoy the Nature Trail & River Walk, or visit their Eco Shop. Make sure to check out their beautiful and very educational walled Organic Gardens, which dates back to the mid 1800s. They also run free events throughout the year such as an Apple Festival in October.

Slane Playground

This lovely facility is located on the Collon Road. It features three sets of climbing equipment, five spring rockets, one seesaw, two merry go rounds, six swings and one slide.

Spire of Loyd, Kells

The Spire of Loyd has a playground with good facilities for children to play, a ring fort walk and picnic tables.

Dunboyne Playground & Skate Park

This community amenity in Dunboyne includes two sets of climbing equipment, one spring rocket, one seesaw, one merry go round, four swings and one slide. The Skate Park is suitable for ages 10 years and up.

You May Also Enjoy Playgrounds in County Meath

Meath Beaches

Beaches are great spots for a bit of kite flying, as well as a host of other enjoyable activities! We are not blessed in abundance with coastline in County Meath, but what we lack in quantity we make up for in quality.

Try out the following beaches: Bettystown, Laytown and Mornington. You can also try your hand at stone skimming and sandcastle building. Bring a picnic and rug!

You May Also Enjoy Free Things To Do In Meath 

Have your say! Do you have any favourite outdoor places in Meath to go with the kids? Tell us in the comments below.