One of Ireland’s inland counties, but did you know Roscommon is almost entirely surrounded by water? Along with Lough Key, the Rivers Suck and River Shannon flow through the county, and there are some fabulous outdoor places in Roscommon to take the kids.

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.

Part of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Roscommon offers plenty of nature, from rivers and lakes to native woodlands to wildflower meadows. Here are some places to inspire you for your next visit to Roscommon.

You May Also Enjoy Top 10 Things To Do in Roscommon with Kids

Best Outdoor Places in Roscommon for Families

Lough Key Forest Park

There’s nothing like Lough Key Forest Park on a summer day for a picnic. With heaps to do at the Forest Park including a forest canopy walk, kids jeep safari, and plenty of walks and trails to follow, you’ll easily spend the whole day outdoors here. There are picnic tables and a café serving delicious food.

Derrylahan Loop Walk

Exploration should begin around the Resource Centre at Derrylahan, which offers no less than seven signed walks for the surrounding area, all of which interconnect to allow a variety of options. The walk heads east from the centre, then loops back north and west right into the heart of this ancient region.

From the Derrylahan Resource Centre, head east along a series of grassy pathways, bog tracks and old boreens, an enjoyable and eventful trail for all the family.

Strokestown Park

Strokestown Park at Strokestown, Co. Roscommon has fabulous parklands to run about and fly a kite in, as well as lovely gardens with Victorian rose garden, Victorian rose garden, and more. They run regular family events too so check before you visit.

River Shannon

A large portion on Roscommon’s eastern borders are formed by the mighty River Shannon. Try:

• adventure sports in Rooskey
• a boat tour in Carrick on Shannon or
• a leisurely lunch stop off in Tarmonbarry.

Loughnaneane Park

A gentle walk around Loughnaneane Park is one of our favourite things to do as a family. There is a huge recreational area beside the ruins of Roscommon Castle, a dramatic and imposing 13th Century Norman Castle.

The Park includes a crannog, known locally as the Hill o’ Bones, a wildflower meadow, bird walk, lake feature and mounds, all of which provide a great place for the kids to explore. There is also a children’s playground, outdoor gym equipment and a car park. Admission and parking is free.

You May Also Enjoy Great Family Walks in Roscommon

Boyle Pleasure Grounds

We love going to Boyle Pleasure Grounds, a place where you can sit and rest or watch a game of soccer on the all-weather pitch. You can let the children play in the enclosed safe playground or walk along by the Boyle River.

This is where the Military band used to play years ago, from here you can see the front of King House.

You May Also Enjoy These are Fun Playgrounds in Roscommon to Visit

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