With Ireland’s special weather we have to take any opportunity to enjoy it when it’s fine. Here are some of the best outdoor places in Tipperary to get outside with kids and enjoy the fresh air and fine scenery!
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If you are looking for new ideas for places for a day out in Tipperary then here are some of our favourites.
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Best Outdoor Places in Tipperary for Families
Marl Bog, Dundrum
At Marl Bog there’s a 1.9km (1.2mile) gravelled walk around a lake. There are swans and ducks on the lake, and a picnic area at the entrance to the wood. Marl Bog is a wildlife and wildfowl reserve so if you are lucky you might see some interesting animals including deer and red squirrels!
The Celtic Plantarum at Dundrum is a magical combination of numerous plants, shrubs and trees, some rare with quaint water features. The display has a range of reconstructions of ancient field monuments drawn from Ireland’s romantic past all presented in a delightful setting with pathways and ever-present bird and wildlife.
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Castlelough
Castlelough is on the banks of Lough Derg, off the R494 west of Nenagh in North Tipperary, 5km from Portroe village. It features a picnic site, walking trail and stunning viewing points. A great time to see the beautiful display of bluebells is during the months of May and June.
There are a number of picnic tables to be found on the green that are ideal for some alfresco dining whilst looking at the scenic views of Lough Derg and the Arra mountains. If you have some food left over the swans have been know to come up to the picnic tables for any offerings. This hidden gem is well worth a visit.
Cahir Castle and Swiss Cottage
Cahir Castle appears to grow from the actual rock on which it stands; it has has been the scene of sieges and bombardments for centuries.
The Swiss Cottage is an ornamental chalet, thatched building and is in the Kilcommon Demesne, a walled park of some 800 acres at the heart of the Butler of Cahir estate.
While you are in Cahir, visit the The Sensory and Mobility Garden in Church Street – it was specially created to be accessible and enjoyable to all, but particularly for people with disabilities. The garden contains many varied features, such as scented plants, sculptures, water features, Braille signs, pathways of different textures and much to stimulate the senses. It provides a haven of peace and a place to unwind and is also a mobility practice area.
Glen of Aherlow
The name ‘Aherlow’ is derived from the Irish, ‘eathralach’ meaning between two highlands. The highlands referred to are the Slievenamuck where the car park is situated with excellent views of the Galtee Mountains across the valley. Slievenamuck is said to be named after a great pig slain there by Fionn MacCumhail.
There’s a nice family walk in Glen of Aherlow that’s 3.3 kilometres (2 miles) long, climbs 130 metres (400 feet) and will take you about an hour and fifteen minutes. From the Upper Car Park walk southwards downhill along the tar road for 1.1 kilometres until you reach Christ The King Statue near the Lower Car Park. You then follow the route from here back to the Upper Car Park via the Old Coach Road.
Nenagh Cycle Trail
Well known routes include trails starting in Nenagh heading out to destinations like Terryglass and Cloughjordan. In south Tipp, there are some fantastic cycle journeys beginning in Carrick-on-Suir. (These routes are probably more suited to families with older kids and teens.)
Lough Derg
Even though we are an inland county, Tipperary has a long tradition in water sports and the provision of water sports facilities. Situated beside Lough Derg, one of Ireland’s largest lakes and in close proximity to the River Shannon, there is a wide range of water sports and angling options in Tipperary.
Borrisokane Playground
Borrisokane Playground is an excellent modern playground, with swings, slides, bridges and benches for us parents too! There’s something for all ages, and parking available nearby.
Cashel Playground
Cashel Playground on Upper Friar Street is another excellent playground, you can soak up the history of The Rock of Cashel and then enjoy the park. Suitable for all ages and also has basketball court.
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Have your say! Do you have any favourite outdoor places in Tipperary to go with the kids? Tell us in the comments below.