With the unpredictability of Irish weather we have to grab the opportunities to get outdoors whenever we can. So here are some of the best outdoor places in Westmeath to enjoy with your family, there’s plenty of fine scenery in the 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.

From loughs to the Royal Canal to playgrounds to parklands, there’s so many fun places to take the kids outdoors in County Westmeath. Hopefully some of these will make it onto your days out planner!

You May Also Enjoy Top 10 Things to Do in Westmeath With Kids

Best Outdoor Places in Westmeath for Families

Donore Shore

Donone Shore near Multyfarnham on the shores of Lough Ennell is a great spot for a picnic. It’s one of our favourite places to head out on a sunny day.

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

Westmeath Way

Try a section of the Westmeath Way, it’s great for a family walk, especially the quieter sections along the Canal.

You May Also Enjoy 10 Great Family Walks in Westmeath

Belvedere House Gardens and Park

Belvedere House Gardens and Park on the shores of Lough Ennell, Mullingar, has acres of parkland on the lake shore. Enjoy walks, for example, the beautiful Parkland walk as well as the walled and fairy gardens. Belvedere has 4 play areas for children. They run seasonal events so check before you visit. Admission fee but there’s 20% off tickets booked online.

Tullynally Castle & Gardens

Tullynally Castle & Gardens just outside Castlepollard has some lovely gardens and a really nice cafe. You can take the main path to the beautiful flower garden and the kids will love to visit the llamas.

There is a Tree Trail and a Treasure Trail to explore. There is a tearoom in the courtyard for afterwards. There is an admission fee but children under 3 go free.

Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park

The Amenity & Heritage Park at Dún na Sí is a fantastic place to take children! They can meet the ancient Irish warrior Lugh who with his magic spear, stands guard over Dún na Sí. Then enjoy ambling through the parklands and a wetland reserve, discovering art installations throughout the park.

There’s a fully equipped children’s playground next to the Catoca Café which serves coffee and lunch.

Mullaghmeen Forest

Head to Mullaghmeen Forest and take your pick of the forest trails to suit all abilities. There are 3 looped walks as well as a picnic area and gardens.

Lough Owel, Lough Ennell, Lough Derravaragh, Lough Ree

Westmeath is truly the Lake County – there are many attractive shores and activities based around Lough Owel, Lough Ennell and Lough Derravaragh.

To the west of the County is the shore of Lough Ree on the Shannon and the picturesque village of Glasson, as well as the town of Athlone.

Royal Canal

The Royal Canal passes through many towns and villages, including Mullingar and Ballynacarrigy, we love going to spot barges and boats and wave to everyone!

Mullingar Playground

Mullingar Town Park is a public park, located in Bellview in the town centre. It has a variety of different playgrounds, a large pond near the centre, a swimming pool, a glider, swings and enclosed children’s area.

Coosan Point Playground

The playground at Coosan Point near Athlone town is a great place to let the little ones let off some steam if you’ve been in the shops. It’s always hard to choose between feeding the ducks and going on the swings at Coosan Point Playground! It’s also a lovely picnic spot to stop for lunch if the weather is nice.

You May Also Enjoy Things To Do in Westmeath with Preschoolers

Article written by Isla, mum of 2

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