As parents we know how expensive it can be to entertain the kids, so we thought we would put together a list of things to do for free family things to do in Dublin North County with Kids, yes, that are completely free of charge.  You know, when you are looking for kids things to do, things to do when bored, the things to do for free!

Malahide Castle, Ardgillan Castle and Newbridge House

All three locations have excellent playgrounds, some of the best to be found in Ireland.  If you have never checked these out then you must, fabulous playgrounds with sections for children of all ages.  They each have extensive grounds so bring along a picnic and a ball, a great FREE day out!

The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre

The Phoenix Park Visitor Centre has an exciting, free exhibition on the history and wildlife of the park. Bright and lively with free art materials for the kids. Every Sunday morning, free children’s workshops on nature, art and history take place from 10.30am – 12.30pm. These workshops are suitable for ages 5+.

On Saturdays free tickets are issued to visit Aras an Uachtarain, home of the President. Regular free events, exhibitions and walks are held throughout the year.  Directly beside the Visitor Centre is an excellent playground and the restored Ashtown Castle, well worth a visit.

North County Dublin Beaches

Go to the beach, you don’t have to wait for the sun to come out to bring the children to one of our beautiful beaches. There is lots of fun to be had in the sand, sand dunes, rocks….. have races in the sand or bring a bucket and see if you can find any crabs.

Hugh Lane Gallery

Head off to Hugh Lane Gallery, Parnell Square, Dublin 1.  Great kids club with Art and Sketching workshops and best of all, admission is free!

Libraries in North County Dublin

Most children love to read or be read to so bring them along to your local library, a great way to spend an hour or two.  Keep an eye out for the regular free library events and activities too.

Feed the Ducks at Portmarnock or the Seals at Howth

Or how about feeding some animals?  My children love to go to Portmarnock to feed the ducks.  You can park at the church in Portmarnock village and walk to Baldoyle Bay on Strand road, usually lots of ducks there waiting to be thrown some food.

Or how about feeding swans instead?  At Broadmeadow Estuary (also known as Malahide or Swords Estuary) there is usually lots of swans, again well used to visitors and will always make their way to you when they see some food.

Or the seals in Howth are always waiting for a fish to be thrown…. my kids love it, I’m sure yours will too!

Article written by Therese, mum of 3

Do you have a favourite place to go in North County Dublin?  Share it with us in the comments below.

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