Mayo is a big county with lots to see and do, but as parents we know it can be expensive having a day out with the family. We have put together an itinerary so you can discover how to have a FREE family day out in Mayo – and if you pack a picnic, the only expense you will have on the day is travel.

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Whether you are a visitor or a local looking to explore your own county, Mayo has so much to offer when it comes to culture, history, nature and family-friendly activities.

We’ve designed an itinerary for your free family day out in Mayo, that will see you discover some amazing gems. Make sure you set out early because there’s plenty to see and do! And if there’s anything else you can recommend to add to our plan, please leave your suggestions in the comments.

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Get Ready for a Free Family Day Out in Mayo

Discover Our Past At the Unique Jackie Clarke Collection, Ballina

The Jackie Clarke Collection is a unique collection of historical Irish memorabilia which was collected by local business man Jackie Clarke throughout his life and donated to Mayo Co. Co. in 2005.

It is housed in the former provincial bank in the town of Ballina and is open for the public to go along and visit for free. They run events and workshops throughout the year too for both kids and adults to enjoy. And there’s a wonderful walled garden, where you can enjoy getting back to nature or have a picnic.

You will easily while away an hour or two at this fascinating exhibition.

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Go Hunting For Fairies In Belleek Woods, Ballina

Just a short drive from Ballina town you will find Belleek Woods, an enchanted place that is home to a host of little folk! Go along for a stroll in one of Europe’s largest urban woodlands, and take the fairy trail to see if you can spot fairies and find the houses where they live!

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Have Some Free Family Fun at National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, Turlough Park

Nestled in the stunning Turlough Park just outside Castlebar, you will find National Museum of Ireland – Country Life. It is about a 40 minute drive from Ballina. A world of free family fun awaits you with activity sheets, traditional games to play, a dress up station, discovery zone, outdoor play area and much more.

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Cycle The Great Western Greenway

The Great Western Greenway runs through the grounds of National Museum of Ireland – Country Life so, if you have room, pack the bikes for a family cycle along this traffic free path. Even if you don’t have bikes, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll and the kids can run ahead safely.

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Check Out The Land Of The Giants in Claremorris

The Land of the Giants is packed full of giant objects for you to discover. It is situated on the outskirts of the town of Claremorris, about a 30 minute drive from Castlebar. The compacted paths are perfect for buggies, bikes, scooters and walking.

Take the Clare Lake loop and spend a few hours uncovering giant objects, including keys, chairs, stationery, dinosaurs, wellingtons – and there is even a ninja!

This is a great place to enjoy a picnic and a kick around with a ball, and is the perfect way to finish or start your free family day out in Mayo.

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Free Things To Do In Mayo With Kids

If you are looking to add in more free things to do in Mayo, what about the following?

Have Splashing Fun At The Beach

Mayo is home to some amazing beaches and stretches of wild Atlantic coastline. If splashing fun is more your thing, check out our round up of the best beaches in Mayo and pack the togs and picnic for a fun day out.

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Step Back In Time

North Mayo Sculpture Trail, Tír Sáile

Visit a Pre-historic monument There are stone circles, standing stones, wedge tombs, round towers, and many other types of megalithic monuments dotted around Mayo. These sites are fascinating for children and the history behind them even more so. For details of these and more, plus the all important directions, click here.

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Get Back To Nature at Ballycroy National Park

Ballycroy National Park is an amazing free place to visit with the children. Follow the nature trail up to the viewing point and have fun looking for various flora and fauna along the way! The visitor centre is open March-October with lots of free events throughout the season.

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