If you’re looking for fun places to take the kids for a day out or a family walk, Limerick has plenty to offer. From forest parks and lakeside picnic spots to riverside walks and playgrounds, here are some of the best outdoor places in Limerick for families to enjoy.
There are lots of fun places to head out with the kids in Limerick and the surrounding area. Here are some of our favourite outdoor spots.
Best Outdoor Places in Limerick for Families
Curragh Chase Forest Park
Curragh Chase is a fantastic outdoor amenity with seating areas and BBQ spots, two children’s playgrounds, and walks or cycling on flat trails through the forest. You can also enjoy watching the swans on the lake. This outdoor place really suits all age groups.
A permanent orienteering course is laid out through the park, which can be great fun to follow with the kids.
There is usually a small fee for the car park, so it’s worth checking current parking arrangements before you set off.
Clare Glens
The Clare Glens is a wooded area along the banks of the Clare River, which separates counties Limerick and Tipperary. The scenery is breathtaking, with wild, dense forest combined with the calm rush of crystal clear water.
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Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Trail
Ballyhoura Mountain Bike Trail is one of the largest areas of its kind in Western Europe. It has trails suitable for everyone from novices to serious thrill seekers. Facilities at the trailhead include map boards, car parking, toilets, showers and bike wash facilities, along with snacks, teas and coffees, and bike hire.
Lough Gur
Lough Gur has a picnic area beside the lake, with plenty of flat, open space to run around. You can fish along the edge of the lake and take some time to visit the historical sites, including the Lough Gur Heritage Centre. You can also climb Knockadoon Hill, and it’s easy to spend a full day here with plenty to see and do.
The Southern Trail
The Southern Trail follows the route of the old Limerick–Tralee railway line and has been developed for walking and cycling. You can join the trail at several different points and cycle routes of various lengths.
Clancy’s Strand
Clancy’s Strand sits on the banks of the River Shannon, near Thomond Bridge. You’ll find a long boardwalk with great views of King John’s Castle and the Curragower Falls. You can also see the historic Limerick Treaty Stone, where the Treaty of Limerick was signed in 1691, marking the surrender of the city to William of Orange.
Along this walk you’ll see where the Abbey River diverges from the Shannon, creating the island known as King’s Island, on which King John’s Castle sits. Local legend has it that the Abbey River was created by Viking invaders whose ships could not cross the Curragower Falls on the Shannon.
Glin Pier
Fancy a dip? Head to Glin Pier, where lifeguard cover is sometimes provided at certain times during the summer months. It’s worth checking locally for current arrangements before you swim. For a slower day out, grab a fishing rod, as there are plenty of good spots along the pier.
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Castletroy Playground and Park
Castletroy has a playground and skateboard park beside it, as well as a lovely laid-out park to walk around, which will keep all age groups happy.
Castle Demesne Park and Playground
Head to Castle Demesne Park to enjoy this fabulous outdoor space, within walking distance of Newcastle West town centre. At the entrance to the demesne is an open playground, and it’s a lovely spot for a picnic. Stroll or cycle through the 100 acres of mature parkland.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outdoor places in Limerick for families?
Limerick has a great mix of outdoor spots for families, including Curragh Chase Forest Park, Clare Glens, Lough Gur, Clancy’s Strand, and local playgrounds and parks such as Castletroy and Castle Demesne. Each offers something a little different, from woodland walks to picnic spots and playgrounds.
Is Curragh Chase suitable for young children?
Yes. Curragh Chase has two playgrounds, flat walking trails and plenty of open space, making it a good choice for families with younger children as well as older kids who enjoy cycling or the orienteering course.
Do I need to pay to park at Curragh Chase?
There is usually a small car park fee at Curragh Chase. It’s a good idea to check current parking details before you visit.
Is Glin Pier safe for swimming?
Lifeguard cover is sometimes provided at Glin Pier during the summer months, but this can vary. Always check local signage and current arrangements before swimming, especially with children.
Are these outdoor spots suitable for a full day out?
Many of them are. Lough Gur, Curragh Chase and Castle Demesne Park all have enough to explore, from walking trails to picnic areas and historic sites, to fill a full family day out.
Related Reads
- Top 10 Things to Do in Limerick with Kids
- Great Family Walks in Limerick
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Limerick
- Playgrounds in Limerick the Kids Will Love to Explore
Save These Ideas for Later
Not heading out today? Bookmark this page or save it to your family day-out list so you’ve got these Limerick outdoor spots ready to go whenever you fancy some fresh air with the kids.
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Have your own favourite outdoor spot in Limerick? Let us know in the comments below.
