Looking for things to do with kids in Monaghan? From forest parks and open farms to museums, markets and adrenaline-filled adventure centres, County Monaghan has plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Here’s our list of the top 10 things to do with kids in Monaghan, in no particular order.
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#1. Rossmore Forest Park
Rossmore Forest Park sits about 3.5km southwest of Monaghan Town on the R189 to Newbliss. Highlights include the atmospheric ruins of Rossmore Castle, a walled garden, a fish hatchery and a reservoir, plus the beautiful Yew Walk — an avenue of yew trees stretching for around 500 metres from the walled garden. The Lake Trail leads walkers past various lakes and water courses, while the Nature Trail follows a path from the car park through the woods to a picnic area and viewing point. Part of the forest also has a cycle trail. Look out for the rhododendron and azalea display, which is at its colourful best in early summer. A parking charge usually applies at weekends — it’s worth checking current rates before you set off.
#2. Lough Muckno Leisure Park
A day out at Lough Muckno Leisure Park in Castleblayney is a firm favourite for families. The park offers several walking trails, a waterskiing and wakeboarding club, fishing spots, nature walks and a lovely picnic area, and it’s open year-round. Don’t miss the adventure playground, complete with a spiral tunnel slide, parallel zip wires for racing, a giant swing and a disc roundabout.
#3. Sam More Open Farm
Sam More Open Farm in Threemilehouse is a treat for all the family, with cows, sheep, horses, alpacas, a miniature horse and pot-bellied pigs to meet. At Sam’s Old Cottage, kids can get a taste of how life used to be, and there’s an old blacksmith’s forge, a nature walk where children can feed the ducks, a fairy fort and lane, and a picnic area. Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it’s a good idea to check before you visit.
#4. Rally School of Ireland at Scotstown
For a heart-thumping, adrenaline-filled day out, head to the Rally School of Ireland, where you can get behind the wheel of rally cars and super cars. They offer Junior Rally Experiences for kids, and if you’d rather watch than drive, spectators can take in the high-speed action from the elevated viewing tower. Lunch is also available on site — check current age requirements and packages before booking.
#5. GR8 Castleblayney
For a rainy day, GR8 Castleblayney is a brilliant indoor family day out. Try your hand at crazy golf and bowling on their Funk Bowling Lanes, let the kids loose in the soft play area or astro-turf pitch, or experience their 9D virtual reality simulator. Round off the day with a bite to eat in their restaurant.
#6. Coral Leisure Monaghan
Coral Leisure in Monaghan makes for a great family fun day, with a separate kids’ pool and flume slide. On special Inflatable Weekends, children can enjoy the 20m pool inflatable, and the centre has good-sized family changing rooms. There are also two tennis courts, plus a sauna, jacuzzi and steam room for the adults to unwind in afterwards.
#7. Visit a Museum
##### Patrick Kavanagh Centre
The Patrick Kavanagh Centre in Inniskeen covers local history, topography, folklore and legends, and offers a fascinating look into the life and work of poet Patrick Kavanagh. Opening hours and admission charges can change, so it’s worth checking the centre’s own listings before you go.
##### Monaghan County Museum
This award-winning museum holds a large collection of objects telling the story of the county’s rich culture and heritage, from the end of the last Ice Age to the present day. It’s a great, free-flowing way to spend a wet afternoon with the kids.
#8. Castle Leslie
Explore the 1,000-acre Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough on horseback at one of Europe’s finest equestrian centres. Breathe in the fresh country air and take in the scenery as you stroll through the woods or by the lakes surrounding the castle hotel. There are walks to suit everyone, from short jaunts to longer, leisurely strolls, and you can dine in the hunting lodge or book into the cookery school to learn to cook as a family.
#9. Monaghan Markets
Spend a morning browsing some of the local markets around Co. Monaghan:
- Monaghan Town Farmers Market, in the town centre in front of Monaghan Town Courthouse.
- Carrickmacross General Market, in the town centre.
- Ballybay Farmers Market, in the town centre and car park of the Riverdale Hotel.
Market days and times can shift from time to time, so it’s worth checking locally before you plan your visit.
#10. Outdoor Adventure
If you’re an active family, why not try one of Monaghan’s adventure centres?
##### A.W.O.L. Outdoor Adventure Centre
At A.W.O.L. in Emyvale, you can get your adrenaline fix with a wide range of outdoor activities, including crazy golf, abseiling, archery, canoeing, kayaking and more. There’s a good selection of activities to choose from — check current pricing when booking.
##### Tanagh Outdoor Education Centre
At Tanagh in Rockcorry, you’ll find a range of water-based and land-based adventure activities for all ages, including canoeing, banana boating, archery and adventure races.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do with kids in Monaghan?
Monaghan offers a great mix of outdoor and indoor family activities, from forest walks at Rossmore Forest Park and the adventure playground at Lough Muckno, to open farms, museums, adventure centres and local markets.
Is there anything free to do with kids in Monaghan?
Yes — several attractions, including Lough Muckno Leisure Park and local farmers markets, don’t charge admission, and forest walks and nature trails are generally free to enjoy.
What’s a good rainy-day activity for kids in Monaghan?
GR8 Castleblayney and Coral Leisure Monaghan are both great indoor options for a wet day, offering everything from bowling and soft play to swimming.
Are Monaghan’s adventure centres suitable for younger children?
Activity ranges and age requirements vary between centres, so it’s best to check directly with the Rally School of Ireland, A.W.O.L. or Tanagh Outdoor Education Centre before booking.
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