If you’re planning a day trip or family holiday to Wicklow, having a list of family-friendly ideas ready makes life so much easier. We’ve rounded up ten great things to do with kids in Wicklow, mixing indoor and outdoor activities, so there’s something for every type of family day out — from waterfalls and beaches to farms and historic sites.
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Family-Friendly Things to Do in Wicklow
Wicklow has lots of fun things to do, and our list below has a mix of indoor and outdoor, free and paid activities, in no particular order.
#1. Sea Life and Bray Seafront
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Combine a visit to Sea Life in Bray, where you can see sharks, rays, seahorses and clownfish, and even get to touch some sea creatures in the touchpool, with a stroll along the seafront afterwards. Enjoy an ice-cream or some candy floss, pop into the amusements, and you might even catch a funfair or festival, depending on the time of year.
#2. Powerscourt Waterfall and Gardens
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Powerscourt Waterfall and Gardens will satisfy all ages and offer a great day out. It’s a wonderful place to spend a summer’s day, with beautiful gardens, a café, walks and family trails — it’s easy to lose track of time here.
Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Ireland, is located about 5km from the main Estate and also has a picnic area, BBQ facilities and a playground.
#3. Clara Lara
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Clara Lara Fun Park and Outdoor Adventure Centre in Rathdrum is an excellent way to enjoy some healthy fun on the water. Set among oak trees and water, you’ll find assault courses, water slides, boating lakes, kiddie-karts, tree houses and playgrounds. Have a go on the Aqua Shuttle, the biggest water slide in Ireland.
Children can sail away on the Pirate Galleon, while for the less energetic there are riverside picnic areas, barbecues, mini-golf and miles of hill walking through the surrounding countryside. There’s also a junior playground on site.
#4. Brittas Bay and Greystones
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County Wicklow has over 66km of coastline, with stunning beaches ranging from golden sandy stretches to stony shores perfect for exploring tidal rock pools. All the beaches offer great opportunities for family fun and outdoor pursuits.
Two of our particular favourites are Brittas Bay and Greystones, both Blue Flag beaches. Brittas Bay is a 5km stretch of powdery sand and dunes, perfect for a day at the beach building sandcastles and pottering about.
Greystones Beach is located at the southern end of the town and is accessible by public transport, with the DART running to Greystones from Dublin city centre throughout the day. South Beach in Greystones is about half a mile long, and next to it is a large inclusive playground — one of the best in Ireland.
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#5. Glendalough
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Glendalough has long been renowned for its natural beauty and history, and it remains one of the most visited places in Ireland.
The Glendalough Valley sits within the Wicklow Mountains National Park and has plenty to entice and entertain visitors, from its famous Monastic Site and Round Tower (can you stretch your arms around St Kevin’s Cross and make your wish?) to its scenic lakes, valleys and a selection of walks and trails, including sections of the Wicklow Way. Glendalough really does have something for the whole family.
#6. Wicklow Gardens
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As well as Powerscourt, don’t miss the other famous gardens in Ireland’s “Garden County”, including:
- Mount Usher Gardens in Ashford
- Killruddery House and Gardens in Bray
- Russborough House and Gardens in Blessington
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#7. Glenroe Open Farm
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Situated in the picturesque village of Kilcoole, this open farm offers easy access to a wide range of farm animals during its open season each year. Children can enjoy the outdoor playground and find their favourite furry friend to hold, such as rabbits and guinea pigs.
A 300-year-old thatched cottage on the farm offers a nostalgic look at how our ancestors lived. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy outdoors, or use the indoor picnic area, known as The Piggery.
#8. Annamoe Trout Fishery
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Head to Annamoe Trout Fishery for a day’s fishing on a private 4-acre lake on the banks of the Annamoe River at Laragh. The lake is stocked with trout, and fly fishing only is permitted.
Learn how to fly fish with a professional instructor, and take advantage of the Junior Pond, which has rod hire and child-friendly facilities.
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#9. Wicklow’s Historic Gaol
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For the “horrible histories” fans in the house, a visit to Wicklow’s Historic Gaol should definitely be on your list.
As you enter the building, one of Ireland’s best and most interactive historical experiences, you’ll come face to face with some of the notorious characters who once walked the floors of this dramatic, history-filled site.
#10. Greenan Farm
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This tricky Celtic maze at Greenan Farm, Maze and Museum in Rathdrum will puzzle the whole family! A stream flows through it to the pond at its centre, and a viewing tower overlooks the excitement below. Unique in design, this hedge maze is the highlight of any visit.
The Dragonfly Walk is a raised wooden walkway leading through native woods and wetlands, with three ponds and raised viewing platforms. It’s an unspoilt area supporting an abundance of wildlife, such as wild deer, moorhens, frogs and dragonflies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free thing to do in Wicklow with kids?
Many of Wicklow’s beaches, walking trails and viewing points — such as Brittas Bay, Greystones Beach and parts of Glendalough — can be enjoyed without an entry fee, making them great budget-friendly options for a family day out.
Is Wicklow good for a family day trip from Dublin?
Yes, Wicklow is well suited to a day trip from Dublin, with a good mix of beaches, gardens, farms and outdoor attractions within easy driving distance, and some spots, like Greystones, accessible by DART.
What should we bring for a day out in Wicklow?
It’s worth packing layers, comfortable walking shoes, a picnic or snacks, and sun protection or rain gear depending on the season, as many of Wicklow’s best attractions are outdoors.
Are these Wicklow attractions suitable for toddlers as well as older kids?
Most of the spots on this list, such as the beaches, gardens and open farm, work well for a range of ages, though some activities, like fly fishing or longer walks, may suit older children better. Check individual venues if you have very young children with you.
Related Articles
- Best Outdoor Places in Wicklow for Families
- Great Walks in Wicklow for Families
- The Best Gardens in Ireland to Take Kids to
- Ireland’s Blue Flag Beaches are Perfect for Family Seaside Fun
- Low Cost Things to Do in Ireland with Kids Recommended by Parents
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