Nore Valley Park in Kilkenny is one of those rare places that works for a two-hour visit or a week-long stay. It’s a working farm where kids can get right up close to the animals, a campsite with cosy cabins for those who want to stay longer, and an activity park with enough going on to fill a full family day out. Owned and run by the Harper family, Nore Valley Park has built its reputation on hands-on, outdoor fun — here’s what makes it a family destination with a difference.
Pet Farm at Nore Valley Park
The variety of animals here is genuinely impressive for a working farm — hens, ducks, turkeys, geese, quails, an owl, pheasants, sheep, goats, pigs, deer, ponies, donkeys, a cow, rabbits, and even ostriches. Children can feed, pet and cuddle animals such as lambs, rabbits and chicks, making it a properly interactive experience rather than just a walk-past.
Nore Valley Park also brings the farm to you. Their Mobile Farm visits birthday parties, schools, nursing homes and corporate events across the south-east and beyond. If you’d like the farm to come to you, you can get in touch to find out more.
Camping, Caravans and Cabins at Nore Valley Park
If a day trip isn’t enough, Nore Valley Park makes an easy case for staying longer. The campsite welcomes tents and caravans for part of the year, and for families without their own gear there are wooden lodges and spacious mobile homes available to rent, which can be booked in advance. It’s a lovely option for a countryside break where the kids can be out among the animals from the moment they wake up.
Activities for all the Family at Nore Valley Park
There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained at Nore Valley Park’s activities area, including:
- Tractor and trailer rides
- Crazy golf
- Go-karts
- Indoor 3D maze
- Animal feeding
- Playground
- Giant chess
- Indoor straw bounce
- Nature trails and much more
With a picnic area, café, and on-site toilets and baby changing facilities, it’s easy to spend a full day here without needing to leave.
Events and Special Occasions at Nore Valley Park
Nore Valley Park runs seasonal events throughout the year, including bank holiday, Easter, Halloween and Christmas specials. Many of these are ticketed, so it’s worth booking online in advance to avoid disappointment.
The park can also host your own celebration — birthdays, hen parties, confirmations and group team-building days are all catered for, with activity packages tailored to suit your group.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group is Nore Valley Park suitable for?
Nore Valley Park is designed with young families in mind, but the mix of animal encounters, outdoor activities and games like crazy golf and giant chess means children of all ages — and grown-ups — tend to find something they enjoy.
Is there anything to do if the weather turns wet?
Yes — the indoor 3D maze and indoor straw bounce area give families a way to keep the fun going even if it’s raining outside.
Can we stay overnight at Nore Valley Park?
Yes. Alongside the campsite for tents and caravans, there are wooden lodges and mobile homes available to rent for those who’d rather not camp.
Do we need to book in advance?
For camping, cabins and special events, booking ahead is recommended, as these can get busy — particularly around bank holidays and seasonal events.
Is Nore Valley Park good for a birthday party or group event?
Yes, the park offers tailored activity packages for birthdays, hen parties, confirmations and team-building days, as well as a Mobile Farm option that can travel to your own venue.
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