I still remember being taken to a waterfall for the first time as a child and marvelling at the long cascade of noisy water. Ireland has some truly amazing waterfalls, and many of them make a perfect base for a family walk and a picnic.
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Many of the waterfalls on our list have picnic spots nearby, so you can combine a walk, a wow moment, and a picnic in the fresh air.
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Wonderful Waterfalls in Ireland
Assarancagh Waterfall, Donegal
Just outside Ardara on the way to Killybegs in County Donegal, Assarancagh Waterfall sits close to the road, before you reach Maghera Beach and Caves. The approach road is well surfaced but quite narrow.
The beach and caves just beyond the waterfall are worth the extra stop too — they’re usually quiet, with dunes made from fine white sand.
Aasleagh Falls, Mayo
Image: Aasleagh Falls © Big Smoke Studio for Tourism Ireland
Located 1km north of the Galway/Mayo border, Aasleagh Falls sits on the River Erriff just before it meets Killary Harbour.
There’s a pathway for the short walk to the waterfall. Salmon fishing is popular here, so keep an eye out for anglers along the bank.
Clamp Hole Waterfall, Laois
The Clamp Hole Waterfall is a three-tiered waterfall at Glenbarrow, where you’ll find a choice of long and short looped trails. The first section of the trail is buggy-friendly as far as the area known as Flat Rock.
The Glenbarrow Waterfall Loop is a 4km route mixing forestry paths, woodland trails and tracks. It’s one of three loops that start and finish at the Glenbarrow trailhead in Clonaslee, taking in a stretch of riverbank along the River Barrow, the spectacular three-tiered waterfall, and natural woodland that’s ablaze with bluebells in spring.
There are shallow pools where children can paddle, and above the three waterfalls, a pool deep enough for adults to dip in. Take care on slippy rocks, and avoid getting in the water if the river is in spate. There are picnic tables along the way.
Glencar Waterfall, Leitrim
Image: Glencar Waterfall © Tourism Ireland
Glencar Waterfall sits near Glencar Lake, 11 kilometres west of Manorhamilton in County Leitrim. It’s particularly impressive after rain, and can be viewed from a lovely wooded walk. On-site facilities include a children’s playground, picnic areas, café facilities, tourism information and ample parking.
The waterfall inspired W.B. Yeats and features in his poem The Stolen Child:
“Where the wandering water gushes
From the hills above Glen-Car,
In pools among the rushes
That scarce could bathe a star”
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Glenevin Waterfall, Co. Donegal
Glenevin Valley near Clonmany in Donegal offers a straightforward walk with picnic areas along the way to Glenevin Waterfall, which cascades down 30 feet.
The basin below the waterfall is called Pohl-an-eas, which translates as the “ferment pool.” Footbridges and stepping stones let you cross the stream along the way.
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Gleninchaquin Falls, Co. Kerry
Image: Gleninchaquin Park © Fáilte Ireland, courtesy of Valerie O’Sullivan
Gleninchaquin Falls are found in Gleninchaquin, a family-owned park and farm near Kenmare in County Kerry. Spend a day exploring streams with log bridges, mountain paths with carved steps, lakes, and the spectacular 140-metre waterfall.
Parking is provided close to the waterfall and picnic areas, and the park has six short walks and nature trails, most suitable for both children and adults. There’s a tearoom on the farm serving refreshments and home baking too. There’s an entry fee for the park — check the park’s own website for current family ticket prices before you go.
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Glenoe Waterfall, Co. Antrim
Glenoe Waterfall is a beautiful 30-foot waterfall in County Antrim, managed by the National Trust. It’s a short walk from the charming village of Glenoe, with paths and steps winding around the small glen to one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Ireland.
There are picnic tables in the glen. Entrances to two car parks are on Waterfall Road (B99), five miles south of Larne off the A2 Causeway Coastal Route.
Kilfane Waterfall & Glen, Co. Kilkenny
Kilfane Waterfall is part of a restored Irish heritage garden near Kilkenny, untouched for 200 years. The glen is a picturesque spot, with the waterfall tumbling down to a rushing stream and woodland paths leading to a thatched cottage orné.
Tiny bridges sit among ancient trees, wild foxgloves and ferns, with picnic spots along the trail. The cottage serves refreshments on selected days. The Glen has seasonal opening dates and an admission fee, with reduced entry for families, students and OAPs — check the Woodstock Gardens & Kilfane Glen website for current opening times before planning your visit. Note that dogs aren’t allowed, as there’s wildlife in the glen.
Powerscourt Waterfall, Wicklow
Image: Powerscourt Waterfall © Fáilte Ireland / Tourism Ireland, courtesy of Chris Hill
Powerscourt Waterfall is Ireland’s highest waterfall at 121m, set in beautiful parkland at the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, home to trees up to 200 years old. Look out for the Giant Redwoods — native to Northern California, where they can grow to 80m and live for 4,000 years, so the ones here are still youngsters!
The waterfall is an ideal spot for summer picnics and barbecues, with a playground for younger children, toilets and ample car parking.
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Torc Waterfall, Co. Kerry
Image: Torc Waterfall © Chris Hill Photographic
At 18m high, Torc Waterfall sits in Killarney National Park, a five-minute walk from the car park to the foot of the falls through scenic woodland. You can also climb 100 steps up the side of the waterfall.
Try the Torc Waterfall loop from Muckross House: leave the estate along the Lake Loop and take a right turn to climb steadily through the trees. Cross the Owengarriff River just above the main falls, then follow a series of steps back down through the woodland on the eastern side of the river to the viewpoint at Torc Waterfall. The trail continues before rejoining the Lake Loop back to Muckross House.
It can get busy in summer, as the park and waterfall sit on the Ring of Kerry, so visit early or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
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Tullydermot Falls, Cavan
Tullydermot Falls sit around 6km south-west of Swanlinbar, in the direction of the Bellavally Gap. To get there, head from the church or The Stables pub in the centre of Swanlinbar up towards the mountain for around three miles — the car park is on the left. The falls are easily accessible on foot, by wheelchair, or by buggy, with a trail leading from an information point at the car park.
About two miles further up the river, there’s another majestic waterfall, arguably even more impressive than Tullydermot Falls. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, a spot of angling, or — for the more adventurous — a swim in some of the darkest, clearest water in Ireland. The Tullydermot viewpoint overlooks Slieve Rushen and the lowlands of north Cavan, with a good view of the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain.
Glenariff Waterfall, Antrim
From Glenariff Forest Park, follow the way-marked Waterfall Walk down the steps and along the boardwalks through Glenariff Nature Reserve. Walk through the river gorge and you’ll come to the spectacular waterfalls.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest waterfall in Ireland on this list?
Powerscourt Waterfall in Co. Wicklow is Ireland’s highest waterfall, at 121 metres.
Are these waterfalls suitable for buggies or wheelchairs?
Some are — the first section of the Glenbarrow trail to Flat Rock is buggy-friendly, and Tullydermot Falls has an accessible trail from the car park. Most others involve woodland paths, steps or uneven ground, so it’s worth checking accessibility for your particular route before you travel.
Is it free to visit these waterfalls?
Most are free, as they sit on public land or forest trails. A few sites, such as Gleninchaquin Park and Kilfane Glen, charge an entry fee — check directly with the venue for current prices before you go.
What should we bring for a family visit?
Sturdy footwear, a few extra layers, and a picnic are always a good idea. Take extra care around wet rocks, especially after rain, and avoid paddling or swimming if a river is in spate.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring brings bluebells at Glenbarrow, while waterfalls are often at their most dramatic after rainfall. Just be cautious near fast-flowing water at these times.
Related Reads
- Fresh Air and Fun Guaranteed at these Family-Friendly Outdoor Places in Ireland
- Top Ten Things to do in Leitrim with Kids
- Free Things to Do With Kids in Donegal
- Ireland’s Blue Flag Beaches are Perfect for Family Seaside Fun!
- Top Things to do in Wicklow with Kids
- 20+ Places to Find Magical Fairy Trails in Ireland
- Unusual Places to Visit in Ireland With the Kids
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