Planning a family trip to Waterford? Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying a little longer, this corner of the South East has plenty to keep kids entertained, from history and heritage to beaches, play centres and a scenic train ride. Here are our top 10 things to do in Waterford with kids, in no particular order.
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#1. Bishop’s Palace
At the Bishop’s Palace, follow the story of Waterford city and its people from 1700 right up to 1970. Afterwards, take a breather in the surrounding gardens, designed by celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin. Guided tours are available.
#2. The Book Centre Waterford
Browse the shelves at The Book Centre, a much-loved local bookstore with a great kids’ reading area, where grown-ups can enjoy a coffee while the little ones pick out their next read.
#3. Waterford Bowl
Waterford Bowl has indoor lane bowling as well as the Kidzone play area, making it a good rainy-day option for a range of ages.
#4. Splashworld
Get the togs ready and head for Splashworld, the biggest indoor waterpark in the South East, with slides and pools to keep the kids entertained for hours.
#5. Runamuck
Runamuck has an indoor play area and café where the kids can run wild while you relax with a cuppa.
#6. Pirates Adventure
Fancy a game of glow-in-the-dark golf? Pirates Adventure is a family adventure centre in Tramore offering mini bowling, mini golf, electric motorbikes and bouncy castles.
#7. Dungarvan Castle
Dungarvan Castle dates from the 12th century and includes an informative exhibition on the history of the castle. The shell keep is the earliest structure on the site, dating from the 12th century — shell keeps are common in England but rare in Ireland.
#8. Copper Coast Mini Farm
Copper Coast Mini Farm is a family-run pet farm near Tramore with both indoor and outdoor facilities. It’s wheelchair and buggy accessible, and there are sandpits with diggers for children to dig away in.
#9. Tramore Beach or Dunmore East
Head for the beach. Tramore Beach and Dunmore East are both wonderful stretches of coastline, only around 20 minutes from Waterford city.
#10. Waterford and Suir Valley Railway
Take a train trip along the Waterford and Suir Valley Railway, a fun outing for the whole family aboard a restored train running along 17km of track beside the River Suir. Refreshments and souvenirs are available at the station.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Waterford a good place to visit with kids?
Yes — Waterford offers a great mix of history, outdoor space and indoor play, so there’s something to suit most ages and most weather.
What can you do in Waterford on a rainy day?
Indoor options like Waterford Bowl, Runamuck, Splashworld and The Book Centre are all good choices if the weather turns.
Are there beaches near Waterford city?
Yes, Tramore Beach and Dunmore East are both close to the city and popular with families.
Is there anything free to do in Waterford with kids?
Dungarvan Castle and the beaches at Tramore and Dunmore East are both great low-cost options for a family day out.
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- Best Indoor Play Centres for a Rainy Day
Before You Go
Every family’s idea of a perfect day out is different — if you’ve got a favourite Waterford spot we haven’t mentioned, we’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
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