Surprise surprise the rain has come… again. And, if you’re in somewhere as beautiful as Killarney, this is certainly not an ideal outcome.
When outdoor activities are the crux of this stunning setting, rainy days are not often wished. Saying that there are some great things to do which can keep you occupied until the clouds pass.
From local culture to stately home tours, workshops and classes, as well as indoor playgrounds bound to keep the kids happy, here are our top five places to hide out at until the sky has cleared…
5. Murphy’s of Killarney
If in the locale and the heavens have opened, where better to spend the day than in Killarney’s most favoured local public house.
Packed with charm and traditional Irish hospitality, Murphy’s is always bound to make your smile with lovely local staff and tasty Irish pub fare.
The pub has been in business since 1955 and has been passed on through the family over generations, but one thing that hasn’t changed is the customary Irish décor.
From the rustic pinewood used throughout the bar (reclaimed from an old Irish church), the exposed brickwork, atmospheric low light, exposed stone and brickwork or the “finest pint of Guinness in Kerry”, this place is as Irish as they come!
Address: 18 College St, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 EFP1, Ireland
4. Muckross House and Gardens
Not far from Killarney town set in Ireland’s oldest National Park, is Muckross House and Gardens.
Open daily and offering house tours as well as traditional farm experiences, this is a great place to hit up with the rain comes down and the idea of outside becomes less and less appealing.
Set against the backdrop of the lakes of Killarney National Park, Muckross House – a 19th-century Victorian palace – is an impressive sight. With period style interiors, reflective of the time in which it was built, it is an educating and interesting tour to undertake.
Heralding Queen Victoria’s visit in 1861, the stately home received much attention with its manicured gardens becoming one of the feature points of the estate.
The onsite Garden Restaurant (which has indoor seating, don’t worry) is the perfect place to grab a bite and watch the rain pass-by over a cup of tea and a homemade cake.
Location: Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney National Park, County Kerry, Ireland.
3. The Aqua Dome
It is raining outside. And, if you can’t beat it, join it and get yourself wet…in The Aqua Dome that is.
Proudly one of Ireland’s leading water worlds, the centre is situated on the Wild Atlantic Way in Tralee, about 30 minutes from Killarney.
Having welcomed over 4 million visitors since its debut in 2004, it is safe to say this is one of the most loved local and tourist attractions in the area.
From speeding rapids and hair-raising tube slides to a soothing swim in the indoor river, as well as kiddies pools and wave pools you’ll forget all about the weather outside in the warmth of this family fun-centre.
There is also a gym and vitality spa on site for adults who want some time off the clock whilst the kids are at play.
Location: The Aqua Dome, Dan Spring Road, Tralee, County Kerry, Ireland.
2. Just Cooking
When the rain starts to hammer and the outdoor day-plan gets thrown to the kerb, you need to be a little creative in how to fill your time. And, a cooking class with Just Cooking – Kerry’s premiere cooking school – is a fantastic way to spend the day.
Having welcomed over 40,000 happy chefs into its kitchen in Killarney, we can safely say this is the type of experience that won’t leave you feeling burned.
From bread making classes to Indian cuisine nights, vegetarian workshops to its Big Chef/Little Chef class (which is for teams of one adult and one child) this school is serving up options for all sorts.
Location: Just Cooking, Killahane, Firies, Killarney, Co. Kerry.
1. Killarney Brewing
Feeling thirsty as the rain is coming down? Well then look no further than a tour at Killarney Brewing.
Offering insight into a selection of some of Ireland’s most popular craft beers, this tour will certainly leave you wanting more. Set in the renovated old Killarney Mineral Water drinks facility, the brewery fuses old world charm with state of the art systems.
Tours of the brewery cost €12 per person and run throughout the week. Oh, and don’t forget to kick back in the Taphouse after with a cold, freshly brewed beer and a pizza from its traditional wood burning oven.
