5 Great Things to do with Kids in Waterford

Planning a visit with family in Waterford? Or are you living nearby and stuck for activities to do with the kids? There’s plenty to keep kids occupied in the Sunny South East, so look no further. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best activities for you and your family that everyone can enjoy, all that’s left for you to do is to pack the car and a picnic

5. Go Family Glamping

If stargazing, playing board games and getting out in nature is your idea of fun, then why not go glamping for a night? Quickly rising as a popular family activity in Ireland, glamping offers you all of the fun of a regular camping trip, with a little bit more luxury and without the stress of pitching a tent. Enjoy one of the most memorable family holidays in Waterford at Nire Valley Glamping, if quirky is your style. There, you can stay in a vintage horse box lorry and toast marshmallows on the barbeque. If Scandinavian luxury is more what you had in mind, Ardmore Glamping Pods located in one of Ireland’s top tourist towns are cosy for families of all ages and nestled right by a host of beautiful sandy beaches to keep the kids occupied all day.

Address: Lyre West, Ballymacarbry, Co. Waterford, E91 D427, Ireland

4. Chug along the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway

All aboard the Waterford & Suir Valley Railway to experience a magical train journey on the beautifully restored period carriage, just outside the village of Kilmeadan. The kids will love the old train station, that doubles as a ticket office and Choo Choo Coffee Shop, where you can pick up some treats for the trip. Then chug 8.5km along the Waterford Greenway on the old railway tracks into Gracedieu Junction. There’s plenty for the kids to look at and see on along the way and they might even learn a little about the history and heritage of the area. Throughout the year, the Railway host themed events, such as the Santa Express and the Spooky Express which are an absolute hit with children of all ages. The train runs on the hour from 11 am Monday-Saturday and from 12 noon on Sunday during the Summer months.

Address: Kilmeaden Train Station, Kilmeadan, Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford, Ireland

3. Soak up sun, sand and sea at the surf school

If your water babies can’t get enough of the sea, why not take them off to surf school for a day? Whether they’re catching a wave or watching you wipeout in style, it’s an activity they won’t forget in a hurry! Oceanics Surf School in Tramore have options for everyone, from families to teens, while Freedom Surf School and Tramore Surf School have surf camps each year. We can guarantee that everyone will sleep peacefully after a day out in the sea air.

Address: The Red Cottage, Riverstown, Tramore, Co. Waterford, Ireland

2. Get on the Waterford Greenway

No matter the age of your kids, a family cycle on the spectacular Waterford Greenway is an absolute must when you are in Waterford. A fantastic free activity, you can walk, cycle, scoot or rollerblade along the Greenway in style and there are some amazing things to see on the way, such as they fairy door village near Ballyvoyle Tunnel. Adults can be happy knowing there are plenty parking, refreshment stops, bike hire and toilets along the route and for kids, we recommend that you download and print off the Greenway Hunt Map before you go so that they have something to look at in the car on the way to their greenway adventure.

1. Go wild at Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo

Ardmore Open Pet Farm and Mini Zoo in Co. Waterford is a must visit when you’re in the area. A day to remember, both adults and kids alike can enjoy meeting the variety of exotic and farm animals. There are lots of opportunities to pet and feed them and the children are almost guaranteed to get a bit mucky, so make sure everyone is wearing suitable clothing! Stroll around at your leisure, and if the children have any energy left after running around with the animals, there’s also karting, mechanical diggers, soccer, an indoor play area and a zip line for them to enjoy. They are open Monday – Sunday during the Summer months, including bank holidays.

Address: Ballykilmurry, Ardmore, Co. Waterford, P36 RH66, Ireland