Killarney is bursting with fun, exciting and affordable activities for children and teenagers to explore nature this Autumn-Winter.

Whether you want to get bewitched at a pumpkin farm, get quackie at Ireland’s first rubber-duck store, go exploring with a digital treasure hunt, or head out on the lakes, there are so many activities to keep the whole family entertained. From a wholesome nature break, to an adventure filled weekend, and unique experiences for all the family, Killarney has it all!

Autumn is one of the best times to explore the vibrant tourist town. The change of season gives families the freedom to experience nature at its best with fantastic walking and hiking trails, magical golden sunsets by the lake and a bustling atmosphere in the town centre. We’ve put together our top 10 ideas to keep little ones and teenagers entertained.

Read more: Blathnaid Treacy's Ireland staycation tips: Belmullett, West Cork and Greystones

1 Cow to cone at Muckross Creamery

Meet the friendly cows of Muckross Creamery whose milk and cream is used to create award-winning ice cream while gaining valuable insights on farming life. 5th generation dairy farmer John Fleming and his family will bring your family up close to the animals so you can experience firsthand the process it takes to produce their range of ice-cream. Visit the farm’s pop-up ice cream parlour for a large scoop of ice cream, made fresh from the milk of the cows you have seen.

2 Go exploring with a Digital Treasure hunt around Ross Island

Families will love the ‘Ciar’s Quest’ digital treasure hunt around the Ross Castle area where you can virtually meet and interact with some of Kerry’s iconic wildlife. Download the digital treasure map to locate the hidden wildlife along the 3km trail (buggy friendly).

3 Celebrate the Samhain Festival at Killarney Pumpkin Farm.

Venture through the rambling vines of the Pumpkin Patch to find your Perfect Pumpkin or Ghoulish Gourd. Soak up the atmosphere in their courtyard and feast on Harvest Eats from the eleven77 food truck. With treats, tricks and creatures galore there’s pixies, spooks, adventure and more! Runs Friday- Sunday for the month of October.

4 Plot your Breakout at Killarney Escape Rooms

Solve the puzzles and uncover a real detective story - and work as a family to find your escape. With twisted plot turns and unexpected challenges, fun is guaranteed! 7–18-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult.

5 Get on Board the new Skate Park

Whether you’ve a street skater or a trick skater in the family, pack the skateboards and head to the new Killarney Skate Park. With features for all skill levels from a small quarter pipe for beginners, ramps and a feature bowl for the more advanced, your skaters are bound to be stoked!

6 Explore Knockreer

Take a stroll to Knockreer House and see wild deer as you enjoy a variety of walks (1km-6km). Enjoy a treat at the thatched roof Deenagh Lodge Tea Rooms run by Down Syndrome Ireland, Along the river, follow the trail of local animals carved in wood that leads to a fully equipped playground with something for all ages including a zip-wire and climbing pyramids.

7 Make a splash!

One of Killarney’s crowning jewels is its lakes so make sure you schedule time for a lake-adventure on your trip. Set sail from the 15th century Ross Castle and cruise Killarney’s beautiful lakes on a covered waterbus. Or take a traditional open boat or kayak to Innisfallen Island - home to a monastery dating back to 640 AD- High King of Ireland Brian Boru was said to have studied on the island. The kids will love exploring the ruins and might even meet some deer in the woods! Pack a picnic and enjoy at one of the three beautiful private beaches on the island.

8 Kerry’s Largest Fairy trail

Lovingly crafted by The Irish Fairy Door Company, the Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is home to the largest fairy trail in Kerry with 20 fairies living in the gardens, each with their own personality.

9 Spot Some Wild Deer Mating

October is the breeding season for wild deer known as the “rut”. It is one of the highlights of the wildlife calendar as stags roar out to their competitors and battle like gladiators for the right to breed with females. UNESCO Killarney National Park, home to Ireland's only remaining wild herd of native deer, is one of the best places in Europe to see this amazing spectacle.

10 Get up Close with Farm Animals

The family-run Kennedy’s Pet Farm has pets from fur to feather, indoors and outdoors, ready to be cuddled, fed and admired – pigs, rabbits, ducks, peacocks, alpacas, calves, lambs, goats and kids. With indoor and outdoor play areas the weather kids can enjoy fun with the animals in all weather! Image

The vibrant town of Killarney is nestled in a valley surrounded by the magnificent McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range. With world famous lakes, ancient woodlands, waterfalls and pristine parklands, the destination has an extraordinary and magical beauty for families to explore and make memories that will last a lifetime.

There’s a diverse range of family friendly accommodation options in Killarney with something for every budget, from camping to self-catering to four- and five-star hotels. Many of the hotels offer kids clubs at weekends and over mid-term, along with access to swimming pools and great children’s menus. And Autumn is also a great time to pick up a special offer.

For more information go to Killarney.ie and follow @ourkillarney on instagram and killarney.ie on Facebook.

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