Photo credit – TaytoPark.ie
Do you live in Dublin but want to get out of the city for the day? Here are some suggestions on things to do that aren’t too far from home but yet you’ll feel like you’ve had a mini holiday too- great for the mind and soul. The new buzz word is #daycation! Where will you go on your daycation?
- Visit a Disney Set
If you live in Leinster and have small kids it would be a sin not to take them to Enniskerry and Greystones in Co Wicklow to visit the set of the new Disney movie “Disenchanted” starring Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey. The villages have been transformed into magical wonderlands and won’t be around forever so grab the car keys, the camera and hurry before it’s gone. According to visitors it’s very busy during the day so if you want to leave it to later in the afternoon, early evening you might have a more comfortable visit. My tip would be to watch the first move “Enchanted” with the kids, it will provide an extra level of excitement.
- Newbridge House and Gardens
This is a wonderful day out in Donabate. Newbridge has a working farm that the kids will love where they can meet pigs, ponies, baby chicks, bunnies, goats to name but a few animals. You can step back in time and visit the Georgian mansion to see how families of past times lived and when that’s done you can explore the hundreds of acres surrounding the house. There is also a wonderful, all inclusive, playground nearby in the park. And if you really want to make a day of it you could drive over to Donabate Beach and build some sand castles, or pop into the Shoreline hotel for a spot of outdoor lunch.
https://www.newbridgehouseandfarm.com/book-tickets/
- Beach Trips
Living in Dublin means you are close to many wonderful beaches including those in Portmarnock, Skerries, Dollymount Strand and Malahide or venture to Bray. You can bring a picnic and sand buckets if the weather is warm, and if it’s not so great then grab a football and badminton rackets and enjoy some sports on the beach. Remember to pack light rain coats just in case!
- Climb a Mountain
It may not be for the very young kiddies, but if you are an active family maybe a trek up the Sugar Loaf would make for a great day out. Make sure to bring enough hydration and snacks for the trip and wear the correct shoes. And, although you may set out on a dull day, make sure to pop on some sun cream on the kiddies.
- Visit a Garden
You could take a day trip to the National Botanical Gardens, either in Kilmacurragh or Glasnevin (only 5km north west of the city). Entry is free and you are guaranteed a day of beauty and tranquillity. There are tours, exhibitions and plenty of walks to enjoy.
- Tayto Park
Tayto Park is a day full of activity, adventure, exploring and lots of treats. Your kids, young and older, will all enjoy it with something for everyone. With Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster to a petting zoo, dinosaur park, climbing frames and so much more to offer, this day won’t disappoint. Make sure to book well in advance for the date you want.
