1. Tayto Park
Ireland’s best theme park is just a short ten-minute drive from The Willows in Dunshaughlin. The children can visit the Zoo and see animals such as Amur tigers, meerkats, buffalo or the adrenaline seekers can take a ride on the Zipline Extreme, Rotator or Cu Chulainn Coaster, Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster with an inversion.
2. Rathbeggan Lakes
Located right outside Dunshaughlin on the Dublin road, this family-friendly adventure centre is great for picnics in the sunshine but with so many activities on offer, you will want to return again and again.
3. The Hill of Tara
Nestled in rural Co Meath, The Willows in Dunshaughlin is surrounded by historic sites like the impressive Hill of Tara. Bring a jacket and good boots and let the kids run around the ancient monuments before relaxing in the cafe.
4. Newbarn Farm
A short drive from The Willows in Dunshaughlin, the Newbarn open farm has something for all the family. The farm is home to the Donkey Shed restaurant, a whole foods market selling homegrown fruit and veg, and of course, the open farm gives the children a chance to get up close with the animals.
5. Puddenhill Adventure Centre
Just a short drive away in the village of Garristown, the Puddenhill Activity Centre has plenty of activities to suit kids of all ages, including The Zone, with activities for teens and Huckleberry’s Den for younger children.
6. Mellowes Adventure Centre
A regular stop for the local scouts and guides, the Mellowes Adventure Centre has loads of fun outdoor games and is home to a popular summer camp to keep the kids entertained during the school break.
7. Causey Farm
Causey farm provide interactive cultural experiences for families year-round, such as Lambing Live’ at Easter, where you can witness lambs being born and explore the farm, as well as pumpkin-picking at Halloween and the famous Causey Christmas experience.
8. Paddle the Boyne
Based in Trim, Boyne Valley Activities run daily excursions up the Boyne river in canoes and kayaks. This is an easy stretch of water and would suit families with young children looking for adventure.
9. Loughcrew Gardens & Adventure Centre
Loughcrew is a place the whole family can come together. Activities include all the usual outdoor pursuits, from archery to obstacle courses, with a more relaxed atmosphere in the landscaped 19th century gardens.
10. Funtasia Bettystown
Bettystown is a popular seaside village in Meath and its main attraction is the Funtasia fairground, with both indoor and outdoor rides.