Why
The South East or the Sunny South East as it may be better known is an unforgettable holiday experience. You can have a great family holiday experience in the sunniest climate in Ireland. It has a unique heritage of castles and ancient monuments, vibrant towns and villages and a strikingly beautiful landscape that provides a perfect holiday base for a family activity holidays. It is currently part of a Bord Failte pilot to promote family friendly holidays and this is no surprise as it has everything you would want in a family holiday.
For family events this week and things to see do with the kids in the South East look at our what is on for kids this week page and what to do for free.
It has rich heritage in the culture and attractions of the Rock of Cashel, Kilkenny Castle and Waterford Crystal. Families will discover many of Ireland's most beautiful gardens including the Altamont Gardens in Carlow. The beautiful countryside is excellent for horse riding, fishing, golfing, walking and cycling. The southeast has miles and miles of spectacular coastline studded with incredible blue flag beaches. In particular kids will love the swimming, paddling and surfing and the endless beaches and older children will enjoy the superb adventure centres which offer an exciting range of activities from rock climbing to quad biking.
Kilkenny is a magnificent mediaeval city with charming villages and the fantastic Kilkenny Castle. Great family attractions in Tipperary include the Bru Boru Cultural Centre, the Rock of Cashel and the Glen of Aherlow. Wexford is home to the Hook Lighthouse, the National Heritage Park and the Dunbroby Famine Ship which are all family favourites.
When
Ireland's and the South East are great year round family destinations however April to October are best because of the better weather and some of the fantastic festivals that are hosted in Ireland each year. Have a look at our Family Events section for forthcoming family friendly events and things to do with the kids.
Kilkenny hosts the Arts Festival in August featuring live performances, art exhibitions and music of all sorts. Carlow hosts its own arts festival in June.
Over the summer months the Waterford and Wexford area plays host to many wonderful festivals and events that are sure to entertain the whole family. Highlights include the Waterford Spraoi Festival, a celebration of dance, theatre and workshops especially for younger children, taking place in Waterford City, the Duncannon International Sand Sculpting Festival and the Dunmore East Bluegrass Festival.
Saving money
Irelandvisitordiscounts is a fantastic free downloadable discount voucher for leading Irish cultural and heritage visitor attractions. You should download a form for each member of the family and bring this with you when you are travelling. Discounts include two for the price of one in leading tourist attractions, free admission at some attractions and between 10 and 20% off other attractions. This really could make a considerable saving for your family.
You will find lots of family friendly travel tips and advice in our research and advice section to help you book the right family holiday. Check out also the experiences of other parents and travellers in our parents forum and add your own experiences as we are a great believer in real parent's experiences as the best measure of whether somewhere will suit you for your family holiday.
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