Family Activities Waterford, Ardmore Activities
Family-friendly
As a luxury family hotel in Ireland, we make it our business share the numerous things to do for children in the area. Both summer and winter, the region between Cork and Waterford offers great variety, including all weather attractions in Ireland and activities suitable for junior members of the family including:
Urchin Adventures, Ardmore: Urchin Adventures offer family adventure activities in unspoiled natural locations in Ardmore, Waterford and Cork. From family stand-up paddle boarding to kayaking sessions, activities are easy for everyone to enjoy. Experience the natural unspoiled beauty of the Irish coast with trained instructors and exceptional views.
Family-Friendly Beach Days: We can create beach picnics for you to enjoy within a short walk of the hotel. If you want a pretty cove for swimming, we would recommend Goat Island, a 10-minute drive away.
Fota Wildlife Park: One of Ireland’s most loved family attractions, Fota Wildlife Park offers children the chance to see animals roaming freely in spacious habitats. This large park is home to some 70 species of free-roaming exotic wildlife from meerkat to cheetah, giraffe to European bison. Driving time: 35 minutes.
Waterford Greenway: Perfect for active families, the Waterford Greenway is a scenic 46km cycling and walking trail stretching from Waterford City to Dungarvan. With gentle gradients, beautiful coastal and countryside views, and plenty of stops along the way, it is suitable for children of all ages. Bikes can be hired locally, making it an easy and enjoyable family day out.
Private Residences
Choose Cliff Beach House or Cliff Cottage as your private luxury seaside residence in Ardmore. Enjoy all the amenities of the hotel space, with the added privacy of your own living quarters and all modern conveniences.
Parents can book a hotel childminder and take time out to enjoy an intimate meal in the Michelin-starred HOUSE Restaurant at the hotel or enjoy family dining at Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar.
Fun for all the family
Dunbrody Ship, New Ross: Dunbrody was a 19th-century ship that carried Irish emigrants to North America during the Great Famine. A fascinating educational visit that is artfully curated. Driving time: 75 minutes.
Spike Island, Cobh: This 103-acre island known as Ireland’s Alcatraz is a former prison and convict depot in Cork harbour – and now an intriguing tourist attraction. Guided tours are recommended. Driving time: 40 minutes.
Ardmore Open Farm and Mini Zoo, Ardmore: This mini zoo overlooks Whiting Bay in Ardmore. Miniature goats, donkeys, marmoset monkeys and rare owls are just some of the range of animals on show. Driving time: 10 minutes.
Cappagh Fishing Lakes, Dungarvan: Conveniently close to our hotel are these spring-fed, trout-stocked lakes that offer excellent fly and bait angling – as well as calm water for younger fishermen. Driving time: 10 minutes.
The Great Outdoors
Waterford Greenway Bike or Walk the glorious Waterford Greenway – View the beautiful scenery from Dungarvan Town to Waterford City, stop at the local restaurants and pubs along the way or organise a packed picnic during your adventure. From seaside scenery to handmade fairy houses and little playgrounds along the way this route isn’t short of fun with fairy houses all along the route. Driving time: 15 minutes
Mount Congreve & Historic Attractions: The perfect day out to blow away the cobwebs, Mount Congreve is renowned for its beautiful gardens and can be accessed directly from the Waterford Greenway walking and cycling trail. From here, guests can explore other highlights along the Waterford Garden Trail, including Curraghmore House in nearby Portlaw, the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens in Tramore, Tourin House and Gardens in Cappoquin, and the stunning Lismore Castle in West Waterford.
For those interested in history, Waterford Treasures Museums — including The Bishop’s Palace and Reginald's Tower in the city’s historic Viking Triangle — offer a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s Viking and Georgian past.
Driving Time: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour depending on the attraction chosen.
Discover this hidden corner of Ireland’s Ancient East, through the unique perspective of local experts, Phil and Elaine of Waterford Camino Tours who have carefully crafted Camino Experiences. Phil, a nationally celebrated Musical Director with a PhD in Christian Spirituality, gently guides visitors on their way. Walking these trails with Phil and Elaine will leave imprints that will last a lifetime.
Midterm Break Activities
Robert Boyle Escape Room, Lismore A fun and interactive family activity for older children and teenagers, this immersive escape room challenges you to solve clues and uncover the mysterious Alchemy Box before time runs out. Inspired by the life of Robert Boyle, it combines history, mystery and teamwork for a memorable day out. Driving Time: Approximately 40 minutes.
The Jameson Experience Tour is a fully guided tour around the original Midleton Distillery which brings the stories of Jameson’s rich heritage to life. You’ll learn about the hard working people and field-to-glass processes responsible for the whiskey that bears John Jameson’s name. Driving time: 40 minutes
The Lismore Castle Experience Take a glimpse inside the 12th-century Lismore Castle and explore the lives of the famous figures who once lived there through an immersive virtual reality experience. Fly over the dramatic Blackwater River, enjoy breathtaking views of the estate, and step inside the grand rooms where Fred Astaire and his sister Adele once danced. Driving time: 40 minutes.