Things to do in Killarney with Kids

Things to do in Killarney with Kids – My mother-in-law is from Killarney so we’ve spent many holidays here, and it’s remiss that I didn’t write it up before. Here’s the best bits for families.

A Jaunting Car Ride to the Gap of Dunloe

I had no clue what a jaunting car was when I first visited Killarney, but it’s basically a horse and carriage that carries roughly four people. And what is the Gap of Dunloe? It’s a staggeringly scenic mountain pass of hills and lakes, and travelling by horse is the perfect pace to appreciate the beauty. We made the most of this experience when the children were too small to cycle, and we could relax in the sun. It was so soothing, both children fell asleep on the return leg.

The journey takes roughly 1.5-2 hours. It starts at Kate Kearney’s cottage where there’s parking, toilets and the Coffee Pot Cafe. And at the end of the route you get a ten minute stop for pictures and to stretch your legs as the carriages turn around and return to Kate Kearney’s Cottage. Your driver’s called a jarvey, he’s usually a good craic, and often expects paid in cash. Cost is roughly €80. Just turn up on the day and grab a jaunting car, a bit like a cab in a cab rank. In high season, arrive early to secure a car and parking space – 0930 would be ideal. It was a blissful experience for us.

[FYI If you wish to drive straight through the entire Gap of Dunloe you’d have to figure your own route back, so a great option is to book a tour operator to return you.]

Jaunting Cars in Killarney – Things to do in Killarney with Kids

There are also jaunting cars in the town of Killarney itself. You can’t miss the pick up points in town, such as Beech Road and Scotts Hotel, lined with horse and carts. These one hour trips are handier and more central, but still scenic taking in views of MacGillycuddy Reeks, the 15th-century Ross Castle, Killarney National Park, Muckross House and St. Mary’s Cathedral on route.

Make the Most of Killarney National Park – Things to do in Killarney with Kids

FREE The park is a wonderful (car free) playground, and entry is FREE. Each time we visit we experience Killarney National Park in a totally different way. While the park is vast, most people naturally access the park coming from the town of Killarney itself. If the park seems vast and overwhelming then drop by Killarney National Park Visitor Centre to find out more, located in Killarney House and Gardens. There is also an exhibition and gardens here.

Swim and Paddle – Killarney National Park

FREE Yes, you’re allowed to swim in the lakes of the park and lounge on the beaches. Some are very tucked away and almost private. Heavenly.

Eat & Drink in Killarney National Park

The park is home to several cute cafes in gorgeous locations and cottages, usually with both indoor and outdoor seating. They make a good target as a reward/carrot for children at the end of hikes or cycles, such as Dinis Cottage, which offers great views over the water. Deenah Lodge is really close to town, just inside the gates of the park, and the cathedral so a great place to meet if you don’t wish to overdo things! Muckross House Garden Restaurant is a modern self-service diner – it reminded me of garden centre dining, good hearty food with self-service.

Walking Trails – Killarney National Park

FREE Take a hike in the park. Trails range from easy 1km to 8km strenuous routes, and they are clearly signposted.

Cycle Killarney National Park

Bike rental is straightforward (including carriages for little ones) so we’ve cycled Killarney when we had one toddler to tow behind us, and we’ve cycled with two boys. A car-free environment and a glorious pace to enjoy the park.

Boat Trips – Killarney National Park

Our son’s first boat trip was on the lakes of Killarney National Park. We pushed his wee buggy to Dinis Cottage, then took the boat back to enjoy the scenery and to rest our tired buggy-pushing legs! A cruise is also available.

Heritage Buildings of Killarney National Park

Sites to explore include Muckross House, an elegant mid 19th Century Victorian mansion; the 15th century Ross Castle built by Irish chieftain O’Donoghue Mor; and Muckross Farm (a joint family ticket for Muckross House and Farm is €39.00). Meanwhile, Muckross Abbey is free and open to the public. For a full list of heritage sites, from doocots and kilns to barracks and bridges, browse here.

Torc Waterfall – Killarney National Park

FREE Torc Waterfall (apparently translates from ‘Easach Toirc’, meaning ‘cascade of the wild boar’) is a 20 metre high waterfall from the Owengarriff River. There is a car park five minutes away from the waterfall, where we parked, and by following a blue/yellow trail you can very easily extend your walk to a relaxed half hour circular loop through the woodland. Very scenic. The waterfall is also accessible by bike from Killarney or a 2.5km route starts at Dundag Point in the park and leads to the waterfall.

Within Killarney National Park you can also spot the indigenous red deer, go canoeing/kayaking, horse riding, or take a jaunting car experience around the park.

Explore the Colourful Town Centre – Things to do in Killarney with Kids

Killarney itself is jumping, a real party town, but welcoming for families too. The colour of the houses and people is clear. Alongside the ice cream parlours, we got lost in the maze of a pub called JM Reidy’s – olde worlde charm with lots of nooks and crannies. We also ate great grub with glam cocktails at Hilliards. There are lots of gift shops, traditional knitwear and sports shops to part with your cash.

Grab an Ice Cream in Town – Things to do in Killarney with Kids

While other ice creams parlours are available (and often quieter) Murphy’s Ice Cream parlour is a bit of an icon. Its Brown Bread ice cream is a bit of a talking point.

Kerry Creamery – Things to do in Killarney with Kids

At the Kerry Creamery you find a tea room that’s as cute as a button, a farm themed playground, plus you can book tours of the creamery itself. We dropped by for toasties, coffee and slabs of cake. The boys went straight for the creamery ice cream, made from their own cream. Lovely personal service, good quality home cooking, and quieter than the more central/park cafes.

Muckross Creamery & Farm Tours – Things to do in Killarney with Kids

If one creamery isn’t enough, take a peak at Muckross Creamery.

Where to Stay

The Ross is stylish and modern, if you fancy somewhere chic boutique. You also get some really classic hotels, such as the International Hotel Killarney and the Great Southern Killarney. Killarney Towers boasts a pool. And Randles has an outdoor terrace with jaw dropping views.

I hope you love Killarney!

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