There is such a huge choice of family fun activities in and around Waterford. Check out our Parks & Playgrounds, Gardens, Museums and attractions or why not spend a day at one of the 49 beaches scattered along the coast? Right in the heart of the Viking Triangle, there is so much to discover in and around the city and county. Please explore the various options below to help with your plans for your visit to Waterford.
With this year's theme of Celebrate Together, the return of Winterval is hugely anticipated after another challening year that we have all faced. Make the most of your time in Ireland's Christmas capital with a varied festival programme running from 19th November through to 23rd December. Weekend schedules will run Friday through Sunday throughout and then on consecutive days from 17th - 23rd December 2021.
WATERFORD SUIR VALLEY RAILWAY
Located just 15kms from the Viking Triangle, the experience of a train ride in a period carriage, along a narrow-gauge railway, while taking in the wonderful panoramic views of the River Suir, awaits at the Kilmeaden train station. This is a particularly fun family experience. For October Mid-Term Break, WSV will run a sppoky adventure along the rail line from Kilmeaden to Carriganore daily from 23rd - 31st October. This family friendly event is a must-do this October.
ACTIVATE
Waterford City's newest and most innovative family recreation centre incorporating a children's soft play area, bowling, rock climbing and bouldering, an intimate state of the art 3D cinema, a cafe and lots more.
HAWKEYE FALCONRY
Totally dedicated to this Ancient Sport of Kings. They adhere to a very high standard of Falconry and only use Practising Falconers for all services. Hawkeye Falconry offers you the Bird of Prey experience of a lifetime for both families and individuals.
PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS
Waterford City has plenty of open spaces from the People’s Park, just minutes from the hotel in the centre of the City. Here you will find extensive playing areas for children of all ages plus large green areas for kicking a football, skate boarding or just relaxing, to smaller parks scattered across the City whiand the larger Waterford Nature Park which is one of the largest urban parklands in the country.
There are a number of other public playgrounds in the City including the Railway Square Playground located on Manor Street. The community based project New Street Gardens adjacent to the main shopping area is a wonderful oasis right in the heart of the city. Close by in St John’s Lane is Wyse Park, known locally as the ‘little park’. Our newest community-led project is New Street Park. In Tramore, The All Aboard Inclusion Play Park enables disabled children to interact with able-bodied children which will positively impact on minimizing social isolation and help reduce barriers of discrimination.
GARDENS
Located in Tramore, the Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, offer a wonderful experience for those looking to relax for a few hours in authentic Japanese Gardens. Explore the Victorian, American and Greek Gardens and a host more! For youunger guests, the Gardens are steeped in fairytale and folklore. A Midsummer Fairy Festival will also happen in summer 2021, a lovely event for children.
MUSEUMS & VISITOR ATTRACTIONS
On the hotel's doorstep, you can explore a choice of Museums covering Waterford's 1000 years of history. Immerse yourself in Viking heritage at Reginald's Tower, wander through the Medieval age at the award-winning Medieval Museum or savour the stunning Georgian and more recent collections at Bishop's Palace. Best of all, enjoy an Epic Tour to learn all about Waterford's history with great stories to hear which bring alive all the ancient elements of our city. The Viking Triangle is wondefully compact with museums, historic points of interest, Viking Virtual Reality experience, Christchurch Cathedral and much more!
An icon of Waterford, a visit to the House of Waterford Crystal is a must. Take the factory tour and see how incredibly skilled craftspeople have created the famous crystal over the decades. Explore the stunning crystal shop and inviting cafe to add to your experience. We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance. The House of Waterford Crystal is located just 2 minutes walk from the hotel.
Waterford city visitors maps are available at Hotel Reception if you want to take one along with you or you can explore city and county maps online. Our team are here to help you if you have any questions.
TRAMORE
Situated just 12km (15-20 minutes drive) south of Waterford City, Tramore is considered the premier resort of the South East of Ireland. The sandy beach in Tramore stretches for almost 5km and has some of the highest sand dunes in Ireland. Tramore has fantastic amenities including surf clubs offering both lessons and board hire. Please see list of surf schools; Oceanics, Tramore Surf School, T Bay Surf School and Freedom Surf School. See the coast line from a different perspective with a range of water based pursuits on offer in this area. Tramore now boasts a superb inclusion park/playground adjacent to the promenade, with ample parking and a great spot for a picnic. If the Sunny South East doesn’t live up to its reputation, there’s still plenty to do indoors. For all the family there’s Splashworld with giant water slides with an Amusement Park covering over 20 hectares just opposite the promenade. For young kids visit Run Amuck, All Aboard Play Park, Laser Blast or Pirates Adventure
PETTING ZOOS & FARMS
Just outside Tramore, in Fenor is the Copper Coast Mini Farm and further along the coast in Stradbally is the Sallyfort Mini Farm. There are also a number of petting zoos around the South East for your family's entertainment. Copper Coast Mini Farm, Sallyfort Mini Farm, Ardmore Pet Farm.
DUNMORE EAST
Located 18km (25 mins drive) from the hotel, Dunmore East is one of Waterford's most beauitful places. While the beautiful coves and beaches are sure to keep both young and old occupied, if you feel like trying something different visit the Dunmore East Adventure Centre which offers sailing, archery, rock climbing and kayaking. For younger children there is a lovely playground in the village park.
LISMORE
The picturesque village of Lismore has lots to offer for families where you can explore this hostoric Heritage Town. Relax and unwind with a family friendly nature trail. Areas include: Lady Louisa's Walk, The Towers Lismore and The Riverside Walk. Kayak down the famous Blackwater River to Cappoquin under the safety of a trusted guide of Blackwater Adventures. Find a little spot to rest and enjoy a packed lunch. Collect a bike, helmet and map from Lismore Cycling Holiday to explore the region and complete your adventure. Delight in a family friendly train with Lismore Heritage Centre Adventure Pack. Fill out the questionnaire and claim your adventurer's prize.
