Picnic baskets at the ready! The back-to-school rush is nearly upon us (how did that happen?) and we’re determined to make the most of these last precious weeks of holiday time.
And when the sun shines in Ireland, there’s nothing better than bundling everyone into the car and hitting the road for a family picnic.
One of Ireland’s number top picnic spots is featured in this new video from Keogh’s – can you guess where it is? Music is All My Mistakes by Keywest.
Here are Ireland’s most family-friendly picnic locations – happy picnicking!
1. Phoenix Park, Dublin
If you’re living in the capital, you’re lucky enough to have one of Europe’s largest parks right on your doorstep. The Phoenix Park is one of our very favourite picnic destinations. Do some deer-spotting, or take a trip through Dublin Zoo, before laying out your picnic blanket and enjoying a delicious family lunch al fresco.
2. Fota Wildlife Park, Cork
The gorgeous wildlife park in the People’s Republic is our pick of the bunch in the south. Your little ones will love tucking into their picnic treats in the company of giraffes, monkeys and loads more of their favourite animals. A day spent watching the beautiful creatures roaming free in Fota is a must-do for every Irish family!
3. Glendalough, Co. Wicklow
Ireland’s most scenic picnic spot can be found in the heart of the stunning Wicklow mountains. Park up, unload the kids and find the perfect spot to soak up the beauty of Glendalough’s endless lakes and valleys. Now that’s a family afternoon very well spent.
4. Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the world, Killarney National Park is top of our picnic hotspot list in Kerry. Packed full of great activities for the kids (from kayaking to hiking, and visiting Muckross House), there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained after the sandwiches have been gobbled.
5. Irish National Stud & Gardens, Co. Kildare
Got a little horse lover in the house? The National Stud and Gardens in Kildare is the perfect treat for anyone with an interest in the equestrian life. Enjoy the colour and magic of the beautiful Japanese gardens before taking a stroll through the incredible stables. A stunning place to throw down the picnic blanket and crack open some picnic treats for an afternoon!
6. Burren National Park, Co. Clare
Escape to the wilds of the Burren for a gorgeous family day out. Explore the karst landscape of the area before settling into a tasty picnic. Stop off in one of the picturesque Burren villages (like Kinvara or Ballyvaughn) to treat your little ones to an ice cream.
7. Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny
There’s nothing like a castle to capture the attention (and imagination!) of little kids. Kilkenny Castle is a truly gorgeous place for a family day out. Work off the picnic treats with a wander through the luxurious lake-lined walkways and make sure to check out the super cute boat house on the grounds.
8. Lough Key Forest, Co. Roscommon
One of Roscommon’s most popular day-trip destinations, this sprawling green park on the southern shore of Lough Key is the perfect spot for an action-packed family picnic. From the fab adventure play kingdom, to the woodland segwaying (yeah, you heard us!), there’s an activity for all ages.
9. Hill of Tara, Co. Meath
Take a serious step back in time with a visit to one of Ireland’s most well-known historical sites. Brush up on your primary school history before you set off so that you can pass on some magical myths to your little ones! Sit back, relax and take in the beautiful scenery in the Royal County.
10. Strandhill Beach, Co. Sligo
With incredible views of Knocknarea and Benbulben, this sprawling beach on the Wild Atlantic Way is sure to take your breath away. Pack the buckets and spades, have a sandcastle-building contest and kick back and watch the surfers do their thing in the ocean. We’re relaxing just thinking about heading to this seaside picnic spot!
The newly-launched Keogh’s Farm Favourite Multipacks and entire Keogh’s Crisps range are available now in stores nationwide, RRP €3.69 and are the perfect picnic accompaniment. To plan your Keogh’s #PerfectPicnic and win weekly picnic hampers head over to the Perfect Picnic planning hub. Don’t forget to follow @KeoghsFarm on Twitter and Instagram!
