Ireland is renowned for its array of superior attractions that charge no entrance fee, such as the National Gallery, the Ulster Museum, Slieve League Cliffs, and Connemara National Park. However, paid attractions have observed a significant increase in their entrance fees of late, particularly impacting family visits. Despite the thriving economy, the escalating prices are straining budgets, rendering staycations inaccessible for many. Yet, for those willing to explore, Ireland is replete with hidden gems offering intriguing narratives that can provide family entertainment without causing undue financial strain. Here are a few noteworthy ones:
Boasting a rich heritage as a destination for pilgrimage, Holycross Abbey in County Tipperary is a beautifully restored Cistercian monastery which still retains a relic of the true cross. During the Middle Ages, it was common for penitents to undertake extensive journeys to pay their respects to the treasured relic that gave the abbey its name. Presently, Holycross serves as a tranquil venue for historical exploration and quiet reflection. Apart from viewing the revered cross, visitors can admire the intricate stonework of the abbey. The Sedilia and the Waking Bier stand out as two of the most exceptional examples of 15th-century decoration in Ireland, and the abbey is also home to one of the very few medieval frescoes remaining in the country. Tours of the Abbey are available every Sunday at 2.30pm for €5 per person, while children under 16 are admitted for free. Individuals can also book tours at their convenience by contacting holycrossabbeytours@gmail.com.
Another location worth mentioning is Lough Boora in County Offaly.
Originally a barren and exhausted expanse of peatland, Lough Boora, situated roughly 20km to the west of Tullamore, has now been redeveloped into a haven for wildlife and a prominent attraction for tourists. The most convenient method to conduct a tour of Lough Boora is by adhering to the yellow pointers on a 3.5km circuit within the innovative Sculpture Park. The unique features of local nature and industrial history have served as the basis for masterful creations of art at this site. Eileen McDonagh’s Boora Pyramid is one of the dazzling highlights that kids will immediately scramble to scale. Ensure to check out other noteworthy exhibits, like the Secret Garden and the Raised Circle. Afterwards, leave via the bridge, following the signs leading back to the visitors centre and pausing along the way to examine an abandoned peat train, stranded atop an embankment.
Cnoc na dTobar Pilgrim Path, located in Co Kerry, is a historic mountain where the ancient pagan festival of Lúghnasa was once celebrated at its major peak. A well-defined path meant for pilgrims is marked with 14 Stations of the Cross and additional footpath signs. After an estimated two-hour uphill trek, you will reach an impressive Celtic cross at the summit. Choose a bright day for the journey for an opportunity to witness some of Ireland’s best views, spreading from the Skellig Islands and Dingle Mountains, to Macgillycuddy’s Reeks and the isolated Beara Peninsula in Cork. Do remember to dress appropriately, considering the summit can be subject to extreme weather conditions.
The Dark Hedges, located in Co Antrim, are situated near Armoy village and are made up of beech trees lined along half a mile, acquiring fame after being featured in the Game of Thrones series. The Stuart family, 250 years ago, had them planted to showcase their magnificent house, and now, these trees form a natural dome over the road. While the site is captivating throughout the year, summer and autumn are considered the most ideal seasons for a visit due to the leaf-shaped canopy it forms. Hurry and plan your visit, as these trees are reaching the end of their lifecycle, with less than 90 left from the initial 150 and frequent storms causing further losses.
The National Museum of Ireland – Country Life, in Co Mayo, is another must-visit spot.
Nestled within Turlough Park House’s property, this enthralling museum offers a fascinating trip down memory lane, exploring the rural Irish lifestyle from 1850 to 1950 that has since disappeared. The museum showcases the rapid transformation over the latter seventy years, a period still recent enough to evoke powerful emotions. A whole gamut of intriguing displays, from agriculture and fishing to domestic life and rural festivities, including leisure, sport, and religious activities, makes for a striking ensemble. Embrace a rewarding family excursion by cycling along the tranquil 7-kilometre riverside greenway from Castlebar to Turlough Park and discover the National Folklore Collection and the illustrious mansion. Afterwards, dine at the Synge and Byrne Café before heading back to Castlebar.
‘Stairway to Heaven’, based in Co Fermanagh, is conveniently located near the Marble Arch Caves. This extraordinary attraction is comprised of a scenic pathway that eventually leads to a breathtaking staircase of 450 steps, ascending the Cuilcagh Mountain. Having been finished in 2015 with the purpose of shielding a sprawling, delicate blanket bog from degradation, this structure gained instant fame in 2017 when a video titled “Stairway to Heaven” circulated extensively on YouTube. Taking roughly two and a half hours for a round trip, it offers phenomenal panoramic views from its summit platform, making it the perfect family adventure. The only expense is a nominal parking charge, granted you carry your lunch.
There’s also the Glencar Waterfall in Co Leitrim, described by WB Yeats as: “Where the wandering water gushes, From the hills above Glen-Car”. On arrival, you’d instantly recognise this as an environment that would spark poetic inspiration. Positioned above Glencar Lough, the mystifying waters produce an enchanting ambiance as they steeply descend nearly 20m into a crystalline pool. A brief, scenic woodland walk offers alternate viewing stations to savour this majestic water-show. As with all waterfalls, they are most captivating after an instance of heavy rain on the nearby highlands. Afterwards, relax with a soothing hot beverage at the Teashed Café, soaking in panoramic vista over the tranquil Glencar Lake.
Walls of Derry, Co Derry.
In medieval times, the protection of settlements was of primary importance and the implementation of sturdy fortifications was essential. These defenses not only provided a safeguard for the populace but also enabled the collecting of levies at the gates of the city on incoming and outgoing goods. A triumphant task for the Derry Walls was in 1689 when they withstood an extended siege by King James II. These significant structures, still preserved today, envelop the city, offering a fascinating 1.5 km journey with picturesque views of the Bogside and loyalist Fountain in their full blue and white glory. An extended visit could include the exploration of wall paintings exhibited in Bogside and key spots like the Bloody Sunday Memorial or Free Derry Corner.
Over in County Antrim lies Belfast Castle, an alluring manorial mansion from the 19th century, constructed as a testament to dominance and wealth. With an advantageous position atop Cave Hill, this castle, built by the affluent Chichester family, provides an impressive panorama over to Belfast, the Irish Sea, the English Lake District mountains, and the Isle of Man. A relaxed visit can involve absorbing the grand views, learning about regional history at the visitor centre, surveying the magnificent gardens, or dining in the basement café. More dynamic visitors could enjoy the 3.5 km Estate Walk or take on the challenging 6.4 km Cave Hill Walk that leads to McArt’s Fort, the birthplace of the vision of an autonomous Irish Republic.
County Sligo is home to the Keshcoran Caves or as locally known, the Caves of Kesh. These unsanitised cavities, located south of Ballymote, are an attractive alternative to more touristy and costly caves. Despite a moderately steep ascent from the car park, you can explore a sequence of 16 limestone caves that some may find thrilling. The caves are attractive but the outstanding sight of the southern Sligo countryside and Lough Feenagh is the highlight, just mind the steep terrain!
There’s also the Gallarus Oratory and Kilmalkedar in County Kerry.
Gallarus is a unique example of an old Irish oratory. Entry is free if you avoid going through the visitor centre. To reach it, proceed past the visitor centre from Murreagh. Subsequently, park in the compact roadside car park on the left and make your way on foot up the lane to Gallarus. Another no-cost attraction is Kilmalkedar, a vital Christian area of interest on the Dingle Peninsula. It’s a 3km journey from Gallarus, following signs along the Cosán na Naomh pilgrim route. The site features a 12th-century church renowned for its Ogham and Latin scribblings and alleged resemblance to Cormac’s Chapel in Cashel. Kilmalkedar’s real appeal, however, comes from the mysterious aura and inviting charm it possesses. It’s an ideal spot to pause and feel connected to the bygone era, especially when the evening sun descends into the western sea.