Top 5 family attractions for adventure and fun with all the family. Finn Valley Cottages provides ideal accommodation for families visiting the North West of Ireland. Here are 5 family attractions loved by our guests.
Oakfield Park
Oakfield Demesne, Raphoe, F93 XY1R Donegal
Telephone: (+353) 074 9173922
Email: [email protected]
Short drive of 20 mins from Finn Valley Cottages
Up to date admission information & opening times can be found on their website above
Oakfield Park in Oakfield Demesne was built in 1739 for the Dean of Raphoe. It is a family paradise nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes and lush greenery. The 100 acre estate includes an original walled garden and traditional kitchen garden, overlooking a lush landscape of parklands, wildflower meadows and mature woodlands toward the distant Croaghan Mountain. This enchanting destination offers an array of delightful experiences that will captivate the hearts of both young and old. As you step into Oakfield Park, you’ll be mesmerized by the stunning, manicured gardens that stretch as far as the eye can see. The diverse flora and fauna create a magical wonderland, perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics.
Climb aboard the Difflin Lake Railway that chugs its way through the park, taking you on an exciting adventure through the heart of nature. This delightful train ride is a favourite among children and parents alike, offering scenic views of the park’s most scenic spots and its Irelands longest miniature railway track at over 4.5km. Trains regularly run each day the park is open and the trip takes around 15 minutes to complete. Nature lovers will be thrilled to spot the abundant wildlife that calls Oakfield Park home. Keep an eye out for swans, ducks squirrels, rabbits, and a variety of bird species, adding to the park’s natural charm.
Let your imagination run wild as you follow the enchanting Fairy Trail. Discover hidden fairy houses and whimsical sculptures tucked away among the trees, creating a sense of wonder and excitement for the little ones. Write your wish and hang it on the tree so see it come true.
Test your navigation skills in the delightful hedge maze, an activity that will challenge and entertain kids and parents alike. Make your way to the centre where you will find a 10 metre tall brick tower and experience 880 plants on your way through the 1 km of pathway. The Walled Garden is another highlight, displaying a vibrant array of flowers and plants, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Oakfield Park boasts a well-maintained playground, including swings, slide, tunnel and train ensuring that children have a safe and fun place to play. There are numerous picnic areas so that you can sit down and enjoy your picnic or visit Buffers Restaurant and enjoy something from their delicious menu. Modern amenities like clean restrooms and accessible pathways ensure that families have a comfortable experience.
Throughout the year, Oakfield Park hosts a range of family activities, seasonal events and festivals that are tailored to families. From Easter egg hunts and summer festivals to Halloween spooky trails and the Santa Express there’s always something exciting happening.
Lurgybrack Fun Farm
Cullion Road, Lurgybrack, Letterkenny, Co Donegal
Telephone: (+353) 074 9122683
Email: [email protected]
Approximately 35 minutes from Finn Valley Cottages
Up to date admission information & opening times can be found on their website above
Lurgybrack Farm is situated in a picturesque the farm’s location encourages a sense of tranquility, making it an idyllic family attraction for parents and kids seeking a break from the everyday routine. The farm is a treasure trove of activities for visitors of all ages. Children will be captivated by the joyful bleating of the resident sheep, the friendly clucks of the chickens, and the adorable antics of the playful goats. Families can participate in daily feeding sessions, where little ones can experience the joys of connecting with farm animals firsthand.
Pony rides are another highlight that kids will adore, these gentle and friendly ponies take children on delightful journeys around the farm, creating magical moments that they will cherish forever.
Lurgybrack Farm offers a myriad of scenic nature trails waiting to be explored. Families can embark on leisurely walks, immersing themselves in the stunning beauty of the landscape. Whether it’s spotting colourful wildflowers, observing the abundant birdlife, or simply enjoying the fresh country air.
Families are welcome to bring a packed lunch and use the designated picnic areas which provide the perfect viewing spot to keep an eye on your little ones. For the little adventurers, the farm boasts well-equipped playgrounds where kids can climb, swing, and slide to their hearts’ content. These safe and exciting play areas ensure endless fun for children, allowing parents to relax and enjoy the serenity of the countryside. For the thrill seekers in your family they can experience the zipline, tube slide or even the barrel train that is scheduled throughout the day.
At Lurgybrack Farm, learning is an integral part of the experience. Family activities and educational workshops are organised, enabling families to gain insights into sustainable farming practices, animal care, and the wonders of nature. These workshops foster a deep appreciation for the environment and the importance of responsible farming.
Before leaving, families can visit the charming on-site farm shop. Here, you can find an assortment of locally sourced products, including fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delightful farm souvenirs. Taking home a piece of Lurgybrack Farm allows families to reminisce about their treasured experiences and support the local community.
Gortin Glen Forest Park
Glen Park Road, Gortin, County Tyrone, BT79 7SU
www.fermanaghomagh.com/residential-services/leisure/gortin-glen-forest-park/
Tel+44 (0) 300 303 17777
Admission is Free & opening times can be found on their website
30 minute drive from Finn Valley Cottages
Gortin Glen Forest Park, located 6 miles from Omagh, is an outdoor family attraction with a destination play park, trim trail, additional parking, Mountain Bike Trails, walking trails, horse trails, café and toilet facilities.
Gortin Glen is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The glens encompass picturesque valleys, lush woodlands, and cascading waterfalls that captivate the senses. Exploring the glens as a family provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourselves in nature’s wonders. Children will be in awe of the enchanting forest trails, while parents can appreciate the tranquility and serene vistas that surround them. The Forest Park can also be explored via a five-mile scenic drive which has a number of vista parks that vehicles can pull in to enjoy the magnificent scenery.
The glens are crisscrossed with family-friendly hiking trails, perfect for adventurers of all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a short, leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Gortin Glens has options to suit every family member. There are 5 trails of varying length and they are well-maintained and offer informative signposts along the way, making it easy for kids to engage with the environment and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Family time at is made even more special with designated picnic areas. Pack a delicious lunch, find a cozy spot, and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by the sounds of nature. These picturesque picnic spots offer the perfect opportunity to bond, play games, and share stories while recharging amidst the beauty of the outdoors. Children’s happiness is of paramount importance and to ensure they have a fantastic time, the park features well-equipped playgrounds.
Here, kids can climb, swing, and slide to their hearts’ content, making new friends and burning off energy in a safe and enjoyable environment. Bries Barista is a coffee shop on site where you can enjoy na hot/cold beverage, sandwich or sweet treat to recharge and allow you to explore the park for longer. There are toilets and also a barbecue area for families to plan a fun get together.
Gortin Glens’ visitor centre provides a wealth of information about the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. Families can engage in interactive exhibits and educational programs that foster an understanding and appreciation of the natural world. Learning becomes an adventure at Gortin Glens, leaving young minds curious and inspired. For wildlife enthusiasts, Gortin Glens offers exciting opportunities to spot local animals and birdlife. From squirrels and rabbits to various bird species, each family member can delight in observing these creatures in their natural habitat. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and a camera to capture those unforgettable moments.
Cycling is a popular activity at the Forest Park, and families can rent bicycles for the day. The dedicated cycling routes provide a chance to explore more of the area’s beauty and cover greater distances together, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone. Campbase provide visitors the opportunity to hire bikes and explore what the forest park has to offer from a different perspective.
Gortin Glen Forest Park is a place where families can unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy quality time together. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, quiet moments in nature, or educational opportunities for the kids, it offers an unforgettable family-friendly experience that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come.
Ulster American Folk Park
2 Mellon Rd, Omagh BT78 5QU
www.ulsteramericanfolkpark.org/
Telephone: (+44) 028 8224 3292
Email: [email protected]
Up to date admission information & opening times can be found on their website above
25 minute drive from Finn Valley Cottages
Perfect family attraction for all ages
The Ulster American Folk Park, provides an enchanting journey through time that promises an unforgettable experience for families. This living history museum bridges the gap between continents and generations, offering a unique adventure for all ages.
Step back in time and immerse yourselves in the captivating story of emigration, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of brave souls who left their homeland for a new life in America. The park showcases authentic reconstructed buildings, bringing to life the sights, sounds, and emotions of the 18th and 19th-century emigrant experience.
Immerse yourself in ancient family activities
Discover the traditions and customs of the Ulster pioneers as you explore their meticulously recreated rural village. Engage with costumed interpreters, who will share tales of courage, resilience, and the spirit of adventure that defined these intrepid settlers.
Embark on a transatlantic voyage, boarding a full-scale ship replica, and envision the challenges and hopes that accompanied these daring emigrants on their quest for a better life. Feel the excitement build as you step foot into the New World, exploring the American homesteads and bustling streets of the past.
For the little ones, engaging activities and interactive exhibits ensure a day filled with entertainment and education. They can try on period costumes, participate in traditional crafts, and even enjoy delicious period treats!
Ulster American Folk Park promises a truly unique family outing, where history comes alive, and lessons of courage, unity, and determination are interwoven into an enjoyable and enriching experience. Perfect for picnics, cafe available and accessible toilets on site.
Oakfire Adventures
The Oaks Demesne, 227 Glenshane Rd, Londonderry BT47 3EW
Oakfire Adventures | Outdoor activities in Derry / Londonderry
Telephone: +4477311 71177
Oakfire Adventures, located just outside Derry~Londonderry, offers a range of exhilarating outdoor activities set against the scenic backdrop of Northern Ireland’s countryside. Catering to individuals, families, and groups, the center provides unique experiences designed to challenge and thrill participants of various ages.
Zip Trekking Experience: This activity features four epic zip lines that span the Faughan Valley, allowing participants to soar over woodlands, water, and cliffs. The course includes a continuous belay safety system, with the highest point reaching 50 meters above the river and the longest zip line extending 550 meters. The experience typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, depending on group size.
Tree Trek Adventure: Designed with families in mind, this high ropes course weaves through ancient 200-year-old oak trees and includes a variety of challenges such as rope bridges and a Via Ferrata section. Participants can enjoy views of streams and river landscapes. The course’s highest platform stands at 23 meters, with the longest crossing measuring 28 meters and the longest zip line at 105 meters. The adventure lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Full Aerial Challenge: For those seeking a comprehensive experience, the Full Aerial Challenge combines the Zip Trekking and Tree Trek Adventure into a single package. This extended adventure spans 2 to 3 hours and offers the full range of aerial thrills that Oakfire Adventures has to offer.
Paintball: Oakfire Adventures also offers paintball sessions set in diverse game zones, including ‘Wheels of Fortune,’ ‘Fort Montgomery,’ ‘Capture the Flag,’ and ‘Supairball.’ Each half-day session includes approximately five games and lasts around three hours. Participants must be at least 16 years old, and sessions require a minimum of 10 players, accommodating up to 50 players at a time. Oakfire Adventures
In addition to these activities, Oakfire Adventures hosts special events like the “Hard as OAK” obstacle course, designed to test endurance and teamwork. The center welcomes various groups, including corporate teams, stag and hen parties, and birthday celebrations, offering tailored packages to suit different needs. With its diverse range of activities and commitment to safety and enjoyment, Oakfire Adventures provides an unforgettable outdoor experience for all visitors.
Family attractions near Finn Valley
There are so any fun family activities that can be explored near Finn Valley Cottages. The above are just 5 examples for you to explore during your stay with us. There is something for everyone from walking, playparks, picnics, history, beautiful gardens, trains and adrenaline pumping activities. You will be spoilt for choice and wonderful memories will be made with us.
Booking Information
For more information on booking your next family holiday at Finn Valley Cottages. Call 07720 452161 or email [email protected] or book now
