Make a Trip to Tipp- The Best of County Tipperary, Ireland for Families

Before traveling to Ireland, everyone was quick to tell us about the Cliffs of Moher and Killarney National Park, but there was little said about County Tipperary. What we found in Tipperary, Ireland was historical attractions, breathtaking vistas, and so many friendly locals. County Tipperary is a great destination for families. When it comes to things to do, we only hit the tip of the iceberg. Here is a rundown of the best things to do in County Tipperary with kids. I’d be happy to do any of these without kids, too!

Rock of Cashel

I wanted to visit Rock of Cashel after reading about it was on this spot that St. Patrick baptized King Aengus in 432 AD. The site was originally associated with the high kings of Munster, but no buildings remain from this time. Most of the buildings at the Rock of Cashel are from the 12th or 13th century, the oldest being the round tower. Guided tours are included in the cost of admission.

The parking is located just downhill from the Rock. This wouldn’t be the most convenient place for a stroller, as once inside the gates there are numerous steps and uneven surfaces. Steps are required to get in and out of the admissions building and museum. Near the parking lot are public toilets and a small concession stand.

Hore Abbey

Hore Abbey is the ruins of a Cistercian Monastery, a short walk from the Rock of Cashel. I recommend doing this hike with your family, as it allows you to see the Rock of Cashel from a different angle. There is no cost to enter the ruins.

You’ll need good walking shoes to make this steep climb down the hill (and even more so for the way up)! Be careful crossing the busy road that separates the two tourist sites.

Cahir Castle

Cahir Castle was our favorite Irish castle to visit with kids. The castle has an idyllic location on the River Suir. Built in 1142, the history of this building is extensive, it even survived a Siege by the Earl of Essex in 1599. 

When visiting Cahir Castle, allow at least 90 minutes. You will be able to tour various areas of the castle, a banquet hall, and a tower. The castle has many steps and small openings, so this isn’t the place to bring a stroller. I’d recommend that small children are worn in a carrier or you visit when they are over 3. Our young boys enjoyed the cannons that were staged throughout the castle courtyard. They were able to imagine life back in the Middle Ages & Renaissance period.

Cahir Castle also contains a small museum where one can learn about local life for women and children during the Middle Ages. Also, don’t miss the upstairs display which shows a re-creation of the Siege of 1599. Our boys loved pushing the buttons to see how the battle progressed. Better yet, kids can see history come to life, as one of the cannonballs is still lodged in the castle walls.

Town of Cahir

After visiting Cahir Castle, leave some time to visit the town of Cahir. Add a few more coins to the meter and take a little walk, Cahir is located just up the hill. We loved dining on the patio at the historic W.H. Irwin pub- kids can have Sprite while the adults enjoy a pint!

Roscrea

Roscrea is a darling city just off of the M7. If you are traveling from Dublin to Limerick, you’ll want to detour through this small town. We made a stop here to stretch our legs, have a walk around the castle grounds, and get a snack.

The stone castle dates from the 13th century, with the two towers being constructed in the 1280s. The castle courtyard is free to visit. Since we were in a hurry to make it to Dublin, we only chose to walk through the courtyard’s gardens.

The Whitehouse Restaurant is next to the castle. Mr. Yoder Toter and I enjoyed a coffee while the kids snacked on ice cream sundaes. The staff was friendly and accommodating and made us feel very welcome in their small town.

If you still need more time for a stretch, kids will love the Glebe Playground. Located a short walk from Roscrea Castle, this sun-filled playground is filled with slides, climbing structures, and a popular zip line.

Christ the King statue- Glen of Aherlow

It’s not quite Rio de Janeiro’s statue, but Ireland’s Christ the King statue looks over County Tipperary and specifically the Galtee Mountains. Our rural drive from our Airbnb in Bansha gave us this gorgeous view over the valley.

Erected in 1950, the statue is a starting point for numerous trailheads. If we had more time (or didn’t have a family member with a broken foot), we would have enjoyed a meander through the mountains.

Parking was plentiful at the statue, but no restrooms are on site.

Where to stay

We loved our stay at this Irish farmhouse we found via Airbnb. The remote setting gives a feeling of old Ireland. The kids loved the resident cows. 🙂 If you haven’t booked with Airbnb before, here’s the link to save $40 on your first booking.  CLICK HERE TO BOOK THIS OLD IRISH FARMHOUSE.

Have you been to County Tipperary?? If you haven’t, I hope you’ll get to visit! It is the heart of Ireland and left us with so many great memories!

For more info on traveling in Ireland with kids, I highly recommend Ireland Family Vacations.

PIN THIS: