Pack a picnic, grab the sunscreen (or umbrella), and get ready for a day of family fun. From farms and zip lines to museums and adventure parks, there really is something for the whole family to enjoy.
Check out top ten picks for green attractions to take the kids to – and there are even suggestions for where to go if it’s raining!
5. Ulster Museum, Botanic Gardens, Belfast
Set in the stunning Botanic Gardens, the Ulster Museum has various exhibitions and displays on offer, from dinosaurs and ancient Irish artefacts to exhibitions about the Troubles and Spanish sailors.If you are looking to refuel, the on-site Wynne & Pym Cafe is open from Tuesday to Sunday. The best part about the Ulster Museum is its free admission, with no booking required, go on a spontaneous family day out that won’t break the bank.For more information, go to ulstermuseum.org Photo: unsplash
6. W5 The Odyssey, 2 Queens Quay, Belfast
W5 is an award-winning discovery centre that provides many unique exhibitions and experiences, largely relating to science.The exhibitions cover a range of topics that include climate change, engineering, and nature, with some incredible optical illusions to discover during your visit. There are daily science shows that take place at a specially built Science Bar, encouraging interactive learning.Once you have bought your ticket to W5 there is no time limit, so the kids can spend as long as they like in the centre.For more information, go to w5online.co.uk Photo: unsplash
7. Colin Glen, 163 Stewartstown Road, Dunmurry
If you’re searching for adventure, a trip to Colin Glen is a good choice.The park, situated in the Belfast hills, features an expansive 200-acre forest, within a short driving distance from the city centre. Offering many affordable activities, the park is open seven days a week. With the only Gruffalo trail in Ireland, an alpine coaster, and a forest flyover zipline, there is something to satisfy every type of adventure lover.For more information, go to colinglen.org Photo: unsplash
8. Belfastology Walking Tours
Do you want to learn more about the well-known sights and hidden gems of Belfast? Then a Belfastology Walking Tour is just the thing for you - and there are family-friendly options too.You will be guided in a small group, stopping by many buildings with exquisite architecture, modern engineering and contemporary street art, whilst learning about the stories that surround Belfast’s rich history.This tour has been accredited with a bronze green tourism award for its unique approach to promoting the city of Belfast and all it has to offer.For more information, go to belfastology.com Photo: unsplash.