Saltee Islands, Co Wexford

Bird-watching fans will be familiar with the Saltee Islands thanks to their reputation as one of the world’s major bird sanctuaries. Just 5km from Kilmore Quay, Co Wexford, the privately owned islands are home to a wide array of seabirds such as puffins, gannets, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, manx shearwaters and gulls as well as many other species of wildlife. If you can, go to the Great Saltee in mid-summer to watch the sea bird colonies on the cliffs to the north-east of the Gannet headland. The perfect day-trip for nature-lovers and bird-enthusiasts. A return adult ferry ticket costs between €30-€40.

See salteeislands.info

Beyond the Trees, Avondale, Co Wicklow

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to walk amidst the treetops of a forest, Beyond the Trees Avondale is the perfect spot for your next day out. Not only will you take the renowned Treetop Walk around Avondale Forest and soak in the panoramic views of the Wicklow countryside, if you’re up for it, you can make your way back down on Ireland’s longest slide.

There’s also a tour of historic Avondale House. Tickets: Adult €18, Child €15.

See beyondthetreesavondale.com

Trim Castle, Co Meath

Trim is a fantastic town to visit if you find yourself in Ireland’s Ancient East. Teeming with medieval buildings, it is steeped in history and Trim Castle is the most impressive offering in this historic Meath town.

The castle is the largest Anglo-Norman fortification in Ireland and, in its day, it was protected by a ditch, curtain wall and a moat.

Trim Castle is open from 10am-5pm daily for visitors during the summer and admission for a guided tour of the three-storey Keep is €5.

See heritageireland.ie

Castlecomer Discovery Park, Co Kilkenny

For a phenomenal day out with your children – from toddlers to teens – a visit to Castlecomer Discovery Park is an absolute must. Between the axe-throwing, mountain biking, archery, kayaking and screaming your lungs out on Ireland’s longest zipline, there is more than enough to entertain everyone and make unforgettable memories. It’s open on weekends from 11am, there are age minimums for several activities and prices depend on the activity. The park is open to walkers and the first hour of parking is free.

See discoverypark.ie

Rock of Dunamase, Co Laois

For a more informal day out with a dash of history thrown in for good measure, take a drive up to the ruined fortress of Dunamase. Overlooking the plains of Co Laois, the former Anglo-Norman stronghold is now a national monument and popular spot for a walk with great views and steps leading up to the ruins. There is limited parking available close to the entrance but be aware of passing traffic when walking around or taking photos. Wander the site and imagine what it was like to be there during the time of the Vikings.

See laoistourim.ie

Birr Castle Demesne and Science Centre, Birr, Co Offaly

For a mix of education and fresh air, take a spin to the heritage town of Birr to see Birr Castle Demesne. Spanning 120ac of stunning parklands and gardens, there are trees, plants, wildlife and scenic trails along rivers and waterfalls to discover and if that’s not enough, you can also explore the wonders of Ireland’s Historic Science Centre.

Restoration on Ireland’s Tallest Treehouse was completed earlier this month so definitely one for the kids. General admission: Adult €12, child €7.

See birrcastle.com

14 Henrietta Street Museum, Dublin 1

This is a truly unique location that will give you an insight into Dublin life that you won’t find anywhere else. Described as “a social history museum of Dublin life”, 14 Henrietta Street connects the history of urban life over 300 years to the stories of the people who called the place home.

The guided tours depict their changing circumstances, their experience of family life, politics, and the impact of world affairs.

The multi-award-winning attraction has tours available ‘as Gaeilge’ as well as a monthly sign language tour conducted by an ISL tour guide. Admission: Adult €12.

See 14henriettastreet.ie

The Irish National Stud & Gardens, Co Kildare

If you’ve even the slightest interest in horse racing or beautiful gardens, a visit to The National Stud & Gardens in Kildare should be on your Irish travel bucket list. Open daily from 9am-6pm, a free guided tour is included with the price of admission and takes place at regular intervals throughout the day. Make sure to give yourself a couple of hours to wander through the stunning Japanese Gardens and St Fiachra’s Garden as well. Online tickets: Adult €21, child €13.

See irishnationalstud.ie

The Chocolate Garden of Ireland, Tullow, Co Carlow

This award-winning family business has taken chocolate to a whole new level with an incredible range of handcrafted chocolates, delicious gifts, premium ice cream, and delectable treats.

More than that, the owners are sharing the knowledge and joy of what they do through an array of chocolate-making workshops and experiences perfect for school tours, hen parties, birthdays or work team-building events. Visit the shop and café in Rath, Tullow.

See chocolategarden.ie

The Cooley Peninsula, Co Louth

Home to the Cooley Mountains, and Louth’s highest peak Slieve Foy (588m), the Cooley Peninsula is a glorious section of Ireland’s coastline that combines wild and rugged scenery with medieval towns and historic sites. Serious hikers should try the Táin Way (Slí na Tana) which covers about 40km. It can take up to two days but there are lots of accommodation options and you’ll see one of the most scenic spots in Ireland.

See carlingford.ie

The Sauna Society, Mullingar, Co Westmeath

With the rise of popularity in sauna culture, it’s no surprise that Ireland is now brimming with options. The Sauna Society has three locations around the country – Dublin, Monaghan and Westmeath – and the lakeside location at the beautiful Lough Ennell, outside Mullingar, is where it all started. There is parking and changing rooms and it’s €15 for a 45 minute ‘hot slot’.

See thesaunasociety.ie

Escape Boats, Grand Canal Dock, Dublin

You’ve probably heard of Escape Rooms but have you heard of Escape Boats? If you’re a fan of the pulse-racing group activity, crank it up a notch by taking it to the open water.

Suitable for all ages, the award-winning Escape Boats have two games (SOS and Convicts) on board Zorg Ella – an ancient Dutch cargo barge in Grand Canal Dock in Dublin.

Prices start at €30 pp on weekdays.

See escapeboats.ie