Take the plunge this summer and embrace Northern Ireland’s giant spirit of adventure with an active holiday which brings families together for adrenaline-fuelled fun.
Whether it’s feeling the wind in your hair as you freewheel down the Mournes on a mountain bike, or the spray from the Atlantic Ocean on your face as you ride the waves on a surfboard along the Causeway Coast, there are so many exciting experiences suitable for the whole family to enjoy.
With a number of activities located just two hours from Dublin, couples with young families won’t have to put up with cries of, ‘are we there yet?’ before the adventure can begin.
A good base in Northern Ireland provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a range of coastal activities as well as immersing yourself in the beauty of the stunning countryside, rugged mountains and inland lakes.
To help maximise your active holiday in Northern Ireland, Discover Northern Ireland has put together some suggestions of experiences and places to enjoy.
Long Line Surf School, Derry
- Long Line Surf School, which was established in 2012, is situated on stunning Benone Beach and Portstewart Strand and offers fantastic packages suitable for little surf dudes riding their first wave, to advanced surfers on the look-out for the perfect set. Long Line Surf Cabin can be found on the boardwalk adjacent to the Benone Tourist Complex and at the entrance to Portstewart Strand. Instructors at Long Line Surf School are all fully trained surf coaches with WSA (Water Skills Academy) and hold Beach Lifeguard qualifications. Long Line Surf School is also a Disability Surf Lesson provider and with fun Kids Surfing Lessons available, this is the ultimate action-packed experience for budding water enthusiasts.
Causeway Coast Kayaking, County Antrim
- With Causeway Coast Kayaking Tours, you have the chance to experience the beauty of Northern Ireland like never before. The tours on offer are suitable for all ages, meaning the little ones will enjoy it just as much as the parents. These tours will immerse you in the heritage and history of Northern Ireland from a totally unique perspective. All tours and experiences are fully guided, with highly qualified and experienced local guides who are passionate about making every tour as memorable as possible. There are one hour family packages available, and you can choose from various locations including Ballintoy, Ballycastle, Cushendun, Dunseverick and Whitehead.
Todds Leap Activity Centre, County Tyrone
- If you’re going to Todds Leap, make sure to wear your old clothes and be ready for some epic fun! This is the perfect destination for children who love to get outdoorsy and for parents who aren’t afraid of a little dirt. There are over 20 action-packed activities available with most of them suitable for children including off road driving, a 500m zipLine, a giant swing, a free fall drop zone, paintballing, splat master, woodland trails and more. Additionally, the Granda Bens Ethical Zoo Trail is ideal for little ones who enjoy the wild.
Bike Mourne, County Down
- Northern Ireland’s majestic mountains, dramatic coasts, stunning landscapes and enchanting forests shouldn’t just be viewed from inside a car! Take in the sounds, sights and smells as you whizz along award-winning mountain bike trails with your tiny adventurers leading the way. You can choose your Bike Mourne adventure to make it unique to you and the family. For instance, you might decide a guided tour is the right choice for you or and adrenaline-filled self-guided explorations might be more up your street. This is the perfect experience for teenagers who have lots of energy to burn, so what are you waiting for? Take the entire family along, including the little ones, and experience an adventure like no other.
- Lime Park Equestrian, County Armagh
- Saddle up and enjoy all the pleasures of horse riding at Lime Park Equestrian Centre. From classes for beginners and leisure riders through to those who have their own horse, Lime Park is a wonderful place to make special family memories and is ideal for children who adore spending time with animals. A family business in every sense, you will be looked after by husband and wife, David and Margaret McMillan along with son, Paul and daughter, Jennifer.
Castle Archdale Boat Hire & Water Sports, County Fermanagh
- Castle Archdale Boat Hire & Water Sports is located within the grounds of the popular Castle Archdale Country Park. The centre offers a wide range of activities to suit all the family including boat hire, paddle board hire, kayak hire, cycle hire and many other activities. Take cycling off road and onto the water with Northern Ireland’s first hydrobike experience which is suited to all ages. And for the kids who don’t want to get wet, they can enjoy the gentle pace of the four-seater peddle buggies. This is the ultimate activity for large families and for children who like a challenge
