Family-friendly animal experiences in Ireland this spring
Spring is a time of rebirth and a wonderful season to visit the island of Ireland and enjoy exhilarating animal experiences.
Newborn Lamb
The island of Ireland offers lots of animal experiences for visitors of all ages to enjoy this season. Newborn lambs frolicking in the fields is a sure sign that springtime has arrived in Ireland, and at Aedán’s farm, located on stunning Slea Head in County Kerry, there is a chance to go beyond just watching. The farm on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way offers a Hold a Baby Lamb experience giving visitors the chance to cuddle, feed and spend time with the farm’s newest arrivals. More animal magic can be enjoyed at the farm’s sheepdog trials which showcase the skill of the handlers and dogs as they demonstrate centuries-old farming traditions. While at the farm, you can also visit the 1400-year-old beehive huts scattered on the hillside. These drystone structures were built by monks and are similar to the famous ones on Skellig Island.
Streamvale Open Farm, Co. Down
In County Down, Streamvale Open Farm offers a fantastic, family-friendly day out with the chance to get up close to all kinds of animals from bunnies and chicks to horses, sheep, goats and other farm residents. Visitors can feed the animals as well as cuddle them – a fun and therapeutic experience for children and adults alike. Children can get a taste of farming life with rides on tractors as well as enjoying a funfair experience on exciting barrel rides. Live shows include dog agility demonstrations and hilarious sheep racing. Easter is a special time at the farm with so many newborns, and special events run 12–25 April.
Galway Atlantaquaria, Salthill, Co Galway
Those who enjoy exploring the world beneath the waves should head to Galway where Ireland's largest native species aquarium puts on quite a show. Spread across two floors, Galway Atlantaquaria features Ireland’s native species such as small sharks, rays, jellyfish, and crustaceans as well as some tropical guests. Highlights include an 18m-long fin whale skeleton and a large ocean tank. The exhibitions are divided into biozones, including waterfalls, rivers and oceans, and visitors will find a self-guided tour of the aquarium both enjoyable and educational. There are also daily feeding experiences, plus self-guided family-friendly activities including scavengers hunts and a fun quiz.