Getting out and about with the kids doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg - and we are going to prove that. Today, we're sharing 8 budget-friendly days out in Dublin for the whole family to enjoy.
We love nothing more than spending a day out exploring Dublin and what it has to offer while sticking to a strict budget with five little ones.
So if you're looking for some budget-friendly days out in Dublin with the family, here are some of our favourite places to visit.
OPW Heritage Sites
Now that the Office of Public Works has banished entrance fee for children under the age of twelve on most heritage sites, it opens the doors for many to get active outdoors and enjoy time as a family.
Cultural sites such as Kilmainham Gaol, Farmleigh and Rathfarnham Castle are now pocket-friendly educational days and well worth a visit whatever the weather.
Round Tower, Clondalkin
Spend a day out travelling back in time - meet lots of exciting characters, build your own round tower or dress up in costume and imagine what Ireland was like in days gone by.
The interactive exhibition at the Round Tower in Clondalkin is suitable for all ages and explores the dramatic and colourful history of Clondalkin's medieval origins. It's completely free and if you arrive before midday, pop by The Happy Pear for a warm bowl of porridge which is also free.
The Dead Zoo
Located in Dublin City, the National Museum of Ireland - Natural History is a cabinet-style museum, laid out over various. The exhibits showcase a comprehensive zoological collection, however, it is not entirely buggy or wheelchair friendly.
The ground floor - known as the Irish Room - is dedicated to animals native to Ireland while the first floor houses more exotic specimens where you can discover skeletons and stuffed animals like elephants and whales.
Spend a day at your local library
Unbeknownst to many, not only are libraries a great way to introduce your child to a world of books, they host regular family events completely free of charge.
A majority of these workshops and family outings do need to be booked in advance so check your local libraries events guide regularly to see what's happening in your area.
Castle Adventures
With options like Ardgillan Castle, Malahide Castle and even Drimnagh Castle there's something for everyone to explore and discover. Most, if not all offer house tours, playgrounds, woodland walks or unforgettable educational experiences of the times gone by that is bound to break up an afternoon or two.
National Botanic Gardens
An oasis of serenity, the botanical gardens house a fine collection of plant species and cultivars. Unlock your senses as you stroll through the exquisitely restored historic glasshouse and gaze over the 17,000 plants from around the world - it's a wonderful day out for all that is both buggy and wheelchair friendly too.
Catch a free movie
Every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday the Irish Film Institute play free movies from their IFI Irish Film Archive, you simply book tickets online in advance. If that doesn't tickle your fancy why not head along to your local cinema's special weekend screening for kids and parents - tickets cost as little as €2 in some cases.
Hike to the Hell Fire Club
To many, the Hell Fire Club is known as a haunted house in the hills of the Dublin Mountains but, in fact, it is a great family-friendly day out with a looped trail suitable for all. The walk takes approximately one hour to the top or you could climb the hills (which is not buggy friendly) for about twenty minutes or so.
Whatever route you choose to you will be welcomed to breathtaking views of Dublin and it's a perfect spot for a picnic, weather permitting.
