View MapView Map
HomeDestinationsCavanCavan family break: fun a ...
A short Cavan family break: fun activities for everyone
Explore the unique landscape of Cavan with the whole family.
If you haven’t got Cavan on your list for a short family break, you will after this. Get the kids out in the fresh air of gorgeous forests, follow fairy trails, try hover crafting and explore ancient history from a kayak on the water, all in a short break to the aptly named Lake County.

Here are some of the best family activities in Cavan.

Great things to do with kids in Cavan

Deerpark Forest Park 

Fill your lungs with fresh country air at Deerpark Forest Park just outside Virginia. Choose any of the three looped walking trails, as they’re all suitable for all walking levels and the shortest is buggy-friendly if you’re bringing a baby along. No matter which path you take, you'll find beautiful tree-lined paths skirting the banks of Lough Ramor. Stroll over stone bridges, past historic sites and let the kids run free as you take in the views.

Cavan County Museum 

Step back in time at Cavan County Museum to life in the World War I trenches at the largest outdoor replica trench in Ireland and the UK. Built to official specifications, the 350m long trench includes frontline, communication and support trenches, using over 6,000 sandbags in its construction. School the kids on the history of the war at the exhibitions before getting down in the trenches to see what life was like. Head for the playground and tea rooms to refresh before you leave. 

People in the replica trench in Cavan County Museum in County Cavan
Delve into the replica trenches at Cavan County Museum.

Erica’s Fairy Forest 

If you’ve got little ones with big imaginations, stop by Erica’s Fairy Forest near Cootehill, a boundless space where you can follow their small feet from fairy door to fairy castle and wishing chair to hobbit house. Watch their wide-eyed wonder as they explore all the hidden crevices of the forest before settling down for a picnic in the park.

Walk into a fairytale at Erica's Fairy Forest.
Walk into a fairytale at Erica's Fairy Forest.

Killykeen Forest Park

If you fancy a gentle amble through Cavan's scenic lakelands, the 3km nature trail through Killykeen Forest Park is a cinch. The family-friendly route, between Killeshandra and Cavan town, takes in lush forest paths as it meanders around one side of Lough Oughter. There's swimming spots and cycle paths too, and as all this exercise is hungry work, there's plenty of picnic areas to refuel at. 

A family in Killykeen Forest Park in County Cavan
Follow the forest paths in Killykeen Forest Park.

Cavan Adventure Centre

Paddle your way around the inland island of Inishmore on a Cavan Adventure Centre tour and appreciate Cavan’s lakelands from the water. Whether a kayak or canoe is your transport of choice, guided tours explore the local geology, architecture, wildlife and history that lies in the UNESCO World Heritage Marble Arch Caves Geopark area. Don’t worry if your family are beginners – the instructors will have you at one with an oar in no time. 

Three people kayaking in Cavan with Cavan Adventure Centre
Take to the water with Cavan Adventure Centre.

Bear Essentials 

If you go down to the woods near Bawnboy today, Bear Essentials will surely be a big surprise. Kids love this designer teddy bear craft experience where all the bears are designed and handmade on-site. The gift shop stocks famous brands like Steiff, Charlie Bears and the owner Anke’s own one-off mohair teddy bear collection. Your little ones won’t be able to resist the collection of old teddies, including patients admitted to Teddy Bear Hospital. The surrounding tranquil gardens and the playground in the woods are also worth a visit.

Cavan Burren Park 

If you’ve been saving your picnic for a special spot, Cavan Burren Park is the place to gather the family for a feast. One of Ireland's prehistoric landscapes, discover megalithic tombs and stone walls, while the kids try to decipher the ancient rock art. With imaginative displays to explore in the Visitor Centre and five walking trails to choose from, you’ll leave feeling uplifted, alive and a real part of the Earth’s story after uncovering the many layers of archaeology dotted along the trails. 

People on a walking tour in Cavan Burren Park in County Cavan
Wander through the magical Cavan Burren Park on your family holiday.

If you have more time in Cavan…

Dún na Rí Forest Park 

Legend has it that Cú Chulainn camped in Dún na Rí Forest Park while fighting the armies of Queen Maeve of Connaught, and that’s just the start of this park’s history. Explore the 565-acre forest – that’s the size of 425 football pitches – to discover the Ice House, Toba na Splinne Holy Well and Cromwell’s Bridge along the walking trails. Make sure the kids are on the lookout for the varied wildlife who call the park home – squirrels and hares are common visitors, but only a lucky few will see otters along the river.

A person on Rabbit Bridge in Dún na Rí Forest Park in County Cavan
Uncover the weaving walking trails in Dún na Rí Forest Park.
Discover more in Cavan

From adrenaline-raising activities to family fun in scenic spots, discover all that Cavan has to offer. 

More to discover
Mail Icon SVG

Subscribe now to receive destination inspiration, travel tips, upcoming events and all the best things to do around Ireland.