Spring is here and it is time to think about this year’s school tour. Most children love the annual school tour no matter where they go, some would be even happy to spend all day on the bus, although teachers (and long suffering bus drivers) would not agree! The best days out are fun, informative and memorable for the children and not too stressful for the teachers. Every school has its old favourites but why not try somewhere different this year? Here are some ideas to help you to choose…

Please remember to mention Primary Times to avail of any special school tour or group rates when booking or making an enquiry…


Cavan

Royal Breffni Tours

Royal Breffni Tours operate fully organised and supervised, day and overnight activity tours in Meath and Cavan. Activities include: The Cavan Crystal Maze®, a series of physical, mental and skill challenges. Teams navigate around a maze, attempting challenges to win crystals; Mountain Hiking- a carefully graded Mountain Hike to the Giants Grave at the summit of the Loughanleigh Mountain; Orienteering course in Dun-a-Ri Forest Park -teams use a map to navigate around the Park locating features, solving questions and winning crystals; Horse Riding, Water-sports, and History Tours.

Royal Breffni Tours also operates a fleet of premier coaches, guesthouse onsite, with a newly renovated hostel due for opening in Spring 2008.  Visit www.royalbreffnitours.com for details.

Cork City

Cork Adventure Day

Cork Adventure Day is a package offering fun, education and adventure in the Rebel County with bowling or Cosmo’s Funworld in Planet Entertainment, a visit to Lifetime Lab and a visit to Cork City Gaol. That’s three great activities and lunch at the Planet taken care of for €18.50 per child, plus if you book your tour to take place before 11th May, there’s an ‘Early Bird Special’ deal for only €17.50 per child. Just one phone call to 021 428 8056 books this great day out for your school or group trip and you will receive an itinerary upon receipt of the booking deposit from your group.

Planet Entertainment

Bowling at Planet Entertainment in Blackpool is where you can enjoy no complicated rules or fussy formalities. There’s a computerised bowling system that keeps the score for you and cosmic glow-in-the-dark balls, lanes and pins. Each lane is completed with bowling bumpers and light bowling balls to ensure that even the youngest children get the most enjoyment from their cosmic bowling experience.  Cosmo’s Funworld is an indoor dream for all kids. With 10,000 square feet of supervised indoor play area of slippery slides, rope bridges, pulleys, shooting cannons, mini football, basketball area, climbing wall and bouncy castles. www.planetleisure.ie

Lifetime Lab

Lifetime Lab is housed in Cork city’s old waterworks along the scenic banks of the River Lee, offers a fascinating insight into environmental issues and Cork’s industrial heritage. Whatever your age or interests, Lifetime Lab will entertain, inform and captivate you. Within the walls of its splendid Victorian architecture, you will find lovingly restored machinery from the age of steam, the interactive Visitor Centre, a Conference Theatre and Exhibition area, designated schools’ Resource Centre, a science based adventure playground and an information Centre. www.lifetimelab.ie

Cork City Gaol and Heritage Centre

Cork City Gaol and Heritage Centre is where you can take a step back in time to see what 19th/early 20th century life was like in Cork – inside and outside prison walls. Amazingly lifelike figures, furnished cells, sound effects and fascinating exhibitions. The Radio Museum Experience is situated in the unlikely setting of the former Governor’s House and deals not alone with the early days of Irish and international radio broadcasting but also with the impact of its invention on all our lives. www.corkcitygaol.com

Cork City Suburbs

Chuckies Playzone

Play is centrally important for developing healthy children. Indeed, play is vital to children's social, emotional, cognitive, physical, creative and language development. Carefully chosen play equipment enhances the play experience for children of all abilities and allows children to exercise their minds as well as their bodies.  A three tiered play structure is physically challenging with opportunities to run, slide, hide, laugh, crawl, climb and explore.  The large football/basketball area encourages children to integrate with others and giant Lego feeds creativity and imagination.  Chuckies’ latest addition - the ‘Rodeo Bull’ - is hugely popular and safely operated to match the child's ability.  It is fantastic fun but more importantly, it helps children
improve their balancing skills and posture.  For a safe, secure and stimulating environment in Wilton - think Chuckies Playzone. 
Open every day 10am - 6pm.  Call 021 4344112/4347683

Cobh Heritage Centre

History comes alive at ‘Cobh the Queenstown Story’ – another gem in the crown of Cork’s rich cultural history. Situated at Cobh Heritage Centre, it’s a dramatic exhibition of the origins, history and legacy of Cobh – a unique Irish port town. Children will be fascinated to retrace the steps of 2.5 million adults and children who emigrated via Cobh on coffin shops, early steamers and liners. Discover Cobh’s special connection with the Titanic; relive the horror of World War I and the Lusitania; and learn about Annie Moore, the first emigrant to be processed in Ellis Island in 1892. Experience the multi media exhibition, gift shop and restaurant – all with wheelchair access. Call 021 481 3591 www.cobhheritage.com

Donkey Sanctuary

When you visit The Donkey Sanctuary in Liscarroll you will meet ‘Ed’ the 12,001st donkey to come into the Sanctuary’s care.  The Donkey Sanctuary in Liscarroll has taken in over 2,400 rescued donkeys that were found abandoned and mistreated but now enjoy peace, freedom and loving care. The Information Centre is open 9.30am - 4.30pm weekdays and 10am - 5pm weekends/bank holidays where goods, videos, cards and refreshments can be bought.  There is also picnic area where you can relax and even contemplate adopting a donkey!  Free admission with ample parking available.  Advance bookings by larger parties would help the Sanctuary enormously and guided tours can be provided. 

Fota Wildlife Park

Fota Wildlife Park offers a ‘Primary Conservation Explorer Course’ designed to compliment the ‘Living Things’ module at primary level for school tour groups and is geared to junior infants to sixth class. There is a fun introduction to ecology using PowerPoint presentation in the indoor schools room, before spending time in a woodland habitat using practical sampling techniques to gain awareness of our natural environment.  Open all year round, the tours takes 2 ½ hours but groups are encouraged to stay longer to wander around the wildlife park and enjoy the animals throughout their day.  On site coffee shop offers a selection of sandwiches or fast food, or bring a packed lunch to enjoy on the outdoor picnic tables and connect directly with nature.  Plenty of playground areas to test agility and fill the day with even more fun!  Fota Wildlife Park is an accredited Discover Primary Science Centre. Bookings on 021 481 2678 ext 206  www.fotawildlife.ie

Little Rascals Funworld

Little Rascals Funworld in Mallow is a large indoor adventure play centre with a three lane slide and a large under 5’s and baby play area. The super multi level play area has spiral slides, astra slides, aerial gliders, treasure hunts, assault courses and an indoor football and basketball arena. Little Rascals can cater for up to 150 children and offers a food menu to suit all. 1 ½ hours play with special rates for pre-school, primary and youth organisation – open 7 days a week from 10am – 7pm. 
Call 022 51408 www.littlerascals.ie

Lumpyland

Lumpyland has a special ‘Two for One’ school tours offer on Mondays and Wednesdays between 10.30am – 12.30pm (large discounts apply on other days). Perfect for large groups, Lumpyland has a cannon ball zone, indoor basketball and football arena and a giant inflatable slide. There is also an extensive ball pool area, four lane astra slide, tube slides, large toddler area and deli counter. Wheelchair access and disabled facilities are on site. Call 021 483 4797 www.lumpyland.ie

Millstreet Country Park

If you are thinking of visiting the Donkey Sanctuary or Little Rascals, then you could also add Millstreet Country Park to complete your day – it is an ideal venue for group visits and offers excellent value. Call 029 70810 www.millstreetcountrypark.com

Monkey Maze™

Monkey Maze™, Europe’s largest indoor activity centre for kids, opened in December 2006 in Glanmire Village. Monkey Maze is a giant four level 500m2 adventure play area, catering for children up to 12 years old. It has a unique Mother  & Baby soft-play sensory area, special needs area, two fantastic enclosed indoor football/basketball courts suitable for 5 - 12year olds and one junior sports court suitable for two to eight year olds. With several amazing slides, play areas and Mini Monkey corner, this brand new facility is ideal for birthday parties, school tours and those days when your little monkeys deserve a treat. Drinks and snacks are available in the Monkey Munch snack bar, with newspapers, magazines and comfy modern seating. Open daily from 10-7pm, there’s fun for everyone!
Call 021 482 0674 www.monkeymaze.ie

Perks Entertainment facility

When planning a day out for your class or school, what do you look for…a safe environment that encourages interaction whilst also providing some exercise?  Somewhere fun where they can unwind away from the stresses of the classroom? Would it surprise you to know that Perks can provide all of this? Perks Entertainment facility offers a veritable feast of exciting activities designed to enhance interaction and encourage play.  You’ll be delighted to see how much steam children let off in the adventure play area, air gun arena and laser tag! Perks aim to cater for all ages so whether you are passing through after a day out or if you decide to make Youghal your location for entertainment Perks are able to cater for your needs.  Packages can be tailored to suit your school group's needs - to make a booking or to discuss a tailored package, call 024 92438 or visit www.perksfunfair.com

Prince August Tin Soldier Factory

Prince August Tin Soldier Factory is where fantasy becomes reality for young and old. One of Ireland’s best hidden secrets is right on your doorstep and a trip is both fun and educational for school and group tours (€3 per child, teachers free) – or for a fun family outing.  See the mould maker making the moulds, casting toy soldiers from that mould and watch the miniature figures painted by an expert. You might even take home your very own casting kit and start your own army! Metal casting is a fun and very unique hobby that brings out the creative streak in children and adults alike.
Painting classes are also available – advance booking is essential. Open all year round from 9am – 5pm. Free parking for cars and coaches, Prince August is signposted from the N22 half way between Cork and Killarney – six kms west of Macroom town. Pre-booking essential – call Mary on 026 40222 or email: mary@princeaugust.ie

Show Primary Times when visiting Prince August for a free lucky dip!

Trabolgan

Trabolgan offer a school tours that combine fun and education in the one location! All age groups enjoy a trip to Trabolgan because there is so much to cater for every group and itinerary. The four packages most popular for day groups are combinations of subtropical swimming pool, jungle safari, crazy golf and outdoor play/games area; quad bikes, go-karts or zip wires; abseiling, aero ball, archery or climbing; and sea kayaking on the breath taking Trabolgan coastline. Hot and cold food available at the newly refurbished Cove restaurant or enjoy a packed lunch outdoors. Call 021 466 1551   www.trabolgan.com

Dublin

The Chocolate Warehouse

The Chocolate Warehouse runs a two hour tour which includes learning all about the ingredients and a film the story of chocolate, a demonstration of the making of chocolates & Easter Eggs and then the fun hands on session which involves the children enrobing and hand piping on bars of chocolate.  The tour ends with a fun quiz and each child gets a Chocolate Warehouse certificate and all the chocolate they have made to take home! Tours April- August 10am-12pm or 2-4pm Mon-Friday (must pre-book). Mulachy Keane Industrial Estate, Greenhills rd, Walkinstown D 12. Tel: 01 450 0080. 

The GAA Museum & Croke Park Stadium Tour

Open throughout the year and suitable for all ages, a visit to The GAA Museum & Croke Park Stadium Tour is a must for any one interested in hurling and gaelic football.  The one-hour guided tour of Croke Park Stadium brings visitors to the dressing rooms, service areas, premium and corporate levels, VIP section, media centre and, of course, pitch side.  Through the use of touchscreens and audio-visual displays, the museum brings to life the players, matches, unique moments and countless memories of the past. Specially designed interactives allow visitors to test their own hurling and football skills. Museum open daily - stadium tours daily except on match days.   Access to the GAA Museum is via St. Joseph’s Avenue, just off Clonliffe Road. Other facilities include free supervised coach and car parking, a substantial gift shop and café (also available for group bookings). For information or booking, call (01) 819 2323 www.museum.gaa.ie 

ENRG

Calling All Summer Groups, Project, Clubs, School Tour Organisers,  ENRG Playcentres are now in two great locations at Rathcoole and Artane, for your groups this summer.  Both centres offer 4 levels of interactive play and 28ft climbing wall experiences.  Rathcoole boasts the unmissable Spider Zone while Artane prides itself on the Ultra Violet crazy golf extravaganza, Glo Golf.  Summer group packages are themed with key aspects of a variety of popular children’s tales and include: 2 hours of play, Fun and Food in the themed Enchanted Palace, Quiz & Colouring Competition & Souvenir. Contact: Artane 01 8470000, Rathcoole 01 4019033 www.enrg.ie

The National Aquatic Centre

The National Aquatic Centre is one of the biggest and most exciting attractions for schools, social clubs and youth clubs in Ireland. The leisure pool is set at a tropical temperature all year round and offers extreme thrills and raging water adventure for the young and old including The Master Blaster for the more adventurous and the lazy river that takes you on a journey around the leisure park with no effort at all. There is a wave pool that operates regularly through-out the day and there is also a fun pirate ship which provides adventure and mischief for the under eight age group. All sessions are fully supervised and teachers can enjoy the day without having to participate in all the activities. 10% Discount for groups of more than 20. 01 6464300 www.nac.ie

The Jeanie Johnston

The Jeanie Johnston is a stunning replica of a 19th century famine ship. It is docked on the Liffey and operates as a Sail Training vessel, a Famine History Museum and a Corporate Entertainment venue. The sailing season runs from April to October and welcomes group bookings.

The Story of the Capital

The Story of the Capital. A multi-media exhibition tracing the evolution of the city from 1170 to the present day with particular emphasis on the development of the civic government.  The story is told through the display of Civic Regalia, including the Great City Sword, the Great Mace, the Lord Mayor’s chain and city treasures, which are supported by computer interactives, archive films, models and costumes. Specially commissioned works of art depict aspects of the city’s history. Located in City Hall, one of Dublin’s finest neo-Classical buildings that dates from 1779, this exhibition brings to life the changes in the city over the centuries.

Ardgillan Castle

The name Ardgillan is derived from the Irish “Árd Choill” meaning “High Wood”. Ardgillan is a large country house  on tan  elevated coastline commanding magnificent views of the Irish Sea. After a tour of the house and the walled gardens there is an opportunity for the class to enjoy the fun filled playground. Email: Parks@fingalcoco.ie

Skerries Mills Industrial Heritage Centre

Skerries Mills Industrial Heritage Centre comprises a watermill, 5 sail windmill, 4 sail windmill and associated mill races, mill pond and wetlands. The history of the mills can be traced back to the 16th Century and a bakery was established on the site by 1840. The mills demonstrate a clean and efficient use of water and wind power and are a rare survival of 17th., 18th. and 19th. Century industrial history. Tel (01) 849 5208. Email: Skerriesmills@indigo.ie

Newbridge House

Newbridge House is a very fine example of a true Georgian mansion within Newbridge Demesne Regional Park.  It was built by Archbishop Charles Cobbe in 1736 and remained the family home of the Cobbe family until 1985 when it was acquired by the County Council. There is also a a traditional farm and childrens playground.
Email: Parks@fingalcoco.ie

Eco Adventure Days

Kippure Estate’s pioneering educational centre provides exciting opportunities for children and adults alike to explore at first-hand the world around us.  Our courses include Eco-Adventure Days for Primary Schools, Family Days, Fun & Adventure Days for all age groups, Teachers Training & In-service Days. Our 240 acres private estate is set in a spectacular location in northwest County Wicklow, near Manor Kilbride village, offering a wide choice of landscapes and wildlife.  Despite its rural setting, Kippure Estate is less than 45 minutes from Dublin city centre – close enough to give primary children a real away-from-home experience whilst at the same time not travelling too far afield.  All programmes are designed around Joseph Cornell’s Nature Awareness approach and offer children a nature awareness experience where they begin to make a personal connection to the natural world through playful investigation. The purpose built woodland Adventure Centre provides an idyllic environment for developing teamwork, communication and trust skills, all essential to the rounded development of students. All participants receive a Certificate of Achievement at the end of their visit.

Royal Breffni Tours

Royal Breffni Tours operate fully organised and supervised, day and
overnight activity tours in Meath and Cavan.  Activities include the Cavan Crystal Maze®, Mountain Hiking, Orienteering, Horse Riding, Water-sports, and History Tours.
The Cavan Crystal Maze is a series of physical, mental and skill
challenges. Teams navigate around a maze, attempting challenges to win
crystals. The Team with the most crystals wins a beautiful crystal trophy.
•    Carefully graded Mountain Hike to the Giants Grave at the summit of the
Loughanleigh Mountain.
•    Orienteering Course in Dun-a-Ri Forest Park. Teams use a map to navigate
around the Park locating features, solving questions and winning crystals.
Royal Breffni Tours also operate a fleet of premier coaches. Coaches range
from 57, 53 and 29 seater coaches.
Royal Breffni Tours currently has an 18th Century guesthouse onsite, with a newly renovated hostel due for opening in Spring 2008.

Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park

Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park near Rathangan, Co. Kildare is a great place for a day trip destination for primary & pre-schools.  New arrivals to the park are the world’s smallest horses, the Falabellas.  Coco, Libby, Peaches and Cookie will all form part of a new pet farm addition to the Park. With an energising mix of history, nature, magic and play, Lullymore is one place to put on your short list for the annual school tour for this year. There is an abundance of activities to keep the kids entertained including the guided tour, Outdoor Playground & Crazy Golf, Road Train and the Fantastic Funky Forest which will keep the youngsters busy with all kinds of fun and games indoors. The average stay in the park is 3 – 4 hrs. Lullymore is the ideal venue to make your day trip a memorable one.  To book call (045) 870238

The Clonmacnoise

The Clonmacnoise and West Offaly Railway offers a 9km rail trip through Blackwater Bog, near Shannonbridge Co.Offaly on a 3ft narrow gauge railway. While travelling on the one hour ‘Nature Train’ trip, learn about bog bodies, how peat is formed and how we use peat to make electricity. Take a Bog walk on the floating nature trail and learn about some of the plants found on the bog including the insect eating sun dew plant. Travel back 10,000 years as you climb down our Steps in Time and make a model of the bog. Max 53 passengers per train.

Irish National Stud

At The Irish National Stud, the children can have a tour of the interactive horse museum and have a look at the new-born foals out in the paddocks.  The Japanese Gardens are perfect for exploring while following ‘the path of life’, and the nature walk in St Fiachra’s Gardens is a great opportunity to see native plants and wildlife. There are also Discover Primary Science worksheets to complete about horses, birds and trees.  To book, call 045 521617.

Glenroe Farm

Glenroe Farm is a very popular destination for school tours and group outings. This year the farm has even more to offer with the opening of a new 1 km nature walk from the open farm down to the marshland adjacent to Kilcoole beach. The farm is uniquely located in an area that is rich in habitat diversity and wildlife and here you will have an opportunity to learn, explore and have fun in a different environment.
This year you can choose from two options for your school tour :-
1. Farm Tour - each group is taken on a guided farm tour and get to learn about the animals and pets on the farm. Also includes farmhouse museum and exhibits. Afterwards the group can enjoy an outdoor or indoor picnic and have fun in the playground. Total visit lasts approx. 2 hours.
2. Nature Walk - (Age 7 and upwards) The walk will take the class/group through the sensory garden, along a woodland walk and into the secret garden ending at the marshland adjacent to Kilcoole Beach. The group then return to the open farm where they can enjoy an outdoor or indoor picnic and have fun in the playground or visit the animals on the farm.
Total visit last approx. 2 to 2.5 hours.
Glenroe Farm is 15 minutes south of Bray off the M50/N11 south.

Kerry

Kennedy’s Pet Farm

After Prince August and only five miles from Killarney, consider Kennedy’s Pet Farm where pets of both the furry and feathery variety are waiting to be cuddled, fed and admired! Call 064 54054   www.killarneypetfarm.com

Killarney National Park Visitor Centre

At Killarney National Park Visitor Centre, an accredited Discover Primary Science centre, schools can spend day learning about science and nature through a variety of fun activities. Call 064 31440 http://homepage.tinet.ie/~knp/

Killarney Outlet Centre

The Killarney Outlet Centre welcomes schools tours and if teachers contact the centre in advance they are provided with discount voucher books for the shops. Get money off in O’Brien’s Irish Sandwich Bar, Bear Train Express, Blarney Woollen Mills, Nike Factory Store, the Sweet Factory, Costa Coffee, Sona Juice Bar, Book Depot and more. Take the strain out of your journey with an indoor stopover at the Centre, to recharge batteries and do a little window shopping or spend some of that well earned pocket money! Call 064 36744 www.killarneyoutletcentre.com

Aquadome Tralee

The Aquadome in Tralee is one of Ireland’s biggest indoor water parks and is brimming with exciting pools, rapids and slides. Call 066 7129150
www.discoverkerry.com/aquadome/    

Oceanworld Dingle

Oceanworld Aquarium in Dingle is where students will get a chance to hold marine life in their own hands and is another Discover Science Accredited Centre. Call Maire on 066 9152111 www.dingle-oceanworld.ie

Kildare

Ballindoolin House

Ballindoolin House cater specifically for younger age groups from playschools up to 4th class.  Activities include feeding the baby lambs, meeting Matilda the Tamworth pig and her farm friends, a one hour magic/funny man show especially for young children. Visit duration 2½ hours including time for lunch and teacher receives work sheets, garden postcards and walled garden poster to take back to school. Other facilities include coffee shop, craft shop, Victorian walled garden, woodland nature trail and afternoon Georgian House tours.  Open May - July. Tuesday - Sunday. 12-6pm. (school tours from 10am). Ballindoolin House, Carbury, Co. Kildare. Tel (046) 9731430 www.ballindoolin.com

The Irish National Stud

At The Irish National Stud, the children can have a tour of the interactive horse museum and have a look at the new-born foals out in the paddocks.  The Japanese Gardens are perfect for exploring while following ‘the path of life’, and the nature walk in St Fiachra’s Gardens is a great opportunity to see native plants and wildlife. There are also Discover Primary Science worksheets to complete about horses, birds and trees.  To book, call 045 521617.

Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park

Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park near Rathangan, Co. Kildare has become increasingly popular as a day trip destination for primary & pre-schools in this region.  New arrivals to the park are the world's smallest horses, the Falabellas.  Coco, Libby, Peaches and Cookie will all form part of a new pet farm addition to the Park. With an energising mix of history, nature, magic and play, Lullymore is one place to put on your short list for the annual school tour for this year. There is an abundance of activities to keep the kids entertained including the guided tour, Outdoor Playground & Crazy Golf, Road Train and the Fantastic Funky Forest which will keep the youngsters busy with all kinds of fun and games indoors. The average stay in the park is 3 – 4 hrs. Lullymore is the ideal venue to make your day trip a memorable one.  To book call (045) 870238

The Playbarn

 The Playbarn in Johnstown is home to RTE’s Quizone and is a huge indoor adventure playground with ball pools, 3 lane mega slide, enclosed spiral slide, football pitch, disco room, soft ball cannons etc. The playarea has been extended and improved and there is also a new Playbarn in Blessington.  The children can bring their own lunch or there are plenty of good options available. Call (045) 882670 for details and booking.

Straffan Butterfly Farm

Butterflies are fascinating and beautiful creatures and at Straffan Butterfly Farm you have an opportunity to see at close range some of the worlds most exotic creatures and observe their interesting life cycles.  Is an indoor all weather centre - a mini visit to an exotic tropical environment here in Ireland. There is a large exhibition area of butterfly collections from all over the world with a special emphasis on educational and living displays including creepy crawlies like Tarantulas, Scorpions, Stick Insects and Reptiles, all of which are safely behind glass. In the tropical butterfly house, relax among colourful blooms and exotic plants while butterflies fly and feed around you. Whatever the weather is, there's always something to see!  Facilities include plenty of parking for cars and coaches, gift shop, picnic area and toilets. Straffan, Co Kildare. Open June- August.  Groups please book in advance on (01) 6271109.  www.straffanbutterflyfarm.com

Larchill

Larchill, a fascinating heritage garden and farm with all manner of wildlife from tadpoles and pigs to llamas, is well established as a favourite location for younger school groups (pre-school to 9 years).  Fully escorted tours take the children through beautiful parkland and animals past extraordinary garden follies, lake and castle, Shell Tower, and infamous Foxes Earth. Specially tailored to each age group the tours captivate childrens' imagination with magical folklore tales for the youngest and some basic history where appropriate, while providing a perfect educational backdrop for natural history and pondlife studies, the importance of rare breeds and preservation of the environment. There is also a Junior Science Room with aquariums, chicken hatchery, micorscopes, bone and nature collection, a pets corner and a games field with a wooden adventure trail. Teachers refreshments are complimentary in the T-rooms.  Full seating for all groups.  Coach parking. Call 01 628 7354 for booking. www.larchill.ie

Tricky Tricksters

Co. Kildare based, well known children’s entertainment company, Tricky Tricksters have recently opened a brand new, state of the art soft play and entertainments centre in Toughers Business Park, Newhall, Naas.  Tricky Tricksters Magic Castle is a unique new concept combining a great play structure with classic children’s entertainments such as magic shows, facepainting and more! Meet the friendly staff & enjoy a tasty snack at “The Magic Hat” café or take a trip on the exciting bumper boat pool!  There will be lots of different school tour options for all agegroups.  For more information call David Clinton on 045 446159/086 2643012  www.trickytricksters.ie

Athy Heritage Centre-Museum

The Athy Heritage Centre-Museum has lots to offer school groups with a wide ranging collection including a comprehensive exhibition on the explorer Ernest Shackleton who was born near Athy, exhibits on the 1903 Gordon Bennett Motor Race, World War 1, The Grand Canal, Religious Diversities and the museum has audiovisuals and artefacts of Norman Settlements.  Tourist office and Gift shop also on site at Emily Square, Athy, Co Kildare
059 – 8633075 www.athyheritagecentre-museum.ie

Joeys Playcentre

Joeys Playcentre in Naas is perfect for the under 6’s with a special, padded soft play area for babies and toddlers under two and the play area for 2-6 year olds features a playframe, touch screen computer games, a reading area and activities such as: Music, Story Time, Arts & Crafts.  Teachers can relax in the café and keep an eye on everything.  To book a group visit or party call 045-856666 or check the website on www.littlejoeys.ie

Kilkenny

Nore Valley Park Activity Centre & Open Farm

There are plenty of fun activities available at Nore Valley Park Activity Centre & Open Farm including: feeding baby animals, children’s playground, straw bounce, sandpit, river walk, crazy golf, pedal go-karts, trailer rides and great 3D indoor Maze!  You can order a barbeque lunch or bring your own picnic and tea room also on site. Open Easter – end Sept, Mon – Sat  9am-6pm. Bennetsbridge, Co. Kilkenny (056) 7727229 web: http://norevalleypark.tripod.com

Louth

The Pirates Den

The Pirates Den in Dundalk is a large indoor adventure play area for children of all ages.  The big kids zone for children aged 5 and over has a three level play area, ball pools, rope bridges, swing ropes, slides, football and learning areas, Cafe and much more.  Separate toddler and baby areas also and great for birthday parties too.  Pre-booked School Tour Specials * 2Hours Play with Meal included - €10, 2Hours Play with Juice included - €6. Teachers can complimentary Tea or Coffee in the Café overlooking the playarea. Call 042 9327454 or log onto www.pirates-den.com for details.

Meath

Newgrange Farm

Newgrange Farm has long been a favourite for school tours in Meath. Plenty of activities available including: 1hour guided Farmyard Tour where the children can see and interact with the animals; Tractor Trailer Ride- Guided tour around farm via Boyne, national monuments, crops, livestocks, etc. Ride takes approx. 20 mins.; Nature Walk by the Boyne River.  You can combine the fun farm visit with an educational tour of Brú na Boinne Visitor Centre & Newgrange National Monument. Tour takes approx. 2 hours (1 hour for Newgrange only). To book call Newgrange Farm -Tel: 041 982 4119 Newgrange, Slane, Co. Meath www.newgrangefarm.com

Royal Breffni Tours

Royal Breffni Tours operate fully organised and supervised, day and overnight activity tours in Meath and Cavan. Activities include: The Cavan Crystal Maze®, a series of physical, mental and skill challenges. Teams navigate around a maze, attempting challenges to win crystals; Mountain Hiking- a carefully graded Mountain Hike to the Giants Grave at the summit of the Loughanleigh Mountain; Orienteering course in Dun-a-Ri Forest Park -teams use a map to navigate around the Park locating features, solving questions and winning crystals; Horse Riding, Water-sports, and History Tours.

Royal Breffni Tours also operates a fleet of premier coaches, guesthouse onsite, with a newly renovated hostel due for opening in Spring 2008.  Visit www.royalbreffnitours.com for details.

Offaly

Clonmacnoise and West Offaly Railway

The Clonmacnoise and West Offaly Railway offers a 9km rail trip through Blackwater Bog, near Shannonbridge Co.Offaly on a 3ft narrow gauge railway. While travelling on the one hour ‘Nature Train’ trip, learn about bog bodies, how peat is formed and how we use peat to make electricity. Take a Bog walk on the floating nature trail and learn about some of the plants found on the bog including the insect eating sun dew plant.  Travel back 10,000 years as you climb down our Steps in Time and make a model of the bog.  Max 53 passengers per train. (090) 96 74450

Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre

For a tour with a difference at Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre, dress up in 19th Century costumes and relive the life of the Merchants of Tullamore! Watch as the live bee colony works at making honey. Through the interactive displays and videos you can experience the historic tales of Tullamore and surroundings. Specialized talks and other fun activities such as facing painting can be arranged on request. Facilities include: Gift Shop, Children’s Fun Trail, Coffee Shop, Audiovisual. Call 057 9325015  www.tullamore-dew.org
 
If your tour is heading to Offaly, you could combine an educational trip to Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre or Clonmacnoise Railway with a fun time at Tullamore Adventure Centre, the leading entertainment centre in the Midlands and home of Jumpin’ Jack’s Fun Factory and Cosmic Bowl. Jumpin’ Jack’s soft play indoor adventure centre is on three levels with all the usual fun equipment. Alongside Jumpin’ Jack’s is Cosmic Bowl which consists of 10 lanes of Ten Pin Bowling. Scoring is fully computerised and bumpers are available for the younger patrons. Cosmic Café has a special menu for School Tours. www.jumpinjacks.ie  0506-22453/60973

Tipperary

Camp Rockwell

Camp Rockwell is undoubtedly the longest running multi-activity camp in Ireland.  Founded by the Holy Ghost Fathers in 1970, it has operated continuously every July since, and has been visited by literally thousands of students, both Irish and overseas.

Children are care of by an experienced, friendly and gentle staff, who are carefully selected and most are practising or trainee teachers.  All students take part in supervised activity programmes, as well as weekly excursions and activity evenings including discos. Children enjoy themselves in a residential secondary school surrounded by top class facilities (a 24 acre lake for canoeing, boating and pedal boats; and indoor heated swimming pool; two gyms; a nine-hole golf course, acres of playing pitches etc.) and find the experience educational, enjoyable and an excellent opportunity to meet and communicate with new people. Call 062-61444 www.rockwell-college.ie

Parsons Green Park & Pet Farm

Parsons Green Park & Pet Farm is set in the beautiful valley between the Knockmealdown and the Galtee mountains, within walking distance of lush pine forests teeming with wildlife. Boat rides are a just one of the many activities for children, where they can spot wild brown trout, ducks, geese, water hens and occasionally swans. Supervised pony and pony and trap rides are available with ponies and horses of all sizes and colourings - even Shetland ponies.

Animals on the Pet Farm are well fed and looked after with a lot of thought given to their habitat and conditions – visitors may help at feeding times also.

In the grounds of Parson’s Green, you will discover an ancient sweathouse, perfectly preserved and there are items of historical interest on display throughout. In addition to the usual swings and slides, there is also a cable swing, sandpit and playhouse for younger ones. Indoor function rooms are available for picnic lunches or there is a hot lunch menu available on site.  Parsons Green can arrange a guided tour of all facilities and the Pet Farm with expert and detailed talks on their wide variety of animals.
Call 052 65290 www.clogheen.com

South Tipperary County Museum

South Tipperary County Museum in Clonmel aims to collect, record, preserve and display the history of South Tipperary. The museum has a permanent gallery that traces the history and heritage of the region, with guided tours and questionnaires by request. A lively outreach programme accompanies each exhibition as well as workshops on traditional feasts and calendar customs e.g. Easter - Egg Blowing, Christmas - Card and Decoration Making, Halloween - Masks and Broom/Besom making, Mothers day, Valentines day, Seachtain na Gaeilge, St Bridgid’s Day Crosses etc. Workshops for schools can be arranged and exhibitions for 2007 include A Century of News Photography, The Davin Boat, Traditional Furniture, 100 Years of South Tipperary GAA, Earthen Banks and Broken Walls (Archaeological Monuments) Call 052 34550 www.southtippcoco.ie

Waterford

Christ Church Cathedral, Waterford

Christ Church Cathedral, Waterford is arguably the finest 18th Century ecclesiastical building in Ireland.  It was designed and built in 1773 by Waterford’s own John Roberts, who also designed the city’s Roman Catholic Cathedral. It was the marriage location of Strongbow and Aoife in 1170 which changed the course of Irish history; is home to the famous Rice Memorial cadaver tomb and also houses the tomb of The Unknown Knight.  The Cathedral is a beautiful neo-classical style Georgian building with a wonderful stucco plasterwork ceiling and is home to some very impressive tombs and memorial plaques.  The magnificent Elliot-Jones Organ, which was recently restored and rebuilt, is said to be a very significant instrument nationally and internationally.  A regular programme of concerts and recitals is held throughout the year.  Various educational workshops are also held throughout the year. Guided tours 11.30am and 3.30pm, other times by request. Open Monday to Friday 10am – 6pm April – November.  Call Susan on 051 858958  www.christchurchwaterford.com

Copper Coast Mini Farm

Farm visits are so much fun, being outside, seeing the animals and finding out about what they eat, how they live, and the funny things they do.  There are always lots of different things to see on the farm and these things change depending on the time of year for your visit.  Copper Coast Mini Farm, only five minutes from Tramore, offer guided tours for only €4.50 per child with plenty of room to play indoors and out. Sandpits, tractors, diggers and space hoppers are in abundance and children love meeting Sika deer, miniature ponies and donkeys, piglets, ducklings, goats, calves, chipmunks, lambs, emus, rabbits – and our favourite, Lenny the llama! Vintage farm memorabilia is also on site and safe, enclosed large green spaces to run about in. Teachers can enjoy free tea and coffee in the clean and cosy surroundings of the Copper Kettle café. Call Valerie on 051 396870 or email: coppercoastminifarm@eircom.net

Leisure Zone Family Recreation Centre

Leisure Zone Family Recreation Centre is the complete indoor playground in the South East.  You can choose your package to suit your group, with 10 pin bowling that has computerised scoring, special balls and bumper rails for kids and special needs players.  Glide your way through the Winter Garden with skating on the all year indoor rink, with a special kids section that’s suitable for beginners. There’s also American Pool and now also available is Kidzone – the multi level soft play area with slides, mazes, tunnels and more. If all that action gives your group an appetite, you can check out the delicious menu at Jake’s Diner for tasty gourmet burgers, triple-decker sandwiches, milkshakes and a take away menu for your convenience.
Call 051 872466 www.leisurezone.ie

Lismore Heritage Centre

The Lismore School Tour Experience is offering schools an opportunity to enter into a draw for a free school tour worth €650.00 (or €13 per child - maximum 50 children). All teachers have to do is ring Lismore Heritage Centre and enquire about ‘The Lismore School Tour Package’.  Lismore is a very popular destination with school groups and over 3,000 children from all over Munster and South Leinster visited in 2006. The centre is an accredited Discover Primary Science Centre and offers a special programme to schools for the Forfas programme (also available to non-participating schools). The Lismore School Tour package includes: Towers Woodland Trail; audio visual story of Lismore and Town Tour of Lismore Cathedral; new historic exhibitions focusing on Monastic Ireland, Norman Ireland and the evolution of towns under landlordism; puppet making; historical science room with animated film on the life & works of Robert Boyle and viewing experiments at first hand. Worksheets are supplied. Call Alice on 058 54975  www.discoverlismore.com

Oceanic Manoeuvres Surf School & Marine Educational Facility

Oceanic Manoeuvres Surf School & Marine Educational Facility offer full day and half day programme options – all fully supervised with all equipment provided.
Choose from action packed activities such as surfing & body boarding, beach safety, rock pool ecology & exploration, kiting & wind experience and environmental beach discovery. Let children explore the Atlantic aquarium in the outdoors – and combine with a more sporting activity, or not – whatever suits the group. Please note: teachers do not have to get wet in the making of this school tour! Groups have use of the outdoor seated decked area and indoor common room with coffee facilities for teachers. Oceanic Manoeuvres, based in Tramore, specialises in fun and educational school tours for 2nd to 6th class. All Surf School programmes are based on safety and personal attention to detail and designed to cater for all group sizes, varying ages and tour itineraries. Call Linda on 051 390944 www.oceanicmanoeuvres.com

Play Loft at Clonea Strand Hotel

The Play Loft at Clonea Strand Hotel & Leisure Centre has a choice of 10 pin bowling and an exciting children’s indoor soft play facility. Kids will love the spinners, aerial runway, zigzag climb, closed and open spiral slide, bish bash, giant balls, dangling snakes, log ramps, spider’s web, V rope bridge, roller squeeze and blackboards. Hot and cold food available in the Little Lofter’s Café.  With a beautiful clean stretch of beach on the doorstep and swimming pool next door, Clonea can meet all your needs for school and group tours all year round. Call 058 45555 www.playloft.net

Run Amuck Children’s Indoor Play and Party Centre

Let the kids run wild at Run Amuck Children’s Indoor Play and Party Centre, Tramore. The Indoor centre features something for all ages with a three level main play frame for five - 12 year olds; toddler area for three to five year olds and a special baby area. With a Football Zone, three lane Astra Slide, Tunnel Slide, Bumper Boats*, Air Guns, Ball Pits and Ball Juggler, the only problem for your kids will be what to choose first! Package A consists of two hours play and food for €9 per child and Package B is two hours play only for €6 per child. * Food consists of a drink, sandwich, cheese string or frube and a piece of fruit. Bumper Boats are an extra cost of €2 per ride. Call 051 390551 www.runamuck.ie

Splashworld

Enjoy warm balmy temperatures all year round at the indoor aqua adventure playground of Splashworld in Tramore.  Fun for the young and the young at heart – and great entertainment for all the family at the South East’s biggest, brightest and best indoor Water Park! Hours of fun in a safe environment with something to offer all age groups, including: wild and wonderful wave machine, indoor/outdoor helter skelter water slide ride, bubble pool, babies paddle pool, water cannon, roaring rapids, splash slides, pirate ships, whirlpools and geysers. Splashworld is open all year round with reduced rates for group and families and has won the White Flag Award from 2001 – 2006. Call 051 390176 www.splashworld.ie

Tramore & Waterford School & Group Tours

Tramore & Waterford School & Group Tours have a superb selection of full and half day itineraries for all ages - from pre-school to Leaving Cert. There’s water and land based fun for everyone...ride the waves with a Surf School, have fun in an indoor swimming pool and enjoy outdoor amusements in a leisure park.  Why not become a Beach Detective© and explore Tramore’s unique nature reserve and rock pools? Meet animals on a mini farm, climb and slide in an indoor play area, or discover some bones in an old Cathedral!  Tours can also visit ‘Surferz Surf Shop’ for shopping. Food can be arranged from take aways or to sit and eat in a restaurant; alternatively there are also facilities at Run Amuck or Copper Coast Mini Farm. Call Tramore & Waterford School & Group Tours on 051 390944 @ Oceanic Manoeuvres Surf School & Marine Educational Facility, The Red Cottage, Tramore, Co. Waterford. www.oceanicmanoeuvres.com

Tramore Amusement & Leisure Park

Enjoy all the fun of the fair at Tramore Amusement & Leisure Park with Roller Coaster, Drop Zone, Mouse, Dodgems, Waltzer and lots more exciting rides. The 20 hectare amusement & leisure park, opposite the promenade, includes a miniature train ride, boating lake, with pedals and rowing boats for hire, as well as the usual and unusual range of stomach churning rides.  Call 051 386001

Waterford & Suir Valley Railway

Waterford & Suir Valley Railway leaves at Kilmeadan Station and journeys through the country side along the River Suir.  The trip is both fun and educational, passing sights such as the ruins of Kilmeadan Manor, well preserved lime kilns, Woodstown Viking settlement and glimpse the magnificent Mount Congreve Gardens.  The 12km round trip takes 40 minutes as the train travels at 16km per hour.  Trains leave on the house between 10am and 4pm. Child group rate €3.30 with one teacher/adult free travelling with every 10 children.  Call Maria on 051 384058 www.wsvrailway.ie

Waterford Treasures

Visit Waterford Treasures for rare and beautiful artefacts, brought to life with new technology…call 051 304500 www.waterfordtreasures.com  

Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre

Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre’s factory tour and audio visual experience is
Call 051 332500 www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com


Westmeath

Belvedere House Gardens and Park

Belvedere House Gardens and Park is a magnificent parkland estate on the shores of Lough Ennel near Mullingar.  Attractions include the Georgian Villa, 160 acres of Parkland, Gardens, Café, Shop, Audio-Visuals and Playgrounds.  New this year are: The Belvedere Trail Pack, which consists of a series of questions relating to different locations within Belvedere estate, New Tree Information Packs and a Belvedere Tree Trail pack. These packs are designed to create interest and help develop team skills/work, map reading skills, and observation.  These can be used in a competitive or non-competitive way and should be lots of fun. Visit the competition page for a chance to win a free trip for your class to Belvedere! Tel: 044-9349060 Web:www.belvedere-house.ie
 

Wicklow

Kippure Estate’s

Kippure Estate’s environmental, outdoor education and eco-adventure days for Primary School and Youth Groups are designed around Joseph Cornell’s Nature Awareness approach and have been developed to meet school and curriculum objectives. These summer day courses bring nature to life and the children learn through adventure. The purpose built woodland Adventure Centre provides an idyllic environment for developing teamwork, communication and trust skills while having fun! This pioneering educational centre is set in 240 acres of spectacular landscape near Manor Kilbride, Co Wicklow. www.adventurewicklow.com

ClaraLara

ClaraLara is an outstanding outdoor adventure parksituated in 30 acres of beautiful countryside midway between Laragh and Rathdrum, Co Wicklow with tree houses, tarzan swings, rope bridges, rowing boats, water slides, rafts, canoes, junior go-carts, B.B.Q.s, mini golf, picnic areas, a restaurant and lots more. See our map. The lakes are all man made with a flat gravel bottom and approximately 2 feet deep. It is ideal and a great day out for groups of children up to the age of 12 years. are extensive picnic areas and you are welcome to bring your own picnics. It is an outdoor park and has little cover:  Bring suitable clothing and you can still have lots of fun. Special group rates available call 0404 46161 or e-mail dayout@claralara.com