Galway For Families
Galway is one of the most popular destinations for families. The family-friendly Clybaun Hotel offers the ideal base to create a memorable family holiday.
Discover the Magic of Kylemore Abbey
Set right at the base of Druchruach Mountain alongside Pollacapall Lough, Kylemore Abbey is one of Ireland's most iconic and striking estates. Originally a grand 19th-century castle built as a massive token of love, the property is now home to a community of Benedictine nuns. You can explore the beautifully restored period rooms of the Gothic Abbey, walk down to the quiet Neo-Gothic Church, and wander through the massive, 6-acre Victorian Walled Garden—a sprawling oasis of heritage flowers and glasshouses that sits in stark, beautiful contrast to the wild Connemara wilderness surrounding it.
Kylemore Abbey
Diamond Hill: Conquer the Crown Jewel of Connemara
Rise above the ordinary on Diamond Hill, Galway’s ultimate hiking adventure in Connemara National Park. This spectacular 7km looped trail guides you along scenic wooden boardwalks and stone steps straight to a thrilling 442-metre summit. Your reward? Breathtaking, panoramic views of the rugged Twelve Bens mountain range, the historic Kylemore Abbey, and the dramatic Atlantic coastline. Whether you're looking for a brisk, family-friendly stroll or a rewarding ridge climb, Diamond Hill delivers an unforgettable taste of Ireland's wild West.
Diamond Hill Information
Drive the Edge of the World on the Sky
RoadStarting right outside the vibrant town of Clifden, the Sky Road loop is a jaw-dropping 16-kilometre coastal drive that brings you face-to-face with the rawest beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way. As you ascend the Upper Road, the landscape opens up into dramatic, sweeping cliffs, patchwork green fields lined with dry stone walls, and endless ocean views stretching toward the islands of Inishturk and Turbot. Along the route, you can explore the atmospheric, ivy-draped ruins of 19th-century Clifden Castle or take a quiet detour to the white sands of Eyrephort Beach. Whether you catch it during the day or capture the magic of a golden hour sunset, it is a brief but unforgettable journey through the very essence of Connemara.
Learn more: The Sky Road
Bridgit’s Gardens
Brigit’s Gardens is a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. It is located off the main Galway – Clifden road (N59) about 20kms from Galway City.
There is a nature trail, ogham tree, children’s discovery trail, living willow play area and an ancient ring fort which all the family can enjoy. There’s also a café and lots of events and other activities on offer.
Loughwell Farm Park
One of the areas most popular attractions, The setting for Loughwell Farm Park is breathtaking with a 360 degree Connemara backdrop just 20 minutes from Galway city. Loughwell Farm Park has many friendly animals (http://www.loughwellfarmpark.ie/explore/our-pet-farm-in-galway) including pot-bellied pigs, miniature ponies, sheep, goats, chickens and many more.
The little ones can enjoy supervised feeding of the goats and cuddling the rabbits. The attraction also features a 12,000 square feet of indoor entertainment including some of the best selection of slides in Ireland!
Pure Skill
Located a couple of minutes’ drive from the hotel, Pure Skill is a 25,000 indoor activity centre with a variety of sports from around the world.
Pure Skill
National Aquarium
Galway is home to Irelands National Aquarium, which houses Ireland’s largest display of sea and fresh water life.
The star attraction within the aquarium is the 120 tonne Ocean Tank showcasing over 200 species including cod, pollack and small sharks.
Wildlands
Located just 10-15 minutes from the Clybaun Hotel Galway, at the gateway to Connemara, Wildlands is set on over 20 acres of mature woodland in Moycullen, overlooking Ballyquirke Lake. Wildlands offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities.
There is something for everyone including Zip ‘n’ Trek, Zip ‘n’ Trek Junior, Fun Walls, Archery, Bushcraft, Disc Golf, Yoga, Fairy Trails and Woodland walks. New activities launching in Summer 2021 include Mini Adventures for ages 3-6: Wild Arts & Crafts, Mini Explorers and Off Road Adventure (Mini 4x4 Driving). Think of it as a cross between crystal maze and Irish mythological heroes and legends!
Annual Galway Christmas Market
The 14th Annual Galway Christmas Market returns to Eyre Square from 14th November 2025 until 4th January 2026.
Browse over 50 exhibitors, showcasing a range of handcrafts, artisan food and the popular German Bier Keller, to name but a few.
There’s something for all the family, with The Big Wheel, Carousel, Santa’s Grotto and a wonderful festive atmosphere to experience.
Elf Town 2025
Always a highlight for families staying with us, Elf Town is a magical two hour Christmas experience for the whole family.
Elf Town is a Christmas experience set over 3 different buildings with the magical journey itself set over 4 floors, where at the end, you and your family get a private visit with Santa! For tickets and further details, click below.
