This year I think it's safe to say that most of us will be swapping out sunny holidays in favour of staycations and days out, so we thought that we would start a series featuring places in Ireland that are perfect for a family day out! The first place that we are going to feature is Slieve Gullion Forest Park located in Newry. It is an absolutely fabulous day out for the whole family and there is so much to do and see!
When we visited we took a picnic with us and it was definitely the right decision, picnic tables were in hot demand and we were lucky enough to grab one. Even if we had been unable to get a picnic table that would not have dampened our spirits as there was plenty of space around to lay out a blanket and have our picnic! It seems that many people visiting the park had the same idea about having a picnic and it was so handy that the area that the picnic benches were located in was just a stones throw away from the carpark which meant you didn't have to lug all of the picnic things around with you when you were finished! There was a coffee van and café (and I think a tuck shop although we didn't happen upon it while we were there) if you needed a mineral or chocolate bar to refuel.
There is a huge playground with lots of different activities for the kiddos to play on and it accommodates all ages. From the tallest slide to the more moderately sized slide, nest swings, log walking, a zipline, rock climbing wall and tree climbing set and so much more, there is definitely no chance of any little ones getting bored!
There is an absolutely gorgeous story trail called 'The Giant's Lair' for the children and adults alike to enjoy. I won't spoil the trail walk but it is full of exciting things for everyone to look at and enjoy, there were children of all ages drinking in the different sights and having a great time with their family.
Additionally the park has a sensory trail which is housed in a quieter stretch of the forest. The website states that this trail is "designed for children and adults with additional sensory needs, however it can be used by anyone looking to have a slow adventure through the forest, exploring it with all the senses". The website also provides a list of items to bring with you on the sensory trail if you want to immerse yourself fully in the experience.
The views are just breath taking and you can easily spend the entire day wandering the trail, having a picnic and playing in the playground. Slieve Gullion Forest Park is free to enter and is open seven days a week, it is definitely worth the trip and is a great day out to be had by all!
This is the link to the website about the park if you are looking for any more information - Slieve Gullion Forest Park
