Looking for family-friendly things to do in Limerick? Want to get the kids off screens and out into nature — without stress? This Limerick Greenway getaway is packed with gentle adventure, fresh air, and memory-making moments, perfect for families with younger kids.
Over two days, you’ll enjoy smooth, safe cycling trails, quality time outdoors, and relaxed hospitality — all while exploring the lush countryside of West Limerick.
Day 1 – Friday: Settle In & Switch Off
Check-in: Longcourt House Hotel, Newcastle West
Your family base for the night is this modern, family-run hotel in the heart of Limerick’s largest town.
- Breakfast included
- Dinner at Chaser Bar & Bistro included — available Friday evening or Saturday after your cycle. Just ring ahead to let them know what suits best.
After check-in, you can relax at the hotel, go for a stroll in the nearby Castle Demesne Park, or grab an early night before your Greenway day begins.
Day 2 – Saturday: Greenway Family Cycle from Ardagh to Rathkeale
9:00 – 10:30am – Leisurely Hotel Breakfast
Fuel up for a fun, family adventure on the trail.
11am – Head to Ardagh Greenway Entry Point
At the hub, you’ll collect your bikes from Like Bikes:
- 2 adult bikes + 1 child tag-along
- Helmets & a safety demo included
- Easy, beginner-friendly cycling
11:30am – Let’s Ride: Ardagh ➡ Rathkeale (10km one way)
This easy-going trail rolls through gorgeous countryside — and it’s all off-road and kid-safe. Along the way:
- Spot a wooden replica of the Ardagh Chalice near Ardagh Hub
- Ride past five beautiful stone bridges from the old railway
- Take plenty of breaks for snacks, photos, or little leg stretches
Midway Break: Rathkeale Greenway Hub
Arrive at Rathkeale Hub, where you’ll find:
- A café with coffee and kid-friendly snacks
- An exciting playground for younger adventurers
- Picnic areas and seating for a little family rest stop
Enjoy your break, soak in the views, and let the kids burn off some energy.
Cycle Back to Ardagh (~10km)
After your rest and refuel, hop back on the trail and return the way you came — or take it slower and explore a bit more on the way back. Total distance is 20km, but you can set the pace. Limerick Greenway is fully paved and family-friendly, so it’s great for beginners and little legs.
Once back at Ardagh, you’ll return your bikes and can head back to the hotel for a meal, or onwards to your next adventure.
Why Families Love the Limerick Greenway
- Safe, traffic-free cycling perfect for kids
- Playgrounds and picnic stops along the route
- Family-friendly hotels and easy logistics
- Nature, history, and fresh air all in one place
- Just over an hour from Limerick City — ideal for day trips or short breaks
- Low-pressure travel — no rigid schedules, just relaxed exploring
Plan Your Family Greenway Adventure
- LimerickGreenway.ie
- Download the Route Map (PDF)
- Like Bikes – Family Bike Hire
- ️Longcourt House Hotel
- Visit Ardagh & Rathkeale
Search-Friendly Summary for Families
Looking for kid-friendly cycling routes in Ireland? Limerick Greenway is perfect for families with small children. Enjoy a 20km round-trip cycle from Ardagh to Rathkeale with safe bike paths, playgrounds, cafés and scenic countryside. Ideal for a family day out or a weekend getaway with kids in Limerick.
