15 Under 15: Explore Clare From The Rine
15 Under 15: Explore Clare From The Rine
15 Family Attractions in County Clare Within 15 Minutes of The Rine
Some of the best family-friendly things to do in County Clare aren't always the ones found on a map. From hidden woodland trails and historic castles to outdoor adventures, mini golf, horse riding, and family attractions, there are countless ways to explore this beautiful part of Ireland. Located beside Dromoland Castle and just minutes from Shannon Airport, The Rine is the perfect base for discovering some of the best family activities in Clare.
Inspired by the spirit of adventure that flows along the Rine River, we've created our 15 Under 15 guide featuring the top family attractions, outdoor activities, and things to do near The Rine, all within a 15-minute drive.
1.) Explore the Estate Activities at Dromoland Castle
Approx. 4-minute drive or 20-minute walk through the grounds from the Rine
Situated on the same grounds as Dromoland Castle Estate, The Rine offers families endless opportunities for adventure and discovery in the heart of County Clare. Spend the afternoon wandering woodland walking trails, spotting ancient fairy forts and local wildlife, exploring the historic Temple of Mercury, or setting out across the lake by boat. For families looking to try something new together, activities such as falconry, archery, and golf offer unforgettable experiences for all ages. Afterwards, relax with lunch at The Fig Tree Restaurant, enjoy hot chocolates at The Forge Pantry, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful walled gardens at Dromoland Castle.
2.) Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
Approx. 13-minute drive from the RineOne of County Clare’s most loved family attractions, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park offers the perfect mix of adventure, history, culture, and family-friendly activities. Wander through the medieval castle and recreated 19th-century Irish village, meet the resident animals, and discover interactive experiences that bring Irish history to life. From seasonal events and fairy trails to sweet treats and cosy cafés along the way, there’s plenty for little ones and grown-ups alike to enjoy at an easy pace. Conveniently located just a short drive from the Rine, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is an ideal family day out in County Clare and along the Wild Atlantic Way.
3.) Make a Splash at Clare Water Sports
Approx. 15-minute drive from the RineFor families looking to add a little adventure to their County Clare escape, Clare Water Sports at Ballyalla Lake offers the perfect excuse to get out on the water. Whether you're trying kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, or simply enjoying the lakeside setting, it's a fun way to experience the outdoors together. Surrounded by peaceful scenery and fresh country air, it's an activity that's just as memorable as it is refreshing.
4.) Play a round at 18 Putts mini golf
Approx. 9-minute drive from the RineFor the Happy Gilmore fanatics, 18 Putts in Shannon is the place to be. The 18-hole outdoor mini golf course in Shannon offers a fun-filled activity for all ages, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. Whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or simply enjoying the laughs together, it’s the perfect spot to relax, have fun, and maybe even find your happy place. Located just a short drive from the Rine, 18 Putts makes an ideal family activity for guests staying in County Clare and looking for things to do near Shannon.
5.) Get Competitive at Munster Footgolf
Approx. 9-minute drive from the RineLocated beside 18 Putts, Munster Footgolf offers a unique outdoor family activity in County Clare, combining football and golf into one fun experience. Whether your family are football fanatics, golf lovers, or somewhere in between, everyone’s in with a chance to win. Just a short drive from the Rine, Munster Footgolf is a great choice for guests looking for family-friendly things to do near Shannon and an active day out together.
6.) Step back in time at Craggaunowen.
Approx. 15-minute drive from the RineFor history lovers and families seeking a unique experience in County Clare, Craggaunowen offers one of the region’s most distinctive living history attractions. Explore the medieval castle, ancient crannógs, ringforts, and underground souterrains, and step back in time to discover how people lived in Bronze Age Ireland. Families can follow the enchanted folklore trail through woodland paths, bringing Irish myth and legend to life, before viewing the famous Brendan Boat inspired by St Brendan’s legendary Atlantic voyage. Blending Irish history, storytelling, and hands-on exploration, Craggaunowen is an ideal family-friendly attraction in Clare for curious explorers of all ages.
7.) Wander through Mooghaun Woods and Hillfort
Approx. 8-minute drive from the RineFor families looking to slow things down and explore a quieter part of the local area, Mooghaun Hillfort offers peaceful woodland trails, scenic picnic spots, and the chance to discover one of Ireland’s ancient hillforts and castle. Popular with walkers, history lovers, and curious explorers alike, it’s the perfect spot for little adventurers who love to let their imagination (and legs) run free. A great family-friendly walking trail and historical attraction in County Clare, just a short drive from Shannon and the Rine.
8.) Active Afternoons at Banner Padel
Approx. 13-minute drive from the RineFor families looking to try something a little different, Banner Padel offers a fun and social family activity in County Clare, perfect for older kids, teens, and competitive family members alike. The game is fast-paced, energetic, and easy to pick up, and the indoor courts make it an ideal option for rainy-day activities near Shannon and active things to do in the local area.
9.) Wander and Play at O’Regan Park
Approx. 7-minute drive from the RineLocated in the heart of Newmarket-on-Fergus, O’Regan Park offers family-friendly outdoor activities in County Clare in a relaxed riverside setting. With play areas designed for different age groups, little adventurers can enjoy pirate ships, climbing frames, slides, tyre swings, mini diggers, and even a zip-line, while parents can slow things down at the nearby picnic spots. A great outdoor playground near Shannon and the Rine, ideal for a relaxed family day out.
10.) Explore the World of Flight at Shannon Aviation Museum
Approx. 10-minute drive from the RineFor families with curious minds and future pilots in the making, Shannon Aviation Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland's rich aviation history. Discover vintage aircraft, interactive exhibits, and stories of aviation pioneers, all just minutes from Shannon Airport. It's the perfect place for little explorers to learn something new while having plenty of fun along the way.
11.) Rainy Day Fun at Planet Entertainment Centre
Approx. 13-minute drive from the RineWhen the weather calls for indoor adventures, Planet Entertainment in Ennis offers family-friendly indoor activities in County Clare, with bowling lanes, arcade games, laser tag, and an indoor soft play area filled with slides, tunnels, and climbing obstacles. It's the perfect rainy-day activity near Shannon and the Rine for energetic little adventurers and fun-loving grown-ups alike.
12.) Catch a Family Film in Shannon
Approx. 10-minute drive from the RineFor an easy-going family evening, the Omniplex Cinema Shannon offers family-friendly entertainment in County Clare, the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the latest family favourites on the big screen. Whether winding down after a busy day exploring Clare or escaping a rainy afternoon, a cinema trip is always a crowd-pleaser for guests of all ages. A great rainy-day activity and evening entertainment option near Shannon and the Rine for hotel guests.
13.) Action-Packed Adventures at Clare Paintball-Deerpark
Approx. 15-minute drive from the RineFor families who don’t mind a little colour and plenty of competition, Clare Paintball offers an action-packed outdoor adventure in County Clare, perfect for older kids and teens. Set across woodland-style courses filled with obstacles, hiding spots, and fast-paced challenges, it’s the ideal family-friendly outdoor activity near Shannon and the Rine for adventurous families looking to try something exciting together.
14.) Evening Excursion to Ennis
Approx. 10-minute drive from the RineAfter a day spent exploring Clare, Ennis offers the perfect base for family-friendly evening dining in County Clare. Enjoy relaxed dining at local favourites such as The Town Hall or Brogans, both known for their welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly menus. For families looking to soak up a little local charm, the colourful streets, cosy pubs, and occasional traditional music sessions make Ennis a lovely place to wander, unwind, and spend time together after a busy day of adventures. A great way for hotel guests to enjoy evening dining and local entertainment near Ennis and The Rine.
15.) Outdoor Adventures at Lees Road Sports & Amenity Park
Approx. 15-minute drive from the RineFor families looking to get outdoors and burn off a little energy, Lees Road Sports & Amenity Park offers family-friendly outdoor activities in Ennis, County Clare. From playgrounds and a skatepark to cycling and walking trails, open fields for kicking a football around, and even a running track for energetic little explorers, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Surrounded by fresh Clare air and woodland scenery, it’s the perfect spot for active family afternoons outdoors near Ennis and The Rine.
Whether your family is drawn to outdoor adventures, active afternoons, interactive history, or slower moments spent exploring together, The Rine Hotel in County Clare offers the perfect base for family stays near Shannon Airport, Ennis, and the Wild Atlantic Way. From hidden local gems to some of the county’s most loved attractions, these nearby experiences are all about spending quality time together and making memories along the way.
After a day of exploring, return to The Rine, where relaxed family-friendly accommodation in County Clare, cosy surroundings, and plenty more adventures await.