Burren National Park (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Burren National Park?
What makes it 66% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can enjoy 1–2 km nature loops, minibeast worksheets and free family walks, yet parents must supervise on rocky ground and plan toilet breaks 8 km away in Corofin.
Positives:
- Wildlife spotting: Kids love hunting for frogs at the turlough and spotting lizards on bare rock.
- Hands-on learning: Minibeast sheets and guided stories make nature fun and educational.
- Free shuttle: Hop-on/off shuttle from Corofin eases walking distances for little legs.
Challenges:
- Uneven ground: Limestone pavement gets slippery when wet—sturdy shoes are essential.
- No on-trail facilities: Trails have no toilets or shelters—plan breaks in Corofin.
- Limited parking: Trailhead lay-by fills quickly; use Corofin parking and shuttle.
What is Burren National Park?
- A 15 km² national park in County Clare preserving the Burren’s distinctive karst landscape of limestone pavements, clints and grykes
- A geological mosaic of glacially sculpted pavements, seasonal turlough lakes and ancient dolines across a rocky plateau
- A protected sanctuary hosting a unique assembly of Arctic, Mediterranean and alpine flora alongside woodlands and traditional pastoral fields
What is so special about Burren National Park for with kids?
- Gentle family trails on lunar-like limestone pavement
- Interactive minibeast and bird-watch hunts for kids
- Free NPWS-led storytelling walks and games
- Shuttle bus from Corofin reduces walking for little legs
- Picnic and playground options in Corofin village
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 day
Why 0.5-1 day visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for two easy family trails, a minibeast hunt and a relaxed picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Burren National Park
Knockaunroe Turlough Loop:
1.3 km woodland loop past a seasonal lake.
Tip: Kids can count tree species or spot frogs at the turlough in spring.
Slieve Carran Yellow Route:
2 km gentle walk over limestone pavement and orchid-rich grassland.
Tip: Explore the small cave and holy well at the midpoint.
Family Minibeast Hunt:
Download activity sheets to tick off insects, birds and flowers.
Tip: Print maps and clipboards from home so kids stay engaged.
NPWS Family Guided Walk:
Seasonal free walks with storytelling and nature games.
Tip: Book in April–September as spots fill up fast.
Picnic at Corofin:
Relax at the campsite area or village playground after hiking.
Tip: Bring your own snacks or grab pastries and hot drinks in Corofin village.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Burren National Park
- Start early: Begin with the shorter Knockaunroe loop to match kids’ energy levels.
- Use the shuttle: Park in Corofin village to avoid lay-by queues and free shuttle to trails.
- Prepare activity kits: Pack printed hunt sheets and clipboards so no time is wasted.
- Reserve guided walks: Call in spring to secure a family-friendly NPWS tour slot.
Reviews of Burren National Park
Ever1881
Stunning in it's own right. Truly unforgiving landscape. Worth a climb to the peak if wearing good shoes. Go slow and enjoy the view.
Anna Misdom
The scenery was stunningly beautiful and uniquely Irish. We took a 4 mile hike on the red trail but didn’t finish the complete trail. We turned back after 2 miles due to the rough, rocky terrain when it went up the mountain. The multiple trails were well-marked.
Travis Letourneau
We did the blue trail hike. Pro tip is that you can park down the road about 0.6 miles if you want to shorten the hike a bit. The only thing you’re skipping is the walk down that road. In total that will shorten the hike 1.2 miles (Approx 2 KM). The views are unlike anything else in Ireland. You’ll walk along a lake, through a field filled with goats, and up the side of the rocky burren mountain/h...
Shelly Young
Just splendid! This park is another treasure in Ireland. Located close to Cliffs of Moher. Great for hiking, and seeing all the beauty of nature. Tip, dress in layers, good sturdy shoes. Terrain is very beautiful, but rocky. Be careful.
Deist77
Great hiking experience. Lots of terrain that is unique to Clare County. I took a 3.5 hour hike that had me on a gravel road, then forest, then rock formations, through a cattle farm, past a house that offers tea to hikers, past a lake, and looped back to my vehicle. Absolutely beautiful
When is the best time to visit Burren National Park (Galway, Ireland)?
April–June brings orchid blooms on Slieve Carran. Shuttle bus runs free May–Aug. Guided family walks operate April–September—book early.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fuel (Galway–Corofin return) | EUR 10 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 15 |
| Café snacks in Corofin | EUR 20 |
| Souvenir trail map | EUR 5 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 50 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Burren National Park
Address: 2 Church Street, Corofin, Co. Clare, V95 T9V6, Ireland
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About Burren National Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+353 65 682 769310 BEST nearby Activities
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