Why Families Choose Enniskillen for Breaks

Planning a family trip to Enniskillen? Set in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands, Enniskillen is a brilliant destination for families, with a mix of castles, caves, boat trips, forest walks, farms, museums, play spaces and outdoor adventures all within easy reach.

Whether you are visiting with babies, toddlers, young children, teenagers or the whole family, there are plenty of things to do in Enniskillen with kids. From rainy-day attractions and gentle walks to watersports, animal encounters and memorable days out, Fermanagh offers family-friendly experiences for every age and energy level.

Located close to Enniskillen town centre, The Westville Hotel is a convenient base for family breaks, with comfortable accommodation, relaxed dining and easy access to many of the area’s best attractions.

Family Activities in Enniskillen at a Glance

Activity	Best For	Indoor/Outdoor
Enniskillen Castle Museums	History, heritage and rainy days	Indoor & outdoor
Marble Arch Caves	Adventure, nature and curious kids	Indoor
Lough Erne boat trips	Scenic family experiences	Outdoor
Erne Water Taxi	Small-group boat tours and local stories	Outdoor
Castle Coole	Walks, parkland and fresh air	Outdoor
Florence Court	Gardens, trails and family exploring	Outdoor
Castle Archdale Country Park	Picnics, lakeside walks and open space	Outdoor
Share Discovery Village	Watersports and outdoor adventure	Outdoor
Fermanagh Fun Farm	Younger children and animal lovers	Outdoor
Lakeland Forum	Swimming, soft play and rainy days	Indoor
The Buttermarket	Crafts, gifts and relaxed browsing	Indoor & outdoor
Twig and Tumble	Babies, toddlers and sensory play	Indoor
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail	Older kids, teenagers and active families	Outdoor

Why Enniskillen is Great for Families

Enniskillen is a lovely choice for family breaks because it offers variety without feeling overwhelming. The town is compact and easy to explore, while the surrounding Fermanagh countryside gives families access to lakes, forests, caves, castles and country parks.

You can plan your trip around the weather and your children’s ages. On sunny days, enjoy boat trips, lakeside walks, farms and outdoor adventure. On rainy days, visit museums, caves, indoor play, cafés or shopping spots. For families with babies and toddlers, there are gentle, low-pressure options. For older children and teenagers, there are more active days out, including watersports and longer walks.

Staying close to Enniskillen town centre makes the whole trip easier, especially when you want food, shops, attractions and accommodation within easy reach.

1. Enniskillen Castle Museums

A visit to Enniskillen Castle is a great starting point for families. Set beside the River Erne, the castle is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks and home to museums that explore Fermanagh’s history, heritage and local stories.

Children can learn about the area through exhibitions, artefacts and the castle setting itself. It is a useful option for rainy days, slower afternoons or families who want something central and easy to include in a town-centre itinerary.

After your visit, you can enjoy a walk by the water or head into Enniskillen town centre for lunch, shopping or coffee.

Best for: History, rainy days, families and first-time visitors
Good to know: Great to pair with a walk through Enniskillen town centre
Why visit: It introduces children to the story of Enniskillen in a memorable setting.

2. Marble Arch Caves

For a family adventure with a real wow factor, Marble Arch Caves is one of Fermanagh’s best attractions. Guided tours take visitors underground through limestone chambers, passages and dramatic natural formations.

It is especially good for curious children who enjoy nature, geology and something a little different. As the experience is guided and weather-protected, it can also be a strong option for days when outdoor plans are less appealing.

Comfortable footwear is recommended, and booking ahead is a good idea during school holidays and busy weekends.

Best for: Curious kids, older children, rainy days and nature lovers
Good to know: Check tour availability and suitability before travelling
Why visit: It is one of the most memorable family attractions in Fermanagh

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3. Lough Erne Boat Trips

Seeing Enniskillen from the water is a brilliant family experience. Lough Erne boat trips and scenic cruises offer a relaxed way to enjoy the lakes, islands and views without needing to plan your own route.

Boat trips work well for families because they feel special but are not too strenuous. Children can enjoy the movement of the boat, the views and the stories, while adults can sit back and take in the scenery.

Trips to places such as Devenish Island can also add a heritage element to the day.

Best for: Families, scenic views, relaxed sightseeing and memorable days out
Good to know: Book ahead during peak season
Why visit: It gives children a different view of Enniskillen and the Fermanagh Lakelands

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4. Erne Water Taxi

For a more personal boat experience, Erne Water Taxi is a lovely option for families. Guided tours offer local stories, island views and a relaxed way to explore Lough Erne.

It is especially good for smaller family groups who want something memorable and easy to enjoy together. Depending on the tour, you may learn about local history, wildlife, islands and Enniskillen’s unique setting as Ireland’s only island town.

Best for: Families, small groups, scenic tours and local stories
Good to know: Advance booking is recommended
Why visit: It turns sightseeing into a relaxed family experience on the water

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5. Castle Coole

Castle Coole is a great choice for families who want fresh air close to Enniskillen. The National Trust estate offers parkland, woodland, open spaces and views of the impressive Georgian mansion.

It is ideal for a gentle family walk, especially if you want something outdoors but not too demanding. Children can enjoy space to move around, while adults can enjoy the scenery and heritage setting.

Best for: Family walks, fresh air, heritage and relaxed afternoons
Good to know: Check opening times and access before visiting
Why visit: It is close to Enniskillen and offers an easy outdoor family option

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6. Florence Court

For gardens, trails and countryside scenery, Florence Court is another strong family day out near Enniskillen. The estate offers woodland walks, open areas and a beautiful historic setting, making it suitable for relaxed exploring.

Families can enjoy a gentle walk, picnic, seasonal events or time outdoors away from the town centre. It also pairs well with nearby attractions such as Marble Arch Caves and Cladagh Glen.

Best for: Gardens, woodland trails, picnics and family walks
Good to know: Bring comfortable shoes if exploring the wider estate
Why visit: It gives families a scenic and spacious place to enjoy the outdoors

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7. Castle Archdale Country Park

Set on the shores of Lower Lough Erne, Castle Archdale Country Park is one of the best places for families who want space, scenery and a relaxed outdoor day.

The park offers woodland trails, lakeside views, picnic areas and open space, making it ideal for children who need room to move. It is also a good option for families who want a simple, low-pressure day out without a fixed schedule.

Best for: Picnics, lakeside walks, families and outdoor exploring
Good to know: Bring layers and comfortable shoes
Why visit: It combines fresh air, Lough Erne views and family-friendly space

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8. Share Discovery Village

For active families and older children, Share Discovery Village offers outdoor adventure and water-based activities. Depending on availability, families may be able to try activities such as kayaking, canoeing, archery, climbing and other adventure experiences.

This is a great option for families with children who enjoy trying new things and being active outdoors. It is especially well suited to older kids, teenagers and groups.

Best for: Active families, older children, teenagers and watersports
Good to know: Check activity availability and book in advance
Why visit: It adds adventure and energy to a family break in Fermanagh

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9. Fermanagh Fun Farm

For younger children, Fermanagh Fun Farm is a lovely family attraction. Children can meet animals, enjoy hands-on experiences and spend time in a relaxed outdoor setting.

It is ideal for families with little ones who love animals and need an activity that feels fun, friendly and age-appropriate. Wear suitable shoes and clothing, especially if the weather has been wet.

Best for: Younger children, toddlers and animal lovers
Good to know: Dress for outdoor farm conditions
Why visit: It is interactive, child-friendly and full of simple family fun

10. The Buttermarket

For a gentler family activity, The Buttermarket is a lovely place to browse. Set in a historic courtyard, it is home to local craft, art, gifts and independent makers.

It is a good choice for families who want something relaxed and creative. Children may enjoy seeing handmade pieces, browsing for souvenirs or choosing a small gift to remember the trip.

Best for: Crafts, gifts, browsing and slower afternoons
Good to know: A good option to pair with coffee, shopping or town-centre exploring
Why visit: It offers a creative side of Enniskillen beyond the usual attractions

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11. Twig and Tumble

For families visiting Enniskillen with babies or toddlers, Twig and Tumble is a lovely option to know about. Designed with little ones in mind, it offers a gentle, play-focused space where babies and younger children can explore, move and enjoy age-appropriate activities in a safe and welcoming environment.

It is especially handy for parents who want something calm, baby-friendly and suitable for younger children during a family break.

Best for: Babies, toddlers and younger children
Good to know: Check opening times and booking details before visiting
Why visit: It is ideal for little ones who may be too young for some of the bigger family attractions

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12. Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail / Stairway to Heaven

For families with older children or teenagers who enjoy a challenge, Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, often known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of Fermanagh’s most iconic outdoor experiences.

The route takes walkers through a dramatic landscape before reaching the famous boardwalk and staircase. On a clear day, the views are spectacular. However, this is a more demanding walk, so it is best suited to active families who are prepared for a longer route and changing weather.

Good footwear, layers, snacks and water are essential.

Best for: Older children, teenagers, active families and scenic views
Good to know: Allow several hours and check conditions before setting out
Why visit: It is one of Fermanagh’s most famous outdoor adventures

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Best Rainy-Day Activities in Enniskillen with Kids

Rain is always a possibility in Fermanagh, but there are still plenty of family-friendly things to do.

Good rainy-day options include:

• Enniskillen Castle Museums
• Marble Arch Caves
• Twig and Tumble
• The Buttermarket
• Erneside Shopping Centre
• Cafés and lunch stops in town

Having a few indoor ideas ready makes planning a family break much easier.

Best Outdoor Activities for Families

When the weather is good, Enniskillen and Fermanagh are made for outdoor family adventures.

Top outdoor options include:

• Lough Erne boat trips
• Castle Coole
• Florence Court
• Castle Archdale Country Park
• Share Discovery Village
• Fermanagh Fun Farm
• Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail
• Lakeside walks around Enniskillen

Choose one main activity per day and leave time for food, rest and slower exploring.

Exploring Beyond the Town Centre

Things to do near Enniskillen with kids include attractions requiring short drives but offering full-day experiences. The Marble Arch Caves provide underground adventure with boat rides through caverns. Florence Court offers historic house exploration with extensive grounds for running and playing. Castle Coole presents another National Trust property with family trails and seasonal events. These attractions work as day trips from Enniskillen accommodation.

Forest parks surrounding Enniskillen offer graduated adventures suitable for different ages and abilities. Marked trails prevent navigation worries while providing exploration feelings. Play areas at strategic points break up walks for shorter legs. Wildlife spotting, den building, and seasonal activities like conker collecting create free entertainment. Parking charges remain reasonable, making forest visits affordable family activities.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

The calendar of things to do in Enniskillen with kids includes regular festivals and events designed for families. Halloween celebrations, Christmas lights switch-ons, summer festivals, and sporting events throughout the year provide focal points for visits. These events often include free entertainment like face painting, street performers, and competitions that engage children without requiring payment.

The events programme throughout the year shows family-friendly options clearly marked. Many events happen outdoors in public spaces, allowing families to participate without commitment or cost. The atmosphere during these events feels genuinely welcoming to families rather than merely tolerating children. Local businesses often provide special offers during family events, making treats and meals more affordable.

Educational Opportunities Disguised as Fun

Many things to do in Enniskillen with children that provide educational value without feeling like school. The museums offer workshops where children handle artefacts, try traditional crafts, or participate in archaeological activities. Nature reserves run pond dipping, bird watching, and habitat exploration sessions. Libraries host story times, craft sessions, and reading challenges that make literacy fun.

These educational activities suit different learning styles and interests. Active children enjoy outdoor nature activities. Creative kids engage with craft workshops. Bookish children discover author events and writing workshops. The variety means siblings with different interests all find engaging activities. Many educational activities cost nothing or require small donations, making learning affordable.

Simple Pleasures That Cost Nothing

Often the best things to do in Enniskillen with kids require no payment at all. Feeding ducks along the river, collecting leaves in parks, spotting historic features on building walks, or playing hide-and-seek in safe public spaces create memories without expense. The town’s compact size means these simple activities happen easily without complex planning or transport.

The island setting provides natural entertainment through wildlife watching, weather observation, and seasonal changes. Children from urban areas find particular joy in these natural experiences. Spring brings baby birds, summer enables paddling, autumn provides conkers and leaves, winter might deliver frost patterns or even snow. These seasonal variations mean repeat visits offer different experiences.

Family-Friendly Dining Options

Finding places to eat with children affects the success of family outings. Enniskillen provides numerous cafés and restaurants that genuinely welcome families rather than merely tolerate them. These establishments offer children’s menus beyond chips and nuggets, high chairs that actually clean, and service that understands family dining dynamics. Quick service prevents hunger meltdowns while flexible timing accommodates nap schedules.

Several restaurants provide entertainment beyond food – viewing windows into kitchens, fish tanks, or riverside positions where boats provide distraction. Some offer colouring materials, small play areas, or gardens where children can explore between courses. The accommodation options available often include family dining packages that make eating out affordable for larger groups.

Practical Considerations for Family Visits

Successfully enjoying things to do in Enniskillen with kids requires practical planning. The town provides good facilities including public toilets with baby changing, pharmacies stocking forgotten essentials, and supermarkets for familiar foods that prevent mealtime battles. Most attractions offer family tickets that reduce costs for multiple children. Parking near attractions usually exists though might require short walks.

Weather variability means packing layers and waterproofs regardless of forecasts. Many outdoor attractions provide shelter points or indoor alternatives if weather deteriorates. The compact town means retreating to accommodation during weather extremes happens quickly. The variety of activities available ensures alternatives exist when original plans become weather casualties.

Activities for Different Age Groups

Things to do in Enniskillen with toddlers differ from teenager entertainment, but the town accommodates all ages. Toddlers enjoy simple parks, feeding ducks, and gentle boat trips. Primary school children engage with castle visits, forest adventures, and swimming pools. Teenagers find water sports, shopping opportunities, and cinema visits appealing. This variety means families with wide age ranges find suitable activities.

Many attractions offer graduated experiences allowing families to stay together while individuals enjoy age-appropriate activities. Museums provide simple trails for younger children while older ones tackle complex challenges. Swimming pools separate toddler areas from lane swimming. Boat trips offer indoor and outdoor seating suiting different preferences. The wedding venues often host family celebrations where entertainment caters to all generations.

Making Memories Without Breaking Banks

The best family memories from Enniskillen often come from inexpensive experiences rather than costly attractions. Building sandcastles on small beaches, exploring castle grounds, picnicking in parks, or taking evening walks along the river cost little but create lasting impressions. The town’s size means these simple pleasures happen spontaneously rather than requiring expedition planning.Free activities throughout the year include outdoor concerts, street entertainment, seasonal celebrations, and sporting events where watching costs nothing. Libraries, churches, and community centres host free family activities regularly. The self-catering accommodation options allow families to manage budgets through packed lunches and home-cooked dinners while still enjoying Enniskillen’s attractions.

A Simple 2-Day Family Itinerary in Enniskillen

Day One

Start with a visit to Enniskillen Castle Museums, then enjoy lunch in the town centre. In the afternoon, take a relaxed walk by the water or visit The Buttermarket for local craft and gifts.

Return to The Westville Hotel for a family meal and a comfortable evening.

Day Two

Spend the morning exploring Marble Arch Caves, Castle Coole or Florence Court, depending on your children’s ages and interests. If the weather is good, plan a boat trip on Lough Erne or a visit to Castle Archdale Country Park.

For younger children, Fermanagh Fun Farm, Twig and Tumble or Lakeland Forum may be better options.

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Where to Stay for a Family Break in Enniskillen

A good family break is much easier when you have a comfortable base. The Westville Hotel is located close to Enniskillen town centre, making it convenient for family attractions, dining, shopping and days out around Fermanagh.

After a busy day exploring castles, caves, farms, lakes and trails, return to the hotel for relaxed dining, comfortable accommodation and a welcoming place to unwind.

Whether you are planning a weekend break, school holiday stay or short family escape, The Westville Hotel gives families a practical base in the heart of Enniskillen.

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FAQs

What are the best things to do in Enniskillen with kids?

Some of the best things to do in Enniskillen with kids include Enniskillen Castle Museums, Marble Arch Caves, Lough Erne boat trips, Castle Coole, Florence Court, Castle Archdale Country Park, Share Discovery Village, Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lakeland Forum and Twig and Tumble.

Is Enniskillen good for families?

Yes, Enniskillen is a great family destination, with a mix of indoor attractions, outdoor activities, historic sites, boat trips, walking trails, farms, cafés and family-friendly places to stay.

What can families do in Enniskillen on a rainy day?

Rainy-day family options include Enniskillen Castle Museums, Marble Arch Caves, Lakeland Forum, Twig and Tumble, The Buttermarket, Erneside Shopping Centre and local cafés.

Are there outdoor activities for kids in Enniskillen?

Yes, families can enjoy Lough Erne boat trips, Castle Coole, Florence Court, Castle Archdale Country Park, Share Discovery Village, Fermanagh Fun Farm, Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail and lakeside walks.

What can toddlers do in Enniskillen?

Toddler-friendly options include Twig and Tumble, Fermanagh Fun Farm, Lakeland Forum, gentle walks, cafés, The Buttermarket and relaxed family visits to local attractions.

Where should families stay in Enniskillen?

The Westville Hotel is a convenient base for family breaks in Enniskillen, with comfortable accommodation, relaxed dining and easy access to family attractions across Fermanagh.

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Ready to plan your family break in Enniskillen?

From castles and caves to boat trips, farms, country parks, toddler-friendly play and outdoor adventures, Fermanagh is full of experiences for every age.

Make The Westville Hotel your base for a comfortable family stay, with relaxed dining, welcoming accommodation and easy access to Enniskillen town centre and the wider Fermanagh Lakelands.

Book your family stay directly with The Westville Hotel and start planning your next Enniskillen adventure with the kids.