A Day of Adventure and Discovery at Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny
Nestled in the lush, rolling countryside, Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. It’s an ideal spot for family days out with small, or bigger children, get togethers with friends or team-building day trips with colleagues.
From preschoolers giggling on bouncy nets to adults navigating high-adrenaline zip lines, Castlecomer Discovery Park is an escape into nature, history, and adventure.
– Edwina O’Connor, The Life of Stuff
Whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker with a grá for aerial adventure, or a water sports novice who’s keen to dip your toe in. From woodland walks and wildlife to mining history and folklore – regardless of age or energy levels, there really is adventure for all ages and tastes at Castlecomer Discovery Park.
And if you haven’t visited yet, or it has been some time since you have – we recommend you put it on your to do list and prepare to awaken your inner child! (Plus we’ve got a SPECIAL 15% DISCOUNT CODE below)
The Skywalk Challenge photo courtesy of Castlecomer Discovery Park
Following on from our Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny – For All Seasons article we thought it high time to share some of our most recent adventures to Castlecomer Discovery Park.
In our previous article we focused on why the park is super for visits throughout every season of the year, highlighting some of the activities our own little thrillseekers enjoyed. But time waits for no man or woman, and our little adventurers here at The Life of Stuff HQ have certainly grown in the time that has passed – swapping the .5 metres from the ground height of the ‘Junior Woodland Adventure Course‘ to the 35 metres of the exhilarating ‘Octagon High Ropes Course‘.
Further Reading: Woodstock House & Gardens – A Timeless Oasis in Kilkenny
Activities for the Young and the Young at Heart @ Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny
Castlecomer Discovery Park is a playground of possibilities. And to help you plan your trip we’ve compiled a list of all the activities by age. This should make it easier when it comes to booking your activities for the day, and when like us, you have children with an age gap.
Please note: prices featured are correct at the time of publishing but please check the park’s website for updates.
Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny Activities Ages 3 – 7 years old
The ‘Bouncy Nets‘, are a series of giant, suspended trampolines encased in safety nets, while the ‘Junior Woodland Adventure Course‘, another favourite amongst the younger visitors, offers scaled-down challenges that mimic the activities on the 7+ courses.
The Magic Portal is more than just a trail – it’s your ‘gateway to a magical realm!’ Equipped with an iPad, you’ll solve over 16 intriguing puzzles, each drawing you further into the narrative and closer to uncovering the ultimate mystery!
- Junior Woodland Adventure Course + Bouncing Net – €12
- Junior Woodland Adventure Course – €8
- The Bouncing Net – €5
- Pedal Boats – 4yrs + (u16 accompanied by adult – €18 (4 per boat)
- Canoe – 4yrs + (u16 accompanied by adult – €18 (4 per boat)
- The Magic Portal – All ages – 1 hour €25 | 2 hours €35
Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny Activities Ages 7+ years old
For children aged seven and upwards, and adventurous adults alike, the ‘Sky Walk‘ and ‘Climbing Walls‘ are must-try activities. Scaling walls will test your endurance, but the sense of accomplishment at the top will be worth every bead of sweat.
And if physical and mental challenges are your thing then the ‘Octagon High Ropes Course‘ should quench your thirst for adventure as you balance and climb your way around the two-level course while suspended 35 metres from the ground.
Did you know? The Skywalk Challenge extends from three to a jaw-dropping 11 metres above ground, and offers participants an opportunity to navigate over 40 games and ziplines on three levels. That’s a lot of ariel fun and adventure! Oh and the high ropes include a ‘Free Fall’ activity (a mini bungee jump from 11 meters) for ‘the braver than brave’!
- Archery – €18 (2 per target)
- Octagon High Ropes Course – €18.50
- Skywalk Challenge – €29
- Skywalk + Climbing Wall – €40
- Skywalk + Free Fall – €40
- Skywalk + Free Fall + Climbing Wall – €52
*For High Ropes Courses like ‘The Skywalk Challenge’ and the ‘Octagon’ the minimum height requirement is 1.2m. Participants 1.2m – 1.35m must be accompanied by an over 16 year old. Max weight on High Ropes Courses is 120kg. Close toe shoes are essential.
Further Reading: Visit Kildare – 12 Fabulous Free Things to Do Outdoors
Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny Activities Ages 12+ years old
The highlight for adrenaline junkies is undoubtedly ‘The Zip Line’. Flying over two lakes, a 17th century bridge and woodland with the wind rushing past is an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve landed.
Did you know? Reaching 35 metres at its highest point and extending 300 metres makes The Zipline at Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny one of Ireland’s longest!
If you prefer your thrills on water, the ‘boating and kayaking‘ options will help you find your sea legs, or not. Paddling across the glistening lake surrounded by verdant woods and native wildlife, including ducks and dragonflies, blends relaxation with a sense of adventure.
- The Zipline – €18.50
- Zipline & Octagon – €31
- Single Kayak – €12
- Double Kayak – €14
Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny – Activities for Groups and Teams
Family and friends trips aside for a moment, Castlecomer Discovery Park also excels as a destination for groups and teams, including school tours and corporate team-building. Because of its diverse range of activities and facilities the park can cater to various age groups, interests, and objectives. Here’s why:
- Educational Opportunities – The park offers hands-on learning experiences, such as nature walks and workshops, which are ideal for school tours to blend education with outdoor fun.
- Team-Building Exercises – Activities like climbing walls, and group challenges are designed to strengthen communication, leadership, and cooperation – making them ideal for corporate groups. High Ropes Course and Ziplining activities build trust and encourage teamwork while providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.
The park also has spacious areas for picnics, meetings, and workshops, accommodating groups of all sizes. And what better environment than the serene woodland of the park to help foster creativity, relaxation, and a sense of camaraderie!
Castlecomer Discovery Park Kilkenny – Activities for Those Seeking a Slower Pace
For those seeking a slower pace, not only does the park sit on the site of the former Wandesforde Estate, which was once a bustling hub for coal mining but it is also set within a beautiful woodland that spans 80 acres, ideal for woodland walks, and forest bathing.
There are three walking trails (courses) that vary in the distance from the shortest at 1.6km to the longest at 3km, each highlighted by their own course code throughout the woodland.
The trails wind through towering trees, offering views of the surrounding countryside and glimpses into times gone by – a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
One of the things I appreciate most about Castlecomer Discovery Park is its design and amenities. There’s ample parking, which is a blessing when arriving with a car full of excited children and gear. After a morning of activities, the onsite dining options in the shape of ‘The Jarrow Café’, ‘The Canopy Café’ and ‘Tuk Tuk Wok Bar’ are a welcome sight.
The Canopy Café is usually our go-to en route to activities or for a walking break – and over our visits we’ve enjoyed hot chocolates, coffees and pizza there.
Castlecomer Discovery Park truly caters to all age groups and interests. Whether you’re a preschooler, a parent, or a grandparent, there’s something here to make your day unforgettable.
Families love the mix of activities that keep kids entertained for hours, while adults can challenge themselves on the high ropes or relax with a coffee and stroll, overlooking the lake. There’s even a dedicated playground for younger visitors, ensuring no one feels left out.
School groups benefit from an educational experience that combines nature with hands-on activities, and corporate teams can build stronger bonds through shared challenges and adventures.
Castlecomer Discovery Park isn’t just a park; it’s a celebration of life, nature, and the joy of discovery. If you haven’t been yet, it’s time to put it on your must-visit list. And to help you with your booking here’s a 15% discount code: THELIFEOFSTUFF15 – You can use it for your next visit or for gift vouchers for upcoming birthdays, Christmas or ‘just because’!
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