Summer has officially arrived, and with the school holidays in full swing, it’s the perfect time to discover all the exciting family-friendly activities here in Lisburn & Castlereagh. Whether your kids love water fun, outdoor adventures, or high-energy indoor play, there’s something nearby to suit every interest and age.
Make a splash at Lagan Valley Leisureplex, where water slides and lazy rivers promise hours of fun. Or challenge your crew at We Are Vertigo, packed with thrilling obstacle courses and action-packed experiences that’ll keep the energy levels high.
And that’s just the start! With beautiful parks, fun workshops, local events, and more to explore, your summer calendar is about to fill up fast.
11A Altona Road, Blaris Industrial Estate, Lisburn, BT27 5QB
T: 028 9263 6195
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Looking for an action-packed day out the whole family will love? High Rise is the place to be! With 24 exciting Clip ‘n Climb walls, there's a challenge for every adventurer, whether you're a first-time climber or a seasoned pro.
After all that climbing fun, recharge with tasty bites from the on-site café. Little ones can enjoy themselves in the colourful soft play area, while those who need a quieter space can unwind in our sensory room.
Whether you're seeking a new family day out or planning a birthday party with a twist, High Rise guarantees a memorable experience for all ages.
18 Lisburn Leisure Park, Lisburn, BT28 1LP
T: 028 9267 2121
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Looking for the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation? Lagan Valley Leisureplex in Lisburn has it all! This popular water activity centre is a hit with families.
While the kids make a splash, adults can unwind in the tranquil spa area, making it an ideal day out for everyone. With its friendly atmosphere and something for every member of the family, it's no wonder the Leisureplex is one of the area’s favourite attractions.
Hillsborough Forest, Park Street, BT26 6AL
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Set in the picturesque village of Royal Hillsborough, Hillsborough Forest is a perfect summer day out for families, with scenic trails, a peaceful lake, and a fun play park.
Take your adventure further with the Digital Sculpture Trail, an interactive AR experience featuring 10 unique sculptures, each inspired by themes like play, nature, heritage, and hope. The app brings each piece to life and reveals the story behind its creation.
You can also explore the Royal Hillsborough Village Trail through the app, uncovering the area's rich history and hidden gems.
Download the app here and let the forest come alive!
112 Comber Road, Hillsborough BT26 6NA
T: 028 9266 3213
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Looking for the ultimate way to kick off the holidays? Why not try Junior Juggernaut Paintballing at Lyons Karting, bringing high-energy fun for kids!
Explore the range of karting options for everyone – from total beginners to seasoned speedsters. The tailor-made track is designed to challenge and thrill, making it the perfect spot for summer fun!
Market Square, Lisburn BT28 1AG
T: +44 28 9244 7544
Looking for a fun, free way to entertain the kids this summer? Look no further than Market Square, Lisburn, where every Thursday throughout July and August at 1pm, families are invited to enjoy a free family-friendly movie screening. From heartwarming adventures like Up and Brave to animated favourites such as Inside Out and Big Hero 6, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The fun begins early with free face painting from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, making it the perfect afternoon out for families with young children. With no tickets or bookings required, just bring a blanket or a few chairs and settle in for a magical summer movie experience under the open sky!
Government House The Square, Hillsborough BT26 6AG
T: 0333 320 6000
Get ready for a delightful adventure with Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Hunny Hunt! When Pooh’s hunny goes missing, it’s up to you to help him find it. Explore the enchanting gardens of Hillsborough Castle, where you can discover Rabbit’s Garden, Eeyore’s Cabin, and Piglet’s Burrow, all inspired by the beloved Winnie the Pooh stories. Take a break at Owl’s Book Corner to enjoy classic Pooh tales and have fun playing a game of Poohsticks. Complete the hunt and receive your very own Winnie the Pooh sticker as a special reward. Plus, kids can explore the gardens for free all summer long! Don’t miss out, this magical experience runs from June 28 to August 31.
In addition, Hillsborough Castle’s gardens are open free for kids of all ages! Explore 100 acres of play trails, woodlands, and wildlife, then relax with a treat from the café.
Add a visit inside the Castle for just £5, and discover grand rooms like the Throne Room and State Dining Room.
Various locations, check out www.visitlisburncastlereagh.com for details
The Lisburn and Castlereagh Park Life programme offers lots of fun activities for kids at Wallace Park, Moira Demesne, Moat Park, Castle Gardens, and Lough Moss Leisure Centre. With a variety of music and entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, making it a great day out for the whole family.
Summer Club Forest School Camp Scheme Ages 18 months to 12 years
143 Dromore Road, Burren, BT24 8HZ
T: 028 9581 6650
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Discover the magic of Ballyburren Outdoor Escapes, where families can enjoy a unique alpaca trekking experience through stunning natural surroundings. Guided by a friendly family team, visitors walk alongside gentle alpacas, learning all about these fascinating animals and taking a peaceful break at a cozy coffee coop by the water. For young explorers, Ballyburren’s forest school offers a fantastic outdoor classroom nestled in a beautiful beech woodland, complete with a campfire area, crafting spaces, and sensory play zones. This summer, kids can join two special programmes: Muddy Tots Go Wild for little ones aged 18 months to 7 years, featuring story-themed sessions like The Gruffalo and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, and Young Adventurers for ages 4 to 12, with activities like fire lighting, den building, and woodland crafts. Running every Tuesday and Friday from July 1 to August 29.
1 Mealough Road, Carryduff BT8 8GB
T: 07887490098
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Dare to explore at Let’s Go Hydro with a wide range of aqua activities available at this exciting water sports and alternative accommodation resort. The highlight is an impressive outdoor inflatable floating obstacle course featuring an XXL tower, slides, climbing walls, hurdles, wiggle disks, ramps, podiums, and a floating trampoline, guaranteeing fun for all ages. Open seven days a week throughout July and August, there’s plenty more to enjoy, including open water swimming, aqua rugby (the viral TikTok sensation!), wakeboarding, and kneeboarding. What are you waiting for? Dive into the fun and find out more here!
38 Ballyhanwood Road, Belfast, BT5 7SN
Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure at Streamvale! Enjoy cuddles and playtime with adorable puppies, and meet super-soft chicks, bunnies, and guinea pigs. If you're feeling brave, come face-to-face with some cool and creepy reptiles! Hold on tight for exciting tractor and barrel rides around the farm. When you're ready to refuel, there’s plenty of tasty hot food, fresh doughnuts, and coffee for the grown-ups. Don’t miss the chance to feed the pigs, watch amazing sheepdog shows, and experience even more farmyard fun. There’s something for everyone – it’s the perfect day out for families this summer!
