We hope the sun shines during your trip to Killarney but on the chance that it doesn’t, we have created a list of our Top 10 Things to do when it’s raining in Killarney. As the saying goes, “there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing”!
1. Torc Waterfall
Said to be most spectacular after heavy rainfall, Torc Waterfall is a must-see regardless of if the umbrella is needed or not. The waterfall itself is approx 70 to 80 feet high and is just a short walk from the very well sheltered car park nearby.
Approx 7km from the town and located on the Muckross Road, immediately to the left of the waterfall are 100 or more steps, that provide many fabulous views of the majestic Muckross Lake and Killarney National Park.
2. Ross Castle
Ross Castle is a must-see and the area surrounding the castle is highly regarded as a walkers paradise and is very well sheltered. A guided tour of the fully renovated Ross Castle lasts for over 1 hour, and is open to visitors from March to October 7 days a week, and is highly recommended on a rainy day in Killarney.
3. St Mary’s Cathedral in Killarney
If you’re interested in architecture and enjoy a quiet peaceful escape, on a rainy day, we highly recommend a visit to the stunning St Mary’s Cathedral in Killarney. Designed by renowned English architect Augustus Welby Pugin, building originally started in 1842. However, construction was not exactly straightforward as the Great Famine hit Ireland in the 1840s. Subsequently available funds were decimated and it wasn’t until 1853 interior decorations commenced by James Joseph McCarthy. The Cathedral is located on the doorstep of Killarney National Park, it is the perfect place to take shelter from the rain.
4. Killarney House
Love culture and plan staying near the town centre? Well, Killarney House is a must-visit. Recently renovated after an extensive makeover, Killarney House in recent decades actually lay hidden behind high walls, much to the dismay of Killarney residents and visitors. The house itself was neglected, but thankfully has been rightly restored and was recently subject to a visit from Prince Charles and Duchess of Cornwall Camilla, and in many ways has been rightly restored as the gateway to Killarney National Park.
5. Muckross House and Traditional Farms
One of Killarney most popular tourist attractions, and situated under Torc and Mangerton Mountains on the shore of Muckross Lake, Muckross House provides a wonderful tour that is a great option on a rainy day in Killarney. Located nearby is Muckross Traditional Farms, a recreational village in rural Ireland in the 1930s and 1940s.
Numerous farmhouses, cottages, and schoolhouses provide excellent shelter from the rain, and the experience provides an excellent insight into rural life in Ireland in recent times.
6. The Aquila Club at The Gleneagle Hotel
Suitable for all ages, The Aquila Club at The Gleneagle Hotel Killarney is home to a 25-metre swimming pool, Children’s Splash Pool, Fully Equipped Gym and Cardio & Functional Weights Area, Steamroom, Sauna, and Jacuzzi.
Located just over 2Km outside Killarney town centre, the Aquila Club at the Gleneagle Hotel also boasts facilities such as Squash Courts, Tennis Courts, Pitch and Putt and a Children Play Area.
Why not visit the Aquila Club website for more information.
7. Go shopping in many of Killarney’s wonderful shops
While it may be famed for its natural scenery, Killarney is home to many fantastic retail outlets. Killarney Outlet Centre located just beside Killarney Rail and Bus Stations and is also home to Ireland’s first Nike Factory Store.
Located just a short distance away further outside the town is Deerpark Shopping Centre. Deerpark Shopping Centre attracts many visitors as it is the home to many well known retail outlets such as Boots, New Look, Burton, Dorothy Perkins and Kerry’s only Marks and Spencers. The town centre itself has many vibrant shops, so if it’s raining to check out the shops.
8. Trails of Ross Island
It’s always best to bring to brolly, coat or some accessories for this one, but the trails of Ross Island is sheltered by a canopy of trees for the majority of the trail. The route itself takes in visits to Governor’s Rock, Cooper Mines and Library Point.
To get there all you need to do is head towards Ross Castle, and you will be well directed from the signposts from there. The route does not allow motor vehicles and is ideal for a peaceful stroll or jog.
9. Angsana Spa at The Brehon Hotel Killarney
Highly recommended on a rainy day is a relaxing visit to The Angsana Spa at The Brehon Hotel. Taking its name from the exotic Angsana Tree, a tall, tropical rainforest tree noted for its crown of golden, fragrant flowers, which bursts into bloom unexpectedly. The Angsana philosophy is to live life spontaneously, to sense the moment and savour time. A sanctuary for the body and mind, set in the spectacular location of Killarney, the Angsana Spa offers a truly exceptional variety treatments and better still each therapist has been trained professional at the Banyan Tree Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand, renowned for its calibre of graduates and The Banyan Tree Spa’s are consistently listed as among the best spa’s in the world.
Check out The Angsana Spa website for more information
Escape Rooms Killarney
10. Escape Rooms
Locked in a mysterious room with 60 minutes to get out. Do you have what it takes to escape? A successful escape will require you to find hidden clues and solve challenging puzzles throughout the room. This is perfect for families with teenagers, groups of friends or couples looking to do something different. The three keys to success are concentration, collaboration and communication!
