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. 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.
3. Go for a swim at the pool.
A trip to one of Killarney’s many swimming pools that are open to the public and are heated so you can forget about the cold rain outside. Almost every hotel in the town has a swimming pool that members of the public can visit for just a small fee or visit the swimming pool at the Coral Leisure Centre located by the Tralee bypass road. Some of our other pools include the Aquila Club at the Gleneagle Hotel, the CastleRosse Leisure Centre, the Killarney Towers swimming pool located in the centre of Killarney and the Health club at the Great Southern.
4. 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 many wonderful stores including DV8 clothing.
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.
5. Have a Spa Day
Want a distraction from the rain? Why not treat yourself to a nice Spa Day at one of the Spas in Killarney. Almost every hotel has a Spa filled with highly skilled Spa Therapists that will make you forget all about the gloomy rain outside. Treat yourself to a facial, a massage or get your nails done, just remember to relax and have a good time. Some of our favourite spots include, SkinBeauty, The Spa at the Killarney Park, Orchid Day Spa and the Zen Day Spa.
6. 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!
7. Enjoy a drink
If it’s raining outside, why not find your way to a cozy little pub in Killarney Town and enjoy a drink or two to pass the time away. Have a hot whisky to warm yourself up or sip away at something else. There is a high chance you will find live music being played in most pubs dependent on the time of day and there are few better ways to spend a rainy day in Killarney.
8. Go to the Cinema
A trip to the cinema is always a fun experience but it feels extra special when you can escape the rain and sit back into your relaxing chair and have the sound of the rain blocked out by whatever movie you choose. With two cinemas to choose from you will be spoiled for choice. Don’t forget to grab a snack and a drink for yourself!
9. Trip to the Caddyshack
Killarney’s favourite spot for mini golf, food & drinks, the caddyshack is a great location to spend a rainy evening in Killarney. Enjoy some lovely cocktails before unleashing your inner Mcilroy around the (mini) course. There is also pool tables, an Air Hockey table, Darts board and more in this Arcade Bar for additional fun. You can’t go wrong with a trip out to the Caddyshack.
10. Go inside Muckross House, Killarney House & Knockreer House
Killarney is lucky to have many historical buildings that welcome visitors to tour their interiors. Book a visit to go and tour the inside of Muckross House and see the original furnishings that are still in the house and learn how the owners used to live. You can also go and see the restored Killarney House and tour the visitor centre inside which provides visitors which so much interesting information and history about Killarney Town. We also have Knockreer House which is found just a 10 minute walk from Killarney House and overlooks the Demense offering panoramic views of Killarney National Park and the Lakes of Killarney. The house is filled with information on the various wildlife and flowers found around Killarney National Park and is a great spot to visit for anyone with children.
