This is the sort of family-friendly attraction that requires a deep breath before listing everything there is to do here. It’s all centered around an elegant late-18th-century residence—the home of Lord Altamont, the Marquess of Sligo and a descendant, it is said, of Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley (hence the bronze statue of her on the grounds). The work of Richard Cassels and James Wyatt, the house has a graceful staircase of ornate white Sicilian marble, unusual Art Nouveau glass and carvings, family heirlooms, and silver. The grandeur of the residence is undeniable, but during the summer months a large proportion of visitors come here without even setting foot in the building—just follow the whoops and cheers of a couple thousand excited children and you’ll find the sprawling Pirate Adventure Park. Here kids can burn off energy on the swinging pirate ship, log ride, go-karts, swan-shaped pedal boats, and giant bouncy castle. When that’s over you can all tour the gardens together in a Toytown-sized express train. Very young children can enjoy some slightly gentler fun at the Pirate’s Den play area (an extra €5–€7 per child, depending on age). Upping the ante even further, the Adventure Activity Centre is the latest addition, piling on bungee jumping, zip wires, tree climbing, archery, and a host of other high-adrenaline amusements. All activities at the Adventure Activity Centre must be paid for separately; prices start at €9 for a child’s zip-wire ride and rise to €28 for a couple’s water “zorbing,” which involves traversing a body of water while entirely trapped inside a giant bubble. You know, for fun! Note: At this writing Westport House planned to close for a new country music festival, Harvest Festival, over the last week in August. The jury’s out as to whether this will be a yearly event—so call or go online to check if you’re planning to visit around that time.