Inspire the young polar explorer in your life at the Shackleton Experience, Athy – the ultimate family adventure day out this summer
Brave the ice on an immersive ship journey to Antarctica, uncover the extraordinary story of Kildare-born Ernest Shackleton through interactive exhibits, and put your spirit of adventure to the test with engaging experiences that will captivate explorers of all ages
- See over 200 artefacts including the actual wooden cabin in which Shackleton spent his final days
- Enjoy delicious homemade treats at onsite café with outdoor seating overlooking the beautifully redeveloped Emily Square
- Browse unique Irish-made gifts and Shackleton merchandise in the gift shop
Looking for a family day out that’s packed with adventure, history and plenty to keep everyone entertained this summer? Whether you’re escaping indoors, planning a staycation or enjoying a day trip to Kildare, the Shackleton Experience in Athy, Co. Kildare, offers an unforgettable journey of discovery for all ages.
From immersive exhibitions and sensory experiences to interactive displays that bring Ernest Shackleton’s remarkable story to life, there’s something to spark every imagination at the Shackleton Experience, Athy. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning on-site café ‘Ernie’s @ Shackleton Experience’ and browse the gift shop, both of which are free to access without purchasing an admission ticket.
Located less than an hour from Dublin, served by regular trains from Heuston Station and easily accessible from Carlow, Laois and Kilkenny, the Shackleton Experience is the only visitor attraction in the world dedicated to the life and legacy of legendary Kildare-born polar explorer Ernest Shackleton.
Home to more than 200 artefacts, the attraction brings Shackleton’s extraordinary story to life through cutting-edge technology, recreated environments and immersive experiences. Highlights include:
- A deeply immersive experience where visitors join the crew of the Endurance as they battle the Antarctic ice, complete with crashing waves and dramatic wind effects
- The actual cabin in which Ernest Shackleton died aboard the Quest during the Shackleton-Rowett Expedition in 1922
- The sledge and harness used on the Nimrod Expedition
- Replica models of the Endurance and Quest ships, together with the famous James Caird lifeboat that helped rescue Shackleton’s crew
- A recreated 1920s cinema showcasing rare archival footage from Shackleton’s expeditions
Younger explorers can also follow a specially designed children’s tour, helping children connect with the spirit of optimism, patience, idealism and courage that defined Shackleton.
After exploring the museum, families can relax at Ernie’s @ Shackleton Experience, where Athy native Graham Herterich, better known as The Cupcake Bloke, serves homemade breads, gourmet toasties, sweet treats and his famous Retro Biscuits. With outdoor seating overlooking historic Emily Square, it’s the perfect place to enjoy lunch, coffee or an afternoon treat while soaking up the summer atmosphere.
No family day out is complete without a little shopping, and the Shackleton Experience’s gift shop is open to everyone, with no admission ticket required. Visitors can browse a carefully curated range of Irish-made gifts, including ceramics, candles, scarves, handcrafted products and children’s gifts, alongside exclusive Shackleton merchandise, books, stationery and souvenirs.
Families can also enjoy The Athy Story exhibition, which is free to enter and explores more than 800 years of Athy’s rich history. Visitors can discover nationally significant artefacts including the 16th-century Rent Table, medieval grave slabs and the historic Narraghbeg Cross at their own pace.
For those interested in discovering more about Athy’s rich history, the free Athy Story exhibition on the ground floor offers a fascinating insight into the town’s past. Visitors can also check the website for information on guided tours of the galleries, which are available on selected dates with limited availability. It’s the perfect addition to a family day out, offering visitors of all ages the chance to explore Athy’s unique heritage.
The Shackleton Experience – Unmissable for families, schools, polar enthusiasts, culture and
history fans as well as adventure and endurance sports devotees
Visit shackletonexperience.ie to learn more about the Shackleton Experience
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