Earlier this week, Mr. Tayto was kind enough to invite us out to his fine establishment in Ashbourne in Co.Meath. Although we were just there for a couple of hours, it was more than enough time for us to realise that this was a magical kingdom that deserved a return visit.
The amazing thing about Tayto park is that there are so many activites within the park, you will find it difficult to fit them all into one day. At just €12 per ticket for access to the park, this is certainly a wonderful idea for a day trip during the summer.
One of the best places to visit during the tour is the Tayto factory itself, which will appeal to both adults and children. At your own leisure, you can walk through the factory and watch the process of how a bag of crisps is made. Each bag of Tayto crisps takes 25 minutes to make. There is also a history of Tayto along the walls in the factory which will have a certain nostalgic feel for the slightly older visitors!
From here, head out the back of the factory to the Vortex Tunnel which is certainly a park favourite. While we were on the way out to the tunnel, we met a school tour who insisted we visit the attraction, and you won’t be disappointed. The less you know about it, the better the surprise.
After the tunnel, take a stroll around the beautiful animals which the park houses. There is everything from meerkats to Amur tigers in the park, many of which are endangered species. Their living conditions are absolutely amazing and if you can find Lee, the main animal keeper on the park, make a point of having a chat with him. There is nothing this man does not know about the animals.
Tayto Park have a policy that they like kids to be active, so all of the attractions involve some kind of physical effort and work out. You can experience the thrill of the Zip-Line experience, embark on the Tayto Sky Walk if you have the courage or the new Extreme Climbing Wall. Adults can also go on the attractions, but be careful you don’t get shown up by theyounger crew.
When it is time to sit back and take a break, there are plenty of food venues in the park. The Lodge Restaurant provides a cafe and carvery, the newly opened Sky Cafe is set 10 metres high and allows you to view those going along the Zip Line. As well as the above, there is an ice-cream parlour just inside the park.
If you are looking for a great day out, then look no further than Tayto Park, there is literally something for everyone. The staff are incredibly well trained, really helpful and genuinely seem to enjoy their work. Honestly, you can see why…
Tickets for the park are €12, however a family ticket can also be purchased for 2 adults and 2 children for just €40.
Even though the Park is open all year round, there are specific opening times and dates so make sure to check taytopark.ie before heading to Meath.
Oh, and make sure you find Mr. Tayto who will be wandering around the park. He’s a nice guy.
