Tom Ruane Park and Playground in Ballina is an award-winning and very impressive family-friendly playground and amenity.
The park and playground in Ballina is based on the Sligo Road it also overlooks the beautiful River Moy. This playground is exceptionally well maintained. It is a huge hit with families from North Mayo and beyond. In addition to this, play equipment was recently upgraded to ensure accessibility for children of all ages and abilities. It is one of the most inclusive outdoor play facilities in Ireland.
READ: Great Things to do with children in North Mayo
Playground Equipment at Tom Ruane Park and Playground
The play equipment and its surrounds has been predominantly constructed using sustainable wood and bark mulch. Therefore it is very child friendly. It has every conceivable type of play equipment.
The park has the following:
- A huge double slide (the best fun!)
- Swings
- Bucket swings
- Toddler swings
- A wooden beam
- Monkey bars
- Roundabout
- Zipline
- Seesaws
- Climbing structure
- A maze
In addition to this, it also boasts tennis courts, basketball courts and an all-weather football pitch. This makes it an ideal location for children of all ages. Pack a picnic and a football and enjoy a great day out for all the family.
It is also located within walking distance of Ballina town, making this park a truly brilliant way to spend an afternoon. The best part of all…..it is free!
Ballina Sensory Park
Located adjoining the Tom Ruane Park is the Ballina Sensory Park. This provides a calm, inclusive and engaging environment for children of all abilities. Designed with accessibility and sensory experiences in mind, the park offers a welcoming space where families can relax, explore and enjoy outdoor play together. As of Summer 2026, phase 1 of this project is now open.
New BoxUp equipment rental unit
Tom Ruane Park is now home to a brand-new BoxUp equipment rental unit, offering visitors free access to a selection of sports and leisure equipment through a simple smartphone app. This innovative, solar-powered locker system—introduced by Mayo Sports Partnership and Mayo County Council—makes it easier than ever for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy fun, active experiences in the park. The BoxUp unit adds an exciting new way to get moving while exploring one of Ballina’s most popular outdoor spaces.
Interesting Facts about Tom Ruane Park and Playground
- It was recently selected by the Irish Times as one of the ‘50 Best Playgrounds in Ireland‘.
- During the annual Ballina Salmon Festival, the Tom Ruane Park is home to the much-loved Teddy Bear’s Picnic.
- There are also future plans to build a dedicated sensory garden at Tom Ruane Park.
Read about historian and politician Tom Ruane on Ballina.ie
There are so many thing to do with children in Ballina and North Mayo. Check out some of our recommendations here: READ: Great Things to do with children in North Mayo