We love the summer holidays here at entertainment towers, but sometimes passing those sunny summer afternoons can be pretty hard on the old funds. That's why we decided to do a little bit of research, and find out what you can do in Ireland without breaking the bank.

We were pleasantly surprised to discover just how many recession friendly options there are out there, and found it rather difficult to narrow them down to just five. So, we threw our heads together here in the office, and after much debate, finally agreed on this nifty little list. None of the below will set you back more than €20 (the cost of actually getting there ain't included), so no matter where you are in the country, there's no excuse to spend your summer on the sofa...

1. Check out the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare
Ireland's most famous cliffs made it all the way to the final round of the search for the Seven Wonders of the modern world, so if you haven't been to see them yet then it's time to add a trip to Clare to your list. You can head into the visitor's centre and get the full 'Cliffs' experience for €6, or take a Cliffs of Moher Cruise and see the sights from the water for €15. If you're out West this summer, then you won't want to miss this. And sure aren't they the same cliffs you see in Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince? There's a fact for you to share with your friends now.

2. Go for a spin around the Dingle Ring
If you're heading south over the summer months then you'll probably be passing near the Ring of Kerry. There's no end of beautiful scenery in the county, but we're big fans of the Dingle area in particular. Save a bit of money on the oul petrol by restricting the day trip to this particular area, and stop by the famous town to see that lovely dolphin while you're at it.

3. Take a tour of Kilkenny Castle
Moving back east to the Marble City, there's no excuse for missing out on a bit of Medieval magic. The city is home to one of Ireland's most iconic castles, and whether you fancy a tour or a teddy bear's picnic in the grounds, there really is something for all the family. If you do want the history lesson, it'll only cost €6 for an adult, €4 for Senior Citizens, €2.50 for students and kids aged 6 or over, or €14 for a family. And sure you could still have that picnic afterwards, eh?

4. Get to grips with Irish history in Kilmainham Gaol
If you're in the capital this summer and haven't been to see one of the country's most famous prisons, make sure to stick it on your to do list. We've taken many a school tour around the fortress that held Dev, Michael Collins and the 1916 Rebels, and felt the chill in the courtyard where the leaders met their maker. You can pick up your own copies of Poblacht na hEireann in the gift shop if you wish, but entry to the gaol will only set you back €6 for an adult, €4 for a Senior Citizen, €2 for a student or child, and €14 for a family.

5. Stand on the shoulders of Giants at the Causeway
Finally we head north for our fifth selection, and my is it a special one. There's no end of fun to be had at the Giant's Causeway, with basalt columns stretching as far as the eye can see. You can regale the kids with tales of the giant who built the bridge in order to take on Fionn mac Cumhaill, or simply take a stroll among the rocks. If you park far enough way you can check out the basalt columns for free, but if you want to park on the grounds or head in to the Visitor Centre it'll set you back about €10 for an adult, and €6/7 for a child. You can save a fair bit of cash by booking ahead online though.