Planning things to do as a group vacation in Carlow this summer? Whether it’s a getaway with friends, a family reunion, or a special celebration, the Woodford Dolmen Hotel is the perfect place for your adventure. Conveniently located and surrounded by some of the region’s top attractions, there’s something nearby for every kind of group — from outdoor explorers to foodies and fun-seekers. To help you get started, here are 5 guest-favourite spots that are perfect for making memories together while staying with us. Let the planning begin!
DUCKETT'S GROVE
Just a short drive from Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Duckett’s Grove offers an ideal group outing in Carlow and one of Ireland’s finest examples of a thriving Great House. Surrounded by estates, this was once the home to generations of the Duckett family, who settled here as major landowners in 1695. This 19th-century Gothic Revival mansion, once the centerpiece of a vast estate, now stands as a captivating ruin with dramatic towers and turrets, making it one of Ireland’s most photogenic historic sites. The surrounding walled gardens have been beautifully restored, featuring a mix of historical and contemporary plantings that provide a serene setting for exploration.
Enhance your visit with a free guided tour, available at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. each Friday through Sunday, or by appointment for groups outside these times. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours delve into the rich history of the Duckett family and the estate’s architectural evolution.
Get the group together on your staycation and visit this wonderful location within a 20 minute drive from our hotel. For more information or to arrange a group visit, see Carlow Tourism’s page here.
BOATTRIPS.IE
Looking to add something memorable to your group staycation? A boat trip along the River Barrow offers the perfect blend of relaxation, discovery, and fun. Operating hourly from April to October, these guided tours give you a fresh perspective on the vibrant city of Kilkenny — including a rare and stunning view of Kilkenny Castle from river level. Learn about the local, lesser-known history of the area and spot the urban wildlife that has shared these waterways with humans for centuries.
Led by friendly and passionate guides, these trips are relaxing, informative, and most importantly, unforgettable. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll want to capture the unique sights only visible from the water! For more details or to plan your trip, visit Boat Trips website.
ALTAMOUNT GARDENS
If your idea of the perfect group activity involves a leisurely stroll through enchanting gardens, then Altamont Gardens is your ideal destination. Within just a 20-minute drive from our hotel, this 16-hectare estate offers a serene setting for group exploration. The Robinsonian or Arts and Craft style of this garden gracefully melds formal and informal elements while blending in with surroundings. Take a fascinating walk through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen, sheltered by ancient oaks and flanked by huge stone outcrops, leads to the banks of the River Slaney. Make sure to visit in summer to experience the glorious perfume of roses and herbaceous plants in the air. After your walk, relax at the Altamont Garden Café, where you can enjoy home-baked cakes and freshly brewed tea or coffee. Admission to the gardens is free, with charge of €2 parking fee. For more information, check the Altamount Gardens website.
GO GOLFING!
For golf enthusiasts planning a group getaway, Carlow offers the perfect base to explore some of Ireland’s finest courses. Just minutes away, you’ll find Carlow Golf Club, renowned for its challenging parkland layout and consistently high rankings among Ireland’s top courses. A short drive brings you to Borris Golf Club, a historic 9-hole gem set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs Mountains. For a unique experience, Kilkea Castle Golf Club combines the thrill of the game with the grandeur of an 800-year-old castle estate. And for those seeking a more relaxed round, Quinagh House Par 3 offers an 18-hole course perfect for sharpening your short game.
Whether you’re organizing a tournament with your friends or a leisurely weekend on the greens, our hotel’s proximity to these exceptional courses ensures a memorable golfing experience for your group. After a day on the fairways, return to the comfort of Woodford Dolmen Hotel to unwind with our award-winning Plum Tree Bistro food.
BLACKSTAIRS ECO TRAILS
If your group of friends is seeking a refreshing escape into nature, Blackstairs Eco Trails in County Carlow offers an unforgettable experience. Just 5 kilometers from the charming village of Borris, this Gold-accredited ecotourism destination provides guided walks through the scenic Blackstairs Mountains and along the River Barrow. Expert guides Mary and Robert White lead informative tours that delve into the area’s rich biodiversity.
Beyond walking tours, Blackstairs Eco Trails offers a range of activities tailored for groups, such as foraging workshops, fungi forays, and the Celtic Tree Trail, which explores Ireland’s native trees and their significance in Celtic culture. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely hike, a hands-on foraging experience, or simply relaxing in a serene natural setting, Blackstairs Eco Trails provides an unforgettable group outing that combines education, sustainability, and the beauty of Ireland’s countryside. For more information see Blackstairs Eco Trails website.
Ready to make unforgettable memories with your group this summer?
Book your stay at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel today and enjoy easy access to Carlow’s best attractions, tailored for every kind of adventure.
