There is something special about Carlow. From independent shops and cafés to beautiful gardens, local producers, family-run businesses, cultural attractions and community events, there is always something new to discover. But with so much happening across the county, sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to look.
Thankfully, you don’t have to look far. From dedicated tourism websites to Facebook communities and shop-local campaigns, there are some fantastic platforms helping locals and visitors discover what makes County Carlow so special.
Whether you are looking for somewhere new to eat, planning a day out, searching for a local business or simply want to keep up with what is happening around the county, here are some of the Carlow platforms worth following.
Carlow Tourism – Your Guide to Exploring the County
When it comes to discovering Carlow, Carlow Tourism is one of the best places to start. Their website and social media bring together a wealth of information for visitors and locals alike, from attractions and historic sites to gardens, walking routes, food, culture, outdoor activities and places to stay. It also features resources such as the Carlow Garden Trail, South Carlow Adventure Trail, Mount Leinster Heritage Drive, and Carlow Map physical brochures, available both online and in the Hotel.
Carlow Tourism’s #WanderOfftheTrack approach is all about encouraging people to look beyond the obvious and discover the county’s hidden gems, picturesque landscapes, heritage and local experiences.
So whether you are planning a weekend away or simply looking for somewhere new to explore on a Sunday afternoon, it is a great place to find inspiration. For more details, visit the Carlow Tourism website.
Grá Carlow – Shop Local, Shop Carlow
If you are passionate about supporting local, keep an eye on Grá Carlow’s Facebook and Instagram accounts, as they are frequently posting the stories behind Carlow local businesses.
Launched in 2026, Grá Carlow is a countywide “Shop Local, Shop Carlow” initiative created to encourage people to support businesses across the county. The campaign brings together Carlow County Council, Carlow Tourism and County Carlow Chamber with a shared goal: celebrating local businesses, encouraging local spending and showcasing the incredible range of businesses throughout Carlow.
From independent retailers and cafés to hospitality, services and local producers, choosing to spend locally helps keep money circulating within the county while supporting local jobs and communities.
So, the next time you are deciding where to shop, eat, explore or book, think local. A small choice can make a big difference. Follow Grá Carlow on Facebook and Grá Carlow on Instagram
All About Carlow – Keeping Up With County Life
For anyone who wants to know what is happening around Carlow, All About Carlow has become a familiar name. Founded by Anthony Heaney in 2016, the pages aim to connect local Carlow residents living both at home and abroad.
The Facebook and Instagram community is a place where locals share news, updates, recommendations and conversations about life around the county. It has also become a useful space for discovering local businesses and hearing about what is happening in the community. The page has been showcasing Carlow to audiences for many years, with its work even recognised through a Carlow community award.
Whether you are a lifelong Carlow resident, recently moved to the county or simply enjoy keeping up with local happenings, it is one worth having on your social media radar. For more information, follow All About Carlow Facebook and Instagram accounts.
County Carlow Chamber - The Local Business Chamber
For anyone looking to stay connected with Carlow’s local business community, County Carlow Chamber is a great place to start. The Chamber represents businesses across the county, helping to connect local businesses, promote Carlow as a place to live, work, visit and do business, and give businesses a stronger voice within the community.
Through networking opportunities, events, business supports, campaigns and initiatives, the Chamber helps businesses connect and grow while celebrating the people behind them. It also plays an important role in promoting initiatives such as Grá Carlow, encouraging locals and visitors to support the businesses that make our county such a vibrant place.
Whether you are a business owner, a local resident or simply interested in keeping up with what is happening across Carlow’s business community, County Carlow Chamber is well worth following.
For more information, visit the County Carlow Chamber website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Our Explore Carlow & Love Carlow Blog
At Woodford Dolmen Hotel, we believe that a stay in Carlow should be about more than simply checking in. That is why we created our Explore Carlow page and Love Carlow Blog Page, to help our guests discover the wonderful places, experiences and local businesses that make our county unique. From exploring the gardens and walking trails around us to venturing further into Carlow to discover its attractions, food, heritage and natural beauty, there is plenty to see and do. Follow along for inspiration and start planning your next Carlow adventure.
Make It a Getaway: Stay at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel
With so much to see and do, why not turn your visit into a proper autumn escape? The Woodford Dolmen Hotel in Carlow is the perfect base for exploring all the above and more. Set in a tranquil riverside setting with beautiful gardens of its own, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, delicious dining, and the kind of warm hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home.
Whether you’re planning a romantic break, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, we have everything you need to make the most of your stay in Carlow. To book your stay with us, click here.