Autumn in Carlow is a time of colour, culture, and adventure with local attractions and events perfect to welcome the new season. From September 26th to October 5th, enjoy Féile an Fhómhair 2025, celebrating music, art, literature, and more. Outdoor lovers can join the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival (October 3rd–5th) to explore scenic trails, or take a short 35-minute drive to Go With The Flow River Adventures, open until October 5th. For Families and Chocolate Lovers, the Chocolate Garden Mould Making Workshop is a perfect choice during this chilly weather for a fun, hands-on chocolate experience for all ages.
Carlow Autumn Walking Festival 2025 from October 3rd to October 5th
Step into autumn’s embrace from October 3–5, 2025, with the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival! Across three days, immerse yourself in the beauty of Co. Carlow’s countryside—choose from national long-distance routes or shorter looped walks through the Blackstairs Mountains, Barrow Way, Kilbrannish Forest, and more. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, family group or photo enthusiast, there’s a walk for you: graded by difficulty and duration, guided by local mountaineers and walking clubs. After your walk, unwind with some hearty soup, sandwiches, tea and coffee, and share stories with fellow walkers. Gorgeous views, crisp air, and peaceful trails await.
For more details and to book your tickets, visit the Carlow Tourism website.
Féile an Fhómhair 2025 September 26th to October 5th
Autumn is calling, and there’s no better time to stay with us in Carlow than during Féile an Fhómhair 2025 from September 26th to October 5th. Across town, the streets turn into a vibrant tapestry of drama, music, literature, storytelling, art, cinema, comedy and more, with something delightful happening every day for all ages. As our guest, you can step out the door and immerse yourself in this festive atmosphere, then return to warm comfort in our rooms after a cultural day. Better still, Féile an Fhómhair is linked with the Carlow Autumn Walking Festival, so you can explore many of County Carlow’s scenic sights and attractions on organised walks. It’s the perfect excuse for a short autumn break—let the colours, creativity and cool air enchant you this season.
For more details and to book your tickets, visit the Carlow Tourism website
Go with the Flow River Adventures
If you’re looking for a memorable outdoor experience during your stay, why not take a short 35-minute drive to Go With The Flow River Adventures in Borris? Here on the River Barrow, you’ll find two popular options: the peaceful Valley of the Monks self-guided canoe tour (ages 7+) on flat, gentle waters, or the more thrilling White Water Spills & Thrills, which mixes calm stretches with exciting rapids—ideal for families, couples or groups seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Heads up: the 2025 season’s final booking day is October 5th, after which Go With The Flow will close for the winter and reopen for summer 2026. So this autumn is your last chance to paddle, laugh, and explore the river before this year’s season ends.
For more details and to book your ticket, visit Go With the Flow Website.
The Chocolate Garden Mould Making Workshop
Welcome to Carlow’s sweetest attraction – The Chocolate Garden of Ireland! Just a short trip from the hotel, this award-winning artisan chocolate and ice cream maker is a must-visit for families and chocolate lovers alike. Indulge in an irresistible range of handmade chocolates, and delicious treats while enjoying a fun, hands-on experience in their Chocolate Making Workshops. Kids and adults can craft their very own chocolate figure, decorate moulds, and delight in the moment when their creations come to life. While the little ones enjoy the play area, parents can relax with freshly brewed coffee and sample some of the finest chocolate Ireland has to offer. A firm favourite among visitors, The Chocolate Garden guarantees smiles, laughter, and plenty of sweet memories. For workshop times and booking details, visit chocolategarden.ie.
For more details and to book your tickets, visit The Chocolate Garden Website.
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.