Free Activites TO DO in Carlow
Discover Brownshill Dolmen
Step back in time with a family visit to Brownshill Dolmen, one of Carlow’s most fascinating landmarks. Located just 3km from Carlow town, this ancient megalithic tomb is a great place for children and adults to explore a real piece of prehistoric Ireland. Thought to have been built between 4,900 and 5,500 years ago, the dolmen’s enormous granite capstone is believed to be the largest in Europe, weighing an incredible 103 tonnes.
Children will love climbing the stones, while imagining & creating stories of how they believe people thousands of years ago managed to move such a huge stone without modern machinery. When they are done with the boring bit of looking at the big stones, the green field and space around the monument gives the kids a great chance to run around and enjoy the outdoors, while the parents try to learn a little about Ireland’s ancient past.
Get creative at Visual Carlow
Add a little art and imagination to your family break with a visit to VISUAL Carlow, one of Ireland’s leading contemporary art centres. Located in the heart of Carlow town and just a 10-minute drive from the hotel, it is a great indoor activity for families to enjoy together.
With four spacious gallery areas, children and adults can explore colourful, creative and thought-provoking exhibitions from Irish and international artists. The changing displays can be a wonderful way to spark conversations, curiosity and young imaginations.
VISUAL is also home to a 335-seat theatre, which hosts a varied programme of family shows, performances and locally produced events throughout the year.
With free admission, VISUAL Carlow is an easy and affordable addition to your family day out in Carlow. Galleries are open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 5.30pm and Sundays from 2pm to 5pm.
Become a History Detective at Carlow County Museum
Discover Carlow’s fascinating past with a family visit to the award-winning Carlow County Museum. Located in Carlow Town’s Cultural Quarter, just 10 minutes from the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, it’s a great free activity for curious children and adults alike.
Young visitors can enjoy the Museum Detective Quiz, searching the galleries for clues while discovering Carlow’s history in a fun and interactive way.
Explore four galleries filled with local stories, historic artefacts and fascinating treasures, including the beautifully hand-carved 19th-century pulpit from Carlow Cathedral, recognised as one of the top 100 objects to see in an Irish museum.
Explore Ducketts Grove
Discover the magic of Duckett’s Grove, one of Carlow’s most striking historic attractions and a wonderful place for a family day out. Once the home of the Duckett family, the impressive ruins are filled with towers, turrets and hidden corners that are sure to spark children’s imaginations.
Families can wander through the beautiful walled gardens and pleasure grounds, explore the historic setting and enjoy plenty of space in the fresh air. The dramatic ruins also make a fantastic backdrop for family photos.
Younger visitors will especially love the wooden playground, which has been designed to blend naturally with its surroundings. With slides, climbing poles, an obstacle course and lots more to discover, it is a great place for children to play, explore and burn off some energy while parents can enjoy a coffee and break at their café.
With history, gardens, open spaces and a family-friendly playground, Duckett’s Grove is an enjoyable addition to any family break in Carlow.
Explore Carlow
Explore Carlow from The Woodford Dolmen Hotel. A Comfortable stay awaits, after your adventures!