Looking for outdoor activities for kids in County Kilkenny? Any excuse to get outside and get some fresh air, we say! Here are some of the best outdoor places in Kilkenny for families to enjoy together, whatever the weather.
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From woodlands to historical parkland to discovery parks, there’s so much to enjoy in Kilkenny with kids. Here are some of our favourite outdoor spots.
Top Outdoor Spots to Explore in Kilkenny
Jenkinstown Wood
Jenkinstown Wood, formerly part of the Bryan Bellew Estate, is perfect for a picnic with several picnic tables, grassy areas for the children to play on, and public toilet facilities.
There is a deer enclosure next to the car park which is very popular with children of all ages.
Castlecomer Discovery Park
Castlecomer Discovery Park comprises 80 acres of mixed woodland with 6km of woodland walking trails and nature trails.
There are two rainbow trout angling lakes, plenty of picnic areas, and wooden sculptures dotted throughout. Young kids will love the Elf Village!
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Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum
Located just outside the picturesque town of Inistioge, Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum offers a mixture of formal and informal gardens to stroll around, with something for all the family.
There are also picnic tables, a playground and toilet facilities. A small per-car admission fee applies on exit — check the Woodstock website before you go for current pricing.
Lacken Walk
Lacken Walk in Kilkenny City features a boardwalk, along with picnic tables and seating along the way. The walk offers 1.6km of scenic riverside views from Maudlin Street to Ossory Bridge.
If you’re bringing a buggy, you may need a hand at the Lacken Steps near the Dublin Road access point.
Walk Around Kilkenny City
For a lovely riverside stroll, walk back along the Nore from Bennettsbridge towards the city — a lovely way to see the county at a gentle pace.
Or explore the Slips — the narrow walkways that connect High Street with the surrounding streets. There are lots of hidden treasures to be discovered.
Take a stroll around some of the county towns too, and discover little gems like Thomastown, Inistioge and Graiguenamanagh.
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Bishop’s Meadows
There are shared spaces for cyclists and dedicated cycling lanes around Kilkenny City.
One of our favourite places to cycle in the city is along the Nore at Bishop’s Meadows. Away from traffic, it’s perfect for younger children too.
There are also various cycling trails developed throughout the county, suitable for more experienced cyclists.
Nore & Barrow Rivers
Kilkenny is lucky to have both the Nore and Barrow rivers running through the county. Keep an eye out for canoe or kayaking taster sessions in Kilkenny City or Graiguenamanagh.
During the summer months, supervised outdoor swimming spots are popular in Inistioge, Graiguenamanagh and Kilkenny City.
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Kilkenny Castle Park & Playground
Kilkenny Castle Park has extensive parkland, woodland walks, and a superb children’s playground with swings, slides, bridges and benches for adults too. The park stays open later into the evening during the summer months.
Kilkenny Castle Park also provides the ideal spot for kite-flying, thanks to its wide-open spaces.
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Nowlan Park
It wouldn’t be summer in Kilkenny without watching a hurling match. Look out for Kilkenny’s senior hurling team training at Nowlan Park on various weekday evenings. Grab a hurl and sliotar and have a poc around in any open space.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free outdoor place to visit in Kilkenny with kids?
Kilkenny Castle Park is one of the best free outdoor spots for families, with parkland, woodland walks and a well-equipped playground. Jenkinstown Wood is another great free option, with picnic tables and a deer enclosure that kids love.
Are there outdoor swimming spots for families in Kilkenny?
Yes. During the summer months, supervised outdoor swimming takes place in Inistioge, Graiguenamanagh and Kilkenny City, making them popular spots for a family swim.
Is Castlecomer Discovery Park suitable for young children?
Yes, Castlecomer Discovery Park is very family-friendly, with gentle woodland trails, picnic areas and the ever-popular Elf Village, which younger children particularly enjoy.
Do I need to pay to visit Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum?
A small per-car admission fee applies, payable on exit. It’s worth checking the Woodstock Gardens website for current pricing before your visit.
Related Articles
- The Best Picnic Places for Families in Kilkenny
- Great Family Walks in Kilkenny
- Outdoor Swimming in Ireland
- Playgrounds in Kilkenny the Kids will Love to Explore
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Kilkenny
Have your say! Do you have a favourite outdoor place in Kilkenny to take the kids to? Tell us in the comments below.
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