Days out don’t have to cost a thing. Westmeath is full of forests, parks, lakeside walks and playgrounds that are free to visit and perfect for burning off a bit of energy with the kids. Whether you’re after a proper hike, a gentle stroll with a buggy, or just somewhere for the children to run around, here’s our pick of the best free things to do in Westmeath with children.
Mullaghmeen Forest
Mullaghmeen Forest covers 1,000 acres and is a lovely spot for a family picnic. There are both long and short walking trails, so you can pick a route to suit your family’s fitness level and how much time you have.
The forest leads up to the highest point in Westmeath (894ft), making it a nice option if you fancy a proper walk with a view at the top. It’s located just 8km from Castlepollard.
Multyfarnham
Multyfarnham is a picturesque village with a park, playground, fountain and a loop walk, making it a great all-round spot for a family visit.
Donore Wood, near Multyfarnham
Donore Wood sits on the southern shore of Lough Derravaragh, north of Mullingar, and has a rich natural and human history. It’s home to plenty of wildlife, including badgers, foxes and grey squirrels, along with a good variety of wild plants among the grasses and sedges. It’s a lovely, quiet spot for children curious about nature.
Royal Canal – Kilpatrick Bridge
One of our favourite family walks is along the Royal Canal at Kilpatrick Bridge — a relaxing walk of less than eight kilometres along the canal banks and through the historic hinterlands of Mullingar. It’s a good option if you want a longer walk without needing a car for most of it.
Related: 10 Great Family Walks in Westmeath
Mullingar Town Park
Mullingar Town Park, right in the town centre, has a playground, pond, glider and swings, along with an enclosed children’s area — handy if you’re in town and need somewhere for the kids to let off steam.
Coosan Point
The playground at Coosan Point, near Athlone town, is a great spot to let little ones run around after a spell of shopping.
Lilliput Jonathan Swift Amenity Park
On the shores of Lough Ennell, Lilliput Jonathan Swift Amenity Park has a Par 3 golf course overlooking the lake, boat moorings, trout angling, swimming, woodland walks and a children’s play area, plus a seasonal coffee shop. There’s plenty here to fill a whole family day out.
Westmeath Libraries
Your local library is one of the best free resources for families. Children can join from a young age and borrow books, CDs and DVDs from the junior library. Many branches also run free events and classes, including art classes, parent-and-toddler groups, story time and junior book clubs. It’s worth checking your local library’s schedule to see what’s on.
Free Events in Westmeath
Free family events pop up across Westmeath throughout the year, from seasonal festivals to local community days. Keep an eye on local listings and community pages so you don’t miss out on what’s happening near you.
FAQs
What is the best free outdoor spot in Westmeath for young children?
Mullingar Town Park and Coosan Point both have dedicated playgrounds and are easy to reach if you have younger children who just need space to run and play.
Are there free walking trails suitable for buggies in Westmeath?
Multyfarnham’s loop walk and the Royal Canal path at Kilpatrick Bridge are both gentle, mostly flat routes that suit buggies and younger walkers, though it’s worth checking conditions underfoot before you go.
Do Westmeath libraries really offer free activities for kids?
Yes — junior library membership is free, and many branches run free story time sessions, toddler groups and book clubs. Check with your local branch for current times.
Is Mullaghmeen Forest a long walk?
There are both short and long trail options, so it suits families with young children as well as those looking for a longer hike to the highest point in Westmeath.
Related Articles
- 10 Great Family Walks in Westmeath
- Free Things to Do with Children Across Ireland
- Best Playgrounds for Families to Explore
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