Are you looking for outdoor ideas for the family in Carlow? Here are some of the best outdoor places in Carlow to get active with kids, and enjoy some fresh air and lovely scenery.

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From woodlands to huge prehistoric sites to outdoor swimming, there are lots of fun outdoor places in Carlow to take the kids to. Here are some of our favourites:

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Outdoor Spots in Carlow

Oak Park Forest Park

Oak Park is a mature, mixed woodland with lots of picnic areas with tables and plenty of play spaces. It’s also a great place to fly kites, at its large open spaces.

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Kilbrannish Forest Recreation Area

Enjoy two different loop walks at the Kilbrannish Forest Recreation Area. The Windfarm Loop is 3km long with a good surface and uphill sections, it’s suitable for families with young children.

The Kilbrannish Forest Loop is a bit longer, it’s 5km and will take you approx. 2 hours to complete. On either one you’ll get magnificent views of the surrounding lowlands and Mount Leinster on a good day. There is a picnic site and a car park close by.

Clashganny Lock

During the summer months a perfect place for a dip is Clashganny Lock, south of Borris.

There are also opportunities to go cycling on the towpaths or take canoe or kayaking trips along the Barrow – keep a look out for tester sessions.

Bagnelstown Outdoor Heated Swimming Pool

The outdoor heated swimming pool at Bagnelstown is open daily from June-August. There is a heated, outdoor 25m pool and paddling pool.

Carlow Town Playground

An excellent modern playground, with swings, slides, bridges and benches for us too!   There’s something for everyone.

Brownshill Dolmen

© Brian Morrison Tourism Ireland

The Brownshill Dolmen is a magnificent capstone made of granite, apparently one of the heaviest in Europe. An enormous slab sits on two portal stones which flank a door stone. Its date of construction has been estimated at around 5,000 years ago and experts believe religious rites were performed at the site.

It’s located on Hacketstown Road not far from Carlow town. The walk from the small car park (free) is surrounded by fields and is a pleasant walk. Kids will enjoy exploring in and around the Dolmen.

Bagnelstown Fairgreen Playground

Centrally located in the middle of the town, you can go and feed the ducks by the Barrow river afterwards. Toilets, picnic tables, benches and parking all close by.

Duckett’s Grove

Duckett’s Grove or Carlow Town Park are perfect places for a family walk or to fly kites, with large open spaces.

Have your say. Do you have any favourite outdoor places in Carlow to go with the kids? Tell us in the comments below!