As parents we know how expensive it can be to entertain the kids, so we thought we would put together a list of things to do for free with the children, yes, the things that are completely free of charge. Here are our suggestions for the best free things to do in Monaghan with kids:

Family Walks in Monaghan

Rossmore Forest Park

Rossmore Forest Park has several forest walks, a Nature Trail and a Yew walk. It has a car park, picnic sites, forest and lakeside walks, nature trails and viewing points. Located 3.5km south west of Monaghan Town on the R189 to Newbliss. A special feature of the park is the rhododendron and azalea display, which is at its colourful best in early summer. NB €5 per car on Saturdays and Sundays.

Lough Muckno Leisure Park

A day out in Lough Muckno Leisure Park in Castleblayney is a must for all the family. Walking Trails, Waterski & Wakeboarding Club, Fishing, Nature Walks and Picnic area. It is open all year around and there’s no admission fee.

Related: Great Family Walks in Monaghan

On Your Bike

Take out your bicycles and get active. Follow an established cycle trail or find an off-road route.

We like to bring our bikes to Lough Muckno but you can find other “off road” places to go here.

Make The Most of Libraries

Make sure to check out your local library and find out what classes and events that they run throughout the year.  Your local library branch is a wonderful, free, resource for families.

All libraries host very popular, annual summer reading programmes while many of the branches run or host parent and toddler groups, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts classes, book clubs, games and activities sessions, exhibitions and so on.  Not to mention the fact that there is free computer access and the option to borrow books and DVDs!  For a change of scenery, why not visit a different library to your local branch?

Visit a Playground

There are some great playgrounds in Monaghan.  It’s an activity that is both free and good fun!

Make sure to bring some snacks and drinks or a picnic lunch.

Related: Playgrounds in Monaghan

Monaghan Farmers Markets

Why not spend some time visiting some of the markets around Co. Monaghan. They are good fun to take the kids to, they get to see different products and meet the producers and sometimes sample some delicious foods.

• Monaghan Town Farmers Market, Location: Town Centre, every Friday 10.00am – 2.00pm
• Carrickmacross General Market, Location: Town Centre, every Thursday, 8.00am – 5.00pm and
• Ballybay Farmers Market Location: Town Centre & Carpark of Riverdale Hotel on alternate weeks Last Friday of every month 10.00am – 12.00pm.

History & Heritage

Monaghan County Museum is an award winning museum that runs events and exhibitions throughout the year.

NB There is no on site parking at the museum, however on street parking is available near the museum.