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’s our suggestions for the best free things to do in Tipperary with kids:

The Glen Of Aherlow

The Glen of Aherlow Nature Park features many walking trails, seating and picnic areas with flora and fauna throughout. Entry is from the viewing point at ‘Christ the King Statue’, with a panoramic view of the valley.

The Sensory and Mobility Garden, Cahir

The Sensory & Mobility Garden in Church St. was specially created to be accessible and enjoyable to all, but particularly for people with disabilities.

The garden contains many varied features, such as scented plants, sculptures, water features, Braille signs, pathways of different textures and much to stimulate the senses. It provides a haven of peace and a place to unwind and is also a mobility practice area.

Fishing at Marl Bog

Bring a picnic and your fishing rod and go Marl Bog, woodland and a man-made lake, just 2klm from Dundrum. There are parking facilities on site and existing forest and lakeside trails. The lake is stocked with brown trout managed by the Dundrum Fisheries Group.

Go on a Lough Derg Drive 

Start off in Dromineer, feed the swans, watch the boats and have a play in the playgound. Next take off to Garrykennedy, go for a forest walk, have a play in the playground, lunch in Larkins or picnic in the lovely BBQ & picnic areas. Small kids might be due a sleep after lunch so head off in the direction of Ballina stopping at The Lookout to take in the amazing scenery.

On to Ballina playgound. Mum can have a workout on the outdoor gym beside the playground. If you bring the kids swim gear they can take a dip in the Outdoor Pool. Anything left in the picnic basket? You can wrap up your day dining al fresco on one of the many picnic benches on the Shannon bank.

Follow the Fairy Trail in Templemore

Head to the lovely Town Park in Templemore and walk past the lake, to find the fairy trail in the woods. Try and spot all the fairy doors, which are updated at seasonal times like Christmas and Halloween(there are about 38 we believe). Afterwards feed the ducks and swans and let the kids play in the playground, while you get a “workout” on the outdoor adult gym.

Related:  Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Tipperary

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 throughout the county.  Why not print the list and aim to visit them all over time? It’s an activity that is both free and good fun!

We’ve been enjoying the fabulous new playgrounds in Fethard and Ballyclerihan.

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

History & Heritage in Tipperary

Holycross Abbey, near Thurles

Holy Cross Abbey is one of Ireland’s National Monuments. Under the patronage of James Butler, the fourth Earl of Ormonde, much of the abbey was rebuilt in the 15th century, but after suppression, it was eventually left in ruins. In the late-1900s, there was a movement to restore the abbey church and use it once more as a house of worship. Today, Mass and other holy events are celebrated there regularly.

Brú Ború Heritage Centre

Brú Ború is a national cultural centre at the foot of the Rock of Cashel. This cultural village is designed around a village green.The centre includes a folk theatre, genealogy centre, restaurant and other amenities.

Related : Rainy Day Activities for Kids in Tipperary

The Devils Bit 

The Devils Bit is a few miles from The Ragg near Thurles. Tipperary has beautiful lush mountain scenery and the most famous of these hills is known as the Devil’s Bit. Legend is that the devil took a bite from the mountain and broke his teeth in the process letting the bit fall from his mouth landing in Cashel to form the Rock of Cashel which was the high seat of the Kings of Munster.

Heritage Ireland Sites have FREE entry on the 1st Wednesday every month. Take advantage and visit and visit Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle for free.

National Heritage Week runs from Aug 18 – 26th and always have lots of free family events taking place throughout the county.