As parents we know how expensive it can be to entertain the kids, so we put together a list of free things to do in Longford with children that are lots of fun!

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There are plenty of free things to do in Longford that make for a wonderful family-friendly day out. Take a look at some of the best picks below and don’t forget to let us know your favourite!

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Free Things to Do in Longford for Families

Corlea Bog Visitor Centre

Take a trip to Corlea Bog Visitor Centre, and see the 2,000 year old trackway and enjoy the unique plant life in the bog habitat.

The oak road is the largest of its kind to have been uncovered in Europe and was excavated by Professor Barry Raftery of University College Dublin.

Inside the interpretive centre, an eighteen-metre stretch of the preserved trackway is on permanent display in a hall specially designed to preserve the ancient wooden structure.

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Ardagh Heritage Village

Ardagh Heritage Village is a picture postcard perfect place to visit. The Heritage Centre is open daily.

Newtowncashel Area

The Newtowncashel area is a great day out, with its award winning village, leisurely walks, and unique protected ecosystem on the shores of Lough Ree. In the village you can enjoy outdoor sculptures by local bog wood sculptor Michael Casey and his son Kevin. Barley Harbour is a nice place to view Lough Ree and its islands as well as having a picnic area.

Festivals and Events

Keep an eye on our monthly round-up of what’s on around the country to find free family events worth visiting. From festivals to family fun days, you never know what will pop up in your area!

Aughnacliffe Dolmen

“How did they get it up there?” must be what everyone asks when they visit Aughnacliffe dolmen, the impressive Stone Age portal tomb.

A pathway leads from the village of Aughnacliffe to this impressive megalithic tomb located in a shallow valley, among the rolling hills of north Longford.

This monument is unusual in that it has two capstones or roofstones, as similar portal tombs and dolmens typically have only one. Along with the nearby portal tomb at Cleenrath, the monument also has a traditional connection with the ancient legend of Diarmaid and Gráinne. It is believed to be one of their resting spots on their flight from Gráinne’s fiancé, the legendary hero Fionn MacCumhaill.

The monument is on private farmland, but is accessible by foot, please ensure that gates are closed behind you.

Longford Playgrounds

There are some great playgrounds in Longford that make free fun even easier to find! Make sure to bring some snacks and drinks or a picnic lunch.

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Derrycassin Woods

Derrycassin Woods is a lovely forested walk on a former estate in North Longford. Located on the shores of Lough Gowna, near Bunlahy, there are three recommended routes to suit all fitness levels:

• The Nature Trail (1.5km)
• the Walled Garden Walk(1.5km), and
• the Main Avenue Walk(3.25km).

The entrance is to the right of Mullinalaghta football pitch.

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The Royal Canal Walk

The Royal Canal Walk offers nice walking opportunities for families. Starting in Longford, you’ll find the entrance is a little hidden beside the town railway bridge then follow the route for 2.8km to Churchland Bridge and return via the opposite bank to the starting point.

Mall Park

The Mall in Longford has picnic benches and pleasant riverside paths. This landscaped park runs alongside the banks of the River Camlin and can be found right in the centre of Longford Town.

There is a playground, as well as adventure and exercise equipment dotted around the park.

Longford 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 – and free – resource for families.

Many of the branches run or host parent and toddler groups, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts classes, book clubs, chess clubs, games and activities sessions 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?

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What are your favourite free things to do in Longford for families? Leave a comment below and let us know – we’d love to hear from you!

Lead Image © Failte Ireland / Tourism Ireland