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 things to do in Kildare for free with kids:

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Take a Family Walk

Donadea Forest Park

Donadea Forest Park is a lovely mixed woodland with lake and historical features including the remains of a castle and walled garden. There’s also a small café open all year and picnic benches.

Events run throughout the year include Heritage Week Bird Watching. Santa’s Kingdom is well worth a visit, in this magical setting and is facilitated by the tea-rooms.

NB €4 exact change required for car park.

The Curragh

The Curragh is an extensive tract of grassland perfect for walks, cycling, and kite flying.

Watch the horses training on the Curragh racecourse, or check out some of the historical sites such as Donnelly’s Hollow.

It’s best to wear wellies or old shoes as sheep roam freely and lots of droppings!

Related: Great Family Walks in Kildare

Family Cycling in Kildare

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 Monread Park in Naas as there’s a playground there as well or see Castletown parklands below.

You can find other “off road” places to go on the Coillte Outdoors Website

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?

Related: Libraries in Kildare

Visit a Playground in Kildare

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

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

Our current favourite is Kilcullen Playground which has all the usual equipment, with the addition of a zip-line, and a sand and water play-area.

History & Heritage in Kildare

Castletown House

Castletown House in Celbridge is Ireland’s largest Palladian house and has 120 acres of surrounding Parkland, ideal for walks. The grounds are open all year round, and are free to enter and explore.

The first Wednesday of every month a number of Heritage Ireland Sites have FREE admission, why not take advantage and visit Castletown House for free?

Related: OPW Free Days

National Heritage Week in Kildare

National Heritage Week runs during August each year and always have lots of free family events taking place throughout the county.

Keep an eye on our Events page for more events taking place in Kildare.

Do you have a favourite spot to take the kids in Kildare that is free?  Share it in the comments below