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 Carlow with kids:

Carlow Gardens & Parks

Enjoy exploring some of the wonderful gardens & parks, such as Oak Park, Altamont Gardens, Duckett’s Grove and Delta Sensory Gardens.

Related: Great Family Walks in Carlow

Visual Centre for Contemporary Art

Spend a few hours exploring the Visual Centre for Contemporary Art. Activity sheets for children, with facts on the artists, interesting questions to think about and a space to sketch ideas are available for 3+, 6+ and 10+ from the reception desk or from the invigilators free of charge. Keep an eye out for their family workshops.

Related: Rainy Day Activities in Carlow

Cycling for Families in Carlow

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

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

Related:  Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Carlow

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!

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

Related: Playgrounds in Carlow

History & Heritage

Browneshill Dolmen

Visit Browneshill Dolmen, a granite portal dolmen, which is located to the east of Carlow town dating back to pre-historic times.

It is said to be the largest dolmen in Europe and is estimated to weigh up to 150 tonnes.

Carlow County Museum

Carlow County Museum has free admission and a collection of objects that tell the history and heritage of the County. (Enter through the Carlow Tourist Office).

Heritage Ireland Sites have FREE entry on the 1st Wednesday every month. Take advantage and visit and visit Altamont Gardens for free.

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