As the saying goes, the best things in life are free! If you’re looking for free things to do in Cavan with kids, you’re in luck — this county is packed with wild landscapes, ancient history and magical spots that won’t cost you a cent.
There are plenty of free things to do in Cavan that make for a wonderful family-friendly day out. Take a look at some of our favourite picks below, and don’t forget to let us know yours in the comments!
You May Also Enjoy Top 10 Things to Do in Cavan With Kids
Fun and Free Things to Do in Cavan
Moneygashel Cashel
Moneygashel Cashel, located not far from Blacklion, includes the remains of three stone cashels dating from the early Christian period.
A cashel is a secure circular enclosure that once accommodated houses and animal shelters. The area also holds evidence of much earlier settlement and ritual, with a nearby court tomb and standing stones adding to the sense of stepping back in time.
Tullydermot Falls
The dramatic Tullydermot Falls sit around 6km south-west of Swanlinbar, in the direction of the Bellavally Gap. The falls are easily accessible, with a trail leading from an information point at the car park.
Roughly two miles further up the river, there’s another waterfall that some visitors find even more impressive than Tullydermot itself. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic, a spot of angling, or — for the more adventurous — a swim in some of the clearest, darkest water in Ireland. The Tullydermot viewpoint looks out over Slieve Rushen and the lowlands of north Cavan, with a good view of the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain too.
You May Also Enjoy Visit These Wonderful Waterfalls in Ireland Perfect for a Family Day Out
Visit the Cavan Lakes
Cavan is famous for having a lake for every day of the year, so make the most of them! Walking the shores, skimming stones, splashing about, fishing and all sorts of water-based fun make for a great family day out.
You May Also Enjoy The Best Picnic Places for Families in Cavan
Shannon Pot
Little history lovers will enjoy the legend behind Shannon Pot, which stretches back to Finn MacCool and the Fianna, the great warriors of Irish mythology. As the story goes, Síonnan, daughter of Lodan, came to the Shannon Pot in search of the great Salmon of Wisdom.
The Pot itself is the source of the River Shannon, and the site has parking, a children’s play area and a picnic area, making it an easy and enjoyable stop for families.
You May Also Enjoy Horrible Histories Fans Will Love Exploring These Incredible Historic Places in Ireland
Visit the Library
Your local library is a brilliant — and free — family resource. Pop in to see what classes and events are running throughout the year.
Many branches host parent and toddler groups, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts, book clubs, chess clubs, and other games and activities. Add in free computer access and the chance to borrow books and DVDs, and it’s easy to see why a library visit is always worthwhile. For a change of scenery, why not try a different branch to your usual one?
You May Also Enjoy 100 Free Fun Things to Do with Kids in Ireland
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 might be happening near you.
Erica’s Fairy Forest
Erica’s Fairy Forest in Cootehill was created by parents Natasha and Ciaran to honour the memory of their five-year-old daughter Erica and her unshakable belief in fairies and magical kingdoms. It’s also a thank you to the people of Cootehill and the surrounding areas for their support throughout Erica’s journey.
Bring along a letter for the Fairy Post Box — you never know, you might just get a reply.
The Fairy Forest is free to visit from sunrise to sunset.
You May Also Enjoy Places to Find Magical Fairy Trails in Ireland
Forest Walks in Cavan
Cavan has plenty of forest walks to choose from, with accessible, family-friendly paths of all lengths and difficulties.
Pack a picnic, pull on the wellies, and take the kids on a bear hunt through the woods!
You May Also Enjoy 4 Fun Family Walks in Cavan
Cavan Playgrounds
There are some great playgrounds in Cavan that make free fun even easier to find. Pack some snacks, drinks or a picnic lunch and settle in for an afternoon of play.
You May Also Enjoy Best Playgrounds in Ireland Recommended by Parents & Children
Cavan Burren Park
© Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland
Cavan Burren Park sits within the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark, recognised for its exceptional geological significance.
Make the most of the interpretative centre and walking trails, which highlight the area’s spectacular prehistoric tombs, fascinating geology, and the many stories that make this such a unique landscape to explore with kids.
You May Also Enjoy Unusual Places to Visit in Ireland With the Kids
FAQs About Free Things to Do in Cavan with Kids
Is Cavan a good county for a free family day out?
Yes — Cavan has a great mix of lakes, forest walks, ancient historical sites and community spaces like libraries and playgrounds, many of which cost nothing to visit.
Do I need to book to visit places like Shannon Pot or Moneygashel Cashel?
No booking is needed for these outdoor heritage sites — they’re open for visitors to explore at their own pace. As with any outdoor site, check conditions and wear suitable footwear before you go.
Is Erica’s Fairy Forest free to visit?
Yes, Erica’s Fairy Forest in Cootehill is free to visit from sunrise to sunset.
What should we bring on a free family day out in Cavan?
A picnic, snacks and drinks, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are a good starting point, especially for the forest walks, waterfalls and lakeside spots.
Related Articles
- Top 10 Things to Do in Cavan With Kids
- 4 Fun Family Walks in Cavan
- Playgrounds in Cavan
- The Best Picnic Places for Families in Cavan
Save These Ideas for Later
Not heading out today? Bookmark this page or save it to your phone so you’ve got a ready-made list of free Cavan adventures whenever the mood — or the weather — is right.
Want More Free Family Days Out?
Sign up for our free newsletter for weekly ideas, competitions and offers for families — delivered straight to your inbox, and always free.
What are your favourite free things to do in Cavan with the family? Leave a comment below and let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
