As parents, we know how expensive it can be to keep the kids entertained, so we’ve put together a list of things to do in Kilkenny that won’t cost you a cent. Here are our suggestions for the best free things to do in Kilkenny with kids.
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Our ideas for free things to do in Kilkenny cover everything from cycling and orienteering to culture and history. You could also pick a different town, village or area to explore each week, put together a list of interesting spots beforehand, and turn it into a family day out.
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Visit Gairdín an Ghorta
Visit Gairdín an Ghorta in Newmarket, a garden of remembrance dedicated to those who died during the Great Famine. Every part of the garden has been thoughtfully designed, making it a peaceful and meaningful spot to explore as a family.
You can take a self-guided tour using the brochures available at the garden, or call ahead to arrange a guided tour. A knowledgeable local guide can bring the history to life and tailor the visit to keep children of different ages engaged.
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Take a Walk
Put on your walking shoes, pack a picnic and head out for a walk. From strolling through a park or garden to hiking through woods and hills, there’s a walk to suit every family in Kilkenny.
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Kilkenny Playgrounds
There are some great playgrounds in Kilkenny. Why not aim to visit a different one each week? It’s free, it’s fun, and the kids get plenty of fresh air and running around. Bring some snacks and drinks, or pack a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of it.
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The Butler Gallery at Kilkenny Castle
Inspiring culture seekers since 1943, the Butler Gallery is a much-loved part of Kilkenny’s arts scene. The gallery is free to visit and runs a Children’s Programme and Youth Programme with events throughout the year, so it’s worth checking their website before you go to see what’s on.
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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 pop up near you.
Parks in Kilkenny
Spend an afternoon in the park. There are parks throughout Kilkenny city and county where you can walk, play ball, have a picnic, and maybe stop at a playground along the way.
Cycling in Kilkenny
Take out the bicycles and get active. Follow an established cycle trail or find an off-road route.
We like to bring our bikes to the Bishop’s Meadows or down the Canal Walk, as there’s a playground in Castle Park along the way.
You can find other routes to try through Trail Kilkenny or the Coillte Outdoors website.
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Kilkenny Libraries
Visit your local library and find out what classes and events they run throughout the year. Your local library branch is a wonderful, free resource for families.
Libraries typically host a popular annual summer reading programme, and many branches run or host parent and toddler groups, storytelling sessions, arts and crafts classes, book clubs, games and activities sessions, and exhibitions.
There’s also free computer access and the option to borrow books, music and DVDs. For a change of scenery, why not visit a different branch?
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National Design & Craft Gallery
The National Design & Craft Gallery has long been a feature of Kilkenny’s cultural life, located near Kilkenny Castle in the heart of the medieval city. It’s worth checking their current opening details and events before you visit, as craft galleries of this kind often run workshops and demonstrations alongside their exhibitions.
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Go Orienteering
Kilkenny Castle Park has orienteering courses at three distances: short (1.8km), medium (2.4km) and long (3.5km). Maps are available to download from the Kilkenny Castle website.
The orienteering course is open to families, individuals, clubs and schools, and is a great way to explore the flora and fauna of Kilkenny Castle Park while getting some exercise in beautiful surroundings. A small section of the Canal Walk is also included in the courses.
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St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower
St Canice’s Cathedral is Ireland’s second-largest medieval cathedral, after St Patrick’s in Dublin. This ecclesiastical site was founded in the 6th century and named after St Canice. Cill Channigh is the Gaelic for the Church of Canice, the church that originally stood on this site.
St Canice’s Round Tower is one of only two round towers in Ireland that visitors can climb. It’s the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny City, and climbing it rewards you with great views over the city, weather permitting.
History & Heritage in Kilkenny
Visit one of Kilkenny’s historic and heritage sites, such as Kilkenny Castle, Aghaviller Church and Round Tower, Killamery Church and High Cross, and Kells Priory, to name just a few.
Some OPW heritage sites offer free admission on selected days throughout the year, so it’s worth checking the OPW website for current free-admission dates before you plan your visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kilkenny Castle free to visit with kids?
The castle grounds and Castle Park, including the orienteering trails and playground at Castle Park, are free to enjoy. Some heritage sites and OPW properties, including parts of Kilkenny Castle, offer free admission days throughout the year, so check the OPW website for current details before you go.
What are the best free outdoor activities for kids in Kilkenny?
Walking, cycling, orienteering in Castle Park, and visiting Kilkenny’s playgrounds and parks are all great free options that get the whole family outdoors and active.
Are there free indoor activities in Kilkenny for a rainy day?
Yes. Kilkenny’s libraries offer free access to books, computers and family events, and galleries such as the Butler Gallery are free to visit and a great option when the weather turns.
Do I need to book anything in advance?
Most of these activities, like walks, playgrounds and library visits, don’t need booking. For guided tours, such as at Gairdín an Ghorta, or for gallery events and workshops, it’s best to check ahead as these can be seasonal or limited in number.
Related Articles
- Top 10 Things to Do in Kilkenny With Kids
- Rainy Day Activities for Kids in Kilkenny
- 8 Fun Family Walks in Kilkenny
- 100 Free Fun Things to Do with Kids in Ireland
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What other free things to do in Kilkenny would you recommend for families? Leave a comment below, we’d love to hear from you!
