Do you enjoy the outdoors, art, museums, food and drink, or adventures? Ireland’s County Carlow has something for everyone. This go-to travel guide will tell you about some of the best places to explore in County Carlow!
Continue reading to learn about all the fantastic attractions in County Carlow! We have covered everything a travel guide should: outdoor activities, indoor activities, active activities, historical activities, and some activities that are fun for all the family.
Table of Contents
Carlow Town: County Carlow’s Capital
Carlow Town is the capital of County Carlow. It is a vibrant, modern town with many fun and exciting attractions. When exploring County Carlow, you must visit this county capital. Here, we have provided information on some of the best things to do within Carlow Town.
Things To Do In County Carlow
The Chocolate Garden of Ireland
The Chocolate Garden of Ireland
Have you ever wanted to visit Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory? Well, County Carlow has the perfect place for you! The Chocolate Garden of Ireland is a fully functioning chocolate and ice cream factory. You offer chocolate workshops, a cafe, an ice cream parlour, and a free on-site play area, ensuring fun for the whole family. For all food and chocolate lovers, this is one of the places you should visit when exploring County Carlow.
The VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art and the George Bernard Shaw Theatre
VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art & The George Bernard Shaw Theatre, County Carlow, Ireland
If you enjoy art, culture, and innovative ideas, VISUAL is your place! VISUAL is located in the centre of Carlow Town, on Old Dublin Road. Inside, you will find four world-class gallery spaces and a 335-seat theatre for performing. You will also find the most significant white-cube gallery space in Ireland. Throughout the centre, you will be delighted to see five different galleries: The Main Gallery, The Studio Gallery, The Link Gallery, The Digital Gallery, and The Lobby Gallery.
The Lobby Gallery is the most miniature exhibition in the building and is used for various things. This space is used as a reading room, a process space where artists can test their ideas, an educational space, and for seasonal exhibitions. The Digital Gallery has been specifically designed to allow low lighting or total blackout. This blackout effect is created by using large blackout drapes at both entrances. This gallery is mainly used for audio-visual and digital media work.
The Link Gallery is the only non-white cube with a sizeable gallery-length window looking outside to a pool, making it the perfect space for quiet thinking. The Studio Gallery is a smaller space usually used for small exhibitions or single works of art. The Main Gallery has walls made of two layers of 18-centimetre MDF, which is the perfect material to hang art and attach heavy loads.
Alongside the VISUAL Arts Centre, you will find the 320-seat George Bernard Shaw Theatre, with world-class facilities. This theatre receives national and international touring productions and hosts many locally produced shows and works. It is named after one of Ireland’s most famous playwrights and Nobel Laureates.
Opening hours (Gallery, Box Office and Reception)
Monday: closed
Tuesday to Saturday: 11 am to 5:30 pm
Sunday: 2 pm to 5 pm
Prices
All Galleries at VISUAL are free for all. The last admissions are 15 minutes before closing.
Accessibility
Parking is paid during the day and free after 6:30 p.m. This centre is wheelchair—and pram-friendly, as there is ramp access to the front entrance, power-assisted doors, and lift access to all building levels. There are also designated spaces in the theatre for wheelchair users. The Box Office and Auditorium also have a T Loop, which works with most hearing aids. This centre provides support for people with different disabilities, so everyone has the opportunity to explore the world of contemporary art in County Carlow.
Delta Sensory Gardens
An Oasis of Peace and Tranquility
Delta Sensory Gardens, County Carlow
Delta Sensory Gardens opened in 2007 and is a sizeable 2.5-acre site comprising 16 connecting gardens. It was established in 1990 as an adult centre for people with learning difficulties. This Oasis is on the outskirts of Carlow Town on Strawhall Estate. You will find beautiful scenery, plants, seasonal bedding, and accessories every season. One of the most stunning features is the Kugal water feature, a tonne of pink marble floating on a water cushion.
An onsite cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea. There is also a craft area where visitors can make small handmade gifts, which can be bought at the craft shop. While exploring County Carlow, this attraction promises a relaxing and fun time for everyone.
Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm
Weekends and Public Holidays: 11 am to 5 pm
Prices
Children under 13-years-old: free
Concession: €5
Adults: €6
Students: €5
Yearly membership for one: €25
Yearly membership for couples: €40
Accessibility
This whole attraction is wheelchair and pram-friendly. There is also a bathroom onsite, as well as a free and spacious carpark
Go-With-The-Flow Adventures
For those of you who love to explore the outdoors and love a thrill, look no further! Go-With-The-Flow Adventures is the perfect place for you! This award-winning company offers many fun, thrilling adventures that guarantee fun for the entire family! This destination should be at the top of your list of exploring places.
You can trust qualified guides to take you on outstanding trails, water sports, and group activities. The River Barrow will take your breath away with its beauty and stunning scenery of towns, villages, and rural environments.
There are countless exciting features to view and experience, from the stunning scenery to the historic old navigation channels used by Guinness to deliver Ireland’s favourite beer to the Southeast.
Activities
Here are some of the fantastic activities that you will have the opportunity to try:
Splash n Dash: This trail on the Barrow River is suitable for all, including beginners. This canoe trail offers thrills from travelling down weirs, waterfalls, and rapids and surrounds you with stunning scenery. It is open daily in the morning and afternoon; book your slot beforehand.
Wild Camp Safari: This self-guided adventure will take you camping, canoeing, and through all the elements of nature. This activity is highly recommended for families; it is the perfect adventure for them to bond while exploring the outdoors. You also do not have to worry about safety, as the Bowen River is one of the safest rivers in Ireland.
Barrow Discovery- Spills andThrills: This team-building activity will take up to three fun-filled hours. This activity will take you on a thrilling adventure on either canoes, kayaks, or river surfers. On this guided trail, you will be taken up weirs and rapids and shown stunning cottages, waterfalls, and an old castle.
Opening Hours
Friday
9 AM–6 PM
Saturday
9 AM–6 PM
Sunday
9 AM–6 PM
Monday(June Bank Holiday)
9 AM–6 PMHours might differ
Tuesday
9 AM–6 PM
Wednesday
9 AM–6 PM
Thursday
9 AM–6 PM
Carlow Castle
Carlow Castle, County Carlow
Carlow Castle is a stunning ruin on the eastern bank of the River Barrow, near the centre of Carlow Town. It is one of Ireland’s most essential Anglo-Norman castles; today, two towers and a part of an intervening wall remain. This is the perfect place to explore; it is accessible and full of historical importance.
Castle Carlow is open to the public on weekdays only.
History
Castle Carlow was the first of its kind built in Ireland. The earliest written record of this Irish castle is dated 1231. It is said that this castle was built by Medieval English nobleman William Marshal, the Elder, between 1207 and 1213 when he was in Ireland. The castle was given, bought, and taken by many people throughout the years. It was handed over to the monarchy in 1306, given to Thomas Plantagenet in 1312, confiscated by the crown in 1537, bought by the Earl of Thomond in 1616, and was owned by multiple people until 1650 when Oliver Cromwell took it, and later returned to the Earl of Thomond.
This castle was a towered keep, with a substantial rectangular tower surrounded by four smaller three-quarter-circular towers. The inner castle was 16 metres by 9.2 metres, the towers had a diameter of 4.6 metres, and the walls were 2.7 metres thick. In 1814, the castle was widely destroyed by explosives in an attempt to make the space larger for asylum use. The only areas not destroyed were the outer face of the west wall and the two neighbouring towers.
Oak Park Forest Park
Oak Park Forest Park Walk, County Carlow, Ireland!
Within this County Carlow travel guide, we had to include the relaxing and tranquil Old Park Forest Park. This forest park promises fun for all the family and is perfect for those who enjoy walking outdoors. The park is full of different species of woodland and animals. You will spot some ducks or swans in the lakes. Look quickly and quietly, as they may startle easily.
The Woodland Walks have been organised to take you through a wide range of natural features, ensuring you can explore many things. The walks extend over four kilometres, including the Butlers Wood Loop, the Lake Path, the Fox Covert Track, and the Sally Island Trail.
The Old Park Forest Park was awarded the 2013 RDS Irish Forestry Award.
Opening Hours
Old Park Forest Park is open seven days per week throughout the year.
From April to October, the park is open from 8 am to 9 pm
From November to March, the park is open from 8 am to 4 pm
Prices
This park is free for everyone to access throughout the year.
Accessibility
Throughout the park, there are wheelchair-accessible walkways and bird-watching areas. The Butler’s Wood Loop is also wheelchair accessible. There are also toilets onsite, a large and free car park, and many outdoor picnic tables.
Carlow County Museum
Carlow County Museum – Artefacts of Rebellious Ireland – County Carlow
The Carlow County Museum is one of the best locations for those interested in art, history, and culture. It is one of Ireland’s newest local museums and an award-winning tourist attraction, making it one of the must-visit places to explore while in Carlow Town.
This museum will teach you about Carlow’s heritage and allow you to view many pieces of world-class artwork. It will also display the famous 19th-century hand-carved pulpit of Carlow Cathedral, the original gallows trapdoor from Carlow Gaol, Captain Myles Keogh’s pipe, and many other exciting exhibitions. Four galleries are displayed throughout the year, with many different and exciting exhibitions.
This museum is in Carlow Town’s cultural quarter, on College Street.
Opening Hours
The Carlow County Museum is open all year, and the last admission is half an hour before closing:
Friday
10 AM–4 PM
Saturday
10 AM–1 PM, 1:30–4 PM
Sunday
Closed
Monday
2–4 PMHoliday opening hours
Tuesday
10 AM–4 PM
Wednesday
10 AM–4 PM
Thursday
10 AM–4 PM
Prices
Admission to this museum is free for all visitors. You can even book free guided tours for up to ten people.
Accessibility
This museum is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring fun for all. Many car parks are nearby, the closest being the VISUAL Carlow Carpark and the Carlow Shopping Centre Carpark.
Brownshill Dolmen
The Brownshill Dolmen, County Carlow
Brownshill Dolmen is a fantastic monument located near Carlow Town. It is a granite capstone that weighs over 100 tonnes, making it the largest monument of its kind in Europe. The monument dates back to prehistoric times. It is signposted and on the Hacketstown Road.
This is one monument that anyone who enjoys the outdoors and history should add to their list of things to see! This tomb was built between 4000 and 3000 BC. The chamber consists of two portal stones supporting the capstones, a large door stone, and side stones. There are two overlapping capstones: one is 4 metres long, and the second is 3 metres long.
Fun Fact: This chamber was reportedly used as a dwelling for a family in the 1840s.
Black Castle
The historic and beautiful Black Castle is in the village of Leighlinbridge, accessible from the River Towpath.
History
Black Castle was built in 1181 for the Normans by John de Clahull under Hugh de Lacy, the first Earl of Ulster. In the 1270s, the Carmelites came to Ireland. They built and established their first friary in Leighlinbridge, near the castle. Following this, in 1543, the friary was suppressed and was later converted into a fort with a surrounding wall in 1546 by Edward Bellingham. In 1577, the castle was captured by Rory Oge O’More, under the command of George Carew, and he destroyed parts of the town. Later, during the O’Neill rebellion in the 1590s, the castle was repaired for the monarchy. Then, during the 1641 Irish Rebellion, the Catholic confederation gated the castle. The castle was then captured by Col. Hewson in 1649.
Opening Hours
You can visit this historic monument for free anytime, Monday through Sunday. However, we recommend visiting during daylight hours.
Duckett’s Grove | Great Gothic Mansion
Magical Duckett’s Grove in County Carlow, Ireland by drone
Duckett’s Grove was the home to the Duckett family during the 18th, 19th and early 20th century. The building was at the centre of a 12,000-acre estate, and this area dominated the Carlow landscape for centuries. The Duckett Grove Walled Gardens surround the ruins of this great house with varieties of roses, peonies, and more flowers and shrubs. The lower-walled garden contains a variety of fruits, shrubs, and perennials. Restoring the old paths and sunken bridge and planting more trees and shrubs have created a gorgeous garden.
The estate was designed in the Gothic revival style by Thomas A. Cobden in the 1820s for John Davidson Duckett. The grand mansion features many towers and turrets of different shapes. One tall octagonal turret rises from the building, decorated with oriels and niches containing statues.
This historic mansion is located in Rainstown, between Carlow and Tullow. It is a destination worth visiting when exploring County Carlow.
Opening Hours
Duckett’s Grove is open year-round during daylight hours. To avoid disappointment, call in advance.
Duckett’s Grove Design – Craft and Gift Emporium is open:
Friday: 12 pm to 5 pm
Saturday and Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm
Prices
It is free for all to access and explore Duckett’s House
Accessibility
Duckett’s House is wheelchair friendly; there are on-site toilets and a large free carpark.
Blackstairs Mountain
Blackstairs Mountain, County Carlow
Blackstairs Mountain is one of County Carlow’s best-known attractions. At nearly 800 metres high, it is the perfect spot for nature lovers and hill walkers. The climb to the top can be approached from many places, including areas in County Wexford.
Please enjoy reading about this stunning mountain and how you can explore it here in another of our fantastic travel blogs.
Rancho Reilly is a Pet Farm, activity centre and campsite. The interactive pet farm is home to many animals you can hold and play with. There are bunnies, pigs, hens, snakes, and many more. Alongside this, there are many outdoor activities for the family and playpark activities, such as a roundabout, sand pits, and swings. There are also tractors, bikes, and a track to enjoy! There is also the opportunity to ride a pony or donkey for something more exciting! This attraction is the perfect location in County Carlow for people of all ages to explore nature, animals, and camping life.
Camping
Rancho Reilly offers camping from €32.50 per night for up to five people. This includes free entry into the Pet Farm and Activity Centre, after-hours access to some Pet Farm facilities, showering facilities, and a kitchen.
To rent a tent, you must stay for at least two nights, which costs €55 per night for up to five people.
To ‘rent a caravan, ‘ you must stay for a minimum of two nights, which costs €75 per night for up to five people.
Opening Hours
April: Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm
May: Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm
June: Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm
July and August: 7 days per week from 11 am to 6 pm
September: Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm
Accessibility
Rancho Reilly is wheelchair friendly and has wheelchair facilities. There is also a free car park.
Ballymoon Castle
The mystery of Ballymoon Castle. County Carlow
Ballymoon Castle ruins date back to the 13th Century or early 14th Century. Most of this castle’s history has been lost over time, but it was said that it was built by the Bigod family or by the Carew family, who bought it from the Bigods. In the late 1800s, Michael Sheill acquired the castle.
Not much of the original castle is left. However, we can see an 80-foot square courtyard from the ruins with 20-foot-high granite walls about 8 feet wide. The inside of the castle is open, and the walls show us where the doors were positioned. There is a large double fireplace on the north side; we know this was part of the great hall.
You can access this castle from Fenagh Road by walking across a small timber footbridge. You can visit this ruin anytime; appropriate outdoor footwear is advised. This monument in County Carlow is perfect for those who enjoy exploring the outdoors and historic places.
Have you visited County Carlow or explored any of these attractions? Please tell us about your visit in the comments below!
If you enjoyed this travel guide about Ireland’s beautiful and historic County Carlow, please enjoy more travel guides ConnollyCove have created for all your travelling needs:
Ciaran Connolly
Ciaran Connolly
