Best Things to do in Carlow | Must-see attractions 2025

Delta Sensory Gardens

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

Strawhall industrial estate Just Off the Athy Round About

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Delta Sensory Gardens in Carlow, Ireland features 16 themed gardens designed to engage the five senses. The garden centre includes on-site dining.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

€5. All proceeds support the Delta Centre.

Duckett's Grove

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Ruin

Duckett's Grove House Duckett's Grove House Duckett's Grove House Near Carlow Town

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Duckett's Grove in Carlow, Ireland, is a historic estate featuring Gothic ruins and restored walled gardens with diverse flora and cultural significance.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Seasonal events may require tickets.

County Carlow Military Museum

2:00 PM–5:00 PM

Museum

St Dympnas Hospital (Athy Rd)

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County Carlow Military Museum in Carlow, Ireland, showcases military history from the 1798 rebellion to modern peacekeeping missions, all housed in a historic church.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated.

Carlow County Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

cnr College & Tullow Sts

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Carlow County Museum displays artifacts from local history, including unique items like the gallows trapdoor and Captain Myles Keogh's smoking pipe. Admission is free.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Carlow Castle

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Castle hill

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Carlow Castle, a 13th-century medieval stronghold in County Carlow, Ireland, features ruins of two towers, walls, and gardens, reflecting its historical significance.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Carlow Town Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

10 Sleaty Street Graiguecullen

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Carlow Town Park is a city park in Carlow, Ireland, featuring diverse plant life, walking paths, and community events. It serves as a green space for relaxation and recreation.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated costs.

Carlow Golf Club

7:30 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

Dublin Rd

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Carlow Golf Club in Carlow, Ireland, offers a picturesque 18-hole course designed in 1896, renowned for its challenging layout and scenic landscapes.

Duration: 4–5 hours, including a round of golf and time at the clubhouse.

Green fees apply, with discounts for members and guests on weekdays.

Carlow College

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

College St. (Tullow St.)

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Carlow College, established in 1782, offers diverse higher education programs in Carlow, Ireland, emphasizing liberal arts and community engagement.

Duration: At least 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have a fee.

Fairgreen Shopping Centre

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

Barrack St

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Fairgreen Shopping Centre in Carlow, Ireland, features a diverse range of retail outlets, dining options, and vibrant communal spaces for shoppers and visitors.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. No charge for entry; only purchases are required.

Visual Centre for Contemporary Art and The George Bernard Shaw Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Gallery

Old Dublin Rd

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Visual Centre for Contemporary Art hosts dynamic art exhibitions and The George Bernard Shaw Theatre features diverse performances in Carlow, Ireland.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free for the art centre. Theatre tickets vary by performance.

Urglin Rutland Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ireland

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Urglin Rutland Church in County Carlow, Ireland, offers visitors a glimpse into local history and architecture, serving as a spiritual hub since its foundation.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for upkeep and community events.

Carlow Cathedral

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

College St

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Carlow Cathedral is a Regency Gothic church in Carlow, Ireland, founded in 1833. It serves as the cathedral for the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Duckett's Grove Walled Gardens & Pleasure Grounds

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Garden

Duckett's Grove

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Duckett's Grove Walled Gardens & Pleasure Grounds in Carlow, Ireland, offers enchanting gardens, historical ruins, and tranquil landscapes, perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require paid tickets.

Poor Clares Church

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Ireland

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Poor Clares Church in Carlow, Ireland is a historic Franciscan convent church known for its unique architecture and serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free

Bennekerry

Open all day

Church

Ireland

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Bennekerry, located in Carlow, Ireland, is a serene village known for its scenic beauty and rich history, offering unique insights into Irish rural life.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some local events may have a fee.

Staplestown Church of Ireland

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

Ireland

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Staplestown Church of Ireland in County Carlow is a historic site known for its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings, making it a noteworthy visit for culturally inclined travelers.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations appreciated for maintenance.

Urglin Church

Open all day

Church

Ireland

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Urglin Church in Carlow, Ireland, is a historical site dating back to the 12th century, known for its distinctive Romanesque architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.