Carlow Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Carlow, a charming town located in the heart of Ireland, offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated in County Carlow, this scenic destination is often overlooked by tourists, making it the perfect place for those seeking an authentic Irish experience away from the crowds.

One of the main attractions in Carlow is the historic Carlow Castle. Built in the 13th century, this imposing fortress stands proudly on the banks of the River Barrow. Visitors can explore its well-preserved ruins and imagine what life was like during medieval times. The castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

For nature enthusiasts, the River Barrow provides an idyllic setting for leisurely walks and boat trips. The river meanders through Carlow, offering picturesque landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere. Exploring the riverbanks, visitors can discover hidden gems such as the beautiful Duckett's Grove, a Gothic revival-style mansion set amidst splendid gardens.

Carlow is also home to the visually striking St. Patrick's College, a seminary founded in the early 19th century. The college boasts a magnificent chapel adorned with intricate stained glass windows and ornate woodwork, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

In addition to its rich history and architecture, Carlow offers a vibrant arts and culture scene. The Visual Centre for Contemporary Art is a hub for creativity, showcasing exhibitions by local and international artists. The George Bernard Shaw Theatre hosts a variety of performances, from plays to concerts, ensuring there is always something entertaining to enjoy.

Food lovers will be delighted by the diverse culinary offerings in Carlow. The town is home to an array of charming cafes, traditional pubs, and fine dining establishments. Visitors can savor delicious Irish cuisine, from hearty stews to freshly caught seafood, while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.

Carlow's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The nearby Blackstairs Mountains and Mount Leinster provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. With its rolling green hills, meandering rivers, and quaint villages, this region epitomizes the natural beauty of Ireland.

Alternative names: Population: 24.3 thous.Area: 48.15 mi²Elevation: 177 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 52°50'11"N, 6°55'43"W

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Region: CarlowIreland

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Carlow Top Attractions

Carlow Attractions - What to See and Explore

Carlow offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Carlow County Museum, Carlow Castle, Brownshill Dolmen, Duckett's Grove. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Specialty museum • History museum • Museum
Carlow County Museum
Carlow County Museum is a museum documenting the history of County Carlow. Located on College Street in Carlow town, the building was originally the Presentation Convent; it also houses the County Library and Archives.
Ruins of a 13th-century castle/fortress
Carlow Castle
Carlow Castle is located near to the River Barrow in County Carlow, Ireland. It was built between 1207 and 1213, and is a National Monument of Ireland.
Monuments and statues • Archaeological site
Brownshill Dolmen
Brownshill Dolmen is a very large megalithic portal tomb situated 3 km east of Carlow, in County Carlow, Ireland. Its capstone weighs an estimated 150 metric tons, and is reputed to be the heaviest in Europe. The tomb is listed as a National Monument.

Historical place • Garden • Reportedly haunted
Duckett's Grove
Duckett's Grove is a ruined 19th-century great house and former estate in County Carlow, Ireland. Belonging to the Duckett family, the house was formerly the focal point of a 12,000-acre estate, and dominated the local landscape of the area for more than two centuries.
Architecture • Sacred and religious sites • Church
Cathedral of the Assumption
The Cathedral of the Assumption is both the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin and the parish church for the cathedral parish.
Military museum • History museum • Museum
County Carlow Military Museum
County Carlow Military Museum is a museum dedicated to the military history of County Carlow and its people. It is located in the former church on the grounds of St. Dympna's Hospital in Carlow town.
City hall
County Buildings
The County Buildings are a municipal facility in Athy Road, Carlow, County Carlow, Ireland.
Universities and schools
St. Patrick's
St Patrick's, Carlow College, is a liberal arts college located in Carlow, Ireland. The college is the second oldest third level institution in Ireland have been founded in 1782 by James Keefe, then Roman Catholic Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, and his co-adjutor bishop Daniel Delany.
52°50'21"N • 6°55'48"W
Carlow Courthouse
Carlow Courthouse is a judicial facility in Dublin Road, Carlow, County Carlow, Ireland.
52°50'41"N • 6°55'35"W
Delta Sensory Gardens
Garden • Park
52°42'17"N • 6°58'54"W
Walsh Whiskey Distillery
Tours • Distillery • Whiskey distillery
Monuments and statues
Ceatharloch
Michael Warren is an Irish sculptor who produces site-specific public art. Inspired by Oisín Kelly, his art teacher at St Columba's College, Michael Warren studied at Bath Academy of Art, at Trinity College Dublin and, from 1971 to 1975, at the Accademia di Brera in Milan. He now lives and works in Co. Wexford.
Universities and schools
Institute of Technology Carlow
Institute of Technology Carlow is one of the largest technology colleges in Ireland, with campuses in Carlow, Wexford and Wicklow, and part-time provision elsewhere in Ireland. It will become a founding constituent institute of Technological University for the South East in May 2022.

Day trips

Carlow – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Carlow, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Mondello Park (Naas), Kilkenny Castle (Kilkenny), Mount Juliet Golf & Spa Hotel.

30 milesN
Sport venue, Sport
Mondello Park, Naas
Mondello Park is the premier motorsport venue in the Republic of Ireland, located in the picturesque town of Naas, just a short drive from Dublin. Founded in 1968, this revered circuit has become the heart of Irish racing, offering an exhilarating experience for both...
19 milesSW
Tours of restored 12th-century fortress
Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle stands as a testament to Ireland's medieval grandeur, dominating the skyline of Kilkenny City with its imposing structure. Originally built in 1195 by Norman occupiers, the castle has undergone numerous transformations throughout its storied history...
24 milesSW
Golf
Mount Juliet Golf & Spa Hotel
Nestled within the lush Irish countryside, Mount Juliet Golf & Spa Hotel emerges as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat. This majestic hotel, located in County Kilkenny, Ireland, is renowned for its championship golf course...
19 milesSW
Catholic cathedral and 9th-century tower
St Canice's Cathedral, Kilkenny
St Canice's Cathedral, a historical beacon nestled in the medieval city of Kilkenny, Ireland, stands as a testament to the country's rich ecclesiastical heritage. This ancient church, dating back to the 13th century, is a pivotal landmark that has witnessed the...
15 milesSW
Limestone caves and archaeological finds
Dunmore Cave, Castlecomer
Nestled in the verdant Irish countryside near the city of Castlecomer lies Dunmore Cave, a fascinating natural wonder that doubles as a museum and a testament to Ireland's rich geological and historical tapestry. Known for its impressive array of calcite formations...