The most popular town park in Carlow Town is Carlow Town Park. It covers over twelve hectares of open space on the banks of the River Barrow.
The location of the park in this place contributed to the development and regeneration of this part of the town. Moreover, in particular, allowed us to discover the advantages of the Barrow River.
It is the second largest park in Carlow town after Oak Park.
The most characteristic part of the Park is the children’s playground. Whose project design was the subject of international competition. Finally, the lovely playground has plenty of space for kids and a lot to do for kids. There are various pieces of equipment including slides, swings, etc.
The Carlow Town Park project was developed by the Carlow City Council and the Carlow Country Council. This park design addresses the history of Carlow through abstract symbolism. So, in the shape of the motte form in the parkland area. They opened the park in July 2003.
This area was chosen as a town park also to strengthen ties between Carlow and Laois counties.
Also, they built a new pedestrian bridge. It is called the Millennium Bridge, which is the main access point to the park from the center of Carlow.
The Graiguecullen area of the park contains walkways a playground for children and informal parkland in the northern section. It also has a large earthen configuration. This is in the form of a motte, linking the park to the nearby Carlow Castle. Also reflecting the Norman heritage of Carlow town. On the opposite side of the river, the paved walks form part of the Barrow Way. The Barrow Way is a 100km National Waymarked walking trail. Through counties Kildare, Laois, and Carlow. And follows the original towpath of the Barrow canal.
The park provides a great place to relax. But also gives you the opportunity to admire the rowing regattas organized by the Carlow Rowing Club. Which takes place in June each year.
Besides, Carlow Town Park also offers a range of activities. Including kayaking, stand-up paddling, bike hire, treasure hunts, orienteering, and much more.
Park is maintained at a high level. It is very clean, so you can spend a pleasant time. For example, you can walk around, and feed the swans. Then you can sit on a small hill and look at the river and Carlow town.
Usually, it is open from 8 am to 8 pm, and admission is free. Sometimes in winter parks can be closed due to bad weather and the risk of flooding.
What`s more, the park won the All-Ireland Riverside Amenity Award in 2004 in the Tidy Towns competition. And was named Ireland’s Best Public Park. In January 2007, in the inaugural competition of Local Government, the park won the City and County Council award.
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