Free & Affordable Things to Do in Ireland – August Bank Holiday 2025

Ireland is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world, and the best part is that exploring them does not cost a thing. If you love the outdoors, here are some places you should visit during the August Bank Holiday 2025.

Take a Coastal Walk

The Irish coastline offers incredible views and fresh sea air. Some of the best coastal walks include:

Cliff Walk in Howth – Just outside Dublin, this walk offers stunning views of the sea and cliffs.
The Bray to Greystones Walk – A scenic 7 km route along the coast of County Wicklow.
Causeway Coast in Antrim – Explore the beautiful Giant’s Causeway and surrounding areas for free.

Visit Ireland’s National Parks

Ireland’s national parks are free to enter and offer a great way to connect with nature. Some top picks include:

Killarney National Park, Kerry – Ideal for hiking, cycling, or a simple picnic by the lakes.
Wicklow Mountains National Park – Home to Glendalough, one of the most picturesque spots in Ireland.
Connemara National Park, Galway – Enjoy mountain trails and stunning landscapes.

Enjoy Free and Low-Cost Cultural Experiences

Ireland has a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience it without spending much. Many museums, festivals, and historical sites offer free or budget-friendly activities during the Bank Holiday 2025.

Discover Free Museums and Galleries

Many of Ireland’s top museums and galleries do not charge an entry fee. Some great options include:

National Museum of Ireland, Dublin – Learn about Irish history, archaeology, and art.
Hugh Lane Gallery, Dublin – Home to impressive contemporary and classical art collections.
Crawford Art Gallery, Cork – Showcasing Irish and European artworks.

Attend Local Festivals and Events

The August Bank Holiday Ireland is packed with exciting events. Many festivals offer free performances, parades, and activities. Some events to look out for include:

Spraoi Festival, Waterford – A street arts festival with music, theatre, and performances.
Kilkenny Arts Festival – While some events require tickets, there are many free exhibitions and performances.
Bray Summerfest – A lively festival with concerts, fireworks, and fun activities for all ages.

Affordable Family-Friendly Activities

If you are looking for ways to keep the whole family entertained during the August Bank Holiday 2025, there are plenty of budget-friendly options.

Have a Beach Day

Ireland is home to some beautiful beaches where you can enjoy a picnic, go for a swim, or simply relax. Some great beaches to visit include:

Inch Beach, Kerry – A long stretch of golden sand, perfect for a family day out.
Portmarnock Beach, Dublin – A great spot for paddling and building sandcastles.
Lahinch Beach, Clare – Ideal for surfing and enjoying the sea breeze.

Visit a Pet Farm or Open Farm

Many farms across Ireland offer affordable entry fees, allowing kids to interact with animals and enjoy the countryside. Some popular options include:

Airfield Estate, Dublin – A working farm with gardens, play areas, and walking trails.
Secret Valley Wildlife Park, Wexford – A small, family-friendly zoo with interactive animal experiences.
Stonehall Wildlife Park, Limerick – Home to a variety of animals and birds.

Budget-Friendly Adventure Activities

For those who love a little adventure, there are plenty of exciting activities to try during the August Bank Holiday Ireland without overspending.

Go Kayaking or Paddleboarding

You can rent a kayak or paddleboard for an affordable price in many locations. Some great spots include:

River Liffey, Dublin – Enjoy a paddle through the heart of the city.
Dingle Bay, Kerry – Kayak alongside friendly dolphins and take in the coastal scenery.
Lough Derg, Clare – A peaceful lake perfect for beginners.

Try a Free or Low-Cost Cycling Route

Cycling is a fantastic way to explore Ireland’s countryside and coastline. Many places offer affordable bike rentals. Some great cycling routes include:

Great Western Greenway, Mayo – A scenic cycling route stretching 42 km along the old railway line.
Phoenix Park, Dublin – A huge park where you can cycle and enjoy nature.
Waterford Greenway – A 46 km trail with stunning views.

Relax and Unwind Without Spending Much

The Bank Holiday weekend is also a great time to slow down and take a break from daily life. Here are some simple yet enjoyable ways to unwind without spending much.

Enjoy a Picnic in a Scenic Spot

Pack some homemade food and head to a peaceful location for a relaxing picnic. Some great spots include:

St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin – A lovely park in the city center.
Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon – Beautiful lakeside views and forest trails.
Blarney Castle Gardens, Cork – A stunning setting with walking paths and scenic spots.

Go Stargazing in a Dark Sky Reserve

Ireland has some of the best places in Europe for stargazing. If the weather is clear, head to one of these spots for an unforgettable night under the stars:

Mayo Dark Sky Park – One of the best places in Ireland for stargazing.
Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve – Offers breathtaking views of the Milky Way.
Glendalough, Wicklow – A great mix of history and natural beauty, perfect for a quiet evening.

Make the Most of the August Bank Holiday 2025

The August Bank Holiday 2025 in Ireland does not have to be expensive to be enjoyable. Whether you prefer exploring nature, experiencing cultural events, or just unwinding with friends and family, there are plenty of budget-friendly options. Take advantage of Ireland’s natural beauty, free attractions, and affordable activities to create memorable moments without breaking the bank.

So, how will you spend your Bank Holiday weekend? Plan your adventure, embrace the outdoors, and enjoy all that the August Bank Holiday Ireland has to offer.