Background

County Carlow Military Museum: A Chronicle of Courage

Explore County Carlow's military heritage, from ancient battles to modern peacekeeping, in a historic church setting.

4.9

Delve into Carlow's military past at this museum housed in a 19th-century church. Explore exhibits ranging from medieval armor to modern peacekeeping displays, showcasing the contributions of local soldiers across the ages.

A brief summary to County Carlow Military Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's social media for updated opening hours, especially during summer, as they may vary.
  • Consider contacting the museum in advance to arrange a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.
  • The museum is located on the grounds of St. Dympna's Hospital, just off the Athy Road, and is less than a 10-minute walk from Carlow town center.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Carlow town center, the museum is approximately a 10-minute walk. Head southeast on Barrack Street toward Potato Market, then turn left onto Kennedy Avenue. Continue onto Athy Road/R417. The museum is located on the grounds of St. Dympna's Hospital, which will be on your left. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    Bus Éireann operates several routes in Carlow Town. Check the Bus Éireann website for the most up-to-date timetables and routes. The CW1 and CW2 routes both operate every 30 minutes, Monday to Sunday. Use a TFI Leap Card to avail of cheaper fares. From Carlow Coach Park, it is a short walk to the museum. A single fare within the town is approximately €2-3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Carlow town. A taxi from the town center to the museum should cost approximately €8-€12. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available in Carlow, so relying on local taxi services is recommended.

Unlock the Best of County Carlow Military Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about County Carlow Military Museum

The County Carlow Military Museum, located in a repurposed 19th-century church on the grounds of St. Dympna's Hospital, is a poignant tribute to the military history of County Carlow and its people. Founded in 1995, the museum's genesis was the tragic death of local soldier Donie Cunnigham, whose uniform became the first exhibit. The collection has since expanded to over 4,500 items, largely through donations from the families of service men and women. The museum's displays span from the late 18th century to the present day, covering a wide array of conflicts and military engagements. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing Carlow's involvement in the Irish Rebellion of 1798, the Irish War of Independence, and the Irish Civil War. A particularly striking feature is the full-scale replica of a World War I trench, commemorating the 500+ Carlow men who perished and the 2,000 who were injured in that conflict. Other exhibits showcase the Irish Defence Forces, UN peacekeeping missions (Congo, Lebanon, Somalia), and the stories of Carlow soldiers who served in armies worldwide. Highlights include a display on Captain Myles Keogh, who died at the Battle of Little Bighorn, and artifacts from armored vehicle production in Carlow during World War II. The museum also features a medieval Carlow display with reproduction armor and a scale model of Carlow Castle. The museum is open Sundays from March to November, and Wednesdays and Fridays during the summer. Admission is €4 for adults, with reduced rates for children, seniors and groups.

Popular Experiences near County Carlow Military Museum

Popular Hotels near County Carlow Military Museum

Select Currency