The 10 Best Playgrounds & Play Spaces Around Meath

1. Blackwater Park

This is a major park in Navan (68 acre) which offers a purpose-built children’s playground.

Features include spacious play zones, picnic areas, walking trails, and even a “learn to cycle” facility added in recent years. There's ample space for younger children to play, separates zones for different ages, trails and open air for more energetic play.

2. Fairgreen Playground

Fairgreen playground is a well-refurbished facility, noted for its modern, spacious design and interactive equipment. It’s close to town, making it accessible, and the design emphasises developmental play, which ties nicely to Montessori values of exploration and independence.

3. Trim Playground

Though a bit further from Navan/Kells, this playground in Trim is a standout in County Meath for its variety: slides, a castle-style climbing structure, rope-lattice roundabout, zipline, sensory wall for younger children. Excellent for children who enjoy a mix of physical challenge and imaginative play.

4. Balrath Woods Playground

A nature-rich setting close to Navan offering woodland trails and playgrounds for children to explore. Listed among “active spaces” in Meath’s wellbeing map. This playground encourages exploration in nature.

5. Kentstown Village Park Playground

Listed as a community active space in the vicinity of Navan. Quieter than major parks, may be ideal for younger children and parents looking for a low-key outing.

6. Ballivor Playground

Though a little further out, Ballivor has a new playground opened in 2018 and might be worth the drive for variety.

A perfect spot to combine a trip with a treat, maybe an ice-cream in town or a nature walk nearby.

7. Emerald Park ‘Pow Wow’ Playground

This attraction has towers, slides, climbing frames, and more! A slightly different location to the main two towns, good if you’re exploring more of Meath.

8. Duleek Playground

Duleek Playground is a nice little playground located in Station Rd, Commons, Co. Meath. The playground has various equipment including slides, swings, and more.

9. Ashbourne Playground

  It’s handy for families seeking something between Navan and Dublin but away from the main town buzz.

10. Laytown Playground

A spacious, rubber-surfaced playground with equipment suitable for children up to around 12 years old. Located near the seafront and train station, making it a great outing spot for families.

Why these matter for your child’s early years

•            Movement and physical development – Playgrounds allow children to climb, balance, run and engage gross motor skills which align with our Montessori emphasis on movement and independence.

•            Socialisation – Being in a shared play space gives children chances to interact, share, negotiate, and practice social skills outside the classroom.

•            Independence & confidence – Letting children explore play equipment, make choices about what to climb or slide, supports the ‘prepared environment’ mindset.

•            Outdoor connection – Many sites above offer natural elements or open space; aligning with Montessori values of nature, curiosity, and hands-on experience.

•            Family time – These outings provide opportunities for parents and children to engage together, supporting the parent-educator-child partnership we value.

Tips for making the most of a playground outing

•            Bring spare clothes/shoes, especially for younger children who may explore muddy or wooded areas.

•            Use it as an opportunity for real-life learning: talk about safety, choice (which slide will you use?), counting (how many steps up?), physically what your body does when you climb.

•            Encourage turn-taking and sharing when equipment is busy, reinforcing social skills.

•            Pair it with a picnic or snack — making it a relaxed outing rather than rushed.

•            Visit during off-peak times if possible (mornings or weekdays) for more relaxed play time and less waiting for equipment.

Whether you’re based in Navan, Kells, or just exploring Meath for the day, there’s no shortage of fantastic playgrounds for your little ones to enjoy. Each spot offers something special!