Exploring Saint Brigid and Her Connection to Horses in County Kildare

Visiting County Kildare? This glorious part of the Irish Province of Leinster offers numerous attractions that you will not want to miss. Moreover, there are interesting sights that are slightly off the beaten path. Therefore, taking your time to spend a day or two in Kildare is worthwhile when visiting Ireland (… you may even spend those in Kildare Town alone …). Here are some ideas to enhance your visit:

County Kildare in a Nutshell

Here are some facts about County Kildare you may find insightful:

• The Irish name for County Kildare is Contae Cill Dara, which translates to “Church of the Oak.”
• Vehicles registered in this area hold number plates with the prefix KE.
• The county town is Naas, with other notable towns including Athy, Celbridge, Clane, Kildare Town, Leixlip, Maynooth, Monasterevin, and Newbridge.
• County Kildare spans 1,694 square kilometers.
• According to the 2011 census, the population was recorded at 210,312.
• Common nicknames for Kildare are “Short Grass County,” primarily due to the lush grazing for horses, and “Thoroughbred County.”
• In GAA circles, players from Kildare are known as the “Lilywhites,” a name evident in their flag’s pure white color.

Visit Saint Brigid’s Well

One of the lesser-known attractions connected to the Irish saints is Saint Brigid’s Well. Even visitors to Kildare Town or the nearby Irish National Stud seldom consider stopping by. This is unfortunate, as the well is a deeply spiritual site with ancient connections. Despite the modern renovations, one can still feel that this area has held “special” significance for centuries.

Explore Historic Kildare Town

Kildare Town remains a traditional Irish market town, characterized by its iconic cathedral and round tower. The central square, which houses a market hall (now a tourist information center), defines Kildare as a vibrant community steeped in history. Thankfully, new commercial developments have largely avoided encroaching upon the town center.

All the Pretty Horses (and the Japanese Garden)

If you have any interest in horses, whether breeding or racing, visiting the Irish National Stud is a must. Spanning approximately 1,000 acres, this site is home to some of Ireland’s finest horses. Kildare is undoubtedly horse country; however, don’t miss the extensive gardens. Created in 1906 by Tassa Eida and his son Minoru, the genuine Japanese garden is laid out according to philosophical principles. Consequently, it is best experienced early or outside of peak season to fully appreciate the tranquil ambiance. On the other side lies St. Fiachra’s Garden, a four-acre woodland showcasing an Irish garden with native plants and picturesque walking paths.

Discover Saint Patrick’s College in Maynooth

Established by an act of the Irish Parliament at the close of the 18th century, Saint Patrick’s College served as a counterpart to Dublin’s Trinity College. While Trinity was founded as a “seat of Protestant learning,” the Maynooth facility emerged as “a place of higher education for those of the Catholic or Popish religion.” Initially focused on priestly training, the college has since evolved to accommodate a broader educational mandate.

Experience Style Icons and Shop for Silverware

The presence of Newbridge Silverware—a modern factory renowned for mass-produced metal cutlery—might seem surprising on the tourist trail. Nevertheless, with the Museum of Style Icons showcasing memorabilia, some exquisite jewellery, and a highly-rated restaurant on-site, visitors are often intrigued. Additionally, the silverware itself serves as a durable souvenir. Various iconic pieces from Audrey Hepburn to Grace Kelly are on display, including notable outfits that will evoke nostalgia for classic cinema. Plus, the restaurant’s offerings are impressive as well.

Horse Racing on the Curragh

For thrilling horse racing events in Ireland, the Curragh, located just outside Kildare Town, is the place to be. Revel in the excitement and perhaps place a bet during the summer Derby Festival—one of Ireland’s premier sporting and social events of the year, featuring glamour, family fun, and exhilarating racing among Europe’s elite horses. Everyone is in pursuit of the most coveted prizes in Irish racing!

Splendour and Wonders in Celbridge and Leixlip

Castletown House, positioned just outside Celbridge, was built in 1722 for Irish politician William Connolly and is regarded as possibly the largest Palladian house in Ireland. Designed by the Florentine architect Alessandro Galilei and Irishman Edward Pearce (the builder of the Irish Parliament), it underwent restoration through the efforts of the Irish Georgian Society. From here, venture over to Leixlip and observe the unique architectural marvel known as the “Wonderful Barn,” a peculiar structure complete with an external staircase located near the sprawling HP factory.

Outlet Shopping at Kildare Village

Kildare Village presents Ireland’s version of the outlet “bargain” mall—a collection of brand-name stores designed to create a “village setting.” Although attempts have been made to replicate horse barns, the ambiance can feel somewhat clinical, reminiscent of Disney’s Main Street USA.

Traditional Music in County Kildare

• Athy – “Clancy’s” – Thursday
• Kilcock – “Aidan Byrne’s Pub” – Thursday
• Kildare – “Goaban Saor” – Wednesday

More Information on County Kildare and the Province of Leinster

For further insights, consider learning about these highlights:

• County Kildare Articles
• The Province of Leinster
• The Best of Leinster

Moving On … Beyond Kildare’s Borders

Ready to explore beyond Kildare? Consider the neighboring counties:

• County Meath
• Dublin
• County Wicklow
• County Carlow
• County Laois
• County Offaly