There are two things we absolutely love about Kildare – its history and its scenery – so why not combine the two? Kildare is bursting at the seams with fascinating historic attractions, and many of these also boast spectacular walking routes, trails and paths nearby. Here are just a few we know you’ll love!
Arthur’s Way Heritage Trail
Arthur’s Way Heritage trail is a breathtakingly scenic 16km ramble through the northeast of Kildare as you follow in the footsteps of the stout maker, Arthur Guinness himself and take in some important historical landmarks along the way.
Shackelton Trail
The Shackelton Trail follows the exploits of the famous Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton around Athy and beyond. Here visitors can take a guided walking tour and also get to stop off and explore the only permanent exhibition devoted to the Kildare born Irish Antarctic explorer.
Celbridge Heritage Trail
Join the Celbridge Heritage Trail and stroll through history, from early Christian Tea Lane, resting place of the Grattans; to Speaker Connolly’s Castletown, Ireland’s finest Georgian residence; then onwards to historic Celbridge Village by the tranquil riverside trail or the stately tree-lined avenue. Just beyond lies the historic site of Celbridge Abbey, well worth taking a deserved visit on your way!
Kildare Monastic Trail
Kildare Monastic Trail takes visitors to the heart of the story of the dawn of Christianity in Ireland, and some of Ireland’s most famous saints like Brigid, Colmcille and Patrick have strong links with the county. The trail leads to ruins of ancient monasteries, round towers and high crosses.
St Brigid’s Trail
Follow in the footsteps of one of Ireland’s most beloved Patron Saints, St Brigid in a two hour walking trail. The trail takes in some of Kildare town’s best-known landmarks creating an north-south trail which begins at the Kildare Heritage Centre on Market Square, where visitors can watch an audio-visual presentation on St Brigid and her connection to the town. The trail then takes in St Brigid’s Cathedral before heading south toward St Brigid’s Church which was opened by Daniel O’Connell in 1833. Visitors then move on to the Solas Bhríde centre and the ancient St Brigid’s Well on Tully road.
“He found himself wondering at times, especially in Autumn, about the wild lands…” – J.R.R. Tolkien