HERITAGE TRAIL
Newbridge Heritage Trail
The Newbridge Heritage and Arts Trail has been developed over time to showcase the rich history and significant sites within the town. Along with historical information, the trail also features two new sculptures/public art pieces commissioned and installed in 2010.
This project was a collaboration between Droichead Nua Town Council, Kildare County Council, Kildare's Heritage Officer Bridget Loughlin, James Durney (Kildare County Library), and Newbridge Tidy Towns Association. The research and text for the trail were prepared by James Durney.
The trail features oval-shaped zinc plaques with etched inscriptions, placed at agreed-upon locations. Additional heritage signage will be added as site owners approve the content and placement.
Heritage Trail Signage Locations
St. Conleth's Abbey Convent
Designed by renowned architect John O’Callaghan, F.R.I.A.I, St. Conleth’s Abbey was built in 1873. It became home to the Sisters of the Holy Family in 1875.
St. Conleth’s Parish Church
Constructed between 1848 and 1852, this church is dedicated to St. Conleth, the first Bishop of Kildare and Patron Saint of Newbridge Parish. The building underwent significant expansions and improvements in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Patrician Primary School
The Patrician Brothers took over St. Conleth’s Boys’ School in 1939. The current school building, built in 1914, has seen extensions in 1965 and 1979.
St. Conleth's Bridge
This three-arch bridge, built in 1936, replaced an 18th-century five-arch structure. It holds historical and social significance, representing road improvement schemes in early 20th-century Ireland. The bridge was modernised in 2006.
The Watering Gates
These gates served as a drinking station for the Cavalry horses stabled in the Newbridge Barracks. A road once led from the barracks to the River Liffey, where the horses were watered.
Ryston Social Club
Birthplace of novelist Millie Keane, the Ryston Sports and Social Club (formerly Irish Ropes Social Club) was established in 1949. It has evolved to offer a wide range of activities and facilities.
Newbridge & County Library
Opened in 1936, this 'Art Deco' building served as the library headquarters and home to the first County Librarian, John Connolly. It aimed to improve education and library services in the area.
Old Barrack Gate Archway
This archway is a remnant of the British Army Cavalry barracks, completed in 1819. The barracks played a significant role in Newbridge's history, housing soldiers and horses, and later serving as an internment camp during the Civil War.
Irish Ropes / Curragh Tintawn Carpets
Irish Ropes, founded in 1933, became a major employer in Newbridge. Curragh Tintawn Carpets, originally its carpet manufacturing division, is now Ireland’s largest carpet manufacturer.
St. Patrick's Church of Ireland
Built around 1815, this Gothic-style church holds historical and social importance as the centre for the local Protestant community. It retains many original features.
Old Garrison Church - Town Hall
Built in 1859 as a Methodist church, this building was later acquired by the Town Commissioners in 1927 to serve as the Town Hall. It reflects the history of the Methodist community and the town's civic development.
Market Square
The Market Square is bordered by the site of the former courthouse. It historically hosted fairs and markets, playing a central role in the town's commerce.
Rowan Terrace
Built around 1900, Rowan Terrace represents the first purpose-built social housing scheme in Newbridge. It was named after a local doctor known for his work with the poor.
Newbridge College & Dominican Priory
The Dominican Order established a Priory on this site in 1756. The current Church of St. Eustace was opened in 1966. Newbridge College, founded in 1852, has expanded over the years with the addition of Junior House and Senior House.
Future Plans
The next phase involves creating a guide pamphlet and erecting a map in the town centre to assist visitors. There are also plans to expand the trail further. Suggestions for additional sites are welcome.
HERITAGE TRAIL