Upcoming events.
Heritage Week - Tower of Allen / Aylmer’s Folly
🏰 Tower of Allen / Aylmer’s Folly
What:
A heritage open site offering visitors the opportunity to explore the historic Tower of Allen, also known as Aylmer’s Folly, and its surrounding landscape.
Where:
📍 Tower of Allen, Hill of Allen, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Friday 15th – Saturday 23rd August 2026
🕙 10:00am – 4:00pm
Description:
Visit the striking Tower of Allen, built in 1859 by Sir Gerald George Aylmer, and set within the dramatic landscape of the Hill of Allen overlooking the Bog of Allen.
Rising to approximately 60ft, this limestone tower offers panoramic views across the surrounding countryside and remains an important example of 19th-century estate architecture. The internal staircase and inscribed steps reflect the craftsmanship and labour involved in its construction.
The Hill of Allen itself is a distinctive natural feature in the landscape, shaped by volcanic activity and rich in local heritage associations.
Please note that the terrain is steep and forested in places, and visitors are advised to take care while exploring. The car park closes at 4pm and parking is at owners’ risk.
More Information / Booking:
Contact Regina Heavey
📞 087 932 7670
📧 regina.heavey@gmail.com
Heritage Week - Kildrought House
🏛️ Kildrought House
What:
A guided visit to Kildrought House, a Georgian merchant’s residence dating from around 1719, showcasing restoration work and historic craftsmanship.
Where:
📍 Kildrought House, Celbridge Village, Co. Kildare, W23 N9P2
📍 GPS: 53.340169, -6.537493
When:
📅 Friday 15th – Saturday 23rd August 2026
🕥 10:45am – 12:45pm
Description:
Step inside one of Celbridge’s most important historic houses and explore the remarkable story of Kildrought House, a Georgian merchant’s residence dating back to the early 18th century.
Visitors will learn about the detailed restoration work carried out on the building, with a focus on preserving its original character while carefully adapting it for modern use. The tour highlights the craftsmanship, research and conservation techniques involved in maintaining this important piece of built heritage.
This is a rare opportunity to experience the interior of a privately significant historic home and gain insight into ongoing heritage preservation in Kildare.
Please note that there is no parking available and the site is not suitable for wheelchairs or buggies.
More Information / Booking:
Contact June Stuart
📞 087 616 8651
📧 junestuart@gmail.com
Irish Landmark Trust: Open Day at Castletown Houses in Celbridge, Kildare.
👀Irish Landmark Trust: Open Day at Castletown House
What: To celebrate National Heritage Week 2026, Castletown Gate House and Round House will be open on Sunday 16th August
📍Where: Castletown Gate and Round House, Celbridge, Co.Kildare
📅When: 16th August 2026, from 10am to 4pm.
Description: Welcome to a rare glimpse behind the scenes of Celbridge’s architectural history! We are delighted to open the doors of our beautifully restored gatehouses for a special, free self-guided tour.
Nestled at the edge of the historic estate, these charming buildings have been carefully revived by the Irish Landmark
Booking/More information:Admission: Entirely free, but spaces are strictly limited. We highly recommend booking your slot in advance via the registration link to secure your place
Heritage Week - Titanic and Her Kildare Connections – Maynooth Castle
🚢 Titanic and Her Kildare Connections – Maynooth Castle
What:
A fascinating talk exploring the Kildare connections to the story of the RMS Titanic, including the passengers, crew and local figures linked to one of history’s most famous maritime tragedies.
Where:
📍 Maynooth Castle
Parsons Street, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Monday 17th August 2026
🕛 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Description:
Over a century after the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic, join the team at Maynooth Castle for an engaging talk uncovering the Kildare connections behind this extraordinary story.
Discover the lives of the men and women connected to Titanic’s maiden voyage in April 1912, including the story of Father Brown, the Jesuit priest and photographer who captured the final image of the ship leaving port.
The talk will also explore the remarkable connection to Kildare’s own Ernest Shackleton, who was called upon to provide his expertise during the British Inquiry following the disaster.
A fascinating event for history lovers and Titanic enthusiasts alike.
More Information / Booking:
Booking recommended:
📧 maynoothcastle@opw.ie
📞 046 942 2270
If these walls could talk'-Uncovering the History of Cellbridge Workhouse
👀If these walls could talk’ Uncovering the History of Celbridge Workhouse
What: Join us at the General Paints Group Head Office in Celbridge this Heritage Week for a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the remarkable history of our building – once the Celbridge Workhouse, built during the Great Famine.
📍Where: General Paints Group, Maynooth Rd, Celbridge, Co Kildare. W23X7R8
📅When: August 17th 5.00PM-6.30PM, 7.00PM-8.30PM
August 18th 5.00PM-6.30PM, 7.00PM-8.30PM
Description: Step back in time with us this Heritage Week for a truly unique glimpse into Celbridge’s shared past. Hosted by General Paints at our historic home on Maynooth Road, "If These Walls Could Talk" invites you to discover the deeply moving stories of the people who lived and worked within our building over the generations.
Led by acclaimed local historian Cathi Fleming, this special evening brings history to life through immersive tours and captivating storytelling. Together, we will trace the extraordinary journey of the site—from its origin as a Union Workhouse in 1839, through its role during the Great Famine, to its modern-day rebirth as the vibrant home of Colourtrend paint.
More Information/Booking: Parking is available at the General Paints site.
Tea, coffee and refreshments afterwards.
Note: Booking is required and your spot will be confirmed via email from the organizers. Thank you!
Movie Monday for Heritage Week at Athy Library
🎬 Movie Monday for Heritage Week at Athy Library
What:
A special Heritage Week family film screening celebrating Irish storytelling, folklore and themes of friendship, nature and courage.
Where:
📍 Athy Library
Convent Lane, Athy, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Monday 17th August 2026
🕑 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Description:
Join Athy Library for a special Movie Monday screening as part of Heritage Week.
Enjoy an Irish-themed family film filled with folklore, adventure and meaningful themes of friendship, nature and bravery. A relaxed and enjoyable event for families to come together and experience Irish stories on the big screen.
A perfect way to celebrate our shared cultural heritage through film.
More Information / Booking:
For further information, contact Athy Library:
📞 045 980 555
📧 athylib@kildarecoco.ie
Heritage Week - The Salamanca Archive
📚 The Salamanca Archive: A Story of Irish Exile & Return, 1592–1642
What:
A guided exhibition tour exploring Irish exile, education and return through the Salamanca Archive collection.
Where:
📍 Russell Library, St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Monday 18th August 2026 – 10:30am–11:15am
📅 Wednesday 20th August 2026 – 2:30pm–3:15pm
Description:
Join the Special Collections team at Maynooth University Library for a guided tour of this fascinating exhibition, followed by a hands-on activity table for all ages.
The Salamanca Archive is one of the most significant Spanish archival collections in Ireland. It tells the story of Irish people who left during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, seeking education and religious freedom in Spain during a period of major political and religious change.
Many later returned on the “Irish Mission”, a dangerous journey back to Ireland to serve communities where their faith and identity remained under pressure. The exhibition explores this powerful story of exile, resilience and cultural exchange across Europe and beyond.
Please note that access to the Russell Library is via stairs only and there is no lift.
More Information / Booking:
Maynooth University Library – Special Collections & Archives
📞 01 708 3890
📧 library.russell@mu.ie
Heritage Week - Beginners Irish Crochet Lace Workshop for Teens
🧶 Beginners Irish Crochet Lace Workshop for Teens
What:
A creative Heritage Week workshop introducing teenagers to Irish crochet lace, one of Ireland’s most distinctive traditional crafts.
Where:
📍 Celbridge Library, St Patrick’s Park, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, W23 VA47
When:
📅 Tuesday 18th August 2026
🕚 11:00am – 12:30pm
Description:
Join this hands-on workshop exploring the art of Irish crochet lace, a craft that became world-renowned in the 19th century.
Participants will learn about the history of Irish crochet and its cultural importance before creating the famous 3D Irish rose motif under the guidance of tutor Christina Kearney.
This session offers a fun and creative introduction to traditional craft skills and is designed especially for teenagers with an interest in making, design, and heritage arts.
More Information / Booking:
For further details contact Celbridge Library:
📞 045 980 994
📧 celbridgelib@kildarecoco.ie
or visit Kildare Library Service.
Heritage Week - Catholic Churches and Chapels Before and After Emancipation
⛪ Catholic Churches and Chapels Before and After Emancipation
What:
A Heritage Week lecture exploring the development of Catholic churches and chapels in Ireland, including examples from the Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin.
Where:
📍 Carlow College, St Patrick’s, College Street, Carlow, R93 A003
When:
📅 Tuesday 18th August 2026
🕖 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Description:
Join the Delany Archive for a fascinating lecture with Dr Niamh NicGhabhann Coleman exploring the story of Catholic church architecture in Ireland before and after Catholic Emancipation.
The talk will look at how churches and chapels developed during a period of major social and religious change, including examples from the Diocese of Kildare & Leighlin.
This event offers an insight into the buildings, communities and traditions that shaped Ireland’s religious and architectural heritage.
More Information / Booking:
Delany Archive
📞 059 915 3238
📧 bdeasy@carlowcollege.ie
The Curious Case of Kildare's Round Tower
The Curious Case of Kildare’s Round Tower
What: Free Talk
Where: St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Kildare Town
When: Tuesdat 18 August, at 8.pm
Description:
Come and discover the incredible story of the round tower at St Brigid’s Cathedral, a true icon of Kildare that has stood proud for over a thousand years.
This medieval survivor has seen it all. It has weathered fierce battles, outlasted the artillery of the Cromwellian wars, and survived the loss of its original conical roof back in the 1730s. Yet, after centuries of dramatic history, the tower’s greatest challenge today is a quiet one. The gentle but constant wear of the elements, loose stones, and the simple passage of time mean that protecting this beautiful monument is a never-ending journey.
Heritage Week - Pottery Workshop
🏺 Pottery Workshop
What:
A hands-on Heritage Week pottery workshop introducing participants to basic ceramic techniques and the history of pottery in Ireland.
Where:
📍 John Sullivan (IWA) Centre, Ballinagappa Road, Clane, Co. Kildare, W91 YT99
When:
📅 Wednesday 19th August 2026
🕦 11:30am – 1:00pm
Description:
Join this creative workshop exploring the long history of pottery in Ireland, which dates back to ancient times.
Participants will be guided by a ceramic tutor through basic pottery techniques and will have the opportunity to create their own unique piece during the session.
This is a relaxed, hands-on event designed to encourage creativity while connecting with one of Ireland’s oldest craft traditions.
More Information / Booking:
For further details contact the John Sullivan Centre (IWA):
📞 045 989 604
📧 eileen.obrien@iwa.ie
Heritage Week - Kildare Local Placenames Drop-In Workshop
🗺️ Kildare Local Placenames Drop-In Workshop
What:
A community workshop exploring and recording local placenames, field names and landscape features from across Kildare.
Where:
📍 Teach Diarmada, Main Street, Castledermot, Co. Kildare, R14 YF61
When:
📅 Wednesday 19th August 2026
🕑 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Description:
Join this drop-in Heritage Week workshop focusing on the importance of local placenames and the stories they hold about our landscape and communities.
Many minor placenames — from field names to crossroads and natural features — are at risk of being lost if they are not recorded. This session offers a friendly and practical opportunity to help preserve this important part of Kildare’s cultural heritage.
Visitors can learn how to use the Meitheal Logainm platform to record placenames and contribute directly to safeguarding local history. No experience is needed, and participants are welcome to drop in for a chat, guidance, and a cup of tea.
This workshop is part of National Heritage Week 2026, which focuses on the theme “Heritage at Risk”, highlighting the importance of protecting vulnerable aspects of our shared heritage.
More Information / Booking:
For full Heritage Week listings and related events in Kildare and across Ireland visit:
https://www.heritageweek.ie/
Heritage Week - The Joe Connelly Lecture 2026 – Murder on Chapel Hill
🏛️ The Joe Connelly Lecture 2026 – Murder on Chapel Hill
What:
A Heritage Week lecture exploring a historic 1904 murder case in Kildare Town, presented by historian Mario Corrigan.
Where:
📍 Kildare Education Support Centre, Friary Road, Kildare Town
When:
📅 Wednesday 19th August 2026
🕗 8:00pm – 9:15pm
Description:
As part of Heritage Week 2026, the Joe Connelly Lecture returns with a compelling talk by historian Mario Corrigan titled Murder on Chapel Hill, Kildare Town, 1904.
The lecture explores a real case from Kildare’s past, reflecting on the events of the time and how the story was remembered — and in some cases overlooked — in local history. It offers an opportunity to better understand the social conditions and everyday realities of life in early 20th-century Kildare.
This annual lecture also honours the memory of Joe Connelly, whose dedication and leadership helped revive the Cill Dara Historical Society and strengthen local interest in Kildare’s heritage over many years. His legacy continues to be reflected in this important Heritage Week event.
The talk encourages reflection on how local history is preserved, interpreted and passed on, ensuring that important stories from the past are not lost.
More Information / Booking:
Cill Dara Historical Society
📧 mariocorrigan@gmail.com
📞 +353 38 689 13274
For more event on during Heritage week visit the site here.
Heritage Week - The Salamanca Archive
📚 The Salamanca Archive: A Story of Irish Exile & Return, 1592–1642
What:
A guided exhibition tour exploring Irish exile, education and return through the Salamanca Archive collection.
Where:
📍 Russell Library, St Patrick’s College, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Monday 18th August 2026 – 10:30am–11:15am
📅 Wednesday 20th August 2026 – 2:30pm–3:15pm
Description:
Join the Special Collections team at Maynooth University Library for a guided tour of this fascinating exhibition, followed by a hands-on activity table for all ages.
The Salamanca Archive is one of the most significant Spanish archival collections in Ireland. It tells the story of Irish people who left during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, seeking education and religious freedom in Spain during a period of major political and religious change.
Many later returned on the “Irish Mission”, a dangerous journey back to Ireland to serve communities where their faith and identity remained under pressure. The exhibition explores this powerful story of exile, resilience and cultural exchange across Europe and beyond.
Please note that access to the Russell Library is via stairs only and there is no lift.
More Information / Booking:
Maynooth University Library – Special Collections & Archives
📞 01 708 3890
📧 library.russell@mu.ie
Heritage Week - Ogham Pendant
✍️ ‘In Her Words’ – Memoir Writing Workshop
What:
A creative writing workshop exploring journaling and memoir writing, inspired by the life and work of Quaker author and diarist Mary Leadbeater.
Where:
📍 Athy Library
Convent Lane, Athy, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Saturday 22nd August 2026
🕝 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Description:
To mark the 100th anniversary of Quaker author and diarist Mary Leadbeater, writer Megan Wynne invites participants to explore the art of journaling and memoir writing.
During this workshop, participants will try creative journaling exercises and learn how to craft a short memoir piece using their five senses.
With inspiration from Mary Leadbeater’s own lifelong journaling practice, this workshop offers adults the opportunity to reflect, write and capture personal stories.
More Information / Booking:
For further information, contact Athy Library:
📞 045 980 555
📧 athylib@kildarecoco.ie
Additional Information:
• Free event
• Adult workshop
• Car parking available
• Workshop activity
Heritage Week - MAZURKA In Concert – Gypsy, French Swing & Tango Music (Celbridge)
🎻 MAZURKA In Concert – Gypsy, French Swing & Tango Music (Celbridge)
What:
An intimate live concert featuring Mazurka, performing a unique blend of Gypsy music, French swing and tango in a historic church setting.
Where:
📍 Christ Church, Celbridge, Main Street (inside Castletown Gates), Co. Kildare, W23 TD37
When:
📅 Wednesday 20th August 2026
🕗 8:00pm – 10:00pm
Description:
Enjoy a special Heritage Week evening of music with Mazurka, a group of accomplished musicians who come together annually for select performances.
Set within the beautiful and intimate surroundings of Christ Church Celbridge, this concert brings together influences from Gypsy traditions, French swing and tango, performed by artists who are highly respected in their individual fields.
This event is supported by Kildare County Council and offers a rare opportunity to experience live music in one of Celbridge’s most distinctive historic spaces.
Christ Church is located at the top of Celbridge Main Street inside Castletown Gates and provides a unique acoustic and atmospheric setting for live performance.
Free parking is available on Celbridge Main Street and at nearby Tesco car park on the Maynooth Road. The area is well served by public transport.
More Information / Booking:
TEA LANE Graveyard Restoration Project
📞 087 963 0719
📧 breda.konstantin@iol.ie
Castledermot – Exploring the Medieval Heart of a Modern Town
🚶♂️ Castledermot – Exploring the Medieval Heart of a Modern Town
What:
A guided walking tour exploring the medieval heritage of Castledermot and the visible and hidden traces of its historic past.
Where:
📍 St James’s Church and Graveyard, Church Lane, Castledermot, Co. Kildare
Parking available at Teach Diarmada Community Centre, R14 YF61
When:
📅 Friday 22nd August 2026
🕥 10:30am – 12:00pm
Description:
Join local archaeologist Dr Sharon Greene for a guided walk through Castledermot, exploring its rich medieval history and the layers of heritage still present in the modern town.
Once an important Anglo-Norman borough, Castledermot grew around the early monastic site of Díseart Diarmada and developed into a walled town of significance during the medieval period. Despite events such as the Black Death and historical conflict, it remained a centre of activity and governance, with traces of this past still visible today.
This walk reflects on how the town continues to evolve, highlighting the balance between development and the protection of archaeological and built heritage. It also considers how modern change can sometimes reveal new insights into the past.
Please dress appropriately for outdoor conditions.
More Information / Booking:
Castledermot Local History Group
📞 087 799 0867
📧 castledermothist@gmail.com
Supported by the Heritage Council Grants Programme.
Heritage Week - The Wizard Earl of Kildare – Maynooth Castle
🏰 The Wizard Earl of Kildare – Maynooth Castle
What:
Discover the incredible story of Gerald FitzGerald, the young heir who became known as the “Wizard Earl of Kildare”.
Where:
📍 Maynooth Castle Main Reception Desk (inside the Castle)
Maynooth Castle, Parsons Street, Maynooth, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Friday 21st August 2026
🕛 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Description:
Join the team at Maynooth Castle as they uncover the fascinating tale of Gerald FitzGerald, younger half-brother of the famous “Silken Thomas” FitzGerald.
Following the execution of Silken Thomas and his five uncles in 1537, the young Gerald became the target of a dramatic manhunt across Ireland and Europe as King Henry VIII attempted to bring the powerful FitzGerald family under control.
Protected by the FitzGerald women and supporters throughout Ireland, Gerald escaped into exile — a journey that would later shape his legendary reputation and earn him the title of the “Wizard Earl of Kildare”.
A fascinating insight into one of Kildare’s most intriguing historical figures, brought to life within the walls of Maynooth Castle.
More Information / Booking:
Booking recommended:
📧 maynoothcastle@opw.ie
📞 046 942 2270
Additional Information:
• Free event
• Accessible by public transport
• No toilet facilities on site
• No on-site parking
• Limited accessibility
For further information, contact the event organiser:
Office of Public Works – Maynooth Castle
Castledermot – exploring the medieval heart of a modern town
Exploring the medieval heart of a modern town
What:
Step back in time with us on a fascinating journey through the hidden history of Castledermot!
📍Where:
St James Church and Graveyard, Church Lane, Castledermot, Co.Kildare
📅When:
August 22nd 2026
🕒10.30am-12.00pm
Description:
Step back in time with us on a fascinating walking tour through the hidden history of Castledermot, hosted by the Castledermot Local History Group. Led by brilliant local archaeologist Dr. Sharon Greene, this friendly community walk explores how our bustling town grew from an ancient monastery into a thriving medieval walled city. You will discover how Castledermot weathered the Black Death and historic raids, eventually becoming a prominent seat for King’s Councils and Parliaments.
More Information / Booking:
Free
Castledermot Local History group
0877990867
castledermothist@gmail.com
Heritage Week - How Dublin Zoo Protects Animals at Risk
🦁 How Dublin Zoo Protects Animals at Risk (Ages 8+)
What:
A fun and interactive conservation workshop exploring how animals adapt and survive in the wild, led by a Dublin Zoo conservation educator.
Where:
📍 Leixlip Library
Captains Hill, Leixlip, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Saturday 22nd August 2026
🕚 11:15am – 12:15pm
Description:
Get ready for a claws-on adventure with Dublin Zoo as young explorers discover the amazing ways animals have adapted to survive around the world.
Through fun activities and exciting experiments, children will explore animal adaptations — from powerful skulls and teeth to incredible camouflage and survival skills — and learn how conservation helps protect wildlife at risk.
A brilliant hands-on Heritage Week event for curious young minds who love animals, nature and the natural world.
More Information / Booking:
Booking available online or by contacting Leixlip Library:
📞 045 980 844
📧 leixliplib@kildarecoco.ie
Suitable for ages 8+
Additional Information:
• Free event
• Family friendly
• Accessible by public transport
• Car parking available
• Fully wheelchair accessible
• Workshop activity
Heritage Week - In Her Words’ – Memoir Writing Workshop
✍️ ‘In Her Words’ – Memoir Writing Workshop
What:
A creative writing workshop exploring journaling and memoir writing, inspired by the life and work of Quaker author and diarist Mary Leadbeater.
Where:
📍 Athy Library
Convent Lane, Athy, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Saturday 22nd August 2026
🕝 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Description:
To mark the 100th anniversary of Quaker author and diarist Mary Leadbeater, writer Megan Wynne invites participants to explore the art of journaling and memoir writing.
During this workshop, participants will try creative journaling exercises and learn how to craft a short memoir piece using their five senses.
With inspiration from Mary Leadbeater’s own lifelong journaling practice, this workshop offers adults the opportunity to reflect, write and capture personal stories.
More Information / Booking:
For further information, contact Athy Library:
📞 045 980 555
📧 athylib@kildarecoco.ie
Additional Information:
• Free event
• Adult workshop
• Car parking available
• Workshop activity
Heritage Week - Lá Teaghlaigh – Irish Language Family Fun Day
👨👩👧 Lá Teaghlaigh – Irish Language Family Fun Day
What:
A family-friendly Irish language event with entertainment, workshops and activities for all ages.
Where:
📍 Maynooth University North Campus, Co. Kildare
When:
📅 Saturday 23rd August 2026
🕛 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Description:
Join us for a joyful celebration of the Irish language at Lá Teaghlaigh, a family fun day designed for all levels of Irish speakers — from fluent speakers to those with just a cúpla focal.
The event will feature a range of activities including workshops, entertainment and interactive experiences that encourage families to engage with the Irish language in a relaxed and enjoyable way.
This inclusive event welcomes families of all backgrounds and offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with Irish culture and language in a fun and accessible setting.
More Information / Booking:
Gaeilge Nuada
📞 089 250 9439
📧 eolas@gaeilgenuada.ie