In Athy, the River Barrow and the Athy branch of the Grand Canal meet. The town is one of two Heritage Towns in County Kildare and combines this connection to the water with an equally tangible cultural history: Ernest Shackleton, Norman architecture, a 19th-century church and the central People’s Park give visitors a range of ways to explore the area.
History in buildings and stories
The Shackleton Experience is located in the centre of Athy and is dedicated to the life and achievements of Ernest Shackleton. Across eleven immersive galleries, it tells the story of Shackleton and the golden age of polar exploration. On display is the original cabin in which Shackleton suffered a fatal heart attack aboard the Quest during the 1921 Shackleton-Rowett Expedition to the South Pole. Rare original film footage is shown in a reconstructed 1920s cinema. You can download free multimedia guides before your visit.
The town’s architectural history also has clearly distinct milestones: Woodstock Castle in Athy is a Norman structure dating from the 13th century. St Michael’s Church of Ireland was built in 1840 on land owned by the Duke of Leinster. A medieval building and a 19th-century church thus represent different historical connections in Athy.
Parks, walks and trips on the water
The People’s Park is located in the heart of Athy. It is believed to be at least 150 years old and was originally laid out around 1860 by the Duke of Leinster. The park includes a playground and play area. An entertaining and educational tree trail featuring old, mature trees adds to what’s on offer.
The 2.6 km Barrow Walk starts at the Courthouse on the River Barrow, passes beneath Horse Bridge and Railway Bridge, and follows the Canal Path to the slipway on Carlow Road. Athy Boat Tours by BoatTrips.ie departs from the centre of Athy and offers leisurely trips on the River Barrow, one of Ireland’s scenic inland waterways. The experience is suitable for all ages, families, groups and wheelchair users; private hire is also available. This gives you a choice between a specific riverside walking route and a boat trip on the River Barrow.
More to discover in County Kildare
The wider destination of County Kildare offers further distinct cultural and natural highlights. Castletown House is located in Celbridge, in 18th-century parkland on the banks of the Liffey. Today, it houses a significant collection of paintings, furnishings and works of art. The grounds of Castletown House are open year-round from 07:00 to 22:00; check visitor information again before setting off.
At Donadea Forest Park in County Kildare, the Lake Walk is 0.8 km long, takes about 30 minutes and is accessible to everyone. There are also three permanent orienteering courses: a short course of 1.8 km, a medium course of 3.4 km and a long course of 4.6 km. County Kildare therefore offers both a walk with a stated duration and courses that vary in distance.
Discover more destinations: Ballitore, Moone, Moyvally, Monasterevin, Castledermot, Newbridge, Narraghmore, Celbridge.
For the wider travel overview: County Kildare.
