The development of Leighlinbridge village was greatly influenced through its historic importance as a transport route. Over 300 years before the Christian era, a great battle took place here to capture the fort of Dinn Righ, reputedly the ancient seat of the Kings of Leinster. The focal point of Leighlinbridge is its valerian bearded bridge, built in 1320 by Maurice Jakis, Canon of Kildare Cathedral. It remains today one of the oldest functioning bridges in Europe.
Leighlinbridge has produced more than its fair share of famous people including the daring Captain Myles Keogh, aide to General Custer, the scientist and mountaineer John Tyndall, the former Archbishop of Sydney, Patrick Francis Moran and the Right Hon. Brian Mulroney, Prime Minister of Canada from 1984 – 1992 whose family hailed from Leighlinbridge.
Attractions
The Millennium, Vivaldi and Sculpture Gardens and Garden of Remembrance.
World War I Memorial.
The Barrow Way long-distance walking route between Leighlinbridge and Bagenalstown, a handy 3km walk, offers a peaceful riverside escape through some of County Carlow’s most tranquil scenery. For those who want to explore further the route continues northwards as far as Robertstown in Kildare and south as far as the 6th century ecclesiastical village of St Mullins.
The four-star Lord Bagenal Hotel is renowned for its superb art collection and outstanding racing photography celebrating some of the sport’s greatest champions, including many of Willie Mullins’ famous winners from his nearby yard.
Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven, Ireland’s first five star garden centre offers everything from quirky gift ideas, Weber barbecues and accessories, ladies’ fashion, kitchenware, homewares and a health and wellness department, along with Rachel’s Garden Cafe.