Newbridge, Co. Kildare

Town: Newbridge, Co. Kildare

Location: The town is situated approximately 11km beyond Naas on the road from Dublin to Cork and Limerick on the banks of the River Liffey.

Population: 18,520; making it the second largest town in Kildare.

Education: There are a number of adult education providers in Newbridge. The Vocational Training Opportunity Scheme (VTOS) runs a broad range of technical, academic and business oriented courses for all levels from foundation to the advanced. St. Conleth’s Vocational School offers programmes in areas like childcare, IT, business and beauty therapy.

Economy: The town has been a thriving industry and research centre for years; from the rope making factories of the early 1900’s to today’s highly successful Newbridge Silverware which enjoys an international reputation as being stylish and well crafted.

History: Originally six separate parishes; Newbridge dates back from the 12th century when these areas eventually grew into each other to make up the town of Newbridge; Droichead Nua as Gaelige.  It’s origins lie with the establishment of a British Army Cavalry Barracks in 1818; little of the barracks remains today except the old walls and gateways which can be found on the Athgarvan Road, and to a lesser degree on Cutlery Road.

Culture: Meitheal Newbridge takes place at the end of June and is a community festival held in conjunction with the Irish Derby Festival featuring a large variety of arts, cultural, music and sports events bringing crowds in their droves to the town.

Sport: There are a number of golf courses nearby; Newbridge is also home to Kildare’s only greyhound racing track. Horse-riding and swimming are other activities common to the area.

Craic: A great day out would be to visit the nearby Curragh Racecourse which promises to be something different as well as entertaining.