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About
Kildare With a wealth of fine attractions to its name, Kildare is a destination worth spending a little time in. At present, nearly all of Ireland's main road and train lines traverse the county, however, with a brand new bypass currently under construction, this situation (involving some fairly heavy traffic congestion) should soon change. The Royal and Grand Canals similarly cross the county and are an integral part of Kildare's wonderful heritage. Both were built in the eighteenth century as a means of goods and passenger transport, yet fell into disuse with the arrival of the railways. Boating facilities are currently available on the Grand Canal and six birth narrow boats can be hired from Lowtown Marine, along the north bank of the canal. For a less watery sojourn, the canal town paths are ideal for walkers. In the surrounding area, Maynooth is home to the impressive St Patrick's College (which over the centuries has trained over 11,000 Irish priests). St Patrick's house, located within the college grounds, is a fine Victorian gothic building with one of the world's largest choir chapels, capable of housing more than 450 choristers. Another fine attraction, if not Kildare's finest, is the National Stud. With 958 acres of land, the Stud operates to promote the interests of the Irish bloodstock industry. On site, a museum serves as a historical archive of the Stud's successes, whilst in the Japanese Gardens, the 'Life of Man' is beautifully symbolised through the landscape of the garden. At Coolcarrigan Gardens on the other hand, visitors are invited to stumble across a unique collection of shrubs and trees, mostly chosen by plantsman, Sir Harold Hillier. Covering some eight acres, the gardens are approached by a long, woodland avenue with a large collection of rhododendrons and azaleas. Or why not try something a little different, at nearby Straffan Butterfly Farm. View a collection of reptiles, stick insects, tarantulas and bird eating spiders - safely behind glass! Or learn about the interesting life and conservation of butterflies in the exhibition centre. Ireland's traditional peatlands are also well represented at the Peatlands World Museum. Housed in a beautifully restored nineteenth century courtyard, explore the fascinating history and science of the boglands, including their exploitation and future importance. More Information: The Kildare
Tourist Office is located in Kildare town.
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