About our rating systemBuilt on the site of St. Brigid’s monastery, which was founded in the 5th century, this beautiful 13th-century church dominates central Kildare. Its exquisite stained-glass windows portray Ireland’s three great saints: Patrick, Colmcille, and Brigid. The round tower on the grounds is the second tallest in the country (33m/108 ft.); it dates to the 10th century, although its original pointed roof was later replaced by a Norman turret. If the groundskeeper is in, you can climb the stairs to the top for €7. Near the tower, a strange-looking stone with a hole at its top is known as the “wishing stone”—according to lore, if you put your arm through the hole and touch your shoulder when you make a wish, then your wish will come true. The Cathedral is closed to visitors from October to April, but you can usually visit the grounds year-round, free, by asking at the Heritage Centre on Market Square.
County Kildare› Attraction
St. Brigid’s Cathedral
Market Sq., Kildare Town, Co. Kildare
Our Rating
Hours
Cathedral: May–Sept Mon–Sat 10am–1pm, 2–5pm; Sun 2–5pm; last admission 15 min. before closing. Closed Oct–Apr
Phone
045/521229
Prices
Free admission to Cathedral; round tower €7
Hours
Cathedral: May–Sept Mon–Sat 10am–1pm, 2–5pm; Sun 2–5pm; last admission 15 min. before closing. Closed Oct–Apr
Phone
045/521229
Prices
Free admission to Cathedral; round tower €7
Map
Market Sq., Kildare Town, Co. Kildare County KildareNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
