Celebrating Celbridge: Why This Historic Town is On the Up

Located just thirty minutes from Dublin, Celbridge has a developed a bit of a reputation as a commuter town. Although its proximity to the capital city is certainly a huge plus, there is so much more to this town than meets the eye. Firstly, it’s absolutely steeped in history. For example, did you know it’s the birthplace of Arthur Guinness? Or that it was a frequent destination for the author Jonathan Swift? Nowadays, it’s one of Kildare’s largest towns and boasts a vibrant community making it the perfect location to set up your new home. Read on as we celebrate all that’s great about Celbridge.

The Outdoors is Just a Stone’s Throw Away

At the top of the town you’ll find the gates to Castletown House, a stunning Palladian country residence that sits on a rolling estate that is part owned by the State. The dappled tree-lined avenue is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Or venture off the beaten track and amble along the beautiful banks of the River Liffey. On Saturday mornings, you can join hundreds of runners for the weekly park run that takes place at 9:30 am and is organised by local volunteers. Afterwards they meet in the Courtyard Café for a coffee and a chat. If you’re new to the area, it’s a great way to make friends. The café is a hub for local groups and the house itself hosts lots of events from concerts to readings.

Perfect for Families

Families are spoilt for choice in Celbridge. The town boasts six primary schools including an Educate Together and one of Ireland’s few Montessori primary schools, ‘The Glebe.’ There are also three secondary schools in the town.

When it comes to after-school activities there is something to suit all interests from dance to karate and everything in between. The town has active Scouting and Girl Guide groups catering to all ages. On the weekends, you can keep the kids entertained with bowling, pitch and putt and even bubble football located close by.

Clubs and Groups Galore

Clubs and groups are a fantastic way to get to know like-minded people in your new community and you won’t be short of options here. If you’re into water sports for example, you should check out the local Celbridge Paddlers canoe club. Founded in 1982, the club is an integral part of the community and has a real family feel. There’s also an active GAA club, tennis club, two soccer clubs, a polo club, an athletics group, a rugby club and many more. You could fill your week with activities if you wanted.

Excellent Transportation Links

Celbridge is well serviced with transport links. There is a train station located outside of the town that will take you to Dublin Heuston in 20 minutes and a feeder bus which operates during peak times. The village is serviced by Dublin bus which will take you into the heart of Dublin city and by Bus Éireann which can take you inland all the way to Edenderry. If you prefer to travel by car, the town is serviced by the M4 and you’re about a ten-minute drive from the adjacent towns of Leixlip and Maynooth.

Dining Out

If you love dining out you’ve lots of options in Celbridge. From sushi to pasta to pub grub, there’s pretty much something for everyone. Try local restaurant Canteen, the brainchild of husband and wife James Sheridan and Soizic Humbert. It’s been winning the hearts of critics since it opened and is perfect for a special night out. While local favourite Michelangelo’s has been serving Italian food for nearly 32 years. There are also a variety of great coffee shops - like Baobab coffee roasters, who hand roast their beans on-site.

Make the Move

On the hunt for a new home and wondering what you can afford? Then check out our handy mortgage calculator. Once you’ve got a sense of what you could borrow, the next step is to book an appointment with an AIB mortgage advisor who can guide you through the next steps of the process. Happy house hunting!

Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is an authorised agent and servicer of AIB Mortgage Bank in relation to the origination and servicing of mortgage loans and mortgages. Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. and AIB Mortgage Bank are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Copyright Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. 1995.

Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Copyright Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c. 1995.