The Wonderful Barn
The Wonderful Barn things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
Learn more insights from Wanderboat AIDescription
cultural
outdoor
family friendly
The Wonderful Barn is a corkscrew-shaped building on the edge of Castletown House Estate, formerly of the Conolly family, in Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland. The barn itself is formally in neighbouring Leixlip.
attractions: , restaurants:
Ratings
Description
The Wonderful Barn is a corkscrew-shaped building on the edge of Castletown House Estate, formerly of the Conolly family, in Celbridge, County Kildare, Ireland. The barn itself is formally in neighbouring Leixlip.
Posts
This is a truely unique experience and beautiful building located with Leixlip town. It’s well signed posted and on Google Maps, you pass through a housing estate to find its location. The barn was built in the years immediately following the famine of 1740-41, as there was a need for new grain stores in case of another famine. The Conollys owned Kilmacredock and rented it out, so the barn was also useful for their tenants. The construction project also likely served as a way to keep the local poor employed.
Noel FaganNoel Fagan
30
An eccentrically-shaped folly/grain store that is surprisingly pleasant on the eye. This whimsical creation dates to the 1740’s when it was probably built as a famine relief project, similar to the nearby Conolly’s Folly. The building itself is oddly reminiscent of the minaret of the Great Mosque of Samarra, or the medieval depictions of the Tower of Babel. The odd shapes and proportions are worth checking out by anyone who has a love for the architecturally odd. However, the adjoining house and farm buildings have been allowed to fall into disrepair and ruin, and the Barn itself is inaccessible. It is a shame that the County Council have allowed this to pass into decay, but as it stands, it is merely a pleasant view and nothing more. Until something is done to repair the grounds, it is a wasted opportunity.
David DanceyDavid Dancey
80
I didn't realize from the beginning that the access to the barn was on the external stairs, around the conical stone building. It is quite easy to get to the location and there is also a small parking there. Unfortunately, isn’t anywhere any notice about the monument, so, as in my case, you have to guess what was there. The large barn has two smaller replicas, not at all highlighted. The attached buildings are in an advanced stage of degradation. I think more can be done for this Wonderful Barn.
Manuela Buculei StefanManuela Buculei Stefan
100
Great little park to walk the dog. Built over 200 years ago the barn has alot of history. Used to be very quiet and secluded. Unfortunately they have built a housing estate on the grounds now so the park is half the size, it's alot more crowed and the route in which I used to walk the dog is gone.. other than modern human interference. The wonderful barn is a must visit if you enjoy or are interested in Irish History.
Jack RutterJack Rutter
10
A unique bit of architecture which would do well as a tourist attraction if it was brought back to its former glory. As it stands you can only look and not enter the structures which is a pity. As another reviewer said be aware of the parking as the gate is used for those visiting the allotment so you might get locked in if you park inside it.
Alan McEvoyAlan McEvoy
20
Deadly and interesting piece of Irish history I'd googled the history before taking the drove to go explore it .. Tiny carpark maybe for 3 cars free yes..no facilties, 30minutes walk from the carpark ..cannot go inside its all locked up is a real pity..worth the visit in my opinion ..enjoy ➡️find me @kathy.mcpartland_wall on Instagram
kathy Mc partlandkathy Mc partland
60
Reviews
Overview
4.3
(242 reviews)
Website
kildare.ie
Visit
Deep Dive
A deep dive into The Wonderful Barn
- Unable to get your location