Kildare

County Kildare is a county in the province of Leinster, Ireland. It lies to the west of Dublin and is bordered by Dublin, Meath, Wicklow, Carlow, Laois, and Offaly. The county combines rural landscapes with towns that serve as economic and administrative centers.

Geography and landscape: The county is predominantly rural, with fertile farmland and several notable features. The Curragh, a large grassy plain near the towns of Newbridge and Kildare Town, is a historic military training area and a renowned horse-racing venue. The region contains a mix of farmland, forests, and rivers, supporting both agriculture and a thriving equine industry.

Economy: The equine sector is central to Kildare’s economy, encompassing breeding, training, and racing. The National Stud is located near Kildare Town, and Punchestown Racecourse hosts major events near Naas. Naas is the county town and serves as a commercial hub, with other significant towns including Newbridge and Maynooth contributing to manufacturing, logistics, and services.

History and culture: The area has early Christian heritage, with associations to St. Brigid and religious sites in Kildare Town. The county preserves historic towns, castles, and estates, reflecting its long history in agriculture, trade, and faith.

Governance and demographics: The county is governed by Kildare County Council. It is part of the Mid-East region and the traditional province of Leinster. The population is around 250,000, with growth tied to its proximity to Dublin and its role as a commuter area.

Transport: Kildare is well connected by road and rail, including the M7 motorway and rail services linking Dublin with other parts of Ireland, supporting both commuters and regional commerce.