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Ballynafagh Church: A Window to Ireland's Past

Discover the historic Ballynafagh Church ruins in Kildare, where a 19th-century church stands alongside medieval remnants in a tranquil setting.

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Explore the evocative ruins of Ballynafagh Church in County Kildare, a site encompassing a 19th-century church and the remains of a medieval predecessor. Wander through the tranquil enclosure, imagining centuries of worship amidst the scenic Irish countryside.

A brief summary to Ballynafagh Church (ruin)

  • Ballynafagh, Co. Kildare, IE

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best natural lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Respect the site by not climbing on the ruins and maintaining the tranquility of the location.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're already in the Ballynafagh area, the church is accessible via local pathways. From the village center, head towards the main road and follow the signs to Ballynafagh Church. It's about a 15-minute walk from the village center. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to the village of Prosperous, Co. Kildare. From Prosperous, head north. After 700m, where the road divides, take the left hand fork and drive for approximately 2.5KM. You will pass a sign for “The Kildare Maze” on your left and the left hand turn for the ruins is about 600m past this. Once on the lane way you can park at the small gate entrance to the field on your right about 300m up the lane. Parking is free and located at the gate entrance.

  • Taxi

    From Clane, a taxi to Ballynafagh Church, located approximately 8km away, will cost around €20-€30. Ensure the driver knows the specific location as it is slightly off the main road. There are no taxi stands at the church, so arrange for a return journey in advance.

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Discover more about Ballynafagh Church (ruin)

Ballynafagh Church, situated in the serene landscape of County Kildare, offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland's ecclesiastical history. The site features two churches: the more prominent ruin of a 19th-century Church of Ireland structure and the scant remains of an earlier medieval church. The Church of Ireland building, constructed in 1831 in the Gothic Revival style, accommodated around 200 people. Financed by a £900 grant from the Board of First Fruits, it boasts a tall tower and distinctive finials atop its buttresses. The church was actively used until 1959, but after being damaged in a severe storm in the early 1980s, it was unroofed in 1985, and its entrances and windows were bricked up. In the southeastern corner of the enclosure, you'll find the remnants of the original medieval church. Only the north wall and the foundations of the east gable remain, offering a tangible connection to the distant past. The surrounding graveyard contains the graves of local parishioners. The site is enclosed by a rectangular boundary wall, often standing amidst a field. Depending on the time of year, the ruins may be surrounded by a sea of wheat.

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