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Donnelly's Hollow: A Pugilistic Shrine

Walk in the footsteps of an Irish boxing legend at Donnelly's Hollow, a historic landmark in County Kildare where national pride was forged.

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Donnelly's Hollow, nestled in County Kildare, commemorates a famous 1815 bare-knuckle boxing match where Irish champion Dan Donnelly defeated England's George Cooper. The site features a monument and giant footprints, drawing visitors to walk in the footsteps of the legendary fighter.

A brief summary to Donnelly's Hollow

  • Blackrath And Athgarvan, Co. Kildare, IE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the trails and scenic views.
  • Check the weather beforehand and dress accordingly, as conditions can be unpredictable.
  • Consider visiting nearby historical sites to enhance your understanding of the area.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Dublin, take the M7 motorway towards Limerick. Exit at Junction 12 onto the R413 for Athgarvan. Drive for approximately 600m, passing through Lumville Cross. Continue for another 500m, passing a smaller crossroads with the L7043. Look for the signpost on the right for Donnelly's Hollow after about 150m. There is a small parking area on the right-hand side. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Donnelly's Hollow via public transport from Dublin, take a train to Newbridge or Naas. From either station, take a local bus to Athgarvan. The bus will take you to Athgarvan village. From there, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to Donnelly's Hollow, following signs towards Blackrath. Alternatively, take a local taxi from Athgarvan to Donnelly's Hollow. Bus and train fares vary depending on the operator and distance, but a single bus fare within Kildare typically costs around €2-4. A taxi from Athgarvan to Donnelly's Hollow will cost approximately €10-€15.

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Discover more about Donnelly's Hollow

Donnelly's Hollow, located in the Curragh plains of County Kildare, is a historical landmark with a unique story. This natural amphitheater gained fame as the site of the legendary 1815 bare-knuckle boxing match between Irish champion Dan Donnelly and English boxer George Cooper. Donnelly's victory in the 11th round was celebrated as a symbol of Irish pride and resilience against British rule. An obelisk was erected in 1838 to commemorate the event. Legend says that after his victory, Donnelly took giant steps up the hill, and his ardent followers dug out the footprints, which remain to this day. Visitors can still walk in these oversized impressions, connecting with the history and legend of Dan Donnelly. The Curragh's rolling farmland provides a scenic backdrop, making it a peaceful place to reflect on a significant moment in Irish sporting history. Dan Donnelly, born in Dublin in 1788, was known for his brawling ability. His victory at Donnelly's Hollow cemented his place as an Irish icon, drawing an estimated 30,000 spectators to witness the event. Despite his fame, Donnelly's life took a tragic turn, and he died penniless at the young age of 32. His body was stolen from its original burial site, and his right arm was removed for study before eventually being recovered and finding a home in a local pub. Today, Donnelly's Hollow stands as a testament to his legacy and the enduring spirit of Irish nationalism.

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