Heritage events in County Kildare today

National Heritage Week events today in Co Kildare include museums, exhibitions, big house and garden tours, and theatre, writes Brian Byrne. Officially opened yesterday, Heritage Week will run until 23 August.

Those interested in old farm tractors and classic cars can see them in action as they drive through Kilcullen today from around 1.15pm, in the 24th Mac & Norman Vintage Run in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. At the Old Kilcullen Picnic on the Green, there will be displays of local historical interest as well as free fun events for the whole family.

Military history takes centre stage at the Curragh Camp, where the Curragh Military Museum is hosting its exhibition, Showcasing Irish Military History in Kildare From the 1600s, from 2pm to 5pm. Families and science enthusiasts are also gathering at The Steam Museum & Lodge Park Walled Garden in Straffan, open today from 1pm to 4:30pm. For those looking to explore local community stories, the Sallins Local History Society has opened its Sallins - A Visual History Photo Exhibition at Cafe Grange, welcoming visitors between 9am and 4pm.

Architecture and garden lovers have an array of historic homes opening their gates today. In Celbridge, the historic Kildrought House is hosting visitors from 10:45am to 12:45pm. Guided heritage tours are also underway at Harristown House in Brannockstown from 9am to 1pm and the medieval Leixlip Castle on Pound Street from 10:15am to 12:15pm. Those looking for panoramic views can ascend the Tower of Allen (Aylmer's Folly) until 4pm, while Maynooth offers peaceful exploration at Moyglare Glebe in the morning and St Mary's Church of Ireland on Parson Street in the afternoon.

Today's festivities will conclude under the evening lights as the Griese Youth Theatre presents its New Lights showcase, running until 11:45pm, ensuring the county's heritage celebrations continue well into the night.

Photographs use Policy — Privacy Policy