Rathvilly, Carlow

Rathvilly - in Irish Ráth Bhile, ring fort of the trees - from one of a series of raths or circular earthworks built on the eastern side of the River Barrow. Today Rathvilly is a picturesque village in North Carlow, with parish boundaries bordering counties Kildare and Wicklow.

It has the distinction of winning the All-Ireland Tidy Towns Award on three separate occasions and this is reflected in the overall character of the village.

What to see and do in Rathvilly

In the centre of the village is a monument to Kevin Barry, a local boy who joined the fight for Irish freedom. He was captured, and executed at the age of 18 in Dublin. His short and adventurous life is remembered in one of the best known rebel songs, The Ballad of Kevin Barry.

In the 5th Century, Crimthan, King of Leinster, lived at Rathvilly. He was converted and baptised by St. Patrick. Rathvilly motte, in the townland of Knockroe, is suggested as his residence during his reign from 443AD to 483AD.

With panoramic views of the Wicklow Hills and Mount Leinster Lisnavagh was originally designed and the gardens laid out by Daniel Robertson in the 1850's.

For equestrian enthusiasts, or for those just wishing to learn about the sport, the Echo Equestrian Centre is nearby.

Rathvilly Map

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