Welcome to the Carlton Abbey Hotel
Athy
Athy is a Heritage Town on the River Barrow.
Local History
Athy is a fine example of an Anglo Norman linear type settlement. Founded in the 12th century on a river crossing, athy takes its name from a 2nd century battle fought there, which resulted in the death of Ae, son of a Munster Chieftain. Thereafter the river crossing was known in Gaelic as Athy Ae (meaning the ford of Ae) a name subsequently anglicised as Athy. The Fitzgerald's, Earls of Kildare, were landlords of the town for centuries and most of the street names commemorate their family members, one example being 'Emily Square'.
Today, Athy is a busy town with character. Narrow, busy streets crowded with little shops make this very essence of the Irish country market town. It is dominated by the well preserved 16th century White's Castle, a rectangular turreted tower that sits imposingly by the bridge on the River Barrow in the heart of the town, built to protect its inhabitants.
Things to do
- Athy Community Library
- Athy Golf Club
- Athy Heritage Centre
- Athy Swimming Pool
- Cardenton House Par 3 Golf Course
- White's Castle
- John Forkin Blacksmith
- Japanese Gardens & National Stud