County Kildare Towns and Villages
Kilcock
Kilcock is a picturesque town situated on the banks of the Royal Canal , with a population of approximately 2000.
Stroll along the 'Old Bog Road' in the footsteps of Teresa Brayton who wrote the song that immortalised it.
Local History
Kilcock takes its name from the 6th century Saint
Coca who founded a church beside the river Rye, and who is
traditionally said to have been a sister of St. Kevin of
Glendalough; by occupation she was an embroiderer of church
vestments, including those for St. Colmcille. A holy well
dedicated to Coca is now lost in the back-yards of Kilcock,
but her feast is remembered on 6th June. However, this commemoration
is a modern revival as when the Ordnance Survey of the area
was being made in 1837 it was recorded that ‘there is no
old church in ruins in this parish nor is any patron saint
or day remembered ... the meaning of the name Cille Choc
is not remembered.' When the present parish church was dedicated
in 1867 it was named for St. Coca, and it had cost £10,000
to build to the design of architect J.J. McCarthy.
In the 8th century there was a battle between rival kings near the church of
St. Coca, then in the territory of Carbury and close to the border between
Leinster and Meath. There is a gap of several hundred years until the next
reference to Kilcock when, in 1303, it belonged to the Hospital of St. John
of Jerusalem at Kilmainham.
Things To Do
Larchill Arcadian Gardens
25 Hectares of 18th century
landscaped gardens with ten 18th
century Gothic & Classical Follies, walled
gardens & a 3 hectare lake. Rare breeds of animals & poultry
are on display. Tea rooms, Gift Shop, Toilets (disabled);
Open June till September or by Appointment, Coaches Welcome
and groups by arrangement.
Canoeing
With such close proximity to the canal it is no
surprise that Kilcock is the perfect village for canoeing.
The International Canoe Polo Competition takes place in Kilcock
in September attracts a huge crowd.
Canoeing takes places every Saturday morning for children
of all age groups.
Kilcock 18 Hole Golf Club
Course open from dawn to dusk. Putting Green and
practise areas available. Visitor restrictions at weekends.
Telephone: 01 6287592
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