Leixlip is located 16 kilometres west of Dublin at the convergence of the Liffey and Rye rivers. The town centre had previously been on the main road west out of Dublin and has been by-passed in recent years.

There is evidence of early settlements - the name Leixlip derives from the Norse words Lax-hlaup, or Salmon Leap.

The town was the western extent of Viking settlement within their area of control around Dublin in the tenth century.

After Anglo-conquest,Adam de Hereford was granted lands around Dublin and chose Leixlip as the site for his stronghold, due to its strategic location.

The proximity of Leixlip to Dublin and its natural scenic beauty greatly influenced the prosperity of the town which was described in the 18th century as ‘one of the pleasantest villages in Ireland’.

Today, Leixlip has a population of approximately 16,000.

The Main Street of Leixlip is parallel to the downriver side of the meeting of the Rivers Rye and Liffey. The street has a strong urban form and the traditional scale and fabric is generally well preserved.

Consistent with most Irish towns where historically the river was used to power mills and other industry, the main street in Leixlip does not overlook the river.

Consequently, the town centre does not fully exploit the amenity of the river, which runs to the rear of buildings on the south side of Main Street.