The Wonderful Barn in Ireland

Since we were going to be heading south after our initial stop in Dublin, I started researching places that might be neat to visit on our road trip through the bottom half of Ireland. I came across a pretty little photo on Pinterest that suggested that The Wonderful Barn would be a worthwhile visit. Not only did it pique my interest because the building did in fact look unique, but it was also one that was right on our route and was free to see.

Finding the barn was a bit of a scavenger hunt for us. Our navigation took us to a modern subdivision and told us we had arrived, yet we didn't see the barn anywhere. We exited the subdivision to get back on the main road and I spotted a gated off dirt road right around the corner. There wasn't anywhere to park, but I had a feeling we'd find the barn in the field behind the gate. I didn't want to ruffle any feathers by trespassing onto the property and figured this stop was a bust. But, as luck would have it, just as we decided to call it a loss and drive on, the groundskeeper pulled up, unlocked the gate, and told us to feel free to park our car on the sidewalk and walk on back. I seriously freakin' love Irish hospitality!

The Wonderful Barn dates back all the way to 1743. It was originally used for grain storing, and is said to have later been used to keep the local poor employed during the Year of the Slaughter. As we walked up, I was immediately enchanted by stone entrance way, as it had a Secret Garden vibe going on.

I am a sucker for odd architecture, so I was definitely mesmerized by the corkscrew shaped barn with its 94 steps circling the outside of the structure. It's no longer a functioning barn and has sadly fallen into dilapidation so we weren't able to go in for a tour, but I did enjoy walking the grounds imagining how lovely it must have been during the height of its use. Now, the grounds are overgrown and you'll find some parts marked with graffiti, but I could still see the beauty in this old place.

While I loved the visit, my family wasn't really impressed and didn't much trust my judgement on the other stops I had earmarked on our road trip. "Are we going to a wonderful church next? What about a wonderful castle?" Even though they weren't amused, I'm still happy we plotted it on our travel map and would recommend checking it out if you're in the area.

There's a lovely little garden that was being tended to on the grounds still, and I truly got a kick out of this gate sign. It's so Irish, don't you think?

The Wonderful Barn is located in Celbridge Rd, Barnhall, Leixlip, Co. Kildare. If you venture out that way, snap a pic and tag me on Instagram (marison459). I'd love to hear what you thought about it!

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Yay or Nay on The Wonderful Barn design?