Close to both the Grand Canal and the start of Arthur’s Way in nearby Celbridge, Newcastle still shows evidence of its historic past as a strategic location. While the area was the site of a Monastery founded by St Finian in the 6th century, Newcastle’s name derives from a castle newly built after the area was first occupied following the Norman invasion in the 12th century.
It was originally named Lymerhin and often called Newcastle Lyons to distinguish it from towns with the same or similar names. In the 16th century, Newcastle contained no less than six castles and was a place of considerable importance.
You can find more information on the history of the village here. A guided Village Heritage Walk is also downloadable.