Overview
Perched on Sallins Road at the north‑end of Naas, the Catholic Church of Our Lady and St David is a striking example of early‑19th‑century Gothic architecture. Its 60‑metre broach spire, added in 1858, can be seen from across the town, acting as a visual beacon for both worshippers and passers‑by. The church remains an active parish in the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin, offering daily liturgies, a vibrant community life and a glimpse into over eight centuries of Irish ecclesiastical history.
History
The site of St David’s has been a place of worship since at least 1212, when a written record first mentions a church in the possession of the Hospitallers of St John. Archaeological evidence – a granite water font – suggests an even earlier Christian foundation, possibly linked to St Patrick’s missionary journeys through mid‑Leinster.
Following the Norman invasion of the 1170s, the original structure was rededicated to St David of Wales, reflecting the Cambro‑Norman settlers who populated the area. Over the centuries the building evolved: a 1606 Inquisition records three side chapels (Holy Trinity, St Mary and St Katherine), and a 1780s attempt by Lord Mayo to erect a grand tower left a truncated but iconic spire that still houses a bell cast in 1674 – one of the oldest in Ireland.
The present nave dates from 1827, constructed just before Catholic Emancipation. The tower and spire were completed in 1858, modelled on 14th‑century English examples. Renovations in 1985, guided by the Second Vatican Council, removed the high altar, side altars and altar rails, replacing them with a circular Blessed Sacrament altar that symbolises Christ as the centre of the universe. A hidden L‑shaped crypt, uncovered during 1989‑90 works, revealed a small family burial, later re‑interred in Maudlings Cemetery.
In November 2013 the parish celebrated the re‑dedication of the church, an event documented in a photo gallery on the parish website.
What to See & Do
- The Spire and Bell – Climb (or simply admire) the 60‑metre spire; listen for the 1674 bell that still rings on Sundays.
- Circular Blessed Sacrament Altar – A modern liturgical focal point, the altar’s circular design draws the eye to the centrally placed tabernacle.
- Stained‑Glass Windows – The nave’s pointed‑arch windows contain vibrant stained glass, some dating back to the 19th‑century renovation.
- Historic Crypt – While the crypt itself is not open to the public, information panels near the side chapel explain its discovery and the families interred there.
- Photographic Gallery – Explore the re‑dedication ceremony photos and historic images of the exterior, altar, stained glass and more via the parish’s gallery page.
- Live Worship – If you cannot attend in person, the parish streams services via a webcam and broadcasts on parish radio 107.3.
Practical Information
Mass Times (subject to change on holy days; always verify on the parish website)
| Day | Morning Mass | Mid‑day Mass | Evening Vigil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday‑Friday | 7:30 am | 10:00 am | – |
| Saturday | 10:00 am | – | 6:00 pm Vigil |
| Sunday | 9:00 am | 11:00 am | 6:00 pm |
| Holy Days | See website | – | – |
Confessions are offered after the 10:00 am Saturday Mass.
Visitor Opening Times
The church does not maintain separate visitor opening hours. It is generally accessible to the public during the scheduled Mass times and throughout the day when no service is in progress. For the most up‑to‑date information, check the parish website or contact the church directly.
Access & Parking
The church sits in its own grounds with a tarmacadam car park adjacent to the building, providing convenient on‑site parking for visitors. The site is set back from Sallins Road, making it easily reachable on foot or by car.
Contact & Online Resources
- Website: https://www.naasparish.ie/church/church-of-our-lady-st-david/
- Parish Radio: 107.3 FM (live broadcast of services)
- Live Stream: Accessible via the parish website’s webcam link.
Accessibility
The nave is level and generally wheelchair‑friendly; however, the spire and crypt areas are not open to the public. Details on hearing loops, disabled toilets and other facilities are not currently published online and should be confirmed with the parish before visiting. (verification required)
Getting Here
The church is located just off the N7 dual‑carriageway, a short drive from the centre of Naas. Public transport options include:
- Bus: Bus Éireann routes 120 and 121 stop on Sallins Road within a few minutes’ walk of the church.
- Train: The nearest railway station is Naas (Kildare) on the Dublin‑Kildare line, about a 10‑minute walk away.
- Car: On‑site parking is free for visitors; limited street parking is also available on Sallins Road.
For the latest timetables and any service disruptions, consult the Transport for Ireland website or local bus operators.
Nearby Attractions
While in Naas, consider visiting other points of interest within a short drive:
- Carton House – A grand Georgian mansion set in extensive parkland, offering tours, a golf course and a luxury hotel.
- Bodenstown Graveyard – The historic burial ground of the O’Connor family, associated with St. Brigid and the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
- Naas Town Centre – Browse boutique shops, cafés and the weekly market on Saturdays.
These sites complement a visit to the church and showcase the rich cultural landscape of County Kildare.