Baldonnel, Dublin facts for kids
Baldonnel (which in Irish is Baile Dhónaill, meaning "homestead of the O'Donnels") is a small area known as a townland in the western part of County Dublin, Ireland. It's a mix of busy industrial areas and quiet farmlands. Baldonnel is close to several other towns like Rathcoole, Clondalkin, Tallaght, Lucan, Saggart, and Naas. It's located about 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) west of the very center of Dublin city.
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What is Baldonnel?
Baldonnel is a unique area because it combines two very different types of land use: industry and agriculture.
- Industrial areas are places where businesses and factories are located. These businesses often make things or provide services.
- Agricultural areas are used for farming, like growing crops or raising animals.
This mix means you can find both modern buildings and green fields in Baldonnel.
Where is Baldonnel Located?
Baldonnel is in the west of County Dublin. It's part of the larger South Dublin region. Being just 15 kilometers from Dublin city center makes it easy to reach, but it still has a more rural feel in some parts. Its location near several other towns means it's connected to a wider community.
How Did Baldonnel Get Its Name?
The name "Baldonnel" has a long history! It comes from a family called the O'Donnels, who used to own land in this area a very long time ago. The earliest time we see the name written down was in a document from 1717. In this old paper, the name was spelled in a few different ways, like Baldownan, Balldonnan, and Ballydonnell.
There are still two old houses in the area that are called Baldonnell House. One of them is the oldest, located north of the local airfield. The newer one is a bit further east. You can even find the ruins of the very first Baldonnell House east of the airfield, showing where the original homestead once stood.
Rivers and Nature in Baldonnel
A river called the River Camac flows right through Baldonnel. This river is an important natural feature of the area. After leaving Baldonnel, the River Camac continues its journey through Corkagh Park, which is a large public park. Eventually, the River Camac joins a much bigger river, the famous River Liffey, which flows through Dublin city.
