PHOTOS: Historic Kildare mill to go under the hammer in Naas this month
“The Mill” in Athgarvan, located just outside Newbridge, will be offered for sale at auction on Wednesday, May 20 at Lawlor’s Hotel in Naas
A landmark industrial site in south Kildare is set to go under the hammer later this month, with a guide price of €475,000 attracting interest from developers and heritage enthusiasts alike.
“The Mill” in Athgarvan, located just outside Newbridge, will be offered for sale at auction on Wednesday, May 20 at Lawlor’s Hotel in Naas. The sale is being handled by Sherry FitzGerald O’Reilly, who describe the property as a “rare opportunity” to acquire a historic riverside complex with significant redevelopment potential.
Situated along the banks of the River Liffey, the 1.3-acre site includes a series of stone-built mill structures dating back to around 1860, along with storage sheds, silos and a turbine house.
The property has been a working mill site for centuries, with records indicating milling activity there as early as 1752.
The mill played a central role in the development of Athgarvan, a village whose name translates as “ford of the rough water,” referencing a historic crossing point on the Liffey.
That ford was replaced by a bridge in 1841, but the river continued to power local industry for generations. At its peak, the mill was producing up to 15,000 bags of flour annually, much of it transported via the nearby Corbally Harbour.
Despite its industrial past, the site retains many original features, including a traditional mill wheel, cast-iron gutters, red brick window detailing and a distinctive kiln cupola used in the malting process.
The main mill house rises four storeys and includes a former kiln room with a honeycomb tile floor, while upper levels remain largely open-plan.
A second structure, the stores and malthouse building, extends to approximately 279 square metres and retains its Victorian character, with rubble stone walls and brick detailing. Additional storage sheds and a turbine house complete the complex.
According to the selling agents, the site offers “a uniquely versatile space” for a mix of commercial and residential uses, subject to planning permission. Its riverside setting and historic significance are expected to be key selling points.
Athgarvan itself has seen steady growth in recent years, evolving into a largely residential area with new housing developments underway. Planning permission has recently been granted for 42 additional homes on the Curragh Road, reflecting continued demand in the area.
The village benefits from its proximity to larger towns such as Newbridge and Kilcullen, as well as easy access to major road networks including the M7 and M9. Public transport links are also available via Newbridge railway station, offering regular services to Dublin.
Local amenities include a primary school, sports clubs and walking routes along the Liffey, while the nearby Curragh Plains provide extensive outdoor recreational space.
With its combination of heritage, location and development potential, The Mill is expected to generate strong interest ahead of the auction later this month.