Curious about where the “Aodh’s pasture” is? That’s Clonee. Welcome.
Clonee is a village with an intriguing story to tell. It sits on the border of County Meath and County Dublin. This location has shaped its identity.
Let’s take a stroll through Clonee’s past. The village’s name comes from the Irish “Cluain Aodha.” This means “Aodh’s pasture”. It hints at the area’s agricultural roots.
Clonee has seen significant growth. Its population nearly doubled between 2011 and 2022. It went from 631 to 1205 residents. This shows Clonee is an attractive place to live.
The River Tolka gently flows past Clonee. The Clonee Stream joins it at the village’s edge. The land here is fairly level. This makes it ideal for both settlement and industry.
Getting to Clonee is easy. It is located off the N3 Dublin to Cavan road. It is also near the M50 motorway. Dublin is only 14 km away. Several Dublin Bus routes serve the village, including the 70, 70D, and 270. Bus Éireann routes 109 and 105 also stop here.
If you prefer the train, Hansfield railway station is close by. It’s about 3 km from Clonee. From there, you can reach Dublin city and other destinations.
Clonee offers several amenities. The Grasshopper Inn is a popular spot. For groceries, there are Aldi and Lidl supermarkets. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the Dunboyne Tennis Club and Clonee United. The Royal Meath Pitch and Putt club is also nearby.
You might notice a striking piece of public art as you approach Clonee. “Gateway to Meath” stands on the N3 Clonee Bypass. It features a 2.7m bronze man at a 4m high bronze gate. Ann Meldon Hugh created this impressive installation.
Clonee is also an economic hub. The Kepak Group has its headquarters here since 1981. This food processing company employs over 2000 people. Facebook also has data centers in Clonee since 2018. These are powered by Ireland’s first private 220kV substation.
Clonee is more than just a place on a map. It is a blend of history and progress. It is a gateway between counties. It is a home to both tradition and innovation.
As we conclude our visit to Clonee, remember its story. From its name meaning “Aodh’s pasture” to its modern data centers. Clonee embodies Ireland’s dynamic spirit. It is a place where the past and the future meet.