History & Culture · Newbridge
Donnelly’s Hollow
Donnelly’s Hollow is a historic site on the Curragh Plains, famous for the 1815 bare-knuckle fight between Dan Donnelly and George Cooper. The monument and legendary footsteps keep alive the story of one of Ireland’s most celebrated sporting figures.
Donnelly's Hollow: Where an Irish Legend Was Made
Category: History & Culture
Location: Curragh Plains, near Athgarvan, County Kildare
Price: Free to visit
Overview
Donnelly’s Hollow is a natural dip in the Curragh landscape, just outside Athgarvan. Once known as Belcher’s Hollow, it became famous after a bare-knuckle boxing match in 1815 between Irish fighter Dan Donnelly and English champion George Cooper.
Why it matters
Thousands of people gathered in the hollow to watch the fight. Donnelly’s victory after 11 rounds became more than a sporting moment; it was remembered as a symbolic win for Irish pride. A monument was later erected in 1838 through public donations, and it still marks the site today.
What to notice
Look for Donnelly’s monument and the oversized “footsteps” nearby, said to mark his walk of victory from the ring. Whether history or folklore, they add to the character of the place and help explain why the hollow remains one of the Curragh’s best-known local landmarks.