Kildare Town Map
Where Ireland’s ancient heritage meets world-class horse racing and luxury designer shopping.
A driving tour of County Kildare, the “Thoroughbred County,” is a fantastic way to experience Ireland’s history, equestrian heritage, andnatural beauty. Here is a more comprehensive tour, including additionalhidden gems and attractions.
A Tour of county Kildare
The Curragh racecourse
The Curragh Racecourse: Begin your tour at the home of Irish flat racing. The Curragh is a vast, open plain that has been used for racing and military training for centuries. Even without a race, the expanse of the grasslands is a sight to see.
The irish national stud & gardens
Irish National Stud & Gardens: This is a quintessential Kildare experience. Take a guided tour of the stud farm and see the stallions, mares, foals, and the Living Legends – retired racing champions. Then, wander through the serene Japanese Gardens, considered among the best in Europe. St. Fiachra’s Garden, also on site, offers a spiritual and natural space.
st bridgids cathedral & round tower
St. Brigid’s Cathedral and Round Tower: Visit this stunning cathedral built on the site of a 5th-century nunnery founded by St. Brigid. You can climb the round tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Maynooth
Maynooth: A historic university town with a vibrant atmosphere. Maynooth Castle: Explore the ruins of this 13th-century castle, once the stronghold of the powerful Fitzgerald family. Carton House: A beautiful historic hotel with two championship golf courses and picturesque grounds.
Maynooth
Maynooth: A historic university town with a vibrant atmosphere. Maynooth Castle: Explore the ruins of this 13th-century castle, once the stronghold of the powerful Fitzgerald family. Carton House: A beautiful historic hotel with two championship golf courses and picturesque grounds.
Solas Bhride Centre
Solas Bhride Centre: A modern spiritual centre dedicated to the legacy of St. Brigid. It’s a place for reflection and learning about her life and work.
Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre
Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre: Head to Newbridge to visit the famous Newbridge Silverware factory. You can take a factory tour and browse the Museum of Style Icons, which houses a collection of garments and memorabilia from Hollywood legends and music icons.
Grand Canal
Grand Canal: The Grand Canal is a major feature of the county. You can: Take a Barge Trip: From the village of Sallins, you can take a relaxing cruise on a traditional canal barge. It’s a unique way to see the county’s landscapes and learn about the waterway’s history. Walk or Cycle the Towpaths: The paths along the canal are perfect for a leisurely stroll or cycle. They offer a tranquil and scenic route through the countryside.
Celbridge
Celbridge: This charming Liffey-side village is home to: Castletown House: Ireland’s largest and earliest Palladian-style mansion. Tour the magnificent house and then explore the extensive 18th-century parklands. The Wonderful Barn: A quirky, corkscrew-shaped building from the 18th century. It’s an unusual sight and a popular photo stop.
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park: Located in the Bog of Allen, this park is a great family day out. It offers a unique mix of history, nature trails, a pet farm, and a fairy village. It’s a fascinating way to learn about Ireland’s peatlands.
places to visit
Donadea Forest Park
Donadea Forest Park: A peaceful and enchanting forest with looped walking trails, a lake, and the ruins of a castle and walled garden.
The Kildare Maze
The Kildare Maze: Get lost in Leinster’s largest hedge maze, a fun and challenging activity for all ages.
Kildare Village
For a different kind of experience, this luxury outlet shopping destination is a popular stop.
Lodge Park Walled Garden & Steam Museum
Lodge Park Walled Garden & Steam Museum: A hidden gem in Straffan, this site features a restored 18th-century walled garden and a collection of vintage steam engines.
Kildare Farm Foods Open Farm & Shop
Kildare Farm Foods Open Farm & Shop: A free-to-enter family farm where you can see a variety of animals, from camels to ostriches, in a relaxed setting.
Shackleton Museum
Mondello Park: For a thrill, visit Ireland’s only international motorsport venue. You can catch a race or book a driving experience.
Russborough House
Russborough House: While technically in County Wicklow, it’s very close to the Kildare border and is a spectacular example of Palladian architecture, housing the renowned Beit Collection of art.
Bog of Allen Nature Centre
Bog of Allen Nature Centre: Located near Lullymore, this center is focused on the conservation of Ireland’s peatlands. You can learn about this unique ecosystem and its biodiversity.