Kildare and Irish National Stud Tour

Discover Ireland’s Equine Heritage with Our Kildare & Irish National Stud Tour

Kildare & National Stud Tours open the gates to Ireland’s Thoroughbred County, where horses and heritage come together. Just an hour south of Dublin, this region is home to world-class stud farms, legendary racecourses, and the iconic Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens. It’s a magical day filled with equine culture, rolling countryside, and authentic Irish charm. Travel in comfort and style with our premier chauffeur hire service.

Overview of Our Kildare & Irish National Stud Tour

Our Kildare tours provide a rare chance to step inside the heart of Ireland’s horse-breeding tradition. With exclusive access to studs, stables, and training facilities, you’ll see firsthand why County Kildare is renowned worldwide for its champion thoroughbreds.

Highlights include:
♦ Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens – “A Real Irish Treasure”
♦ Curragh racecourse & training grounds – centre of Irish racing heritage
♦ Local stud farms & stables – meet trainers, yard staff, and horses up close
♦ Kildare Village Outlet or Newbridge Silverware Museum – shopping and culture combined

This tour balances history, equestrian life, and local flavour, offering a deep insight into Ireland’s most prestigious industry.

A large historic mansion with a symmetrical facade, surrounded by well-manicured gardens with trimmed hedges, flower beds, and a fountain, set in a lush green landscape.

Kildare & National Stud Tour Itinerary

Your private tour begins at 9:30am with collection from Dublin, followed by a short drive south to County Kildare.

  • Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens – Guided welcome and introduction to the horses and grounds

  • Lunch – Enjoy a relaxed meal locally or in the on-site café/restaurant

  • Explore - Friarstown Stables, with opportunities to meet local trainers and capture photos

People walking through an outdoor shopping area with boutique stores, trees, potted plants, and street lamps.

  • Curragh Plains & Racecourse – Drive through the training grounds and visit the redeveloped €100M racecourse

  • Shopping Stop – Optional visit to Kildare Village Outlet or Newbridge Silverware / Museum

  • Depart - Kildare for return to Dublin

  • 17:30 – Drop-off at your hotel, cruise ship, or chosen location

What’s Included in Your Kildare & Irish National Stud Tour

Your tour includes

✔ Private driver/guide (up to 8 hours)
✔ Private luxury transportation
✔ All tolls, parking, and tunnel fees
✔ Fully insured vehicles
✔ Complimentary refreshments

What’s Not Included

◆ Personal expenses
◆ Overnight accommodation
◆ Admission fees
◆ Meals, drinks, and snacks

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Your Private Transportation

Travel in comfort with private luxury vehicles:

  • Mercedes Class E-S or GLE AMG (3–4 passengers)

  • Luxury custom people carrier (5–7 passengers)

  • For larger groups, alternative vehicles are available on request

All vehicles include:

  • Air conditioning & in-car Wi-Fi

  • Mobile charging units & Spotify Music

  • Complimentary fruit & bottled water

  • Umbrellas, field glasses, and binoculars

What Our Customers Say About Our Kildare & National Stud Tour

Five gold stars aligned in a row.

Mary Wallace

Kildare & Irish National Stud Tour

We had a fantastic day on the Kildare & National Stud Tour. The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens were brilliant, and seeing the Curragh plains was a real treat. Greg, our driver, was full of knowledge and made the whole day flow with ease. We finished up at Newbridge Silverware before heading back to Dublin — a perfect way to end the tour.

21st July 2025

Exterior of a jewelry store named Newbridge Silverware, celebrating 90 years, with potted topiary plants outside and a glass entrance door.

Frequently Asked Questions - Kildare & Irish National Stud Tour

  • The Kildare and Irish National Stud Tour includes Ireland’s famous stud farm, the Japanese Gardens, St. Fiachra’s Garden, and a chance to meet some of the country’s finest thoroughbred horses.

  • The Kildare and Irish National Stud Tour is typically a half-day trip, but it can be extended into a full-day experience by adding nearby attractions such as Kildare Village or the Curragh.

  • Yes, the Kildare and Irish National Stud Tour is very family-friendly, with beautiful gardens, open spaces, and the opportunity for children to see horses and foals up close.

  • No, the Kildare and Irish National Stud Tour appeals to everyone. Even if you’re not a racing enthusiast, the gardens, heritage, and cultural experience make it a must-see.

  • A private Kildare and Irish National Stud Tour with Claddagh Tours gives you flexibility, comfort, and a personalised itinerary, ensuring you experience both the stud and gardens at your own pace.

Alternative 1 Day Tour Experiences

Discover Ireland: 3 to 10 Day Experiences

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A young woman in a red vest holding a brown racehorse with a white nose cover, at a racetrack.

Begin your Kildare & National Stud Tour with Claddagh Tours. From the Irish National Stud to the Curragh plains, explore the heart of Thoroughbred County in comfort with your own private driver-guide. Ready to plan your trip? Click below to complete the booking form.

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