The Irish National Stud and Gardens

Located in the heart of the thoroughbred county in Tully, Co Kildare, the Irish National Stud & Gardens is one of Ireland’s true gems. Just under 30 minutes from Midlands Park Hotel in Laois The Irish National Stud & Gardens is a unique experience and a great day out for all ages.

Beginning in the early 1900’s it is one of the only thoroughbred breeding farms open to the public and its unique history and beauty are admired by visitors from around the globe.

Visitors can decide to join informative guides on a tour which is included in their general admission ticket. The enthusiastic guides provide the listener with a colourful history of the Studs beginnings and its founder. A leisurely stroll throughout the Stud ensures visitors are given a fascinating insight into the workings of Irelands most iconic stud farm.

There’s the opportunity to view the current roster of stallions and depending on the time of year visitors may see new-born foals and mares in the rolling green paddocks.

Visitors get to meet the iconic Living Legends team, a group of retired National Hunt champions that live at the Stud. Household names such as Hurricane Fly, Beef or Salmon, Faugheen and many more now live a peaceful retirement here and enjoy the adoration of their many fans who come from all corners of the globe to see them.

The Stud is also home to two remarkable gardens: The Japanese Gardens and St Fiachra’s Garden

At the Japanese Gardens visitors enter an oasis of calm as they travel the “Life of Man” path which traces the passage of a soul from birth to death and beyond. By comparison, St Fiachra’s Garden is an inherently Irish Garden that symbolises the power of the Irish Landscape. Predominantly planted with native species, St Fiachra’s Garden is home to an array of Irish wildlife.

Irish Racehorse Experience

This award winning interactive Irish Racehorse Experience takes visitors on a journey from the birth to the retirement of a racehorse. Upon entry everyone receives a “horse box” that gives them the opportunity of “owning a racehorse”! After learning about foaling, the early years and the history of the thoroughbred, the visitor will enter an interactive auction where they can purchase an unbroken yearling. Through a series of beautifully appointed rooms, the visitor will learn about training, racecourses, jockeys and the anatomy and physiology of these magnificent athletes.

Visitors and their chosen racehorse will end up at the race day to experience the fashion, the betting and animated commentary style that creates the dynamic atmosphere that is renowned at Irish race meetings. Visitors will even get the chance to ride their horse on a simulated ride to find out how their investments work in a race.

Beautifully set on 850 acres of lush green rolling hills, the Irish National Stud & Gardens is a must visit for anyone visiting Ireland and looking to discover a true Irish treasure.

Find Out More 

Address: Irish National Stud, Tully, Kildare, County Kildare – Phone:  +353 (0) 45 521617