Irish National Stud & Gardens – A Must-See in County Kildare

Just over an hour’s drive from Dublin city centre lies the beating heart of Ireland’s horse industry and one of the country’s most beautiful attractions – the Irish National Stud & Gardens in Tully, Co. Kildare.

This world-renowned stud is home to some of Ireland’s finest thoroughbreds and has a long tradition of breeding champions. For horse lovers, visiting during foaling season is an unforgettable experience, as future stars of the track take their first steps and play in the fields. Today, nine famous stallions also enjoy a well-earned retirement on the farm after their successful racing careers.

The Stud was originally purchased in the early 1900s by Colonel William Hall Walker, a wealthy Scotsman from the famous brewing family. He later gifted it to the Crown, and today it belongs to the Irish people but is run as a commercial stud. The fascinating story of Ireland’s racing heritage is brought to life in the Horse Museum, where pride of place goes to the skeleton of Arkle, affectionately known as “Himself” – one of Ireland’s most legendary racehorses.

The Gardens – Japanese Mastery Meets Irish Spirit

Alongside the Stud are two magnificent gardens. The Japanese Gardens, created between 1906 and 1910 by Japanese horticulturist Tassa Eida and his son Minoru, are among the finest in Europe. Designed to symbolise the “Life of Man,” the gardens use flowing streams, lush greenery, colourful blooms, and symbolic features such as the Bridge of Life. After exploring, visitors can relax in the charming tea rooms.

Nearby, St. Fiachra’s Garden pays tribute to the patron saint of gardeners. Inspired by Ireland’s natural landscapes, it blends woodlands, wetlands, waterfalls, and lakes with monastic-style limestone cells. A subterranean garden adds to the atmosphere, with Waterford Crystal-shaped rocks, orchids, and ferns.

The Irish Racehorse Experience

A highlight for many visitors is the Irish Racehorse Experience, an immersive attraction that takes you behind the scenes of racing. Learn about champion horses, step into a working training yard, and even test your riding skills on an animatronic horse in a simulated race.

Practical Information

Guided Tours:

  • Daily at 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm.

  • In peak season, additional tours run at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm.

Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (last entry at 5:00 pm).

  • Closed December to February. Check the website for seasonal times.

Food & Shopping:
Enjoy delicious morning tea and lunch at the on-site café, or browse the souvenir shop for quality gifts and mementos.

How to Get There:

  • Train: Take the Dublin Heuston–Kildare service (27–38 minutes, twice per hour). The Irish National Stud is a short taxi ride (approx. €15 one-way) from Kildare station.

  • Taxis: Kildare Taxi +353 89 9678 787, Dave’s Cab +353 86 405 3463, Cill Dara Cabs +353 45 530814, Orchard Cabs +353 87 917 9537, Declan’s Taxi +353 877 213 485.

  • Leap Card: Both standard and visitor Leap Cards can be used on this train route as it is within the commuter zone.

More Information:
Visit www.irishnationalstud.ie

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