Co Kildare

Kildare or ‘Cill Dara’ meaning the church of the oak tree takes its name from St Brigid’s monastery which was unique in that it had a community of nuns and monks. Its stunning landscape extends from the Wicklow mountain range in the east across the unique plain known as the Curragh to the great raised Bog of Allen on the western side.

Traditional Irish Music

Athy

Lullymore Heritage Park

St Brigid's Cathedral

Castletown House

Try your luck at the Curragh

Naas Farmers Market

Japenese Gardens

Kildare has a long documented history with abundant evidence of ancient habitation plus early Christian sites, anglo-Norman mottes, many castles and 17th & 18th century houses and mansions to explore. The Curragh has a long association with armies since the 12th century but is now best known as the premier racecourse in Ireland and home to the Irish Classics. A must for any horse race enthusiast is a visit to the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens where you can visit the ‘living legends’ enjoying their retirement.

Founder of the Guinness brewing firm Arthur Guinness was born in Celbridge in 1725 and opened his brewery at Leixlip in 1756 before heading to Dublin and St James Gate three years later. Leixlip Castle has been in the ownership of the Guinness family since 1958 and contains some unusual items which include a large 18th century doll’s house, a military bath and a cabinet made in Killarney circa 1880.

Visit Irelands largest and finest Palladian country house Castletown House. Built in 1722 it now offers an extensive events programme which includes: Children's art and craft workshops, music recitals, parkland tours, evening concerts and 'Family nights' in the Courtyard Café.

Explore the fascinating history and science of Ireland’s bog lands at the Bog of Allen Nature Centre with three areas for activities and exploration - The Peatland Museum, the biodiversity gardens and greenhouse of carnivorous plants (Flytraps) and the Lodge Bog - a living raised bog habitat.

Just a short drive from Dublin Kildare is Ireland in a nutshell, whether you’re cruising through spectacular mountains and valleys, exploring Early Christian heritage or enjoying a slap-up meal at a gastro-pub along the way Kildare has it all.

Top Accommodation within the Co Kildare Region

Springfield Hotel