Things To Do Locally

Whether you are looking for some shopping therapy, horse racing, nature or something more exciting adventure, Co. Kildare has plenty of activities to offer all whitin a short drive of the Court Yard Hotel

For racegoers County Kildare is famed as the home of horse racing in Ireland

The Curragh Racecourse is Ireland's most important Thoroughbred racetrack. It's Season begins in March and runs until October. The highlights being the Guineas Festival, the Derby Festival, the Oaks and the Irish Champions Weekend. The Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby Festival takes place normally the last week in June, is a spectacular, glamorous weekend of world-class racing, fashion and food.

Punchestown Racecourse is the home of Irish jump racing and one of the highlights of the Irish sporting and social calendar takes place there annually - The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival which is considered the grand finale of the jump season. Punchestown is proud to be the home of Irish National Hunt Racing and host the famous La Touche Cup, a spectators favorite run over the cross country course. It's a "must see" for any racing fan.  

Explore world class thoroughbreds stud or soak up the peace and beauty of the Japanese Gardens at one Co. Kildare's most popular destination -  The Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens. Take a stroll and explore the history behind reland's first and largest Palladian style house at Castletown House & Parklands.

For those who might enjoy the more leisurely pursuit of shopping, there are no end of choices for you to indulge in some retail therapy. For the designer bargain hunters Kildare Village Designer Outlet, home to over 60 brands and Newbridge Silverware, which was voted in the Top 5 of Free Things to Do in Ireland.

For those seeking more of a thrill and outdoor adventure, take a Helicopter Tour around Ireland or experience the River Liffey with River Tubing & Rafting - Perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.