Irish National Stud & Gardens

Irish National Stud & Gardens
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About

A unique combination of world-class thoroughbred breeding farm and Europe's finest Japanese Gardens — set on 850 acres in the heart of Ireland's horse country, just 40 minutes from Dublin.

Things to Do

Guided Stud Tour

Join a free guided tour (included with admission) to see elite stallions, mares with foals, and the behind-the-scenes workings of a working stud farm. Tours run 45–60 minutes at set times throughout the day — peak summer sees up to six daily departures.

Guided Stud Tour

Irish Racehorse Experience

This award-winning immersive attraction takes you through the lifecycle of a thoroughbred racehorse. Buy, train, and race your own virtual horse — design your silks, peek inside a trainer's yard, then test your skills in the commentary box before the big race. Visitors 8+ can participate in the final race. Included with admission but pre-booking a time slot is essential.

Irish Racehorse Experience

Japanese Gardens

Created between 1906–1910 by Japanese master horticulturist Tassa Eida, these are regarded as the finest Japanese gardens in Europe. The 'Life of Man' path traces a soul's journey from birth to eternity through cherry blossoms, water features, bridges, and tranquil grottoes. At their most spectacular in late spring when the cherries bloom.

Japanese Gardens

St Fiachra's Garden

Designed in 1999 by award-winning landscape architect Martin Hallinan, this garden honours the patron saint of gardeners. Rock, water, woodland, and wetland dominate — fissured limestone monastic cells sit surrounded by water, and a subterranean garden holds Waterford Crystal-shaped rocks, ferns, and orchids. A uniquely Irish counterpoint to the Japanese Gardens.

St Fiachra's Garden

Living Legends

Meet retired champion racehorses including Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Sizing John, legendary hurdler Hurricane Fly, and fan-favourite Beef or Salmon. These heroes of the turf now enjoy a peaceful retirement grazing in paddocks you can visit.

Living Legends

Kids Zone & Fairy Trail

A well-equipped playground with climbing frames, swings, and slides keeps younger visitors happy. The enchanting fairy trail through St Fiachra's Garden — dotted with fairy doors and hideaways — is a hit with children and lets imaginations run wild.

Kids Zone & Fairy Trail

Foaling Season (Spring)

Between February and May, over 300 foals take their first steps in the stud's nursery. The foaling unit operates 24 hours a day during season, and you can watch mares and their playful newborns in the paddocks — one of the most magical times to visit.

Foaling Season (Spring)

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Open daily late January to early November. March–September: 9am–6pm (last admission 5pm). October/November: reduced hours. Closed November to late January, plus Dec 24–26 and Jan 1.
  • Admission: Adult €21 online (€23 gate), Child (3–16) €13 online (€14 gate), Under 3s free. Family tickets from €54.
  • Parking: Free, ample on-site parking including coach parking.
  • Food: Japanese Gardens Restaurant on site: brunch until 11:45am (French toast, eggs Benedict, full Irish), lunch menu (Korean chicken burger, fish & chips, salads, croque monsieur), plus fresh-baked scones, cakes, desserts, and speciality teas and coffees. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

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