County Kildare, Ireland Travel Guide
Discover the serene landscapes, rich history, and equestrian excellence of County Kildare, Ireland's heartland of beauty and tradition.
Nestled in the heart of Ireland, County Kildare is a blend of rich history, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the thoroughbred county, it is famed for its horse racing heritage and serene countryside. Kildare offers a tranquil retreat with its picturesque villages, ancient ruins, and welcoming locals. Visitors to County Kildare can explore the iconic Curragh Plains, a vast expanse of open grassland that is perfect for walking, picnicking, and soaking in the natural beauty. The county is also home to the Irish National Stud and Gardens, where you can witness the grace of thoroughbred horses and the beauty of Japanese gardens. For history enthusiasts, the majestic Castletown House and Gardens is a must-visit. This Palladian mansion offers a glimpse into Ireland's grand Georgian past. Another historical gem is the Kildare Cathedral and Round Tower, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The bustling town of Naas and the charming village of Celbridge offer delightful shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, delving into history, or simply enjoying the local hospitality, County Kildare promises a memorable and enriching experience.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring County Kildare.
- Visit the Curragh Plains early in the morning for a peaceful experience and stunning sunrise views.
- Book a guided tour at the Irish National Stud to learn about horse breeding and enjoy the gardens.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring Castletown House and its extensive gardens.
- Climb the Kildare Round Tower for panoramic views, but be prepared for a steep and narrow climb.
- Try local cuisine in Naas, where many restaurants offer traditional Irish dishes.
Top City Travel Guides in County Kildare
The cities of County Kildare, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in County Kildare
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore County Kildare: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in County Kildare
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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Killiney Hill Park
Experience the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes at Killiney Hill Park, a natural gem in Dublin perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Irish National Stud & Gardens
Explore the Irish National Stud & Gardens, a stunning blend of equestrian heritage and breathtaking gardens in the heart of County Kildare.
Iveagh Gardens
Discover the serene beauty of Iveagh Gardens, a hidden gem in Dublin, offering lush landscapes, historical features, and a peaceful retreat from the city.
The Blue Light
Experience the perfect blend of breathtaking views and Irish hospitality at The Blue Light pub in Sandyford, Dublin.
Best landmarks in County Kildare
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Irish National Stud & Gardens
Discover the beauty and heritage of the Irish National Stud & Gardens, where equine excellence meets stunning landscapes in Kildare.
Castletown House
Explore the stunning Castletown House, Ireland's grand Palladian-style estate, rich in history and set amidst beautiful gardens, perfect for a cultural getaway.
Glasnevin Cemetery
Explore the deep roots of Irish history at Glasnevin Cemetery, a serene and historic tribute to the nation's remarkable figures.
The Hell Fire Club
Discover the haunting allure of the Hell Fire Club in Dublin Mountains, a historical landmark rich in mystery and breathtaking landscapes.
Best restaurants in County Kildare
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Silken Thomas
Discover Silken Thomas: A charming restaurant and gastropub in Kildare offering authentic Irish cuisine and lively entertainment.
Judge Roy Beans
Experience vibrant American cuisine at Judge Roy Beans in Newbridge – where flavor meets fun in a lively setting.
L'Officina by Dunne & Crescenzi Kildare
Discover an unforgettable Italian dining experience at L'Officina by Dunne & Crescenzi in Kildare, where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Hartes of Kildare
Discover Hartes of Kildare: A culinary gem in Market Square blending traditional Irish flavors with modern gastropub vibes.
Best bars in County Kildare
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Silken Thomas
Discover Silken Thomas - A vibrant Irish pub and gastropub in Kildare offering delicious food, live music, and a cozy atmosphere.
The Roost Maynooth
Experience the vibrant atmosphere, live music, and delicious cuisine at The Roost Maynooth, the heart of nightlife in Co. Kildare.
Hartes of Kildare
Discover the true taste of Ireland at Hartes of Kildare, a top gastropub blending traditional flavors with modern flair in a vibrant atmosphere.
Brady's Clockhouse
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Brady's Clockhouse in Maynooth, where delightful dining meets lively nightlife in a charming Irish pub.
Best nightclubs in County Kildare
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The Roost Maynooth
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious culinary offerings at The Roost Maynooth, a premier pub and live music venue in Co. Kildare.
One New Row
Discover the vibrant nightlife at One New Row - a premier bar in Naas West, perfect for drinks, music, and socializing.
Mc Gowan's Newbridge
Discover Mc Gowan's Newbridge, a lively sports bar known for its great food, drinks, and vibrant nightlife in the heart of Co. Kildare.
Christys Bar and Lounge
Discover the heart of Irish hospitality at Christys Bar and Lounge in Co. Kildare, where good company and great drinks await.
Best shops in County Kildare
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Kildare Village
Explore Kildare Village, Ireland's premier outlet mall, featuring luxury brands, charming boutiques, and delightful dining experiences in a picturesque setting.
Whitewater Shopping Centre
Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Whitewater Shopping Centre, Newbridge's vibrant retail hub.
Kildare Farm Foods, Open Farm & Shop
Discover the charm of Kildare Farm Foods: an open farm, delightful café, and unique farm shop experience in the heart of Ireland.
Newbridge Silverware
Explore Newbridge Silverware in Kildare - where elegant craftsmanship meets delightful dining and rich cultural experiences.
Explore County Kildare on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in County Kildare, mapped for you.
County Kildare Essentials
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County Kildare is easily accessible from Dublin, which is approximately 40 kilometers away. The nearest airport is Dublin Airport, offering international and domestic flights. From Dublin, you can take a direct train from Heuston Station to Kildare Town, which takes about 35 minutes. Alternatively, several bus services, including Bus Éireann and private operators, run regular routes from Dublin to various towns in County Kildare.
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County Kildare has a well-connected public transportation network. The Irish Rail service provides convenient train connections between major towns like Naas, Newbridge, and Kildare Town. Local bus services cover smaller towns and rural areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available, and cycling is a popular option for exploring the countryside. Car rentals are also an option for those who prefer to drive.
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The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted. ATMs are readily available in most towns and villages.
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County Kildare is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard safety precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is best to stay vigilant, particularly in larger towns and during events or festivals.
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In case of emergency, dial 112 or 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Major towns in County Kildare have medical facilities and pharmacies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, over-the-counter medications can be purchased at local pharmacies.
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Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are advisable. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in higher-end restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches and religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't play loud music or speak loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hi'. In formal settings, a handshake is appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks. Don't forget to tip, usually around 10-15%, in restaurants.
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To experience County Kildare like a local, visit the farmers' markets in towns like Naas and Newbridge, where you can buy fresh local produce. Engage with locals at traditional pubs, where live music and storytelling are common. Don't miss exploring the Curragh Plains, a natural grassland providing scenic walking trails. For horse racing enthusiasts, a visit to the iconic Curragh Racecourse is a must.
When is the best time to visit County Kildare?
Useful Local Phrases for County Kildare
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in County Kildare. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHello
[həˈloʊ] - GoodbyeGoodbye
[ɡʊdˈbaɪ] - YesYes
[jɛs] - NoNo
[noʊ] - Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
[pliz/jʊər ˈwɛlkəm] - Thank youThank you
[θæŋk ju] - Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
[ɪkˈskjus mi/ˈsɔri] - How are you?How are you?
[haʊ ɑr ju] - Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
[faɪn. ənd ju] - Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
[du ju spik ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ] - I don't understandI don't understand
[aɪ doʊnt ˌʌndərˈstænd]
- HelloHello
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
[aɪd laɪk tə si ðə ˈmɛnju, pliz] - I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
[aɪ doʊnt it miːt] - Cheers!Cheers!
[ʧɪrz] - I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
[aɪ wəd laɪk tə peɪ, pliz]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
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- Help!Help!
[hɛlp] - Go away!Go away!
[ɡoʊ əˈweɪ] - Call the Police!Call the Police!
[kɔl ðə pəˈlis] - Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
[kɔl ə ˈdɑktər] - I'm lostI'm lost
[aɪm lɔst] - I'm illI'm ill
[aɪm ɪl]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
[aɪd laɪk tə baɪ...] - I'm just lookingI'm just looking
[aɪm dʒʌst ˈlʊkɪŋ] - How much is it?How much is it?
[haʊ mʌʧ ɪz ɪt] - That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
[ðæts tu ɪkˈspɛnsɪv] - Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
[kən ju ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
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- What time is it?What time is it?
[wʌt taɪm ɪz ɪt] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk] - Half past (10)Half past (10)
[hæf pæst (10)] - MorningMorning
[ˈmɔrnɪŋ] - AfternoonAfternoon
[ˌæftərˈnun] - EveningEvening
[ˈivnɪŋ] - YesterdayYesterday
[ˈjɛstərdeɪ] - TodayToday
[təˈdeɪ] - TomorrowTomorrow
[təˈmɑroʊ] - 11
[wʌn] - 22
[tu] - 33
[θri] - 44
[fɔr] - 55
[faɪv] - 66
[sɪks] - 77
[sɛvən] - 88
[eɪt] - 99
[naɪn] - 1010
[tɛn]
- What time is it?What time is it?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
[wɛrz ə/ðə...?] - What's the address?What's the address?
[wʌts ðə əˈdrɛs] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
[kən ju ʃoʊ mi (ɑn ðə mæp)?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
[wɛn z ðə nɛkst (bʌs)?] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
History of County Kildare
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County Kildare is home to the town of Kildare, where St. Brigid, one of Ireland's patron saints, founded a monastery in the 5th century. This site became a cornerstone of early Irish Christianity and featured a unique double monastery for both monks and nuns. The original site also housed a fire temple where a perpetual flame was kept burning in honor of St. Brigid. Today, visitors can explore St. Brigid's Cathedral and the nearby round tower, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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The Curragh of Kildare, a vast plain of over 5,000 acres, has been historically significant since ancient times. It served as a meeting place for Irish chieftains and as a battleground for various historical conflicts. The area is perhaps best known today for the Curragh Racecourse, a premier venue for horse racing in Ireland. The Curragh has also been used as a military training ground, notably during World War I. The landscape is steeped in legend, believed to be the training ground of the mythical warrior Fionn MacCumhaill and the Fianna.
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County Kildare boasts some of Ireland's most impressive castles, including Maynooth Castle and Kildare Castle. Maynooth Castle, founded in the early 13th century, was the principal residence of the Fitzgerald family, the Earls of Kildare. The castle played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the rebellion of Silken Thomas in 1534. Kildare Castle, though less well-preserved, also stands as a testament to the medieval period in Irish history, offering a glimpse into the architectural and social structures of the time.
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The Grand Canal, which runs through County Kildare, was an engineering marvel of its time. Completed in the late 18th century, the canal was designed to connect Dublin with the River Shannon, thereby facilitating trade and transportation. The canal played a crucial role in the economic development of the region, helping to transport goods and people. Today, the Grand Canal is a picturesque route for boating, fishing, and walking, offering a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Ireland's industrial heritage.
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The Battle of Kilrush, fought in April 1642 near the village of Kilrush in County Kildare, was a significant encounter during the Irish Confederate Wars. The battle saw the forces of the Irish Confederates, led by General Thomas Preston, clash with the English Crown forces commanded by the Earl of Ormonde. Although the battle was indecisive, it marked an important phase in the struggle for control over Ireland and highlighted the strategic importance of County Kildare during this tumultuous period.
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Punchestown Racecourse, located in County Kildare, is one of Ireland's most iconic horse racing venues. Established in 1824, the racecourse has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the annual Punchestown Festival, which attracts top-tier horses, jockeys, and trainers from around the world. The racecourse is not only a center for sporting excellence but also a significant cultural venue, reflecting the deep-rooted equestrian traditions of County Kildare.
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Carton House, a grand Palladian mansion located near Maynooth, has a history that stretches back to the late 17th century. Originally the seat of the influential FitzGerald family, the Dukes of Leinster, Carton House has hosted numerous notable figures, including Queen Victoria and Grace Kelly. The estate's extensive grounds, gardens, and beautifully preserved interiors offer a glimpse into the opulence of Ireland's aristocratic past. Today, Carton House operates as a luxury resort, seamlessly blending its rich history with modern amenities.
Neighbouring Regions of County Kildare
The closest regions to County Kildare, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Ireland
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The Emerald Heart of Ireland: County Kildare
Nestled in the heart of Ireland, County Kildare is a blend of rich history, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the thoroughbred county, it is famed for its horse racing heritage and serene countryside. Kildare offers a tranquil retreat with its picturesque villages, ancient ruins, and welcoming locals. Visitors to County Kildare can explore the iconic Curragh Plains, a vast expanse of open grassland that is perfect for walking, picnicking, and soaking in the natural beauty. The county is also home to the Irish National Stud and Gardens, where you can witness the grace of thoroughbred horses and the beauty of Japanese gardens. For history enthusiasts, the majestic Castletown House and Gardens is a must-visit. This Palladian mansion offers a glimpse into Ireland's grand Georgian past. Another historical gem is the Kildare Cathedral and Round Tower, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The bustling town of Naas and the charming village of Celbridge offer delightful shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, delving into history, or simply enjoying the local hospitality, County Kildare promises a memorable and enriching experience.