We are re-opening on the 27th of January 2025

Celebrate St Brigid’s Day with the Re-Opening of the Irish National Stud

As the year begins to turn, we’re looking forward to St Brigid’s Day with the re-opening of the Irish National Stud on 27th January 2025. With our strong connections to Ireland’s heritage and history, the grounds are a wonderful place to mark the arrival of spring and enjoy a day out surrounded by nature.

St Brigid’s Day, celebrated on the 1st of February, marks the arrival of spring and is deeply rooted in Ireland’s rich heritage. It coincides with Imbolc, an ancient Celtic festival celebrating renewal, new life, and the changing seasons. At the Stud, we are also celebrating new beginnings with the arrival of our newborn foals, the perfect symbol of this season of renewal. Visit the stud to meet the young additions, who embody the fresh start that springtime brings.

We Are Re-Opening 

We’re delighted to welcome visitors back to the Irish National Stud from 27th January. Open 7 days a week, 9 am to 5 pm with the last admission at 4 pm, we’re ready to offer a memorable experience to all, whether you’re a long-time season ticket holder or visiting for the first time.

Re-opening just ahead of St Brigid’s Day adds a special connection to the start of the year. St Brigid is celebrated for her association with nature, creativity, and community spirit, themes that resonate deeply here at the Irish National Stud.

Visit St Brigid’s Well 

A stone’s throw away from our grounds is St Brigid’s Well, a peaceful and significant site that reflects Ireland’s rich traditions. A visit here is a meaningful way to connect with the legacy of St Brigid. Pair it with a trip to the Irish National Stud for an enjoyable day that’s steeped in heritage.

On the eve of St Brigid’s Day, 31st January, join IntoKildare for a Candlelight Pilgrimage assembling at 7.15 pm in the Irish National Stud & Gardens Car Park, for a short and reflective walk to the well. A visit here is a meaningful way to connect with the legacy of St Brigid.

Spend the Day in Nature 

Our grounds offer something for everyone, from families and couples to those simply looking for a relaxing day out. Highlights include:

• Mares and Foals: See the newest arrivals at the Stud as spring takes hold.
• Stallions: Discover the stars of the Irish racing industry.
• Irish Racehorse Experience: Explore the excitement of racing in an interactive and engaging walk-through experience. 
• Living Legends: Meet our retired racehorses when they return to their paddocks, whose remarkable stories have shaped racing history.
• Japanese Gardens: Created from 1901-1905, these gardens are world-renowned for their beauty and symbolism. Follow the Story of the Life of Man as you explore the nooks and crannies…
• St Fiachra’s Garden: Explore this celebration of Ireland’s natural landscape and its patron saint of gardeners. 
• Japanese Gardens Café: Take a break and enjoy a meal or a coffee and a treat while soaking in the atmosphere. 

Explore the Irish National Stud 

We’re proud of our history and heritage as one of the few working stud farms in Ireland open to the public. Our grounds are a place to explore at your own pace, offering a mix of gardens, walks, and equine experiences that appeal to all ages and interests. With a Fairy Trail, playground, garden walks, paddocks of horses and a sensory garden, the stud offers something for everyone.

Most of the grounds are accessible for those with reduced mobility, though some parts of the Japanese Gardens may present challenges. Alternative routes are available, and staff are always happy to advise. The Irish Racehorse Experience is also fully accessible for visitors with vision impairments. Parking is free and available on-site.

Plan Your Visit 

Whether you’re taking in the gardens, watching foals at play, or enjoying a coffee while the kids explore, the Irish National Stud is an ideal destination for a day out. Join us this St Brigid’s Day to enjoy the best of nature and heritage.

Book now to secure your visit and make the most of this special time of year. For more details, you can contact us by calling +353 (0) 45 521 617. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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