Things To Do
Kilkea Castle Grounds & Activities
• Kilkea Castle Tour: Begin by exploring the Kilkea Castle itself. With over 800 years of history, the castle offers guided tours where you can learn about its medieval past, its association with the FitzGerald family, and its transition into a luxury hotel. Don’t miss the picturesque grounds, which are perfect for a relaxing walk. • Golf at Kilkea Castle Golf Course: Play a round of golf on the 18-hole championship golf course at Kilkea Castle. This stunning course is set in scenic parkland, making it ideal for both beginner and seasoned golfers. • Horseback Riding at Kilkea Equestrian Centre: For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the Kilkea Equestrian Centre offers horseback riding lessons and trail rides across the stunning countryside surrounding the castle. It’s a great way to experience the landscape in a unique and leisurely way.
Explore Kildare Town (15 minutes away)
• Kildare Cathedral & Round Tower: Visit Kildare Cathedral, which dates back to the 13th century. The cathedral is one of the most important medieval buildings in Ireland. Adjacent to it is the Round Tower, a characteristic feature of Irish monastic sites. • Kildare Village: Kildare is home to Kildare Village, a luxury outlet shopping destination. Here you’ll find designer brands at discounted prices, along with cafes and restaurants for a leisurely afternoon. • The National Stud and Japanese Gardens: The Irish National Stud is a renowned thoroughbred farm located just outside Kildare Town. It’s a must-visit for horse lovers, offering a tour of the stud farm, as well as beautiful Japanese Gardens, one of the finest in Europe. The stud has been breeding top-class horses for over a century.
Visit the Rock of Dunamase (20 minutes away)
The Rock of Dunamase is an ancient hilltop fortress offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s a wonderful spot for a scenic hike and provides insight into Ireland's early medieval history. The ruins of the castle here date back to the 12th century, and the panoramic views are worth the visit.
Curragh Racecourse (20 minutes away)
The Curragh Racecourse, located near Newbridge, is Ireland’s premier flat racing venue. It’s a fantastic destination for those who enjoy horse racing, and if you happen to be there during a race day, you can experience the excitement of the Irish racing season. The surrounding area, The Curragh, is a vast expanse of open plains and is also perfect for a relaxing walk, offering fantastic views of the Irish countryside.
Dublin (1-hour drive)
• Trinity College & The Book of Kells: View the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating back to the 9th century, housed in the stunning Long Room Library at Trinity College. • Guinness Storehouse: Learn about Ireland’s iconic beer at the Guinness Storehouse, where you can tour the museum and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar, which offers panoramic views of Dublin. • St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Visit this beautiful cathedral and its visitor center to learn about Ireland’s patron saint and the history of the church. • Temple Bar: Explore Temple Bar, Dublin’s lively cultural quarter, filled with pubs, restaurants, galleries, and street performances. • Kilmainham Gaol: Take a 20-minute drive to Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison with a deep history in Ireland’s struggle for independence. Take a guided tour to learn about the stories of prisoners who played key roles in the nation’s history.
Wicklow Way & Glendalough (1 hour away)
For more outdoor adventures, the Wicklow Way offers one of Ireland's most scenic hiking routes. If you enjoy long walks through lush forests, green hills, and beautiful valleys, the Wicklow Way is a must-do. It runs from Dublin to County Carlow, and it’s especially beautiful in the Glendalough area, home to the ancient monastic site and stunning lakes.