Heading to Punchestown this week? While the racing may be the main event, County Kildare offers plenty more to enjoy during your visit.

From stylish stays and standout dining to shopping, heritage attractions and family fun, there are lots of ways to turn race week into a full Kildare experience.

Whether you’re visiting for the day, staying overnight or making a weekend of it, here are some of the many ways to enjoy more of County Kildare during Punchestown week.

Where to Stay Near Punchestown

If you’re planning to stay close to the action, County Kildare offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and spa retreats to boutique stays, guesthouses and countryside escapes.

Accommodation options across the county include The K Club, Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, Kilkea Castle, Barberstown Castle, Cliff at Lyons, Killashee Hotel, Lawlor’s of Naas, Osprey Hotel, The Keadeen Hotel, Westgrove Hotel, Glenroyal Hotel, Clanard Court Hotel, Springfield Hotel, Moyvalley Hotel & Golf Resort, Court Yard Hotel and voco – The Club.

Visitors can also choose from welcoming guesthouses, farm stays and self-catering options, including Silken Thomas, Blackrath Farmhouse, Ballindrum Farm, Moate Lodge B&B, Stay Barrow Blueway and Alensgrove Cottages.

Great Food, Coffee & Dining Spots

A day at the races deserves a great breakfast, quality coffee or somewhere special afterwards.

County Kildare has plenty of dining options during Punchestown week, including Hartes of Kildare, Firecastle, Lock 13, The Ballymore Inn, The Dew Drop Inn, Swans on the Green, The Auld Shebeen and Manzor’s The Village Inn.

For coffee, sweet treats and casual stops, try Typo Coffee, Grá Coffee, Victorian Tea Rooms, Lily & Wild and Junction 14 Mayfield.

You’ll also find artisan favourites across the county, including Lily O’Brien’s, Nolan Butchers, Fused by Fiona and Nature’s Oils & Sauces / Taste of Goodness.

Shopping & Retail

If you’re in the mood for a browse between race days, County Kildare has plenty of retail options to enjoy.

Shopping destinations across the county include Kildare Village, Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre and Whitewater Shopping Centre.

Whether you’re after designer labels, gifts, homeware or a relaxed afternoon out, there’s something for every visitor.

Heritage & Visitor Experiences

County Kildare is rich in history, culture and standout visitor attractions, making it easy to add discovery to your Punchestown trip.

Experiences across the county include the Shackleton Experience, Irish National Stud & Gardens, Kildare Town Heritage Centre, Leixlip Castle, Solas Bhride Centre and Lullymore Heritage Park.

Perfect for those looking to explore more before or after race day.

Family Fun & Activities

Travelling with family or looking for something active away from the racecourse? County Kildare has plenty to enjoy.

Family and activity options include Clonfert Farm, Kildare Farm Foods, The Kildare Maze, Air-Tastic Entertainment Centre, Redhills Adventure, kBowl Naas, Junior Einsteins, Abbeyfield Farm Country Pursuits, Highfield Golf, K Leisure Naas, Coolcarrigan House & Gardens and Ballymore Eustace Art Studio.

A County with Racing in Its DNA

Punchestown is just one part of County Kildare’s rich sporting heritage. The county is also home to Naas Racecourse, The Curragh Racecourse, Horse Racing Ireland and Mondello Park.

For racing fans, there’s no better county to visit.

Make It a Full Kildare Experience

Punchestown is one of the biggest weeks in Ireland’s sporting calendar, but it is also the perfect reason to discover everything County Kildare has to offer.

Stay a little longer, book dinner, explore the county and turn race week into something bigger than a day out.

Download your full itinerary here 

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