Day 1 – Welcome to Kildare Town

Begin your Kildare journey in one of Ireland’s oldest and most historically rich towns. Arrive into Kildare by train and enjoy a gentle stroll to drop your bags at the Silken Thomas, perfectly located in the heart of the town.

Settle in with lunch at Hartes Restaurant before heading out on foot towards one of Kildare’s most iconic attractions. Follow the path traditionally associated with St Brigid on a scenic walk to the Irish National Stud & Gardens – a journey that reconnects visitors with nature, heritage, and the deep spiritual roots of the area.

At the Irish National Stud, enjoy a guided tour and immerse yourself in Ireland’s proud thoroughbred racing tradition. Test your own racing knowledge at the Irish Racehorse Experience, where interactive exhibits bring the excitement of the sport to life. Allow approximately three hours to fully enjoy both the gardens and experience.

Afterwards, return to Kildare Town by taxi and enjoy dinner at the Silken Thomas. For those wishing to continue the evening, Cunningham’s Bar offers relaxed post-dinner entertainment at your own pace.

Overnight stay at the Silken Thomas.

Day 2 – Virtual Legends & Athy’s Explorer Spirit 

Enjoy breakfast at leisure before taking a short walk across Market Square to the Legends of Kildare Virtual Reality Experience at the Heritage Centre. Here, you’ll be welcomed by Michaela, who will guide you through an immersive VR journey that brings the county’s myths, legends, and stories vividly to life. 

Before departing Kildare, pick up a sandwich or takeaway lunch from Firecastle. Then travel by train to Athy, a town rapidly emerging as a cultural and heritage hub in County Kildare. 

From Athy train station, stroll to Emily Square and visit the Shackleton Experience, housed in the beautifully restored historic Town Hall. This powerful exhibition tells the story of polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and Athy’s deep connection to his legacy. 

Spend the afternoon exploring Athy at a relaxed pace – visit the local library, enjoy a riverside walk, or take a boat trip along the River Barrow. Stop for a drink or casual bite at O’Brien’s Traditional Irish Pub, located along the water. 

Check in to the Clanard Court Hotel for dinner and overnight stay, where guests are greeted by the hotel’s much-loved resident alpacas and rare-breed Jacob sheep – a charming and unexpected highlight. 

Day 3 – Canals, Craft Beer & Farewell to Kildare 

After breakfast at leisure in the Clanard Court, enjoy time to relax and unwind in the hotel spa facilities before departing Athy. 

Travel by train to Sallins, where a peaceful barge trip along the Grand Canal awaits. Drift gently through the Kildare countryside and experience the slower rhythm of canal life on this short but memorable journey. 

Conclude your trip with lunch at Lock 13 Brewpub, followed by a guided brewery tour. As Kildare’s first brewpub, Lock 13 offers a truly distinctive atmosphere – combining craft beer, local flavour, and canal-side charm. It’s the perfect place to reflect on your Kildare adventure before heading home.