Ireland’s Equine Excellence: new immersive 'Horse Country' experiences
Discover the passion and skills that have made Ireland a world leader in thoroughbred breeding and racing through 15 unique equine experiences.
Irish National Stud and Gardens, Co Kildare.
Ireland is an island of horse lovers, and its extraordinary equine heritage is internationally recognised. Irish-bred thoroughbred horses, racehorse trainers and jockeys are among the most accomplished on the planet and consistently excel on the world stage.
Now with the launch of Horse Country, a new initiative linking 15 amazing equine experiences across the counties of Kildare and Tipperary, horse lovers and the horse-curious can meet the people and animals that make Ireland’s horse culture so special.
Horse Country highlights include behind-the-scenes access at the training operations of legendary figures in international racing – Aidan O’Brien, J P Murtagh, and Jessica Harrington. There are guided tours of iconic breeding establishments such as Coolmore Stud and The Irish National Stud, where the story of the thoroughbred is brought to life and visitors have the rare opportunity to get up close to purebred foals, mares and retired racehorses.
For those who want to saddle up, Crossogue Stud invites capable riders to join a hack or enjoy some cross country jumping as part of their visit to the breeding farm. Meanwhile, racing enthusiast can enjoy exclusive access at the famous Curragh Racecourse to learn how the horses and riders prepare for a race.
From family-friendly equestrian museums to exclusive VIP experiences, Horse Country presents the inside track on Ireland’s exceptionally successful history of breeding and racing thoroughbred horses and takes you into the heart of the island’s horse culture.
And to complete the experience, Horse Country has partnered with a range of premium accommodation providers ensuring every great day out is rounded off with a stay in a luxury country house or authentic Irish farm.
2024, RDS Dublin Horse Show, Dublin City
While Kildare and Tipperary are the epicentres of racehorse breeding on the island, there are plenty of great equestrian activities to be enjoyed elsewhere. The Dublin Horse Show (6–10 August) is one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious equestrian events. Both a social event and a showcase of Irish talent, this five-day celebration of equestrian excellence features international show jumping, stylish Ladies’ Day fashion, family fun and elite horse displays.
The thrill of a day at the races can be enjoyed at a number of festivals including Galway Races, Listowel Harvest Festival, The Irish Derby at The Curragh and the November Festival of Racing at the Down Royal.
Ireland’s gorgeous landscape also makes it the perfect place to go horse riding. Mount up and follow scenic country trails through rugged Connemara and Donegal, gallop along windswept beaches on the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coast or experience the excitement of treks along mountain paths.
Horseriding, Co. Sigo.
For the less experienced, there are still loads of opportunities to enjoy pony riding with riding schools up and down the island offering guided treks. Or to combine the equestrian with the elegant, seek out the heritage rides available at historic estates like Mount Juliet and Castle Leslie.
With the launch of Horse Country, Ireland has further elevated what it can offer horse lovers combining world-class equestrian experiences with heritage, heart and a whole lot of horsepower.