What to see and do on a short break in Kildare
From ancient warriors to stud farm legends, County Kildare is steeped in history, horses and heroes. Yet there’s more to the Thoroughbred County than mythical warriors and racing royalty; its waterways, boglands and fertile pastures make it a land of eye-catching colourful contrasts. If you’re considering a short break in Kildare, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy. A short break in Kildare can offer experiences for everyone, from nature lovers to history buffs.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Kildare if you’re planning to spend a few days there.
Planning Your Short Break in Kildare
North Kildare and Maynooth
When planning your short break in Kildare, make sure to consider the variety of activities and sights available.
From 18th-century fashion to woodland walks, North Kildare is a great place to start your visit to the county.
Castletown House
Not only is Castletown House one of the finest examples of Palladian architecture in Ireland, it’s also one of the best places to get a look into life during the 1700s. Costumed in 18th-century fashions, the tour guides showcase two very different lifestyles that existed during this era. Follow along as they highlight the splendour of the grandiose drawing room before going down to the humble servant’s quarters to see what life was really like for a layperson.
If you plan to be here on a Saturday, make sure to pack your running shoes and take part in the weekly park run.
Maynooth Castle
Maynooth Castle is a must-see during your short break in Kildare, as it showcases the rich history of the region.
Make the short journey into Maynooth and visit the 13th-century Maynooth Castle. This castle was once one of Ireland’s most imposing castles and the ancestral home of the Fitzgeralds, the Earls of Kildare. Their former seat of power may now lie in ruins, but you can dive into the family’s storied past and the castle’s history on one of the daily tours.
Just a few minutes’ drive away, the Conolly Folly is a unique famine relief project that’s well worth a visit when in the area. It’s made up of a series of stone archways, some 50-foot tall, stacked together with a towering pillar on top that reaches 140 feet in the air.
Your short break in Kildare would be incomplete without visiting the stunning grounds of Maynooth College.
Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences or outdoor adventures, a short break in Kildare is perfect for all types of travelers.
Maynooth College
A guided tour of the historic Maynooth College campus takes in its ecclesiastical roots and memorable features while bringing the rich history of the college to life. Stroll along the tree-lined path to the College Graveyard and take a peek inside the Gothic Revival College Chapel – the world’s largest choir chapel – before stepping into the ominous Ghost Room. There’s also a chance to see the 800-year-old Silken Thomas yew, believed to be Ireland’s oldest native tree.
Pay a visit to the Museum of Ecclesiology in St Patrick’s College for a walk through the history of the church in Ireland. The intriguing exhibitions include rare manuscripts, ecclesiastical artefacts, religious antiquities and the largest collection of scientific instruments in the country.
Donadea Forest Park is another great spot to include in your short break in Kildare itinerary.
Cycle through Kildare
Another great way to explore Kildare’s sights is by bike. Set off from Maynooth College and cycle through the grounds of beautiful Carton House. Make a pitstop for a cup of tea and a sweet treat before continuing on along the Grand Canal and into Celbridge, admiring the colourful barges as you go.
When you visit Kildare town, you’ll want to make the most of your short break in Kildare by exploring local attractions.
Donadea Forest Park
A stop at Newbridge Silverware should definitely be on your list during your short break in Kildare.
If you prefer the great outdoors to hallowed halls of learning, then check out the 243-hectare Donadea Forest Park and its three looped walking routes. The most scenic of the routes, the 4.5km Aylmer Walk, is a dog-friendly trail that takes roughly 90 minutes to complete and includes peaceful streams and pretty lakes. Alongside the park’s natural landmarks, you can also spot the remains of Donadea Castle, its walled gardens, tower and the dramatic lime tree avenue which marks the estate’s original entrance.
Just outside the park is Connolly’s Pub, an authentic Irish pub ideal for a post-walk pint or some traditional music.
Kildare town
The Legends of Kildare VR Experience is another unique activity to enjoy on your short break in Kildare.
Newbridge Silverware
Be sure to visit Kildare Village during your short break in Kildare for an excellent shopping experience.
Stop by Newbridge Silverware on your way to Kildare town to visit one of Ireland’s most iconic design brands. Beginning as a cutlery company in 1934, Newbridge Silverware has gone on to establish itself as a renowned jewellery and homeware designer. Fashion lovers and pop culture fans will enjoy the Museum of Style Icons collection at the visitor centre, which includes items worn by Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles and Princess Grace of Monaco.
Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre
Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre
The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens offer a peaceful retreat during your short break in Kildare.
Newbridge, Co. Kildare
Your short break in Kildare should include a visit to The Curragh for an exciting day at the races.
Legends of Kildare VR Experience
Strap on a VR headset to experience the latest technology and take an immersive trip into the county’s past at the Kildare Town Heritage Centre in the centre of town. Along the journey, you’ll meet iconic Kildare characters like Na Fianna, Brigid the Goddess and St Brigid – all the way up to the arrival of the Normans. Treat yourself to some food afterwards at Silken Thomas, a much-loved bar and restaurant.
Kildare Village
Only a ten minute walk from the town centre, Kildare Village has over 80 designer boutiques with reductions of up to 60 percent on luxury brands. This open air shopping outlet is a bargain hunter’s dream – just remember to tear yourself away from the deals to discover Kildare town’s many other charms. While you’re there, savour the classic simplicity of a meal at Le Pain Quotidien or scoff some delicious crêpes on the go at Crêperie Angélie.
Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens
Lastly, don’t forget to take a boat tour for a different perspective of Kildare during your short break in Kildare.
Just a five-minute drive from Kildare town is The National Stud and Japanese Gardens, Ireland’s only stud farm that’s open to the public. You’ll learn all about Ireland’s racing icons, our most decorated horses and the moments that made them famous.
There’s even the opportunity to get up close to some of these magnificent animals on the paddock or view the skeleton of Arkle, the greatest steeplechaser of all time, in the museum. You can then embrace a gentler atmosphere at the Japanese Gardens, where the kaleidoscope of colour, exotic plants and babbling streams will soothe the soul of any visitor.
The Curragh
Find out why they call it the Sport of Kings with a day at The Curragh, the home of Irish flat racing. This is all about the thrill of the races, the atmosphere in the crowd, the excitement of a win and the unmistakable glamour of race day. 
Curragh Racecourse
The Curragh, Co. Kildare
If you have time in County Kildare…
Brilliant Boat Tours
For an unforgettable outing on the water, take a trip with Bargetrip.ie or Athy Boat Tours by BoatTrips.ie along the River Barrow and the Grand Canal. You’ll love the scenery, the sense of relaxation, and the experience of passing through the canal locks, just like earlier visitors in centuries gone by.
