Irish National Stud

Ireland's long and prosperous association with horseracing is celebrated and continued at this 946acre farm. It was bought in 1900 by Scotsman William Hall-Walker who transformed it into the country's centre of equestrian excellence. Hall-Walker's sometimes eccentric breeding techniques included dismissing foals whose 'horse horoscopes' he deemed negative. Since its inception in 1946, the Stud has promoted Ireland's bloodstock industry and sired some of the world's most illustrious racehorses, including Desert Orchid and the mighty Arkle. Today 288 boxes house some of the nation's finest mares, foals and stallions. Daily guided tours explain the Stud's work, and walks around the grounds might just put you within view of these fabulous thoroughbreds. To further enhance your experience, The Curragh, Naas and Punchestown racecourses are each within reach.