In the Footsteps of Champions A Legacy of Speed & Style
Begin your journey with a scenic 30 minute drive from center of Dublin to Moone, Co Kildare, home to the renowned Jessica Harrington Racing Stables. Tour begin in the main yard, observing horses warming up in the outdoor arena, with Mrs. Harrington sharing insights into their upcoming racing campaigns. The tour continues to the gallops, showcasing the meticulous care and training routines that prepare these equine athletes for peak performance.
Concluding with tea, coffee, and light bites alongside the Harrington family, this intimate experience provides a unique glimpse into the world of elite horse racing.
Depart at 11:00 AM
Enjoy an evenings stroll around the Irish National Stud.
Journey through the stud farm and gain a fascinating insight into the thoroughbred industry. Learn about our colourful history dating back to 1900 and how over the years we have bred some of the most successful racehorses in Europe.
After the tour, unwind with a meal at the Japanese Gardens Café, where Ballymaloe-trained chef Natalie Collins prepares freshly made brunches, lunches, and homemade treats using the finest local ingredients.
Depart 1:30 PM
After a morning of equestrian excellence, unwind at Kildare Village, a stylish hub of shopping and culture. Browse luxury boutiques, savor local flavors, and soak in the lively yet relaxed atmosphere, where modern elegance meets Irish charm.
A Morning with a Champion Trainer & A Day at Your Own Pace
Step into the world of champion jockey-turned-trainer
Johnny Murtagh at Fox Covert Stables. Feel the thrill as you ride alongside Johnny in a Jeep across the legendary Curragh Plains, watching elite racehorses in training. Wander through the stables, meet the team, and get up close with the stars of the track.
Chat with Johnny himself about his career, a five-time star champion jockey, and one of Ireland's most successful and respected trainers, having secured over 100 Group One victories, including three Epsom Derby wins and five Ascot Gold Cups. His transition from celebrated jockey to successful trainer adds a rich layer of authenticity and expertise to the visit, offering guests a unique perspective into the world of horse racing.
Then, unwind over a homemade light lunch, served by Johnny and Orla, either on the terrace or in their cozy kitchen, depending on the weather.
Depart at 10:30 AM
The rest of the day is yours to explore Kildare's deeper layers. Slow travel is about lingering, about giving yourself the time to let a place settle into you. Visit the Moone High Cross, an intricately carved monastic relic standing as a testament to Kildare's spiritual past. Wander through the quaint town of Athy, where the river Barrow meanders lazily, inviting you to follow its tranquil path. Perhaps stop by a local pub for a fireside chat with the people who call this place home because in Kildare, stories are as much a part of the landscape as the rolling green fields.
A Sunrise on the Curragh & A Grand Finale at the Kildangan
'Where Champions Are Made' captures the essence of the world famous Curragh, Ireland's premier racing venue and home to over 1,000 racehorses in training. A guided behind the scenes tour brings you into areas strictly off limits to the public on race days, from the jockeys' room to the weigh room, with unique insight into race day preparation, training strategy and the thrill of ownership.
Enjoy a private walking tour of the historic Kildangan Stud, the Irish headquarters of Godolphin, the global racing empire owned by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Get the exclusive access to some of the world's top Thoroughbred stallions.
Walk through immaculately maintained paddocks, home to elite broodmares and promising foals, and witness the meticulous attention to detail that defines every aspect of life at Kildangan. See a selection of stallions and newborn foals (season dependent), as well as its state-of-the-art horse facilities and private museum.
Depart 3:30 PM
As your journey through Kildare winds down, take the evening to relax and reflect. Enjoy a leisurely meal, wander through the charming streets, or simply soak in the tranquil countryside. Let the essence of Kildare linger a little longer, because some places stay with you long after you leave.
We would love to welcome you to the Horse Country family. You will be updated on any new and upcoming experiences, itineraries, major Racing Festivals and Events
