Irish Derby Festival: An Exclusive Horse Country x Race & Stay Experience
In partnership with our tour partners Race & Stay, Derby Dreams 2026 invites you to experience the very best of Irish racing, hospitality, and culture. This five-night package blends the excitement of the Irish Derby Festival with exclusive access to Ireland’s most prestigious stud farms and racing institutions. Guests will enjoy premium accommodation, private guided tours, gourmet dining, and behind-the-scenes insights into the world of thoroughbred racing.
From the legendary pastures of Coolmore to the elegance of Kildangan Stud and the heritage of the Irish National Stud, this journey captures the spirit of Irish racing at its finest.
Arrive on Wednesday, 24 June, with private collection from Dublin Airport before checking into your chosen hotel. Begin your journey with an exclusive Kildangan Stud tour and welcome dinner that evening. On Thursday, explore the Fethard Horse Country Experience, enjoy lunch at Sadler’s Restaurant, and visit the legendary Coolmore Stud, followed by the Irish Derby Festival Preview Show. Friday brings a private Irish National Stud tour and Dermot Weld lunch before racing begins at The Curragh, continuing through Saturday and Sunday, culminating in the lively Irish Derby Hooley BBQ & Party. Depart on Monday after breakfast, taking home unforgettable memories of Irish racing and hospitality at its finest.
Just 35 minutes from Dublin Airport and only 20 minutes from The Curragh, Lawlor’s Hotel is a friendly, welcoming place to stay, where comfort meets character in the heart of Naas. The spacious en suite Classic Rooms include every modern amenity, with the option to upgrade to Superior Rooms with air conditioning or elegant Junior Suites. Dine in the stylish Bistro or the upscale Vi’s Restaurant, or relax with a cocktail in the hotel’s delightful Garden Bar. For a quieter moment, afternoon tea in the grand guest lobby is a local favourite. With Naas Town’s lively bars, restaurants, and entertainment all within walking distance, Lawlor’s offers the perfect base for the Irish Derby Festival.
Just 35 minutes from Dublin Airport and 35 minutes from The Curragh, Carton House Hotel is set within a stunning 1,100-acre country estate and offers an exceptional blend of luxury and Irish warmth. The beautifully appointed en suite Classic Rooms feature every modern comfort, with upgrades to Superior Rooms and Suites available. Guests can unwind in the world-class Spa and Leisure Centre or enjoy fine dining in the hotel’s Michelin-starred Restaurant. For something lighter, afternoon tea in the Garden Terrace or a drink in the cosy Bar is a true treat. With two championship golf courses on the doorstep and local shops and pubs within easy reach, Carton House is the ideal base for your Irish Derby experience.
Enjoy a visit to one or Ireland's premier stud farms and the centre of operations for the mighty Godolphin conglomorate. Stroll through immaculate paddocks, meet future champions, and get exclusive access to elite stallions, foals (season permitting), and the stud’s private museum.
Located in the heart of the Golden Vale, this experience begins at the Fethard Horse Country Experience and then, accompanied by your dedicated Equine Concierge, you will be able to enter through the hallowed gates of Coolmore Stud and experience life at one of the world’s largest and most successful thoroughbred racehorse breeding operations.
History, heritage, and horsepower come together at the Irish National Stud & Gardens; home to legendary stallions and two of Ireland’s most beautiful gardens. Highlights include the Stud Tour, Meet the Living Legends (Hurricane Fly, Faugheen, Sizing John, Beef or Salmon, and Rite of Passage), the Irish Racehorse Experience, and the Japanese Gardens.
Join us on Friday lunchtime for our Irish Derby Preview Show. Enjoy the banter and fun as our panel of racing experts take you through the big races over the weekend. A really enjoyable event that is FREE and exclusive for all Race and Stay Guests to attend. Starts at 2pm at Lawlors Hotel on Derby Friday.
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
