· IE

Kildare

Kildare, Ireland

Kildare, located in the heart of Ireland, is a captivating blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Irish experience. Known for its l…

Stay & fly Things to do Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kildare.

Top Hotels in Kildare

Top Flights to Kildare

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kildare.

Tours

Irish National Stud & Gardens

Visit the Irish National Stud and explore beautiful gardens and magnificent horses.

Shopping

Explore Kildare Village

Experience luxury shopping at Kildare Village, offering great savings on premium brands.

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kildare.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Kildare, Ireland is 'Not Available'.

Average weather

Kildare

Jan

7°2°

Feb

8°2°

Mar

10°3°

Apr

12°4°

May

15°6°

Jun

18°9°

Jul

20°11°

Aug

20°11°

Sep

17°9°

Oct

13°6°

Nov

9°3°

Dec

7°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kildare.

What people love

Kildare, located in County Kildare, Ireland, offers a variety of attractions and experiences that make it a worthwhile destination for travelers. Here are some of the pros of visiting Kildare:

Rich Equestrian Heritage: Kildare is often referred to as the heart of Ireland's horse country. The Irish National Stud is a must-visit, offering tours of the stud farm and beautiful Japanese Gardens. The area is famous for breeding and training racehorses, making it a fascinating destination for equestrian enthusiasts.
Cultural and Historical Sites: Kildare has a rich history and is home to several historical sites. The Kildare Cathedral and Round Tower offer insights into the town's religious and architectural heritage. St. Brigid's Cathedral and the nearby well are also significant historical and spiritual sites.
Shopping and Fashion: The Kildare Village shopping outlet is a popular destination for those interested in fashion and luxury shopping. It offers a wide range of designer brands at discounted prices in a charming village setting.
Beautiful Landscapes and Gardens: The Curragh Plains, an open plain of almost 5,000 acres, is ideal for walks and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The Liffey Walk and other local trails provide opportunities for outdoor activities.
Proximity to Dublin: Kildare's location makes it an easy day trip from Dublin. It is well-connected by public transport, allowing travelers to enjoy the peaceful countryside without straying too far from the capital's amenities.
Events and Festivals: Kildare hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including horse racing events at the Curragh Racecourse, one of the premier racecourses in Ireland.
Hospitality and Local Cuisine: Visitors can enjoy traditional Irish hospitality in Kildare's pubs and restaurants, where local dishes and Irish flavors are celebrated.

Overall, Kildare offers a blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Kildare is a county in Ireland known for its rich history, horse racing, and beautiful landscapes. However, like any travel destination, there are potential downsides to consider:

Weather Conditions: Ireland is known for its unpredictable weather, and Kildare is no exception. Travelers may encounter rain, wind, and generally gloomy weather, which could affect outdoor activities.
Limited Public Transportation: While Kildare is relatively close to Dublin, public transport options within the county can be limited, especially in rural areas. Visitors may find it challenging to travel around without a car.
Tourist Crowds: Popular attractions like the Irish National Stud, the Kildare Village shopping outlet, and various historical sites can become crowded, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
Cost of Accommodation and Dining: Although not as expensive as Dublin, some areas in Kildare, especially around popular tourist spots, can have higher prices for accommodation and dining.
Limited Nightlife: Kildare is more known for its day-time attractions, and those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene might find options limited compared to larger cities.
Rural Infrastructure: In more remote areas, infrastructure such as roads and internet connectivity might not be as developed, which could be an inconvenience for some travelers.
Cultural Events Timing: Some of the cultural and sporting events that Kildare is famous for, such as horse racing events, occur at specific times of the year. Travelers visiting outside these times might miss out on these experiences.

Overall, while Kildare offers a lot to see and do, potential visitors should plan accordingly to address these considerations.

Kildare, located in the heart of Ireland, is a town with a rich history dating back to ancient times. It is the county town of County Kildare and has played a significant role in Irish history, culture, and religion.

Early History

Foundation and Saint Brigid: Kildare is best known for its association with Saint Brigid, one of Ireland's patron saints, who is believed to have founded a monastery there around 480 AD. The monastery became a major center of religion and learning in early Christian Ireland, and Saint Brigid's influence is a key aspect of the town’s identity.
Early Christian Period: The monastery attracted monks and scholars from across Europe, contributing significantly to the spread of Christianity in Ireland. The site included a scriptorium where manuscripts were produced, aiding in the preservation of knowledge during the early medieval period.

Medieval Era

Norman Influence: After the Norman invasion of Ireland in the late 12th century, Kildare came under Norman control. They constructed a castle in the area, which became an important stronghold.
Kildare Cathedral: The Cathedral Church of St. Brigid, reconstructed in the 13th century, stands on the site of the original monastery. The round tower adjacent to the cathedral is one of the best-preserved in Ireland and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Early Modern Period

16th-17th Century: During the Reformation and subsequent wars, Kildare, like much of Ireland, experienced significant turmoil. The town was affected by the conflicts between English forces and Irish chieftains.

18th-19th Century

Economic Development: The 18th and 19th centuries saw Kildare benefiting from its location on the main road between Dublin and the south and west of Ireland. The construction of the Grand Canal in the late 18th century further boosted trade and transport.
Military Significance: The nearby Curragh plain became a key military site, where the British established a large military camp in the 19th century, which remains significant for the Irish Defence Forces today.

20th Century to Present

Independence and Modernization: Following Irish independence in the early 20th century, Kildare continued to grow as a market town. The development of modern infrastructure and amenities has supported its evolution into a bustling community.
Racing and Equine Industry: Kildare is renowned for its association with the equine industry, particularly thoroughbred horse breeding and racing. The Curragh Racecourse is one of Ireland’s foremost horse racing venues.

Landmarks

St. Brigid's Cathedral and Round Tower: These remain central to Kildare's historical and cultural identity.
Kildare Castle: Though largely in ruins, the remnants of Kildare Castle are a testament to its Norman past.
Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens: These attractions highlight the town’s equestrian heritage and are popular with visitors.

Kildare remains a town that is deeply connected to its historical roots while continuing to develop and modernize. Its rich past, marked by religious significance, Norman influence, and equine excellence, makes it a unique and important location in Ireland.