The Curragh: Galloping History and Kildare Plains
The Curragh, a vast, flat plain in County Kildare, offers a unique and historically significant stop on your Irish motorbike tour. Renowned as the heart of Ireland’s horse racing industry, the Curragh boasts a rich equestrian heritage and expansive landscapes.
The most prominent feature is the Curragh Racecourse, Ireland’s premier flat racing venue. If your visit coincides with a race meeting, experiencing the thrill of Irish horse racing firsthand is a must. Even on non-race days, you can often catch glimpses of horses training on the surrounding gallops. The Irish National Stud, located nearby in Tully, is another key attraction. Explore the stud farm, witness magnificent thoroughbreds, and wander through the serene Japanese Gardens within its grounds.
Beyond its equine connections, the Curragh holds historical importance. It has been a significant military training ground for centuries, and you’ll still see military presence in the area. The wide-open plains offer a sense of space and freedom, perfect for enjoying the ride through the Kildare countryside. While the Curragh itself is largely open land, the surrounding towns and villages offer points of interest. Newbridge, a short ride away, has the Museum of Style Icons (MOSI), showcasing fashion history.
Dining options directly on the Curragh are limited to facilities at the racecourse. However, the nearby towns of Newbridge and Kildare offer a variety of pubs, restaurants, and cafes. In Newbridge, you’ll find options ranging from traditional Irish fare to international cuisine. Kildare town boasts eateries around the Kildare Village outlet shopping centre and within the town itself. A stop at the Curragh provides a fascinating insight into Ireland’s sporting and military heritage, with convenient access to dining in the neighbouring towns.
The Curragh: Galloping History and Kildare Plains
The Curragh, a vast, flat plain in County Kildare, offers a unique and historically significant stop on your Irish motorbike tour. Renowned as the heart of Ireland’s horse racing industry, the Curragh boasts a rich equestrian heritage and expansive landscapes.
The most prominent feature is the Curragh Racecourse, Ireland’s premier flat racing venue. If your visit coincides with a race meeting, experiencing the thrill of Irish horse racing firsthand is a must. Even on non-race days, you can often catch glimpses of horses training on the surrounding gallops. The Irish National Stud, located nearby in Tully, is another key attraction. Explore the stud farm, witness magnificent thoroughbreds, and wander through the serene Japanese Gardens within its grounds.
Beyond its equine connections, the Curragh holds historical importance. It has been a significant military training ground for centuries, and you’ll still see military presence in the area. The wide-open plains offer a sense of space and freedom, perfect for enjoying the ride through the Kildare countryside. While the Curragh itself is largely open land, the surrounding towns and villages offer points of interest. Newbridge, a short ride away, has the Museum of Style Icons (MOSI), showcasing fashion history.
Dining options directly on the Curragh are limited to facilities at the racecourse. However, the nearby towns of Newbridge and Kildare offer a variety of pubs, restaurants, and cafes. In Newbridge, you’ll find options ranging from traditional Irish fare to international cuisine. Kildare town boasts eateries around the Kildare Village outlet shopping centre and within the town itself. A stop at the Curragh provides a fascinating insight into Ireland’s sporting and military heritage, with convenient access to dining in the neighbouring towns.