Kildare Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more with our comprehensive travel guide to Kildare, Ireland.


Introduction to Kildare

Kildare is a small town located in County Kildare, in East Coast and Midlands, in Ireland. It is home to numerous cultural and historical attractions, scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and much more. Whether you are a history buff, an adventurer, a foodie, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, Kildare has plenty to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Kildare

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kildare Cathedral

Kildare Cathedral is a medieval cathedral that was built in the 13th century. It is one of the most impressive historical landmarks in the town and boasts an intricate architectural design.

Castletown House

Castletown House is a beautiful Georgian mansion that was built in the 1700s. It has impressive interiors, ornate gardens, and a lake that make it a perfect place to explore for history lovers.

Irish National Stud and Gardens

The Irish National Stud and Gardens are a popular tourist attraction and a working stud farm in Kildare. Visitors can explore the equine farmyard, horse museum, gardens, and take guided tours.

Natural Attractions of Kildare: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Curragh Plains

Curragh Plains is a flat open area of grasslands that is popular for outdoor activities. The area is ideal for walking, hiking, and horseback riding. The plains also have an equestrian center and a museum on the history of Irish horse-racing.

Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park

Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park offer a fun day out for families. The park has an interactive railway museum, a crazy golf course, and nature trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kildare

The Grand Canal Way

The Grand Canal Way is a 144-kilometer long-distance trail that stretches from Dublin to Shannon Harbour. The trail passes through the Kildare countryside, and walkers can enjoy the rural scenery and the historic villages along the way.

The Kildare Loop Trail

The Kildare Loop Trail is located within the Curragh Plains. It is a circular trail of 12km that is ideal for both hiking and biking. Visitors can enjoy the natural scenery of the plains and views of the surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Kildare: Activities and Tours

Horseback Riding

Kildare is famous for horse riding, and visitors can take guided tours of the local studs. The tours ensure that visitors can experience the beautiful Irish landscapes while riding a horse.

Golfing

Kildare is home to some of the best golf courses in Ireland. The courses are surrounded by beautiful scenery with excellent facilities available for visitors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kildare

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Kildare Cathedral
Day 2 Visit Curragh Plains and explore the local villages
Day 3 Hiking on the Kildare Loop Trail
Day 4 Visit Castletown House and its ornate gardens
Day 5 Guided tour of Irish National Stud and Gardens
Day 6 Horseback riding in the Kildare countryside
Day 7 Visit Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park

Food and Drink Scene of Kildare

Must-Try Dishes

Visitors to Kildare must try the lamb stew, which is a traditional Irish dish made with potatoes and carrots. Another must-try dish is the seafood chowder, which is creamy and rich, has a blend of seafood flavors.

Local Beverages

Kildare is the home of the Irish whiskey distillery. Visitors can take a distillery tour and sample the famous Irish whiskey.

Where to Stay in Kildare: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kildare has a wide range of accommodations for visitors, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some popular options include the Kildare Hotel, Spa and Country Club, and the Silken Thomas Hotel.

What to Buy in Kildare: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Kildare can buy souvenirs such as pottery and handicrafts made by local artisans. The Kildare Village is an outlet shopping centre offering high-quality brands at affordable prices that make it the perfect place to shop for visitors looking for good deals.

Local Culture and Customs of Kildare

Kildare is proud of Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and has many cultural events throughout the year that celebrate Irish music, dance, and arts. Visitors are also recommended to take part in the different festivals like the Kildare-town Swans, the June Festival, and the Kildare Countryside Concerts during their visit.

Best Time to Visit Kildare

The best time to visit Kildare is in spring (April to June). The weather is mild, not too hot or cold, and there are fewer visitors to the town. Summer may experience a huge amount of visitors, but autumn (September to November) and winter (December to February) also offer picturesque winter scenes and snow-capped mountains, making it a unique experience to visit Kildare.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kildare

Do:

  • It is polite to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches or other religious places.
  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t be too loud in public places.
  • Don’t disrespect religious beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kildare

Kildare is considered a safe place to visit and has relatively low crime rates. However, visitors should still take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and make sure their valuables are kept safe.

Health in Kildare

Visitors to Kildare should make sure they have adequate travel insurance. The tap water is safe to drink, and medical facilities in Kildare are of good quality.

Getting to Kildare: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kildare

Dublin airport is the nearest international airport to Kildare. It is just a 45-minute drive from Kildare.

Bus Stations Near Kildare

Kildare has regular bus connections with Dublin and other nearby towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Kildare by train or taxi.

How to Get Around in Kildare

The best way to explore Kildare is on foot or bicycle. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the countryside and nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Kildare: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations that are worth exploring include Dublin, Wicklow National Park, and the medieval city of Kilkenny.

Conclusion

Kildare offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore Ireland’s rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture. From historical landmarks and outdoor activities to stunning scenery and delicious food, Kildare truly has something for everyone. Whether you are a first-time traveler or a seasoned adventurer, Kildare won’t disappoint.

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