Overview
The Irish National Stud sits on 850 acres of pasture in Tully, County Kildare. Owned by the Irish state, it operates as a working stud farm, a thoroughbred museum, and a destination for garden lovers. The site preserves Ireland’s racing heritage while functioning as an active breeding centre. Visitors can watch champion racehorses in their paddocks, explore two distinct gardens, and step inside a purpose-built racing attraction. It works well as a standalone day trip or as part of a wider tour of the Curragh plains.
History
Colonel William Hall-Walker purchased the Tully estate in 1900. Between 1906 and 1910, he brought Japanese craftsman Tassa Eida and his son Minoru to Ireland to design a series of gardens symbolising the “Life of Man”. The estate was transferred to the Irish nation in 1915, but the gardens declined without upkeep. The Irish National Stud Company was incorporated on 11 April 1946 under the National Stud Act, 1945. A horticultural supervisor restored the Japanese Gardens the following year, and the farm quickly became the centre of Ireland’s modern thoroughbred breeding programme. The Stud’s national status was reinforced in May 2011 when Queen Elizabeth II visited, unveiling a commemorative statue and meeting with trainers and jockeys.
What to See & Do
Guided Stud Tours
Tours depart from the visitor centre and follow a set route past the foaling unit, mare and foal paddocks, stallion quarters, and the historic Sun Chariot Yard. Between February and April, the paddocks are most active, and you may see newborn foals taking their first steps. The stud maintains a roster of retired champions, including Faugheen, Hurricane Fly, and Beef or Salmon. The open grassland and historic yard architecture provide strong photo opportunities.
Irish Racehorse Experience
Housed in a dedicated centre, this interactive exhibit covers the history of Irish racing and lets visitors manage a virtual stable. The experience culminates in a simulated four-horse race projected onto a screen model of Leopardstown. Children aged 16 and under require adult supervision. Those under 124 cm can observe the simulation but cannot participate in the main race.
Horse Museum
The museum displays racing memorabilia, historical artefacts, and the skeleton of Arkle, one of Ireland’s most celebrated steeplechasers. A glass case holds the horoscope book that once guided the Colonel’s breeding decisions, offering a glimpse into the superstitions that surrounded early 20th-century horse racing.
Japanese Gardens
Widely regarded as the finest Japanese garden in Europe, the layout follows a symbolic “Life of Man” progression. The path begins at the “Cave of Birth” beneath a cherry tree, moves through the “Tunnel of Ignorance”, climbs the “Hill of Learning”, and crosses the “Bridge of Life” over a quiet stream. Features include a traditional tea house, stone lanterns sourced from Mount Fuji, and stepping stones representing a pilgrim’s journey. Cherry blossoms and azaleas peak in spring, drawing visitors for photography and quiet walks.
St Fiachra’s Garden
Opened in 1999 for the millennium, St Fiachra’s Garden was designed by landscape architect Professor Martin Hallinan. The layout reflects the Irish countryside, featuring native trees, monastic-style beehive cells, and a series of waterfalls that feed a tranquil pond. The garden provides a contrast to the formal Japanese design, focusing on natural stone, flowing water, and native planting.
Living Legends
The Living Legends paddock houses retired Grade 1 winners and National Hunt champions. In March 2026, Gold Cup hero Sizing John joined the paddock following his retirement. Visitors can observe the horses from designated viewing areas and learn about their racing careers through on-site signage.
Walking Trails & Wildlife
The grounds feature marked paths suitable for casual walking or longer exploration. The Tully Walk follows the main stud route past the foaling unit and Sun Chariot Yard, making it the best option for spotting horses. The Oak Walk enters St Fiachra’s Garden through a stone chamber and winds past waterfalls, native woodland, and beehive cells. Resident ducks frequent the lakeside areas. Feeding wildlife is discouraged to protect their natural diet, but observing them is a regular activity for families. All main routes accommodate strollers and wheelchairs, though the Japanese Gardens include steep steps that require careful navigation.
Foaling Season
Foaling runs from mid-January through June, with the highest activity between February and April. Mares are covered around Valentine’s Day, and births typically begin in early January. The Stud usually welcomes over 250 foals annually. Most births happen overnight and are not visible to the public, but morning walks offer the best chance to see newborns standing and moving in their paddocks.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
The Stud hosts a regular programme of family events and seasonal activities. Key dates for 2026 include:
- Spring to Life (26 January – 17 November): A year-round programme highlighting foaling, garden displays, and racing exhibits.
- Hanami Celebration – Mini Japan Day (25 April, 12:00–16:00): Cherry blossom activities and cultural displays in the Japanese Gardens.
- Teddy Bear Picnic – A Beary Special Family Day (7 July): Storytelling and picnic activities in the children’s play zone.
- Garden Masterclass with Nick Bailey (1 July): A horticultural workshop with limited tickets.
- Céilí at the Cottage (20 June): Traditional Irish music and dance held in the garden café.
- Lughnasa at the Stud – Harvest Festival (3 August): Music, crafts, and traditional games.
- Mad About Bats – Bat & Science Workshop (8 August): Educational sessions focusing on the Stud’s resident bat populations.
Ticket-holders can attend all events at no extra cost, though some workshops require separate registration. Check the official website for schedule updates and booking details.
Practical Information
- Opening hours: Daily 09:00–18:00 (last admission 17:00); closed 18 December – 31 January for maintenance.
- Admission: Adults €12.50, Children (5–15) €7.00, Students €9.50, Seniors €9.50, Family Ticket (2 adults + up to 4 children) €29.50. Prices are subject to change.
- Ticket booking: General admission and Irish Racehorse Experience tickets can be booked online via the official booking portal.
- Website: https://irishnationalstud.ie
- Phone: +353 (0) 45 521 617
- Accessibility: The visitor centre, restaurant, playground, and most garden paths are wheelchair-friendly. The Japanese Gardens contain steep steps and uneven surfaces.
- Parking: Free on-site car parking and a dedicated coach bay.
- Getting there: By car, the Stud is approximately 40 minutes from Dublin via the M7 to Newbridge, then the R415. By train, direct Irish Rail services run to Kildare station; a local bus or taxi completes the journey to Tully.
- Group & School visits: Private guided tours, education worksheets, and catering can be arranged by emailing info@irishnationalstud.ie.
- Gift shop: Souvenirs, racing memorabilia, and locally made crafts are available near the visitor centre.
Nearby attractions
The Stud sits within easy reach of other County Kildare landmarks. A short drive takes you to Carton House, a historic estate and golf resort, or Donadea Forest Park for woodland walks. The Curragh Military Museum displays Ireland’s military history, while Ballymore Eustace offers a quiet village stop with heritage buildings and riverside paths.
Plan for two to four hours on-site, depending on how much time you spend in the gardens or booking the interactive race experience. Arriving in the late morning gives the best light for photography and allows time to watch the foals before the afternoon crowds arrive. Check the official website for seasonal closures and event updates before travelling.