Overview
Nestled within idyllic, landscaped grounds just an hour’s drive from Dublin, Kildare Village is one of the eleven luxury outlet destinations that make up The Bicester Collection. The village offers a curated mix of more than 100 world‑class fashion, beauty and home‑ware boutiques, each selling past‑season collections at discounts of up to 60 %. While the primary draw is shopping, the site also delivers a distinctly Irish flavour – the 13th‑century monastic Grey Abbey ruins sit behind the retail precinct, providing a quiet reminder of the area’s medieval heritage.
The development is designed to feel like a small Irish town rather than a sterile mall. Tree‑lined avenues, ornamental ponds and carefully tended gardens create a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can wander at leisure, pause for a coffee, or take advantage of the hands‑free shopping service that carries bags for you. The experience is rounded off with a range of dining options, from casual cafés to full‑service restaurants, and a concierge desk that can arrange personal‑shopping appointments, tax‑free refunds and other five‑star touches.
History & Background
Kildare Village was launched in 2008 as part of a strategic expansion of The Bicester Collection into the Irish market. The site was deliberately placed on the outskirts of Kildare Town, close to the historic Grey Abbey – a Franciscan monastic ruin dating from the 13th century that once served the local community of monks. The abbey’s stone walls and arched doorway are now incorporated into the village’s landscape, offering shoppers a glimpse of the region’s medieval past while they browse contemporary designer labels.
The location benefits from Kildare’s long‑standing reputation as a transport hub. The town sits on the Dublin‑Cork railway line and is intersected by the M7 motorway, making the village easily reachable for both domestic and international visitors. Over the years, the outlet has become a cornerstone of the local economy, creating jobs and drawing tourists who also explore nearby attractions such as the Irish National Stud, the Curragh Racecourse and the historic town centre.
What to See & Do
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Shop the Brands | Over 100 boutiques, including Gucci, Burberry, Michael Kors, and local Irish designers. Discounts typically range from 30 % to 60 % off recommended retail price. |
| Hands‑Free Shopping | Staff collect your purchases and deliver them to a central collection point, allowing you to shop unencumbered. |
| Grey Abbey Ruins | The 13th‑century monastic site sits behind the retail area; it is free to view and provides a quiet spot for reflection. |
| Dining | Options range from quick‑service cafés to sit‑down restaurants such as L’Officina, an Italian eatery open daily. |
| Personal Shopping & Concierge | Book a one‑to‑one session for curated selections, tax‑free assistance and bespoke gift‑wrapping. |
| Events | Seasonal fashion shows, Irish cultural performances and occasional pop‑up markets are hosted in the central piazza. |
Beyond the outlet, the surrounding Kildare region offers a wealth of activities. A short drive takes you to the Irish National Stud and its award‑winning Japanese Gardens, the Curragh – Ireland’s premier flat‑grass racing plain – and a network of historic castles and gardens that can be explored on a day‑trip.
Practical Information
Getting There
- By Car – The village is located off the M7 (junction 13). Free on‑site parking is available in a large, well‑signposted car park. The drive from Dublin city centre takes roughly 60 minutes via the M7.
- By Coach – Dublin Coach runs every 30 minutes from Dublin city centre and Limerick, stopping directly at Kildare Village. Tickets can be booked via the Dublin Coach website.
- By Train – The outlet is easily reachable from Dublin Heuston, Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Portlaoise. The nearest railway stations are Kildare and Newbridge, both a short taxi ride (5‑10 minutes) from the village. Detailed train information is available on the Irish Rail site.
- From Northern Ireland – Dedicated coach services link the village with Belfast and other NI towns; timetables are posted on the official Kildare Village site.
Opening Hours
The village operates year‑round, typically opening at 09:00 and closing at 21:00, with extended hours during the Christmas shopping period. Individual store hours may vary, so it is advisable to check specific boutiques if you have a particular brand in mind.
Parking & Accessibility
- Parking – Complimentary parking for cars and buses is provided on‑site; spaces are plentiful and include disabled bays close to the main entrance.
- Accessibility – All public areas, walkways and retail units are wheelchair‑friendly, with ramps and tactile paving throughout the site.
Services
- Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the village.
- Tax‑Free Shopping – Non‑EU visitors can claim VAT refunds at the dedicated desk near the main entrance.
- Currency – Payments are accepted in euros; most shops also accept major credit cards.
- Customer Care – The concierge desk offers assistance with luggage storage, local transport advice and booking of nearby attractions.
Dining & Refreshments
The food court offers a variety of quick bites, while sit‑down restaurants such as L’Officina (Italian) and Silken Thomas (Irish bistro) provide more leisurely meals. Opening times for eateries generally align with the village’s operating hours, though some cafés open earlier for breakfast.
Seasonal Highlights
During the summer months, the village hosts a series of fashion‑focused events, including runway shows that showcase the latest discounted collections. In winter, a festive market transforms the central piazza with twinkling lights, seasonal treats and a pop‑up Christmas shop.
Nearby Attractions
Because Kildare Village sits in the heart of County Kildare, a visit can easily be combined with other regional highlights:
- Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens – 9 minutes’ walk from the village, offering guided tours of the stud farm and beautifully landscaped gardens.
- The Curragh Racecourse – A short drive north brings you to Ireland’s most famous flat‑grass racing venue.
- Grey Abbey – As mentioned, the historic ruins are within the village grounds and are free to explore.
- Kildare Town Centre – Just a kilometre away, the town offers traditional pubs, cafés and the impressive St Brigid’s Cathedral.
Whether you are a fashion enthusiast hunting a designer bargain, a family looking for a relaxed day out, or a history buff intrigued by medieval ruins, Kildare Village provides a seamless blend of retail therapy and cultural discovery. With free parking, easy access by road and rail, and a host of on‑site services, it stands out as a must‑visit destination for anyone travelling to the east of Ireland.