Overview
Nestled on 110 acres of rolling County Kildare countryside, Mondello Park is Ireland’s only internationally licensed race circuit. The venue boasts a 3.5 km FIA‑graded International Circuit, a 1.28 km National Loop and a 3 km off‑road trail network, all set against a backdrop of 24 race garages and 15 hospitality suites. Whether you are a motorsport aficionado, a corporate group seeking a high‑impact venue, or a thrill‑seeker eager to get behind the wheel, Mondello Park delivers a blend of adrenaline‑filled action and polished facilities.
History
The story of Mondello Park begins in 1966 when Stuart Cosgrave laid out a short circuit on farmland near Naas. The original 1.28 km track opened in 1968, and a year later the National Loop was added, expanding the layout to 1.86 km. In the 1970s and early 1980s the circuit became a proving ground for Irish legends such as Derek Daly, David Kennedy, Tommy Byrne and Eddie Jordan. Financial difficulties in the mid‑80s led to a change of ownership; businessman Martin Birrane, together with the Royal Irish Automobile Club, purchased the venue in 1986 and took full control in 1987.
A major milestone arrived in 1998 with the opening of the International Circuit, extending the track to its current 3.5 km length and securing FIA certification in 2001. Subsequent upgrades introduced state‑of‑the‑art pit garages, hospitality suites, and a Museum of Motorsport that houses iconic cars such as the Jordan 194, Jordan EJ14 and a collection of Lola machines. The circuit has hosted a roster of high‑profile events, from the British Touring Car Championship (2001‑2006) to the British Superbike Championship (2003‑2007), and continues to be the home of the annual Formula Vee Festival and Leinster Trophy.
What to See & Do
Racing and Events
Mondello Park runs a packed calendar of national and international competition. Regular series include the Irish Car Championship, Rallycross, the Principal Insurance Masters Superbike Championship, and the Formula Vee Festival. Historic racing festivals, drifting championships (including the Drift Masters European Championship), and the unique Jap‑Fest Japanese car show also feature throughout the year. Spectators can watch world‑class drivers such as Ayrton Senna (who won the Leinster Trophy in 1982) and Mika Hakkinen compete on Irish soil.
Driving Experiences
For those who prefer to be behind the wheel, the venue offers a suite of paid experiences. The Motor Racing Experience lets participants pilot a racing saloon or a single‑seater Formula‑style car, while the Supercar Experience provides a fleet of Porsche models capable of full‑speed laps. Off‑road enthusiasts can explore the 3 km of extreme trails, and the Virtual Race Academy offers a high‑tech simulator for honing technique without leaving the pit lane.
Museum of Motorsport
Located within the complex, the museum showcases over three decades of Irish and international racing heritage. Highlights include a Jordan 194, a Jordan EJ14, several Lola chassis, and a selection of cars raced by Martin Birrane himself. Admission to the museum is included with most event tickets and driving‑experience packages.
Corporate and Conference Facilities
The 15 hospitality suites overlook the track and are equipped for conferences, training sessions and product launches. Beneath the suites lie 24 fully‑fitted race‑garage bays that can be repurposed for trade shows or team‑building activities. The venue’s flexible layout makes it a popular choice for corporate groups seeking a dynamic setting.
Educational Programs
Mondello Park runs an Early Drive school tour for Transition‑Year students, introducing road‑safety concepts in a practical environment. The on‑site Racing School also offers driver‑development courses for aspiring racers of all ages.
Practical Information
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Monday – Sunday: 09:00 – 17:30 |
| Address | Mondello Park, Caragh, Naas, Co. Kildare, Ireland |
| Phone | +353 045 860200 |
| Website | https://mondellopark.ie |
| Public Transport | Nearest bus services run to Naas; a short taxi ride (≈7 km) reaches the circuit. |
| Parking | On‑site free parking for visitors and participants. |
| Disabled Access | Varied facilities across the 130‑acre site; contact the venue for specific requirements. |
| Coordinates | 53.2575 N, 6.7461111 W |
The circuit lies just 40 km (about a 45‑minute drive) from Dublin city centre, accessed via the R409. For drivers arriving by car, ample free parking is available adjacent to the main entrance. Event tickets, driving‑experience bookings and corporate enquiries are all handled through the official website. Admission to the museum is bundled with most tickets, while individual track‑day fees vary according to vehicle class and session length.
Whether you are watching a high‑speed superbike race, testing your limits in a Porsche, or exploring the rich tapestry of Irish motorsport history, Mondello Park offers a uniquely exhilarating Irish experience.