national stud visits

The National Stud is unique in this country in that it offers both first class breeding services and internationally renowned training courses and facilities for young people embarking on a career in the Thoroughbred breeding industry.

In addition, The National Stud opens its doors to the public through tours run by Discover Newmarket, providing visitors with an insight to the wonderful world of Thoroughbred breeding.

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Irish National Stud and Gardens

From horses to horticulture the Irish National Stud & Gardens is one of Ireland’s true treasures.

Nowhere better symbolizes all that is great about County Kildare, the beating heart of Ireland’s thoroughbred industry, than the Irish National Stud and Gardens, a unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty that is home to some of the most magnificent horses and sumptuous gardens to be found anywhere in the world.

From horses to horticulture, the Irish National Stud & Gardens offers you a unique experience that can be enjoyed at your own leisure or as part of a guided tour.

The Irish National Stud Farm is the home of equine royalty, immaculately-bred stallions who can be seen and admired alongside protective mares, frolicking foals and athletic yearlings.

In the world-famous Japanese Gardens, you can follow the path called the ‘Life of Man’ which traces the passage of a soul from birth to death and beyond, at the same time providing a meeting place for the cultures of East and West.

St Fiachra’s Garden symbolises the power of the Irish landscape.

The Irish National Stud & Gardens is home to a team of Living Legends; world-class retired racehorses including Hurricane Fly and Beef or Salmon. There is also a horse museum containing the skeleton of the greatest steeple chaser of all time, Arkle.

The Japanese Gardens

The Japanese Gardens, renowned throughout the world and the finest of their kind in Europe, are far more than simply a treat for the eye. They also provide comfort to the soul, achieving exactly the objective that was set out when the gardens were created between 1906 and 1910.

Devised by Colonel William Hall Walker, a wealthy Scotsman from a famous brewing family, the gardens were laid out by Japanese master horticulturist Tassa Eida and his son Minoru. Their aim was, through trees, plants, flowers, lawns, rocks and water, to symbolise the ‘Life of Man’. That plan was executed to perfection and Eida’s legacy is now admired by the 120,000 visitors who soak up the peace of the gardens every year.

Very much representative of Japanese gardens from the early 20th century, Eida’s work traces the journey of a soul from oblivion to eternity and portrays the human experience of its embodiment as it journeys by paths of its own choice through life. Birth, childhood, marriage, parenthood, old age, death and the afterlife are all brought to mind as the gardens, a seamless mixture of Eastern and Western cultures, are explored.

St Fiachra’s Garden

St Fiachra’s Garden, a tribute to an Irish saint, is a stunningly raw representation of Ireland’s singular landscape. A fitting tribute to Ireland herself, this large relaxing garden is situated within a natural setting of woodlands, wetland, lakes and islands. The garden seeks to capture the power of the Irish landscape in its rawest state, that of rock and water, the wonder of nature at its most elemental with which the monks were in touch. The garden thereby does not look at St Fiachra’s achievements or what he became, but rather at what, in large part, formed him.

• Daily guided tours of the Stud
• World Famous Japanese Gardens telling the Story of the Life of Man from Cradle to Grave
• Award-winning St. Fiachra’s Garden based on the 6th & 7th Century monks
• Meet the Living legend horse superstars
• Restaurant with home baking

Open early February to early November, 2020

Daily 09:00 – 18:00

Closed:  early November to early February Last admission: 17:00 Approx. visit duration: 2 to 3 hours. The guided tour is 45 minutes

Admission Rates 2020 Adult: €14.00 Senior (aged 60+): €11.00 Student (with valid ID): €11.00 Child (aged 5-16): €8.00 Child (under 5): Free Family (2 adults & 4 children): €32.50

Free guided tours, as part of the entrance fee at 10:30, 12:00, 2:00 and 4:00. Added tours during busy times.

Check out their range of facilities, services, accessibility, and other useful information.

LANGUAGES: Self-guided leaflets in various languages

DINING/REFRESHMENTS: Full restaurant serving morning coffee; afternoon tea and scones; full lunches and light refreshments and wine.

SHOPPING:  Gift shop onsite offering high-quality branded goods including clothing, souvenirs, and postcards.

CHILDREN: Playground and fairy trail on-site. Dedicated baby-changing room and baby-changing benches with adjacent hand-washing and hand-drying facilities.

PARKING: Free car and coach parking on-site.

ACCESSIBILITY: The Stud and St Fiachra’s Garden are fully wheelchair accessible. The Japanese Gardens are partially accessible. Fully accessible toilet available in the Visitor Centre and at the children’s playground. Assistance dogs are permitted

GROUPS: Group rates available (minimum 20 people). Pre-booking required.

The Stud is located 48km south of Dublin off the main M7 motorway (take Exit 13 on the M7 motorway).

Tully East, County Kildare, Ireland

Facebook: @IrishNationalStud Twitter: @IrishNatStud Instagram: @IrishNationalStud

Irish National Stud & Gardens

Top ways to experience Irish National Stud & Gardens and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Irish National Stud & Gardens - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.87 mi) Silken Thomas
• (0.77 mi) Kildare House Hotel
• (0.95 mi) Firecastle Lane
• (0.69 mi) Kilroan House B&B
• (8.30 mi) Moate Lodge
• (0.01 mi) Japanese Gardens Café
• (0.93 mi) Hartes Of Kildare
• (0.86 mi) Cunninghams Bar
• (0.88 mi) Saba

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• Houses and gardens

Aside from producing champion horses, the National Stud has become a popular place to visit in County Kildare. You’ll easily spend two hours, but you should really give yourself twice that time to take it all in.

A unique experience in Kildare

The Irish National Stud is the beating heart of the Irish horse racing industry and the only stud farm in Ireland open to the public. For a place that has consistently produced equine royalty, it seems only fitting that its former visitors have included queens and presidents.

Guided tours last 45 minutes and include a visit to the foaling unit, where you might be lucky enough to see the first steps of a future champion. The best time to see a foal being born is between February and April.

You can also get up close to the spectacular stallions at the paddock, spot lively yearlings or watch the protective mares with their frolicking foals. Even if you’re not a racing aficionado, you’ll be able to appreciate the historical success that has built this place and the passion that has sustained it.  

Visit the Horse Museum

At the Horse Museum, you can discover the story behind the Irish love affair with horses, Ireland’s champion horses and the history of horse racing. The Horse Museum’s most famous fixture is the skeleton of Arkle, an Irish thoroughbred and racing legend who was simply known as “Himself.”

The Japanese Gardens at the Irish National Stud

Created between the years 1906 and 1910, the  Japanese Gardens  were designed by craftsman Tassa Eida and his son Minoru. These gardens combine art, philosophy and nature in perfect balance to create a tranquil and contemplative environment.

Beautiful structures like the Bridge of Life and the Tea House combine with the vivid foliage and babbling streams in a perfect balance of sights, sounds and colour. These gardens are considered the best of their kind in Europe and you’ll know why when you see them.

A more recent addition to the Irish National Stud and Gardens is St Fiachra’s Garden, named after the patron saint of gardening. This was created to commemorate the millennium and designed by the award-winning landscape architect, Professor Martin Hallinan.

Inspired by the Irish monastic tradition, St Fiachra’s Garden celebrates the rawness of the Irish landscape and it’s been designed to create the feeling of natural space. It’s every bit as inspiring as its Eastern predecessor and a trip to the gardens is a chance to escape the noise and bustle of everyday life for a few precious minutes.

There’s also an enchanting fairy trail that the kids will love. There are plenty of things to keep children amused but there is also a play area beside St Fiachra’s garden, with swings, slides and climbing frames to let them burn off any excess energy.

Grab a tea, coffee or light snack while they play and there are ice creams for the little ones (and the big ones).

Family-friendly facilities

An on-site restaurant run by Ballymaloe-trained Natalie Collins serves up a simple, wholesome menu focused on fresh, flavoursome food. Using local ingredients, the menu features perennial favourites like the beef hot pot or the platter of smoked salmon and freshly baked brown bread. There are vegetarian and gluten-free options.

There are also picnic benches in the car park if you want to bring a packed lunch. The Irish National Stud and Gardens is the perfect place to spend an afternoon, whether you are a fan of horse racing or not.

The spectacular surroundings alone make it a must-see. But, it’s also an opportunity to find out why this place in Kildare remains at the top of its game and to witness the passion and pride that goes into everything that they do.

After your visit to the Irish National Stud and Gardens, have a look at our Kildare destination page for more incredible experiences in the Thoroughbred County.

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Irish National Stud and Gardens

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An idyllic day trip awaits amid the lush green landscape of Tully, County Kildare. Giddy up, we’re off to the Irish National Stud!

There’s so much to enjoy at this hub of equestrian excellence. See where champion racehorses are forged at the Stud, which is home to adorable foals and magnificent stallions. Learn about Ireland’s rich history of horse racing at the interactive Irish Racehorse Experience. Then join a guided tour to hear tales of legendary horses, infamous races and much more.

But that’s not all. No visit here is complete without exploring the famous Japanese Gardens, which are regarded as the finest of their kind in Europe! Taking a snap beneath a cherry blossom tree in late spring or early summer is a must. St Fiachra’s Garden will lull you into a state of relaxation. Created by an award-winning landscape architect, it makes for a stunning natural counterpoint to the more designed aspects of the Japanese Gardens.

Round off your trip with a bite to eat in the restaurant, where local ingredients are whipped up into tasty dishes such as goat’s cheese tart and beef hot pot.

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Irish National Stud and Gardens, County Kildare

Need to know

The Irish National Stud is open daily from 9am to 5pm. Last entry is 4pm.

General admission tickets and tickets for the Irish Racehorse Experience can be booked here .

For more information on the Stud, please call +353 (0) 45 521 617 or email [email protected] .

Things to see and do nearby

Kildare Village Outlet Shopping

Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre

The Kildare Maze

Kildare Town Heritage Centre

St Brigid’s Cathedral & Round Tower

Curragh Military Museum

Accommodation

Kildare House Hotel

Silken Thomas

The K Spa at The K Club

Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park

Curragh Racecourse

Castletown House

Kildare Village steeped in Ireland’s renowned tradition of warm hospitality, has established itself as a favourite destination for shoppers seeking exceptional savings from a stable of luxury brands and a memorable day out.

Discover the Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre at Newbridge, in County Kildare. See the factory showroom, Museum of Style Icons and the shop selling famous Newbridge cutlery and stainless steel kitchenware, jewellery and giftware.

Enjoy a thrilling family day out at Leinster’s largest hedge maze at the Kildare Maze, in County Kildare.

Step back in time with the Legends of Kildare immersive virtual reality experience at the Kildare Town Heritage Centre.

St Brigid’s Cathedral stands on the site where Saint Brigid founded a nunnery in the 5th century. This County Kildare cathedral was rebuilt in the 19th century and houses many fascinating, religious artefacts.

The physical environment, the military presence and the social aspects of life on the Curragh plains are told in the museum.

Kildare House Hotel is a family operated 21 bedroom hotel in the heart of Kildare town and only 30 minutes from Dublin. Kildare House Hotel is only a 5 minute walk to Kildare Village Outlet Shopping and a 5 minute drive to The Curragh Racecourse.

Silken Thomas is situated in the heart of Kildare Town. It is a traditional pub steeped in history. A warm welcome greets you whenever you arrive. Silken Thomas is well known for its wide range of food, drink and entertainment.

The K Spa at The K Club in Straffan, County Kildare, will experience the highest standards of luxury. The K Spa offers a sublime and relaxing experience which will leave guests feeling rested and refreshed.

The Irish passion for horse racing is legendary and experiencing it at the Curragh Racecourse in County Kildare, is unforgettable. Enjoy a day at the races in a glorious setting on the Curragh plains where horse racing and horses have been a central part of daily life for centuries.

Experience the splendour of Castletown House, a Palladian mansion in County Kildare. Marvel at the magnificent building and take time to explore the 18th century parklands.

Irish National Stud & Gardens

Counties Wicklow & Kildare

The Irish National Stud, 1.5km south of town, is the big attraction in Kildare – visitors have included Queen Elizabeth II. Owned and managed by the Irish government, the immaculately kept centre breeds high-quality stallions to mate with mares from all over the world. You can wander the paddocks and go eye-to-eye with famous stallions, or take a 45-minute guided tour (four daily; included in admission). Around 3pm in the spring, you'll see the foals being walked back to their stables.

The stud was founded by Colonel Hall Walker (of Johnnie Walker whiskey fame) in 1900. He was remarkably successful with his horses, but his eccentric breeding technique relied heavily on astrology: the fate of a foal was decided by its horoscope and the roofs of the stallion boxes opened on auspicious occasions to reveal the stars above and hopefully influence the horses' fortunes.

Guided tours take place every hour on the hour, with access to the intensive-care unit for newborn foals. If you visit between February and June, you might even see a foal being born. Alternatively, the foaling unit shows a 10-minute video with all the action. Given that most of those foals are now geldings, they probably have dim memories of their time in the Teasing Shed, the place where stallions are stimulated before 'covering' a mare. The fee for having a mare inseminated by the stud's top stallion can be as much as €120,000.

Other attractions on-site include lakeside walks, a 'fairy trail' for kids and the Irish Horse Museum , a celebration of championship horses and the history of horse racing. You can also visit Colonel Hall Walker's Japanese Gardens (part of the complex), considered to be the best of their kind in Europe. Created between 1906 and 1910, they trace the journey from birth to death through 20 landmarks, including the Tunnel of Ignorance, the Hill of Ambition and the Chair of Old Age.

Get In Touch

045-521 617

https://www.irishnationalstud.ie

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Guided Tours

From a morning at a racing yard to an afternoon at the National Stud, our tours take you behind the scenes where you will learn about the history and heritage of this fascinating, internationally renowned town. We have a wide variety of tours which run on various dates throughout the year. So, whether you are an avid racing fan or a lover of history, you will find an experience to suit you. We also offer private options for all our public tours, which means that you can choose a date that suits you best. Browse our tours below for more information and to book your experience.

Gift Vouchers are also available to purchase and make perfect presents to mark that special occasion.

Lanwades Stud Tour

National Stud Tour

Royal Yard Tour with William Haggas

The Newmarket Experience

The Ultimate Newmarket Experience

Champagne Afternoon Tea and Tour

Race Day Tour

Early Riser Tour

Tattersalls Tour

Behind The Scenes Racecourse Tour

Royal Yard Tour with John and Thady Gosden

Shadwell Tour

National Horse Racing Museum

Dalham Hall Stud Tour

Race day tour feature.

On The Trail of Dick Francis

Newmarket’s Racing Royalty Tour

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Irish National Stud

The irish national stud belongs to the people of ireland but prides itself on being enjoyed and appreciated by visitors from all parts of the globe..

Nowhere better symbolises all that is great about County Kildare, the beating heart of Ireland’s thoroughbred industry, than the stud – a unique attraction of outstanding natural beauty that is home to some of the most magnificent horses and sumptuous gardens to be found anywhere in the world.

Go in springtime and watch as the foals leap and play in the fields or simply go to enjoy the tranquillity of the stud and gardens. Some of the living legends you can see at the stud include Beef Or Salmon, Hurricane Fly and Hardy Eustace. Visit the award-winning Irish Racehorse Experience on your trip and take a journey through the rich heritage of the Irish thoroughbred and play your part in a unique interactive experience where you buy, train, and race your very own thoroughbred.

The century-old Japanese gardens are next door, with falling cherry blossoms and blooming water lilies gliding across mirror-like ponds. The gardens trace the journey of a soul from oblivion to eternity and portray the human experience as it journeys by paths of its own choice through life. Birth, childhood, marriage, parenthood, old age, death and the afterlife are all brought to mind as the gardens, a mixture of Eastern and Western cultures, are explored.

Explore St. Fiachra’s garden which pays tribute to the Irish landscape in its rawest state. Rock and water are rulers in a garden rejoicing in the natural beauty of woodland, wetland, waterfalls, lakes and streams. St. Fiachra’s Garden is the very essence of Ireland’s natural beauty.

To save 10% on admission use promo code INSKVILL23 when booking online at www.irishnationalstud.ie

Book your visit now

To enquire about private tours please contact [email protected]

Best of the region

Want to explore? We've chosen our favourite attractions and things to do in Kildare and the surrounding areas.

Stop off at Kildare Village

Explore the Area2

The irish national stud & gardens is located in the thoroughbred county, county kildare..

Irelands’ horse heritage has developed from folklore, legends and high kings to a place where the story of the horse is embedded within our DNA. From ancient warriors to stud farm legends, County Kildare is steeped in history, horses and heroes. Yet there’s more to the Thoroughbred County than mythical warriors and racing royalty, its waterways, boglands and fertile pastures make it a land of eye-catching colourful contrasts. A glorious blend of old and new; County Kildare is one of the most unique places to visit in Ireland where everybody and anybody is very warmly welcomed. Famous around the world for its link with the horse and picturesque landscapes, fueled by great people, unique stories, food, shopping and places to stay.

Things to do in Kildare

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The Curragh Racecourse

The Curragh Racecourse — usually referred to as simply the Curragh — is one of Ireland’s most important Thoroughbred racecourses.

Naas Racecourse

Naas Racecourse is a horse racing venue in Naas, County Kildare, Ireland, approximately 18 miles from Dublin.

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Punchestown Racecourse

Punchestown Racecourse is located in the parish of Eadestown, between the R410 and R411 regional roads near Naas, County Kildare, in Ireland.

• punchestown.com

Kildare Village

Kildare Village is home to over 100 brands from the world’s most exciting designers. Discover open-air shopping and the finest eateries.

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Newbridge Silverware

Since 1934, Newbridge Silverware is crafting quality jewellery, homeware and giftware in the heart of the Curragh Plains in Co. Kildare, Ireland.

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Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park is a visitor attractions in the Kildare region. It is a destination for families, school tours, birthday parties and tourists.

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Legends of Kildare VR

Legends of Kildare Virtual Reality experience transports you back in time on an emotional and magical journey which allows you to connect directly with these ancient characters.

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Explore the best places to eat in kildare and book a fine-dining experience in a gourmet restaurant. discover experimental menus and inventive ingredients, make it a meal to remember., stop off at one of the county’s gastropubs, appreciate the gorgeous interiors and the fresh takes on signature irish dishes. head to kildare town for some stylish cocktails and dance the night away., with its energetic nightlife and warm welcome, you’ll soon return to the thoroughbred county..

Cunninghams

Cunningham’s Kildare is housed in “The Round Tower House” building and dates back to 1916, “The Round Tower House Building itself has been a commercial premises.

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A multi award winning Gastropub located in the heart of the market square in Kildare town and just a 5 minute walk from Kildare Village outlet shopping.

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Firecastle is an artisan grocers, a delicatessen, a bakery and a café with cookery school and 10 en suite guest bedrooms.

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Silken Thomas

The Silken Thomas is a family operated business, which was established over 45 years ago, ocated in the heart of Kildare Town.

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The Hanged Mans Pub and Restaurant is located in Milltown, Newbridge, Co Kildare in Ireland and offers quality food in a great atmosphere.

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Killashee Hotel

Killashee Hotel, Spa & Leisure is a 4 star luxury hotel in Naas Kildare with magnificent views over the Wicklow mountains and Kildare countryside.

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The K Club is one of Ireland’s top golf and spa resorts, tucked away in the Kildare countryside yet just on Dublin’s doorstep.

The Keadeen Hotel

The 4 Star Keadeen Hotel is located in the heart of County Kildare, is the nearest hotel to The Curragh & is just 35 min from Dublin.

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Osprey Hotel

Osprey Hotel is of contemporary style with 108 bedrooms including classic and executive rooms, junior and duplex suites and two penthouse suites with balconies.

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Family run & owned Hotel situated in the heart of Kildare town, Kildare House Hotel was purchased in November 2019 & has been fully refurbished since.

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Kilkea Castle 

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Uncover Ireland's Ancient East

Experience ireland’s ancient east where vibrant history and modern life meet. enjoy memorable food experiences, wander down the cobbled streets of medieval towns and explore the gorgeous gardens of this scenic region., hear local legends and mythical tales of the east of ireland on a lively walking tour or travel back in time at an ancient monastic site. head on an epic mountain hike and after, experience the cultural riches of the incredible cities., have a question, drop a line.

Irish National Stud & Gardens, Brallistown Little, Tully, Co. Kildare, R51 KX25, Ireland

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Accessible Guided Tour to the National Stud and Japanese Gardens

This accessible driving tour from Dublin begins with your friendly guide picking you up at your wheelchair friendly Dublin hotel in an accessible van. You will then head out on a comfortable, approximately 60 minutes drive to the town of Kildale, to your destination of the day, the National Stud and Gardens.  Escorted by your tour guide, you will explore this charming setting which begins with a memorable guided visit to the Irish National Stud. Owned by the Irish Government, this unique attraction has, for well over 100 years, been producing thoroughbreds capable of being crowned champions at home and abroad. Among some of the stars born here was Minory, born and raised on the stud’s idyllic land, triumphing in horse racing’s most important contest, the Epsom Derby, way back in 1909. Learn about the history of the site, see the new born foals and old legends and enjoy a quick lunch or snack on your own in their onsite cafe if you desire.

Following this, you will move along to the Gardens located nearby. These immaculately manicured Japanese Garden grounds offer an accessible walking/rolling path around rivers and cherry blossoms. Devised by Colonel William Hall Walker, a wealthy Scotsman from a famous brewing family, the gardens were laid out by Japanese master horticulturist Tassa Eida and his son Minoru. Their aim was that the Gardens would reflect the ”Life of Man”. Escorted by your guide, you will enjoy a leisurely stroll here, soaking in the serene beauty of the site, capturing photos and admiring the many different trees, plants, flowers, lawns and rocks. The Gardens are renowned throughout the world and the finest of their kind in Europe.

The Accessible Guided Tour to the National Stud and Japanese Gardens includes:

• Accessible tour routes, confirmed to be wheelchair accessible
• guided, private driving tour in an accessible van
• Opportunities to get out and explore several sites firsthand
• Lively commentary by your local English speaking tour guide
• A memorable, firsthand sightseeing experience in in the National Stud and Japanese Gardens!

Tour Highlights

• National Stud stables and horses
• Historic overview of the Irish National Stud
• Free time for lunch
• Immaculate Japanese Gardens

Accessibility Details

The Accessible Half-Day Tour to the National Stud and Japanese Gardens received a 4 Star Sage Accessibility Rating because it uses an accessible van to transfer between Dublin and Kildale. It also follows a completely step-free tour route. It did not receive a higher rating because clients will have to walk/roll approximately 1.6 miles at the Stud and Garden site to fully experience it. However, since this is a private tour, you can decide to leave certain areas out to shorten the rolling distance if needed.The tour has been designed to include accessible restrooms along the way.

The accessible van used for this tour is equipped with a wheelchair ramp or lift to enter. It is suitable for manual wheelchairs, power chairs and mobility scooters alike.

The entrance to the National Stud has a long ramp located next to the stairs. The grounds at the main entrance are smooth and easy to navigate.

Some areas by the stables have mild cobblestones as pictured below. Raps and curb cuts make it easy to navigate the area in a wheelchair.

The path at the Japanese Gardens is mostly flat. Some mild inclines. The surfaces include gravel and pavers. Your guide will lead you using the most accessible path. This is a leisurely stroll at your own pace to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Some areas have small steps or very narrow paths as pictured below. Your tour guide will avoid these areas.

Tour Details

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Cost: 1- 2 people EUR 625, 3-4 people EUR 675, 5-6 people EUR 725.

*€20 off if booked as part of an Accessible Dublin travel package.

Meeting place: Centrally located accessible Dublin hotel or cruise dock

Meeting time: Morning 9:00 am or Afternoon 1:00 pm

Days offered: Every day

Entrance Tickets: Entrance tickets to the National Stud and Japanese Gardens are not included. However, we will pre-book them and add them to your tour cost upon booking.

To review our cancellation policy, please click: HERE . Tours run rain or shine.

Not included: Snacks/meals, gratuities.

Dublin Accessible Travel Pros and Cons of Dublin Disabled Access 8 Keys to Success for Dublin Disabled Travel Dublin Accessible Guided Tours Dublin Accessible Van Transfers Dublin Wheelchair Rentals Travel Insurance for Disabled Travelers Dublin Trip Planning by Sage Traveling  – Travel with Ease!

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16:30 Curragh (IRE)

Visit the irish national stud and gardens irish european breeders fund maiden.

• Winning Time: 2m 20.08s
• Off Time: 16:31:13

Chemistry (IRE)

Bloom vega (ire), northern sonas (ire).

• Trainer A P O'Brien
• Jockey R L Moore

made all, soon clear, pushed along and well clear 3f out, ridden under 2f out, reduced advantage inside final furlong, stayed on well

Kaptain Bay (IRE)

• Trainer N Meade
• Jockey C T Keane

tracked leaders, pushed along in moderate 3rd 2f out, soon ridden, moderate 3rd over 1f out, no extra final furlong

King Of The Bronx (IRE)

• Trainer N Slevin
• Jockey R C Colgan

rear of mid-division, niggled along at halfway, ridden 3f out, weakened

Maharajjah (IRE)

• Trainer Mrs J Harrington
• Jockey S Foley

slowly into stride, in rear, no impression from 3f out, never a factor

Model Approach (IRE)

• Trainer J S Bolger
• Jockey D P McDonogh

tracked leaders, 2nd and chased leader at halfway, pushed along 4f out, ridden and no impression on winner 2f out, moderate 4th 1f out, no impression

Noble Nation (IRE)

• Trainer Gerard O'Leary
• Jockey J M Sheridan

dwelt, soon tracked leaders on inner, pulled hard, 4th 3f out, soon ridden, weakened

• Trainer A Oliver
• Jockey G F Carroll

tracked leader in 2nd early, moderate 3rd at halfway, ridden in 5th 2 1/2f out, moderate 5th 1f out, kept on one pace in 3rd inside final furlong

Thefutureisnow (IRE)

• Trainer M Hourigan
• Jockey S T McCullagh

dwelt, always behind, never a factor

Valjean (IRE)

• Trainer Charles Weld
• Jockey N G McCullagh

mid-division, ridden in moderate 8th over 2f out, no impression

• Trainer J P Murtagh
• Jockey B M Coen

rear of mid-division, moderate 7th 3f out, pushed along and went moderate 6th 2f out, improved into moderate 2nd and ridden 1f out, stayed on well final furlong, not reach winner

Glowing Bird (IRE)

• Trainer Peter Fahey
• Jockey L F Roche

always towards rear, never a factor

Sheen Falls Time (IRE)

• Trainer John O'Donoghue
• Jockey R P Whelan

mid-division, ridden in moderate 7th over 2f out, no impression

Quilieve (IRE)

• Trainer H De Bromhead
• Jockey W J Lee

Previous results

Bright legend (ire).

• Trainer J A Stack

Glory Daze (IRE)

Wordsworth (ire).

Chemistry (IRE) 8-1 (9-7) Dwelt, mid-division, pushed along and went 5th 2f out, soon ridden, went moderate 3rd 2f out, kept on one pace, 3rd of 12, 5 3/4l behind Chicago Critic (9-7) at Naas 1m mdn Soft - Heavy in Oct.

Kaptain Bay (IRE) 25-1 (9-7) Held up towards rear, ridden over 2f out, no impression in 7th 1 1/2f out, kept on one pace, 5th of 10, 11 1/4l behind Ocean Conquest (9-7) at Punchestown 1m mdn Good - Yielding in Sep.

King Of The Bronx (IRE) 200-1 (9-7) Always behind, never a factor, last of 12, 26 1/2l behind Euphoric (9-7) at Navan 1m mdn Yielding in Oct.

Maharajjah (IRE) Rajj gelding out of Spring Bouquet.

Model Approach (IRE) 50-1 (9-6) Soon prominent and disputed, close 2nd halfway, ridden in 3rd 2 1/2f out, no extra in 6th 1 1/2f out, kept on one pace, 5th of 11, 8 3/4l behind Ecureuil Secret (9-6) at Leopardstown 1m mdn hvy in Apr.

Noble Nation (IRE) Sioux Nation gelding out of Mooching Along.

Northern Sonas (IRE) 33-1 (9-5) Towards rear, dropped to rear and detached over 4f out, no impression, never a factor, 9th of 10, 23 3/4l behind Guildenstern (9-5) at Leopardstown 7f mdn hvy in Oct.

Thefutureisnow (IRE) Highland Reel gelding out of Stormy Blessing.

Valjean (IRE) Awtaad colt out of Letizia.

Bloom Vega (IRE) Lope De Vega filly out of Bloomfield.

Glowing Bird (IRE) Phoenix Of Spain filly out of Centime.

Sheen Falls Time (IRE) 66-1 (9-3) Towards rear, ridden and no impression 2f out, kept on one pace from over 1f out, 8th of 13, 12 1/4l behind Sakti (9-3) at Dundalk 7f mdn pol in Mar.

Quilieve (IRE) 6-1 (9-2) Towards rear, niggled along in 11th 3f out, progress over 1f out, kept on final furlong, no threat, 5th of 12, 16 1/2l behind Azada (9-2) at Leopardstown 7f mdn fll hvy in Oct.

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16:30 curragh-ireland - Saturday April 20

Visit the irish national stud and gardens irish ebf maiden (turf), heavy (soft to heavy in places) 3yo only 1m 2f winner: €12,000 (12 runners).

How many people visit our America's national parks? Graphics explain

Each year, the National Park Service welcomes millions of visitors. Since the agency started tracking attendance in 1904, more than 15 billion people have paid visits to the National Park System.

With 63 national parks spanning the United States, visitors have their fair share of natural beauty to explore. From Acadia National Park in Maine to Olympic National Park in Washington and California's Yosemite to North Carolina's Great Smoky Mountains, each park provides a unique experience for tourists.

“Our national parks tell our shared American story. I'm glad visitors are finding hidden gems, exploring in the off-season and finding new ways to have a great time in our national parks,” said National Park Service director Chuck Sams in a statement.

On Saturday April 20th, all fees to visit national parks will be lifted to celebrate the first day of National Park Week. Last year, the first day of national park week coincided with Earth Day.

How many people visit national parks each year?

The National Park Service said more than 325 million people visited the parks last year, up 4% from 2022. That includes visits to 400 parks run by the NPS. After the COVID-19 pandemic caused a drop in visitors, the total number of visitors has been on an upward trend. A study found that in April 2020, visitation to U.S. national parks decreased by about 87%, due to temporary closure of some parks.

In 2023, 38% percent of people visited recreation parks, 32% went to historical and cultural parks and 30% went to nature parks, according to NPS.

What are the most visited national parks?

Great Smoky Mountains  is the most visited national park in America, by far. Last year, it drew nearly three times the visitors as the second-most visited park,  Grand Canyon , according to  National Park Service data .

These were the 15 most visited national parks in 2023:

• Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee - 13,297,647
• Grand Canyon in Arizona - 4,733,705
• Zion in Utah - 4,623,238
• Yellowstone in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming - 4,501,382
• Rocky Mountain in Colorado - 4,115,837
• Yosemite in California - 3,897,070
• Acadia in Maine - 3,879,890
• Grand Teton in Wyoming - 3,417,106
• Joshua Tree in California  - 3,270,404
• Olympic National Park in Washington - 2,947,503
• Glacier National Park in Montana - 2,933,616
• Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio - 2,860,059
• Indiana Dunes in Indiana - 2,765,892
• Hot Springs in Arkansas - 2,502,967
• Bryce Canyon in Utah - 2,461,269

From Acadia to Zion: What travelers should know about each of America's national parks

Answers to your biggest park questions: What is the most visited national park in the US?

Where are the national parks located?

All 50 states are home to other  National Park Service units , like national battlefields and seashores, which are sometimes called parks.

The National Park System currently has 429 units. The most recent addition is the  Amache National Historic Site  in Colorado. Travelers can find sites by state on the  National Park Service’s website .

What to know about National Park Week

National Park Week  kicks off April 20 with free entry to every national park in America. 

That’s not just  capital NP national parks  like  Grand Teton  and  Olympic , but all 429 sites within the  National Park System , ranging from national battlefields to seashores.

Entry fees are only waived that first day, but there are special activities planned throughout National Park Week (and many sites  don’t charge entry fees  anyway).

National Park Week spans nine days. It runs from April 20 through April 28. 

Each day will spotlight a different parks-related theme.

• April 20: Discovery
• April 21: Volunteers 
• April 22: Earth Day 
• April 23: Innovation 
• April 24: Workforce Wednesday 
• April 25: Youth Engagement 
• April 26: Community Connections 
• April 27:  Junior Ranger Day
• April 28: Arts in Parks 

PRESENTED BY TRAVELODGE BY WYNDHAM

How to plan an epic summer trip to a national park

We’ve got insider tips on the best times to visit the most popular parks, timed entry passes, and where to stay.

As summer approaches, the siren call of national park adventures grows stronger. However, these iconic sites are bringing in unprecedented crowds.

In 2023, the National Park Service (NPS) reported over 300 million visits , a four percent increase from the previous year. This surge isn’t limited to famous spots; lesser known parks such as Congaree and Dry Tortugas are also experiencing record-breaking numbers. To manage the influx, park authorities are implementing innovative strategies to improve the guest experience.  

( These are the 10 most popular national parks .)

From snagging the perfect stay to timing your bookings just right, we’ve got insider tips to ensure your national park vacation is nothing short of epic. Here’s what you need to know.

Best time to visit

Timing is crucial in planning your summer getaway, especially if you’re eyeing popular national parks. Finding affordable lodging and activities during the high season can be tricky.

During the shoulder seasons—early- to mid-spring and late fall—you can expect pleasant weather and a reprieve from the crowds, but there are a few trade-offs to consider. Some hotels and lodges might close during the off-season and reopen later in the year, potentially limiting your accommodation options. Additionally, parks at higher elevations, such as Glacier or Lassen Volcanic , may not have all their trails open and could require snowshoes or traction cleats to get around.

( Here’s why Yellowstone in the off-season is great for families .)  

Arriving before sunrise has its perks, too. Typically, most visitors don’t arrive until mid-to-late morning, allowing you to enjoy attractions like Arches ’ Windows or Delicate Arch with minimal crowds, provided you arrive early enough.

When permitted, exploring the parks in winter offers a unique perspective that few experience. Yosemite Valley, for instance, transforms into a winter wonderland —a sight cherished by photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Tony McDaniel, a Yosemite   Mariposa County spokesperson, says the best way to plan a visit is to avoid taking a “checklist approach” to your visit.

“Slow down and immerse yourself in the destination,” McDaniel says. “There’s no place on earth like Yosemite National Park , and it’s best seen slowly and outside of a vehicle where you can fully embrace the sights, sounds, and smells.”

What parks require timed entry passes?

Timed entry reservations typically provide access within a two-hour window. The price of the pass, however, does not include the standard park entry fee. But, a separate timed entry permit is unnecessary if you already have campground reservations, a wilderness permit, or bookings for a pre-arranged, park-sponsored activity. Additionally, if you plan to stay inside the park for multiple days, only one timed entry reservation is required—just make sure not to leave the park during your visit.

Although these passes can reduce a trip’s spontaneity, NPS spokeswoman Kathy Kupper says they also lead to better park experiences.

“Visitors love the timed entry system,” Kupper says, “because it gives them increased confidence that they’ll be able to get in and get where they want to go.”

If you miss out on a timed entry reservation, don’t fret. Ditch your car and opt to walk or bike into the park at any time of day. Glacier National Park adjusts its timed entry program annually, including relocating entry gates beyond the visitor center, where guests can hop on a shuttle bus to access the park.

( Ready to plan your fall hike? Read this safety advice first .)

Arches: Timed entry reservations will be required from April 1 to October 31. The reservation system operates on a rolling basis. For example, June 1–30 bookings opened March 1; July 1–31 reservations opened April 1. A limited number of reservations will also be released at 7 p.m. MST the day before, providing some flexibility for last-minute planners to Utah.

Glacier: For travelers intending to drive along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road or head to North Fork, Montana, a vehicle reservation is mandatory between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 to September 8. Similarly, from July 1 to September 8, a reservation is required to access Many Glacier between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. These reservations can be secured up to 120 days or approximately four months in advance, starting at 8 a.m. MST. Additionally, a limited number of next-day vehicle reservations will be released at 7 p.m. MST for those seeking entry on the following day on a rolling basis.

Mount Rainier : Two areas of this Washington State park—Paradise Corridor from the south and Sunrise Corridor from the northeast—will require reservations from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., May 24-September 2, and July 4-September 2, respectively. Each corridor requires a separate vehicle reservation, valid for a single day per vehicle. Note that reservations are unnecessary when entering the park from a different entrance.

Rocky Mountain :   Between May 24 and October 20, reservations are required for entry into this Colorado park. Two types of reservations will be available: one granting access to the entire park, including the bustling Bear Lake Road Corridor from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m., and another from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. that excludes access to this corridor. Reservations for May 24 to June 30 can be secured starting at 8 a.m. on May 1. Subsequent reservation releases will follow, with reservations for July becoming available on June 1, and so forth.

Yosemite: Reservations are needed from April to October. On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27, June 19, September 2, and October 14) from April 13 to June 30 and August 17 to October 27, reservations are required from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. From July 1 to August 16, reservations are needed daily during the same hours.

( Discover the best day hikes in Yosemite National Park .)

What parks require a specific area pass?

Acadia : In Maine, Cadillac Mountain Summit Road vehicle reservations are required from May 22 to October 27. About one-third of them can be purchased 90 days in advance, while the rest become available two days before, starting at 10 a.m. Reservations cost $6 and are sold only at https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/400000 .

Great Smoky Mountains : While you don’t need a timed entry reservation to enter this Tennessee-North Carolina park, you will need a parking permit to stop for more than 15 minutes. Passes are $5 (daily),   $15 (weekly), and $40 (annually). Permits can be purchased in person or online . Passes are good for one vehicle only.

( See fireflies magically light up this national park .)

Haleakalā : To park at Hawaii’s Haleakalā summit for sunrise, you’ll need a parking pass from 3 to 7 a.m. throughout the year.

Shenandoah : Visitors hiking Virginia’s Old Rag Mountain must obtain a $2 day-use ticket in advance from March 1 to November 30. Of the 800 tickets issued daily, 400 will be released 30 days in advance, with the remaining 400 released five days beforehand on https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/10088450/ticket/10088451 .

Zion: You’ll need a timed permit to hike Angel’s Landing in Utah. Lotteries open for June-August hikes on April 1, September-November on July 1, and December-February on October 1. A limited number of next-day licenses will be available at 12:01 a.m. the day before. Hiking groups of up to six people can apply for a permit. Winning groups will be charged an additional $3 per person.

( Not a hiker? That’s not a problem at these eight national parks .)

Best alternatives to national parks

If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t have a reservation, and couldn’t get into the park early enough, you still have options. State parks and national forests surrounding official national parks often offer similar views but with few visitors.  

( Go wild—and skip the crowds—at these 7 spectacular parks .)

For example, if you get shut out of Utah’s Bryce Canyon , you can always drive 15 minutes away to the picturesque Dixie National Forest . Instead of being shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of other visitors on the trails, you’ll be almost entirely alone while overlooking nearly identical scenes.

Where to stay in or near a popular park

Most NPS campgrounds can be reserved six months in advance on a rolling basis through Recreation.gov, but the most popular sites, including Yellowstone ’s Slough Creek or Watchman in Zion , can sell out within minutes. Even if you miss out, you still have plenty of options.  

“For something similar to camping in Yosemite Valley, Housekeeping Camp or Curry Village are as close as you’ll get to camping, plus you don’t need to bring a tent,” says McDaniel. “In areas like Wawona, Yosemite West, and Foresta, there are cabin rentals that will still get you into the park. Outside the park, there are hundreds of more options in great locations and historic towns that are generally more budget-friendly and put visitors close to more dining options.”

( These historic lodges are the perfect way to see North America’s wild parks .)

Nearby national forests and Bureau of Land Management areas typically offer established campgrounds or free dispersed camping (areas outside a designated campground). Sites are generally first-come, first-served. Arrive at an established campground between 10 a.m. and noon to score a recently vacated site.

Apps like AllStays and sites like freecampsites.net and Campendium can help tremendously. Signal Mountain Campground in Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park sells out almost immediately, but on a recent trip to the park, I found an incredible mountaintop dispersed campsite, in   Bridger-Teton National Forest . The view of the Tetons was spectacular, made even better because the campsite was free.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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