Kildare, Ireland is a stunning county located in the east of Ireland. It is part of the province of Leinster and is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and lively towns. From ancient castles to charming villages, Kildare has something for everyone. Here are the top 20 places to see in Kildare, Ireland.
1. Castletown House: Castletown House is a stunning Palladian mansion located in the town of Celbridge. It was once the home of William Conolly, the Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. The house is open to the public and is a great place to explore and learn about Irish history.
2. Kildare Cathedral: Kildare Cathedral is a stunning medieval church located in the town of Kildare. It is the seat of the Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin and is an important religious center in Ireland. The cathedral is open to the public and is a great place to explore the history and culture of the area.
3. National Stud and Japanese Gardens: The National Stud and Japanese Gardens are located in the town of Kildare. The National Stud is a world-famous horse breeding facility and is home to some of the finest racehorses in the world. The Japanese Gardens are a stunning collection of gardens and ponds and are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
4. Curragh Racecourse: The Curragh Racecourse is located in the town of Kildare and is one of the most famous racecourses in the world. The racecourse is the home of the Irish Derby and is a great place to experience the excitement of horse racing.
5. Irish National Stud: The Irish National Stud is located in the town of Kildare and is home to some of the finest horses in the world. The stud is open to the public and is a great place to learn about horse breeding and the history of the Irish horse racing industry.
6. Kildare Village: Kildare Village is a charming shopping village located in the town of Kildare. The village is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes and is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
7. Lullymore Heritage Park: Lullymore Heritage Park is located in the town of Lullymore and is a great place to explore the history and culture of Ireland. The park is home to a variety of attractions such as a museum, a playground, and a petting zoo.
8. Donadea Forest Park: Donadea Forest Park is a stunning nature reserve located in the town of Donadea. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and is a great place to explore the outdoors.
9. Kildare Town Heritage Centre: The Kildare Town Heritage Centre is located in the town of Kildare and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. The centre is home to a variety of exhibits and is a great place to explore the history of Kildare.
10. Maynooth Castle: Maynooth Castle is a stunning castle located in the town of Maynooth. The castle is open to the public and is a great place to explore the history and culture of the area.
11. Blessington Lakes: Blessington Lakes is a stunning lake located in the town of Blessington. The lake is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
12. Kilkea Castle: Kilkea Castle is a stunning castle located in the town of Kilkea. The castle is open to the public and is a great place to explore the history and culture of the area.
13. Kildare Farm Foods: Kildare Farm Foods is located in the town of Kildare and is a great place to buy locally-sourced food. The farm is open to the public and is a great place to learn about farming and the history of the area.
14. Straffan Butterfly Farm: The Straffan Butterfly Farm is located in the town of Straffan and is a great place to explore the world of butterflies. The farm is open to the public and is a great place to learn about the life cycle of butterflies.
15. Irish National Heritage Park: The Irish National Heritage Park is located in the town of Wexford and is a great place to explore the history and culture of Ireland. The park is home to a variety of attractions and is a great place to explore the outdoors.
16. Dunlavin Green: Dunlavin Green is a charming village located in the town of Dunlavin. The village is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes and is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
17. Kildare Town Railway Museum: The Kildare Town Railway Museum is located in the town of Kildare and is a great place to learn about the history of Irish railways. The museum is open to the public and is a great place to explore the history of Irish railways.
18. Russborough House: Russborough House is a stunning Palladian mansion located in the town of Blessington. The house is open to the public and is a great place to explore the history and culture of the area.
19. Ballymore Eustace: Ballymore Eustace is a charming village located in the town of Ballymore Eustace. The village is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes and is a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
20. Athy Heritage Centre: The Athy Heritage Centre is located in the town of Athy and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. The centre is home to a variety of exhibits and is a great place to explore the history of Athy.