Horse Week: Spring to life at the Irish National Stud

Across the Irish National Stud and Gardens, foaling season is now in full flow, bringing an unmistakable sense of excitement as mares welcome their 2026 foals, some for the very first time.

Visitors can witness the earliest moments of new life in the Sun Chariot Yard and Foaling Unit, where expert staff provide round‑the‑clock care, and then follow the journey of these young foals as they take their first steps into the world.

In the Kildare Yard, paddocks are alive with the sight of foals learning to run, play and explore under the watchful eyes of their mothers, from confident, experienced broodmares to first‑time mums.

Spring is also a great time to experience the Japanese Gardens, designed by Tassa Eida between 1906 and 1910. Visitors walk the Path of Life through intricate planting, flowing waterways and symbolic landscapes that reflect milestones throughout life. Each turn reveals new textures, scents and perspectives, making spring one of the most enchanting times to explore this historic masterpiece.

Nearby, St. Fiachra’s Garden offers a serene, nature‑rich sanctuary inspired by Ireland’s monastic past. Here, ducks and swans glide across the lake, rabbits dart between the grasses, and nature’s sounds fill the air, creating a peaceful retreat for visitors of all ages.

Families will find endless opportunities for adventure and imagination, from the Buglington Hotel and Fairy Trail to the Fairy Village, playground and picnic areas. For those seeking the thrill of horse racing, the award‑winning Irish Racehorse Experience offers Ireland’s only interactive journey through the life of a racehorse. Visitors can discover how racing began, watch the foaling process, explore a trainer’s yard, purchase and train their own racehorse, learn how horses are kept fit and healthy, and even take the reins in The Big Race on a state‑of‑the‑art racing simulator. It’s an unforgettable experience that blends education, excitement and hands‑on fun.

With the start of spring bursting throughout the Irish National Stud and Gardens, it offers a truly magical day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful walk in nature, the joy of seeing newborn foals up close, or a family adventure filled with discovery, spring is the perfect time to visit.

Springtime is a firm favourite amongst the team at the Irish National Stud and Gardens with Cathal Beale, CEO, saying: “Spring is without doubt my favourite time of year at the Irish National Stud. There’s nothing quite like watching the first foals of the season find their feet, take their first playful steps and bond so closely with their mums. Every morning brings something new — a new arrival, a new personality, a new spark of life in the paddocks — and it reminds all of us why this place is so special. Seeing visitors experience that same sense of wonder is one of the real joys of working here.”

Open seven days a week from 9am, the Irish National Stud and Gardens invites visitors to experience the wonder of spring, the beauty of the gardens and the extraordinary horses who call this iconic Kildare destination home.

For further information and to purchase tickets online, please visit www.irishnationalstud.ie