Join our senior management for an experience of the entire farm. Includes a behind the scenes stud and gardens guided experience, the Irish Racehorse Experience and food offering.
David Wardell has worked within the thoroughbred industry for a number of years so can share interesting insights and unique stories of his experiences. You will travel through the entire farm and to areas not usually open to the public via the Irish National Stud shuttle bus. During this time, you will understand how these magnificent animals are managed from birth until retirement. You will also have an opportunity to feed the horses carrots and get up close to an elite, famous racehorse. Onward to the rolling green paddocks, where there is a golden opportunity to learn the unique rules of breeding thoroughbred horses and how the process occurs. Depending on the time of year you will have an opportunity to view a newborn foal in the foaling unit, view a mating in the stud’s covering shed and see how the farm operates on a day-to-day basis.
The tour begins by introducing guests to the stud’s founder, Colonel William Hall Walker. Learn the part he played in shaping the grounds in the early 1900s. Fascinating insights are given into the unique ways he bred successful thoroughbred horses by relying in part upon the constellations. You will be given access to the private stud boardroom to view the ‘Gift to the State’ book, over 100 years old this book contains details of the farm and its inhabitants and was gifted by our founder to the Crown. You will then enjoy locally sourced food created by our Ballymaloe trained head chef, Natalie Collins.
As you travel through the grounds, you will be introduced to our Head Gardener Thomas Moore. Learn how Thomas and his team manage the grounds throughout the seasons. Follow Thomas throughout the grounds and discover the history of the over 100 years old Japanese Gardens and how the gardens were built by Japanese gardener, Tassa Eida. A must for the gardening enthusiast, Thomas provides a rare opportunity to explore the gardens of the Irish National Stud.
We would love to welcome you to the Thoroughbred Country family. You will be updated on any new and upcoming experiences, itineraries, major Racing Festivals and Events
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