Punchestown Racecourse in County Kildare is the home of Irish jump racing, with a season running from September to June. Its famous five-day Punchestown Festival in April attracts large crowds to witness top-class racing, featuring 12 Grade 1 events such as the Punchestown Champion Novice Hurdle and the Ladbrokes Punchestown Gold Cup, where the best horses, jockeys, and trainers compete.
Beyond the racing, Punchestown features exciting best dressed competitions with fantastic prizes, along with a vibrant shopping village offering Irish-designed clothing, art, millinery, and jewellery. Visitors can also enjoy live music, DJs, street performers, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
The Punchestown Premiere Weekend in November, features a thrilling Grade 1 double header with the Unibet Morgiana Hurdle and the John Durkan Chase, alongside graded and cross-country races. This weekend appeals to all ages, offering family-friendly entertainment, a Playroom area for children, and diverse dining and hospitality options for adults.
With its blend of top-quality racing, entertainment, and hospitality, Punchestown Racecourse provides an exciting and welcoming experience for racing fans and casual visitors alike.
Check out Punchestown’s upcoming race meetings.
By Road:
Punchestown Eircode (Postcode for Sat Nav, Google Maps etc) is W91 VCX4.
From Dublin Airport - 48km
From Dublin City Centre - 35km
From Cork - 2hrs, 40 mins
From Galway - 2hrs, 50 mins
From Belfast - 2hrs, 20 mins
By Rail:
Irish Rail operate a service from Dublin's Heuston Staion to Sallins Station which is just outside Naas.
By Bus:
During the festival there are numerous bus services put on from Dublin City Centre and Naas town.
Punchestown,
Naas,
Co. Kildare
W91 VCX4