Overview
The Irish National Stud in Tully, County Kildare, is a working thoroughbred farm that lets the public in. It is state-owned and still breeds racehorses. A public guided stud tour is included in general admission when available, taking in the foaling paddocks, the stallion boxes and the historic Sun Chariot Yard. Two gardens share the grounds, and if you only have time for one, make it the Japanese Gardens, laid out between 1906 and 1910. Allow half a day. It works either as a standalone trip or as a stop on a wider loop of the Curragh.
History
Colonel William Hall-Walker purchased the Tully estate in 1900. Between 1906 and 1910, he brought Japanese craftsman Tassa Eida and his son Minoru to Ireland to design a series of gardens symbolising the “Life of Man”. The estate was transferred to the Irish nation in 1915, but the gardens declined without upkeep. The Irish National Stud Company was incorporated on 11 April 1946 under the National Stud Act, 1945. A horticultural supervisor restored the Japanese Gardens the following year, and the farm became a centre of Ireland’s modern thoroughbred breeding programme. Queen Elizabeth II visited in May 2011, unveiling a commemorative statue and meeting trainers and jockeys.
What to See & Do
Guided Stud Tours
Tours depart from the visitor centre and follow a set route past the foaling unit, mare and foal paddocks, stallion quarters, and the historic Sun Chariot Yard. The open grassland and historic yard architecture provide strong photo opportunities. Check the operator’s booking calendar to see when tours run.
Irish Racehorse Experience
Housed in a dedicated centre, this interactive exhibit covers the history of Irish racing and lets visitors manage a virtual stable. The experience culminates in a simulated four-horse race projected onto a screen model of Leopardstown. Check what your chosen ticket covers, and the operator’s current rules for children, before you book.
Horse Museum
The museum displays racing memorabilia, historical artefacts, and the skeleton of Arkle, one of Ireland’s most celebrated steeplechasers. A glass case holds the horoscope book that once guided the Colonel’s breeding decisions, offering a glimpse into the superstitions that surrounded early 20th-century horse racing.
Japanese Gardens
The Japanese Gardens are self-guided, and their layout follows a symbolic “Life of Man” progression. The path begins at the “Cave of Birth” beneath a cherry tree, moves through the “Tunnel of Ignorance”, climbs the “Hill of Learning”, and crosses the “Bridge of Life” over a quiet stream. Features include a traditional tea house, stone lanterns and stepping stones representing a pilgrim’s journey. Cherry blossoms and azaleas peak in spring, drawing visitors for photography and quiet walks.
The Japanese Gardens have steps and uneven sections. Check the accessibility information for an alternative route.
St Fiachra’s Garden
Opened in 1999 for the millennium, St Fiachra’s Garden was designed by landscape architect Professor Martin Hallinan. The layout reflects the Irish countryside, featuring native trees, monastic-style beehive cells, and a series of waterfalls that feed a tranquil pond. The garden, which is self-guided, provides a contrast to the formal Japanese design, focusing on natural stone, flowing water, and native planting.
Living Legends
The Living Legends paddock houses retired racing champions. Visitors can observe the horses from designated viewing areas and learn about their racing careers through on-site signage. Which horses are in residence changes over time.
Walking Trails & Wildlife
The grounds feature marked paths suitable for casual walking or longer exploration. The Tully Walk follows the main stud route past the foaling unit and Sun Chariot Yard. The Oak Walk enters St Fiachra’s Garden through a stone chamber and winds past waterfalls, native woodland, and beehive cells. Resident ducks frequent the lakeside areas. Feeding wildlife is discouraged to protect their natural diet, but observing them is a regular activity for families.
Foaling Season
Mares foal in the first half of the year. Most births happen overnight and are not visible to the public, but morning walks may offer a chance to see newborns standing and moving in their paddocks. Ask the Stud what is on view during your visit.
Events & Seasonal Highlights
The Stud hosts family events and seasonal activities at various times. A separately ticketed event on the grounds may run while general admission is closed, so check what your chosen ticket covers. See the operator’s visitor guide for the current programme and booking details.
Practical Information
- Opening: General visits are seasonal, with a winter closing. Check the operator’s visitor guide and book ahead for your preferred date.
- Admission and booking: Check current prices and book general admission and Irish Racehorse Experience tickets through the official website.
- Website: https://irishnationalstud.ie
- Phone: +353 (0) 45 521 617
- Accessibility: See the Stud’s accessibility information, including access to St Fiachra’s Garden.
- Getting there: Check current directions and transport options on the Stud’s website.
- Group & School visits: Contact the Stud directly to ask about private tours and education visits.
Nearby attractions
The Stud sits within easy reach of other County Kildare landmarks. A short drive takes you to Carton House, a historic estate and golf resort, or Donadea Forest Park for woodland walks. The Curragh Military Museum displays Ireland’s military history, while Ballymore Eustace offers a quiet village stop with heritage buildings and riverside paths.
Give the Japanese Gardens the unhurried hour they deserve, keeping in mind the steps if you’re pushing a buggy or wheelchair.