At the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, in pocket of lush green landscapes you’ll find something very special happens
At the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, in pocket of lush green landscapes you’ll find something very special happens at the Irish National Stud from February until June. You know those graceful racehorses whose thundering hooves have pound across these plains for centuries. This is where life begins for many, in February at the Irish National Stud. In County Kildare, where the sport of kings is celebrated at every turn. Yet another reason to visit Ireland in the springtime is foaling season. And we’d like you to enjoy Tourism Ireland’s latest video that showcases these perky youngsters as they find their feet. Fast Facts: Over 250 foals are born every year at the Stud between February and June. At the stud, look out for signs related to its founder: Colonel William Hall Walker. The Colonel meticulously recorded a foal's time of birth, and drew up the birth charts himself. If he didn't like the stars, regardless of bloodline, the foal would be sold immediately. Next door, do visit the Japanese Gardens. The Colonel brought master horticulturist Tassa Eida and family from Japan to design the gardens, and through trees, plants, flowers, lawns, rocks and water, the gardens symbolise the Life of Man. Nearby, look out for racing meets at The Curragh, Naas and Punchestown – all in County Kildare A visit to the Curragh Military Museum focuses on the area’s military history. Still in Kildare, a trip with Bargetrip.ie in Sallins can give you the true immersive experience on the waterway itself, along with tales of the fast ‘fly boat’ services that operated between 1834 and 1852, when vessels were towed by horses before the railway eventually took over. For more information, visit Ireland.com.