Luxury Tour Details:
Depart Dublin at 08.00 from christchurch Cathedral, Dublin 8 D08 TF98
Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens – Enjoy a guided welcome and introduction to the stunning grounds, followed by a tour of the exquisite Japanese gardens.
♦ The Irish National Stud – Discover champion stallions and world-class breeding practices.
♦ Japanese Gardens – Renowned for their breathtaking beauty and rich symbolism.
♦ St Fiachra’s Garden – A tranquil tribute to Ireland’s monastic heritage.
Meditation Garden – A peaceful oasis designed for reflection and tranquility.
National Stud Visitors Centre & Shop – Explore the informative center and unique gift shop.
Kildare Town – Experience charming shops and local culture.
Newbridge Town – Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful sights.
Lunch at Newbridge Silverware Restaurant – Savor a delicious meal in a beautiful setting.
Visit Newbridge Silver Museum – Immerse yourself in the history of silver craftsmanship.
Return to Dublin @ 17.00 – Conclude your day with a comfortable return journey.
Grey Abbey is the ruins of a 13th-century Franciscan friary, founded around 1260.
It gets its name from the grey habits worn by the Franciscan friars.
The abbey later fell into ruin but remains an important medieval heritage site in Kildare Town.
Today, it sits within a historic burial ground, offering a quiet glimpse into Kildare’s past.
St Brigid’s Cathedral & Round Tower (Kildare Town)
St Brigid’s Cathedral stands on one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites, founded by St Brigid in the 5th century.
The present cathedral dates largely to the 12th–13th centuries, with later restorations.
Beside it stands the Round Tower of Kildare, one of the tallest in Ireland at over 30 metres.
Round towers were used as bell towers, landmarks, and places of refuge during Viking raids.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Weather and Clothing in Ireland.
Dress in layers: Ireland’s weather is generally pleasant but can change throughout the day. Light layers allow you to add or remove clothing comfortably as needed.
Comfortable footwear is key: Choose well-worn, comfortable shoes, especially for walking on cobblestones, paths, and countryside trails.
Bring a light rain jacket: A compact, waterproof jacket is always a smart idea — just in case of a passing shower.
Be ready for all seasons in one day: Sunshine, clouds, and a light breeze can all make an appearance, sometimes within the same hour. The famous saying by Bing Crosby.
Most important of all: Bring a big smile and a sense of adventure — Ireland has a wonderful way of making visitors feel right at home, whatever the weather ☘️
A famous saying from our Tour Planner!!! Ireland doesn't have bad weather, just bad clothing 😂😂😂😂😂 Gregory Morris CT Planner.
Wisdom & Life:
May today be better than yesterday, but not as good as tomorrow. — an optimistic proverb about progress.
You’ll never plough a field by turning it over in your mind. — thinking isn’t action.
You never miss the water till the well runs dry. — appreciate what you have.
A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything. — classic Irish advice.
Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall. — encouragement to persevere.
Irish Language Sayings (Seanfhocail)
Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féin. — There’s no hearth like your own hearth (home is best).
Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh siad. — Praise the youth, and they flourish.
Is fearr Gaeilge briste ná Béarla clíste. — Broken Irish is better than clever English. (effort is value
Is fearr an tsláinte ná na táinte. — Health is better than wealth.
An old dog for a hard road. — Experience matters.
🍀 Well-Known Irish Blessings:
These aren’t traditional proverbs but are often quoted as “Irish blessings”
May the road rise up to meet you… — a hopeful blessing for good fortune and safe travels.
🧠 Witty & Humorous Irish Sayings:
Here are some lighter, characteristically Irish quips you might hear:
What butter and whiskey can’t cure is incurable.
Laughter and sleep, each in sufficient quantity, are the best remedies in the world.
When there’s love, it’s not hard to cut the potato in half. — sharing in tough times.
Hope is what dies last. (similar to resilience)
📚 Literary Irish Quotes:
Famous Irish writers have also gifted us memorable lines (often quoted as part of Irish culture)
There are no strangers here; only friends you haven’t yet met. — William Butler Yeats.
Life is too short to read a bad book. — James Joyce (often cited)
(up to 9 hours)
Newbridge Silverware: In Silver Restaurant. Rating*****
from Claddagh Tours, specially crafted by Newbridge Silverware, presented to each guest. 👍
17.00 Arrival in Dublin 8
Mary Wallace, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
21st September 2025
Kildare & Irish National Stud Tour
We had a fantastic day on the Kildare Ancient East & National Stud Tour. The Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens were brilliant, and seeing the Curragh plains was a real treat. Gregory, our driver/ Tour Guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole day flow with ease. We finished up at Newbridge Silverware & Museum for a beautiful presented lunch before heading back to Dublin. — the perfect way to end the tour. Thank you. Star Rating*****
Timothy Schneeberger - Englewood NJ - USA
Ireland's Ancient East & KIldare
31st September 2025
Our Five-Star Experience️️️️️ with Claddagh Tours began with a wonderful journey through the Ancient East of Ireland in Kildare, rich in history, heritage, and local charm. A truly tranquil visit to the Japanese Gardens at the Irish National Stud – beautifully maintained and unforgettable. An insightful time at the Irish National Stud, offering a fascinating look into Ireland’s thoroughbred legacy. A relaxed and scenic drive through Kildare town and its historic surroundings, visiting the Grey Abbey and Saint Brigid's Cathedral of which brings the story of region to life. An excellent finale at Newbridge Silverware, with an impressive showcase of craftsmanship and a beautifully curated museum. A superb three-course lunch, wonderfully presented in the Silver Restaurant and deserving a five-star rating in its own right.
A perfectly balanced day of culture, history, heritage and folklore, living the soul of Ireland.
And I almost forgot, the gardens, and great food — highly recommended.
Thank you Claddagh.
At Claddagh Tours, we believe travel should be more than sightseeing; it should be a connection with people, places, and traditions. Our mission is to create exceptional journeys across Ireland, blending history, culture, sport and natural beauty with the warmth of genuine Irish hospitality. You arrive as a guest, and leave as a friend. Claddagh Tours is an award leading tour designer and travel company that showcases all counties across Ireland, including Northern Ireland.
Claddagh Tours Provide high-end travel and tourism experiences all across the Emerald Isle. We can't wait to welcome you to our shores and showcase our beautiful country, Ireland await's.
