West of Dublin and within easy reach of the capital, land-locked County Kildare offers bucolic landscapes, a wonderful array of outdoor activities and ample historic sites for travellers to discover. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from family-run B&Bs to substantial resorts, catering to a whole host of tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking to escape the city for a weekend or to get your first taste of rural Ireland, many of the best places in County Kildare are housed in heritage buildings surrounded by nature -- perfect for a relaxing retreat.

Home to the Irish National Stud & Gardens, as well as the famed Curragh and Naas Racecourses and showjumping at Punchestown, County Kildare has enormous appeal for horseracing enthusiasts or riders. Take an informative tour of the stud farm and glorious Japanese Gardens, or speak to your hotel about exploring the region's verdant landscapes on horseback.

Lovers of the great outdoors can also try fishing or kayaking on the Rivers Barrow & Liffey, hiking in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, or cycling and picturesque walks. Golfers will delight in a round at Pollardstown Fen, Ireland's oldest golf course, or one of two courses designed by Arnold Palmer, whilst petrol heads can hone their skills by zooming around the track at Mondello Park.

The central Curragh Plains -- renowned for horse-breeding, and rich in myth -- are also dotted with ancient monuments. There are heritage houses aplenty for culture-minded visitors to peer into thoughout County Kildare, including the imposing Palladian Castletown House. Don't miss St Brigid's sacred sites and the Norman tower in Kildare, the round tower at Old Kilcullen, the ruins at Oughterard, or Moone High Cross.This is a landsacpe steeped in Irish legend, and one well worth taking the time to delve into! Dublin's excellent galleries and museums are within easy reach for day trips, making County Kildare a great base for city explorations, too.

Head to the Riverbank Arts Centre for a lively programme of events, duck into cosy pubs for evenings of live music, and shop-til-you-drop at Kildare Village, site of a plethora of luxury boutiques. Whether you're in the region for the horse racing, the historic attractions or the beautiful scenery, our pick of the best places to stay in Kildare promises heritage charm aplenty, ideal for romantic couples or families looking for a fun-filled escape.

The Best Places to Stay in County Kildare

For a pub with rooms

• Rooms at Cunningham's boasts six cosy, white-and-cream guestrooms above a lively pub in the historic town of Kildare. Pick this place for the appealing decor, as well as the excellent location -- perfect for laid-back pub evenings with live music, or days at the Curragh Racecourse. A pint-sized base with a wonderfully friendly vibe.

For a Country Escape

• Cliff at Lyons offers beautifully-appointed rooms, apartments and cottages in a collection of historic buildings clad in climbing roses. Interiors are chic and contemporary, with lots of space in apartments and cottages for families. This is an indulgent retreat, complete with two-Michelin starred restaurant Aimsir, as well as the gorgeous Well in the Garden Spa. An enchanting, romantic choice for travellers keen to hide away in blissful rural surroundings. Also one for foodies!
• Barberstown Castle is a striking 800-year-old property, once home to Eric Clapton and now sensitively restored to offer visitors an opulent retreat. Think four-poster beds and antique furnishings in 55 spacious bedrooms, roaring fires and traditional eateries -- including an on-site pub. History buffs will adore the themed banquets in the stone-walled hall! Just 30 minutes from Dublin, the Castle is well-placed for a country escape.

For a Luxury Resort

• The K Club offers lavish, old-world charm in a spectacular setting. Tucked amidst 550 acres of parkland, this property prides itself on being one of Ireland's finest 5-star hotels. Expect sumptuous suites with four-poster beds and impressive estate views, two Arnold Palmer-designed golf courses, the fantastic Barton Restaurant, and a state-of-the-art spa, as well as stacks of activities. Traditional luxury at its finest!

For an apartment or holiday cottage

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• There are regular international and domestic flights to Dublin International Airport. Alternatively, catch a ferry from Liverpool (or Holyhead) to Dublin. You can then hop aboard a bus, train or taxi to your destination in County Kildare.
• This is a wonderful region to explore by road. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Visit between May and September for warmer weather, averaging at around 17°C. County Kildare is very popular in the summer, so book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in County Carlow.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Ireland.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.