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sport · Monday 21 September 2026 · Various 
Fairyhouse Racecourse - September Racing 2026
At Fairyhouse Racecourse · Ratoath, Co. Meath
At Fairyhouse Racecourse · Ratoath, Co. Meath
Flat racing at Fairyhouse has a particular quality in September. The crowds are a bit easier than the big festival days, the ground is usually decent, and there is a genuine sense of transition - one last push of the flat season before the jumps horses take over the course for winter. This is Ballyhane Stakes Day, and for anyone who enjoys a proper day at the races without the Easter Monday chaos, it is worth the trip out to Ratoath.
Fairyhouse has been staging race meetings since 1848, which makes it one of the oldest courses in the country. It is best known as the home of the Irish Grand National - run here every Easter - but the September flat fixture has a different atmosphere. Competitive flat racing, a card of several races across the afternoon and evening, good views from the stands along the right-handed circuit, and all the usual course facilities including bars and hospitality options. The Ballyhane Stakes is the feature race of the day. Because this meeting falls just two weeks before the first jumps meeting of the season (the Return of the Jumps in October), it carries a neat sense of occasion - a farewell to summer racing on a course that is about to shift gear entirely. Families are welcome; the racecourse has a kids club area on race days.
Fairyhouse Racecourse sits in Ratoath, Co. Meath, roughly 25km north of Dublin city centre. From Dublin, take the M2/N2 northbound and follow signs for Ratoath - the course is on the R155, about 3km off the main road. Journey time from the city is usually 35 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Driving is the most practical option; on-site parking is available at the course. Bus Eireann routes serve Ratoath from Dublin, and the racecourse occasionally runs shuttle buses from the city on busy race days - check fairyhouse.ie before you travel. Taxis from Ratoath village to the course are a short run.
Ratoath is a compact Meath town with a good few places to eat and drink before or after racing. The surrounding countryside is typical north Leinster - rolling farmland, well worth a brief detour if you have time. There is more to see in Ratoath and across Co. Meath.
Heading to Fairyhouse Racecourse in Ratoath? Meath has plenty more to see. Read the Ratoath area guide, find what else is on, and explore the towns and villages nearby.