Naas Rowing Club Summer Regattas

A summer afternoon on the riverbank watching crews drive hard through the water is one of those pleasures that needs no explanation. Naas Rowing Club brings that to Co. Kildare each summer with a series of regattas on the River Liffey - competitive racing that draws clubs from across Leinster, and a crowd of spectators who need nothing more than a good vantage point and a bit of patience for the racing schedule. It suits families, anyone with a passing interest in water sport, or simply people who want to spend a few hours outdoors doing something a little different.

What to expect

The action centres on the stretch of the River Liffey that the club uses for its course. Competing crews - scullers and sweep rowers of various age groups and grades - line up for sprint races, with boats going off in heats across the afternoon. The first race is typically on the water at 1:00pm. Between races there is plenty to watch: the warm-up paddling, the marshalling, the club’s boathouse and equipment giving a sense of how much goes into competitive rowing at this level. The club provides refreshments and has seating areas along the bank, so there is no need to stand for the full afternoon. Entry as a spectator is free.

Getting there

Naas is the county town of Kildare, sitting about 30km south-west of Dublin city centre. By car, take the M7 motorway and exit at Junction 9 for Naas town centre; the drive from Dublin takes around 30 minutes outside peak hours. Bus Eireann and Dublin Coach both run regular services from Dublin to Naas, with the journey taking roughly 45 to 60 minutes depending on traffic. The rowing club is on the River Liffey, which runs through the western edge of the town. Parking is available at the club on the day.

While you’re in Naas

Naas is a lively Kildare town with a good mix of cafes and restaurants around the main square, and the area around the river is pleasant for a walk before or after the racing. There is more to see in Naas and across Co. Kildare.

Good to know

• Date: Sunday 12 July 2026, first race at 1:00pm
• Price: Free admission for spectators
• Organiser: Naas Rowing Club
• Check dates and schedule: naasrowingclub.ie - the club runs multiple regattas through the summer and schedules can shift, so confirm before travelling
• Family-friendly; the riverbank setting is open and easy to move around