Punchestown Racecourse - Summer Jump Racing

Punchestown is known as the home of Irish jump racing, and its summer meetings offer a chance to see steeplechase and hurdle racing in a setting that feels far more relaxed than the famous April festival. This is proper National Hunt action - horses clearing real fences at speed on one of the most respected jump courses in Ireland - without the five-day crowds or the ticket prices that go with the spring showpiece. A good afternoon out for anyone who enjoys racing, and an easy introduction if you have never been to a jump meeting before.

What to expect

The course runs steeplechase and hurdle races across the summer season, with meetings scattered through June to September. On a typical race day, several races are scheduled from around 2:30pm, giving you a full afternoon on site. Punchestown is laid out so you can see the whole course from the rails and grandstand, with the landscape of Co. Kildare spread behind the fences. The parade ring is central and busy, giving you a close look at the horses before each race.

Facilities include bars, food outlets, and a betting area. Bookmakers accept cash, and the course operates largely cashless for food and drink, so having a card is advisable. The atmosphere on a summer fixture is noticeably lower-key than the festival, which makes it an easy day for families or anyone going for the first time. Smart casual is the norm, though there is no strict dress code for general admission.

General admission tickets are priced at €8 to €20, which is among the better-value race-day experiences in the country for the standard of racing on offer.

Getting there

Naas is about 30km south-west of Dublin, with the racecourse a few kilometres outside the town towards Maynooth along the R410. Coming from Dublin, the M7 motorway is the quickest route - exit at Junction 10 for Naas and follow signs for Punchestown. There is ample car parking on race days.

Bus Eireann services run from Dublin to Naas town, and race-day shuttle buses operate from Naas to the course, typically picking up near Poplar Square. Check local operators in advance as times vary by fixture. Driving is the most straightforward option from outside Dublin.

While you’re in Naas

Naas is a well-equipped market town with good cafes, pubs, and restaurants along the main street - worth arriving early and having lunch before heading to the course, or staying on in town afterwards. There is more to see in Naas and across Co. Kildare.

Good to know

• Date: Wednesday 15 July 2026
• First race: 2:30pm
• Admission: €8 - €20 (general admission)
• Booking / details: punchestown.com
• Largely cashless for food and drink on course - bring a card; bookmakers still accept cash
• Parking available on site on race days
• Arrive early to avoid congestion leaving the car park after the final race