The Curragh Racecourse
Newbridge, Ireland
The Curragh Racecourse in Newbridge is Ireland's premier flat-racing venue, dating to 1727. The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites offer world-class views of the historic Irish Derby.
About The Curragh Racecourse
The Curragh Racecourse Events 2026
The Curragh Racecourse is Ireland’s premier thoroughbred flat-racing venue, situated on the historic Curragh Plains in Newbridge. First recorded as a racing site in 1727, the venue has been preserved for horse racing and training since the late 1860s. Following a 65 million Euro redevelopment completed in 2019, the site features a world-class grandstand covering 10,500 square metres across four levels. While the grandstand accommodates 6,000 people, the overall site has a total crowd capacity of 30,000. For those seeking the most refined race-day experience, The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites provide exclusive vantage points overlooking the right-handed, horseshoe galloping track and its testing uphill finish.
Events at The Curragh Racecourse
As the home of Irish flat racing, the venue hosts 23 race days annually from late March to October. It is the only course in the country to stage all five Irish Classics, including the Abu Dhabi Irish Guineas Festival, the Darley Irish Oaks, and the Irish Field St Leger. The most iconic fixture is the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, a historic event that originated in 1866 and remains the oldest flat-racing Classic in Ireland. The atmosphere during the Irish Champions Festival is equally unrivalled, particularly on Royal Bahrain Irish Champion Stakes Day, where world-class sport meets high-end social hospitality.
Beyond the track, the venue serves as a comprehensive equestrian hub with a stable yard containing 135 stables and famous training grounds such as the Old Vic woodchip gallop. Visitors can engage with the heritage of the site through guided behind-the-scenes tours that offer access to the jockeys' changing rooms, the weigh room, and the stewards room. These tours culminate on a premium balcony, offering panoramic views of the plains that have been preserved for racing and training since the late 1860s.
Corporate Hospitality at The Curragh Racecourse
The Curragh Racecourse Corporate Boxes and suites offer a sophisticated environment for professional networking and entertainment. Exclusive private boxes on the second floor cater to groups of 10 to 16 guests, while luxurious private suites on the third floor, such as the Galileo Suite, can host gatherings of up to 60 people. These spaces provide uninterrupted track views and a variety of dining options, ranging from gourmet finger buffets to formal three-course meals. For larger groups, the Winning Line Lounge on the top floor accommodates 120 seated guests and features a private bar and dedicated betting facilities.
Fine dining is a hallmark of the venue, particularly in the St. Leger Restaurant, which offers a three-course à la carte menu overlooking the parade ring and the finish line. Guests can also enjoy the Goffs Champagne Bar on the first floor, established in partnership with Moët & Chandon. Whether utilising The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites for a major Classic or hosting a private event in the Lilywhites Lounge, the venue provides a world-class backdrop that combines sporting history with modern luxury.
Getting There
Accessibility at The Curragh Racecourse
The Curragh Racecourse welcomes all visitors with a range of accessibility facilities. Use the guide below to plan your visit.
Accessibility Notes
Accessible parking and shuttle services provided
Venue Info
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Enquire NowThe Curragh Racecourse FAQs
The Curragh Racecourse is situated on the historic Curragh Plains in Newbridge, County Kildare. Located just off the M7 motorway, this world-class thoroughbred flat-racing venue is approximately 50 kilometres from Dublin, making it easily accessible for guests using The Curragh Racecourse Course Map for navigation.
The dress code for The Curragh Racecourse typically requires smart dress in all hospitality areas. Gentlemen often wear a collared shirt and jacket, while ladies frequently opt for hats or fascinators on major race days. Guests booking The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites should adhere to elegant race day attire.
Following its €65 million redevelopment in 2019, The Curragh Racecourse has a total crowd capacity of 30,000 spectators. The world-class grandstand alone covers 10,500 square metres across four levels and accommodates 6,000 people, featuring luxury spaces including The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites and curated social areas.
Travel to the venue is convenient via the M7, with ample on-site parking for visitors. Irish Rail provides frequent services to Newbridge or Kildare stations, with a shuttle bus often operating on race days. Detailed travel routes are typically outlined on The Curragh Racecourse Course Map.
Completed for the 2019 season, the new grandstand at The Curragh Racecourse is a world-class facility featuring a high-comfort top floor balcony. This redevelopment introduced extensive amenities including The Curragh Racecourse Corporate Boxes, refined dining rooms, and high-specification Betting Facilities for an unrivalled spectator experience.
The venue provides a selection of The Curragh Racecourse Dining Packages and exclusive hospitality options tailored for race days. Guests can choose from The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites for elevated views or The Curragh Racecourse Private Dining units that offer a more intimate setting for groups and thoroughbred racing enthusiasts.
Accessible car parking is available on-site at The Curragh Racecourse for every meeting. Guests displaying a blue badge will be assisted by race day staff upon arrival to locate designated spaces near the entrances. The grandstand facilities also offer lift access to The Curragh Racecourse premium Suites.
Corporate events can be arranged by booking The Curragh Racecourse Corporate Boxes or requesting The Curragh Racecourse Group Bookings for larger parties. These premium spaces provide a professional environment for networking, complete with curated menus and direct views of Ireland’s Five Classics and the historic finish line.