Killarney Racecourse occupies one of the most beautiful settings of any racecourse in Ireland — set within the National Park with Lough Leane and the MacGillycuddy's Reeks as a backdrop. Racing has taken place here since 1936 and the two annual festivals — in July and August — are among the most anticipated events on the Killarney calendar. They are as much social occasion as sporting event, drawing large crowds for the racing, the fashion and the atmosphere.
Killarney Races — at a glance
- Summer Festival Three days in mid-July
- August Festival Three days in late August
- Racing type National Hunt and flat
- Venue Killarney Racecourse, Ross Road
- Distance from town 1.5km from Killarney town centre
The racecourse
Killarney Racecourse is a right-handed flat track of approximately 1 mile 2 furlongs, set in parkland within the National Park. The views from the stands across the lake and towards the mountains make it one of the most photographed racecourses in Ireland. The course hosts both flat and National Hunt racing across its two annual festivals, with a mix of competitive races and a strong social programme around them.
Racing at Killarney with the mountains behind and the lake below — there are more prestigious courses in Ireland, but none more beautiful.
The social scene
The Killarney Races are as much about the social occasion as the horses. Fashion is taken seriously — the Ladies' Day on the second day of each festival is a significant event in the Kerry social calendar. The bars and restaurants around the racecourse and in Killarney town fill to capacity on race days, and the atmosphere across the town during race week is festive and energetic.
Local tip: Book accommodation well in advance for race week — Killarney fills completely. The July festival is slightly quieter than August; both are busy. The racecourse is walkable from the town centre, which saves the parking headache on busy race days.
Practical information
Dates
Two festivals annually — mid-July (3 days) and late August (3 days). Check killarneyraces.com for exact dates each year
Tickets
Available online in advance and at the gate — book ahead for Ladies' Day which sells out early
Getting There
1.5km from Killarney town centre — walkable. Shuttle buses run from the town on race days
Accommodation
Book well in advance — Killarney fills completely during race week. The earlier the better