Punchestown Racecourse

As everyone already knows, Ireland is renowned for its unique and friendly atmosphere. No place is this seen to better effect than at Punchestown where even banks and schools are closed without question or complaint to enable everyone to participate in the festivities that take place each year! Peerless Punchestown, as it is often referred to, conjures up something special in the minds of all who have been fortunate enough to attend and sample the unique atmosphere that has made it famous. It has been a huge success story with growth beyond the stone walls and big banks which were used at the first meeting held in 1854 over two days, to what is today one of the premier National Hunt venues in the British Isles. Fences and hurdles were first introduced in the early 1860s but nearly 150 years on, Punchestown still maintains its famous bank course which is seen at its best in late April when it is raced over twice in three days for the Ladies Perpetual Cup and the Quinns of Baltinglass Steeplechase for the La Touche Cup. These races are truly unique to Punchestown and provide a great challenge for horse and rider as well as a wonderful spectacle for all National Hunt enthusiasts.

The racecourse has recently undergone a £20m re-development, which has seen it transformed into a state of the art complex, capable of catering for the huge crowds which are now attracted each year. It boasts top class restaurant facilities in the panoramic, glass-fronted restaurant overlooking the racecourse, the de Robeck restaurant together with a self-service restaurant, seafood bar, and champagne bar as well as numerous snack food outlets throughout the grandstand. These are supported by the various hospitality marquees which are always packed to capacity and have a special atmosphere all of their own.

Punchestown has become a major attraction for overseas visitors, especially from the UK, who come in their thousands to sample the unique Irish atmosphere and ‘craic’ during the National Hunt Festival which takes place in late April or early May each year. This is one of the principal National Hunt events of the season including the BMW Steeplechase, The Heineken Gold Cup, the LAWS Champion Four Year Old Hurdle and the EMO OIL Champion Hurdle. Together with a top class supporting card, this meeting attracts a plethora of the very best equine talent from all corners of the British Isles.