Visitors Guide to the Festival
The dates for the 2012 Festival have been confirmed as Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th April. .
Description: The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is the highlight of the Irish sporting and social calendar. The special combination of thrilling sporting action, brilliant live entertainment, delicious food and drink, family fun, dazzling glamour or casual comfort is unequalled due to the unique Punchestown Festival atmosphere.
Racing:The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is considered the grande finale of the jump season with top class horses, trainers and jockeys from both sides of the Irish sea converging on the Kildare venue to settle scores and confirm reputations. The quality of racing is unrivalled with a total of 11 Grade 1 contests taking place. Punchestown is proud to be the home of Irish National Hunt Racing and host the famous La Touche Cup, a spectators favourite run over the cross country course. It's a "must see" for any racing fan.
Tuesday: Boylesports.com Champion Chase Day.
The opening day is a feast for racing fans with three Grade 1 races including the feature Boylesports.com Champion Chase. In addition there are two other Grade 1 races, the Evening Herald Champion Novice Hurdle over 2 miles and the Growise Novice Chase over 3 miles. There are 7 races this day. First race 3.40pm last 7.15pm.
Wednesday: thetote.com Punchestown Gold Cup Day
The highlight of the chase calendar with the Grade 1 3mile Gold Cup. This also features the betchronicle Champion Bumper and the Grade A Handicap Chase over 2 miles 4 furlongs. First race 3.40pm last race 7.15pm.
Thursday: The Ladbrokes.com World Series Hurdle Day
This day includes two Grade 1 races including the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle and the Ryanair Novice Chase over 2 miles not to mention the famous La Touche Cross Country race. first race 3.40pm last race 7.15pm.
Friday: Rabobank Champion Hurdle day
The jewel in the crown of the Festival. A favourite with race goers, locals and socialisers alike. This day gets the biggest crowds and has a real party atmosphere. First race 3.40 last race 7.45pm.
Saturday: The AES Champion 4 year old Hurdle Day
Since its introduction as a Festival day the Saturday has become the second biggest day of the entire festival. The focus is on youth with the AES Champion 4 year old hurdle being the future race. The Junior Jockey Fun Club is also available that day with Pony Rides, face painting, bouncy castles and so much more. A favourite with locals and families and always has a great atmosphere. First race 2.30 last race 6.45pm.
Race Start Time - the following times are provisional and based on 2011.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday the first race goes to post at 3.40. Gates open from 12.00. The last race will be around 7.15pm (7.45pm on Friday)
On Saturday, Punchestown Family Day, the first race is at 2.30 and the gates will open at 11.30am. Please arrive early for the complimentary kiddies activities.
Accommodation
Punchestown is located just outside the town of Naas in Co. Kildare. Although just 40 minutes from Dublin we would always recommend that visitors stay locally where possible as it is there that they will enjoy the festivities. Kildare is afterall known as the Thoroughbred County but it could also be called the golfing, shopping, cultural and dining county such is the level of activity and attraction. Our partner hotels do 'festival special' rates and make sure to ask about complimentary transfers to and from the track:
Our partner hotels includes:
Killashee House Hotel - www.killasheehouse.com
Louis Fitzgerald Hotel - www.louisfitzgeraldhotel.com
Avon Ri Lakeshore Resort - www.avonri.com
Tulfarris House Hotel - www.tulfarrishotel.com
Click Here for a full list of accommodation options.
Places to Eat after Racing:
Lemongrass Citywest - Offering the finest Pan Asian cusine prepared in a slick open kitchen setting, this stylish restaurant is ideal for pre and post race dining. Conveniently located just 2 minutes off the M7 on the grounds of Citywest Hotel Lemongrass Citywest is a very popular destination. View the mouth watering dishes and prices www.lemongrasscitywest.ie
Il Lago at the Avon Ri - Located on the shores of the Blessington Lake the Il Lago restaurant is the ideal location for after racing dinner. The food aims to be a simply executed, gourmet experience based on the best of ingredients, sourced in Wicklow and throughout Ireland, and is complemented by a carefully complementary wine list. Two course for €25.95 and three courses for €29.95. To see sample menus click here
Naas - The town of Naas is the hub of apres racing activity. There are a large number of restaurants available in Naas town itself. Many of the pubs will offer pre racing lunches and post racing menus.
Ballymore Eustace - A small village with a big reputation. ballymore is the home of Paddy Murphys pub and the famous Ballymore Inn.
Kilcullen - The village of Kilcullen is a 10 minute drive south of Punchestown. Bardons pub offers excellent food and there are numerous other eateries in this picturesque village.
Two Mile House - Three words - The Brown Bear.
TRAVEL AND TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT (Click here for traffic management plan)
By Bus/Coach
Dublin City to Punchestown - MARATHON TRAVEL
Marathon Travel are the offical bus service partner for the 2012 Punchestown Festival.
They are operating services from Dublin city and also from Tullfarris, Blessington Town, Naas Court and Avon Ri Hotels
Local Route Prices: Single Journey - €6 Return - €10 or book online for 20% Discount - €8 return
Book in advance by phone: 01 4755010 international 0035314755010
Dublin City to Punchestown Prices: Single Journey - €10 – Return - €20 or book online for 20% Discount - €16 return
Book in advance by phone: 01 4755010 international 0035314755010
Andys of Naas will also offer a shuttle service departing from outside The Gem, The Five Lamps Bar and Fairgreen every 20 minutes.
Helicopter: click here for Punchestown Festival Helicopter Service
Punchestown is renowned for its lively bar scene where racegoers can enjoy a pint of the black stuff, a sip of bubbly or something in between at one of the many bars throughout the enclosures where the brilliant atmosphere is always on tap. In the general enclosure there are numerous 'bottle bars' and kiosks throughout. Madigan Group are the official bar operators at the Punchestown Festival. The bars include:
Last Race Last Orders Bar Cleared
Tuesday 7.15pm 9.15pm 9.45pm
Wednesday 7.15pm 9.15pm 9.45pm
Thursday 7.15pm 9.15pm 9.45pm
Friday 7.45pm 9.30pm 10pm
Saturday 6.45pm 8pm 8.30pm
Festival Shopping Village
Indulge in some retail therapy at the extensive Festival Shopping Village with everything from jewellery and clothing to cosmetics and furniture.
For more information Click Here
Dress Codes
There is no dress code at Punchestown. So dress up or dress down, it's up to you. Those attending hospitality pavilions tend to wear smart casual or suits. However, how often do you get a chance to get dressed in your finest!
Cloak Room Facilities:
There is a cloak room facility at Punchestown catering for coats and accessories. We will make every effort to accommodate luggage but must also point out at this time that all items are left at the owners risk. Punchestown will not be held responsible for any damage or theft.
Description: The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is the highlight of the Irish sporting and social calendar. The special combination of thrilling sporting action, brilliant live entertainment, delicious food and drink, family fun, dazzling glamour or casual comfort is unequalled due to the unique Punchestown Festival atmosphere.
Racing:The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is considered the grande finale of the jump season with top class horses, trainers and jockeys from both sides of the Irish sea converging on the Kildare venue to settle scores and confirm reputations. The quality of racing is unrivalled with a total of 11 Grade 1 contests taking place. Punchestown is proud to be the home of Irish National Hunt Racing and host the famous La Touche Cup, a spectators favourite run over the cross country course. It's a "must see" for any racing fan.
Tuesday: Boylesports.com Champion Chase Day.
The opening day is a feast for racing fans with three Grade 1 races including the feature Boylesports.com Champion Chase. In addition there are two other Grade 1 races, the Evening Herald Champion Novice Hurdle over 2 miles and the Growise Novice Chase over 3 miles. There are 7 races this day. First race 3.40pm last 7.15pm.
Wednesday: thetote.com Punchestown Gold Cup Day
The highlight of the chase calendar with the Grade 1 3mile Gold Cup. This also features the betchronicle Champion Bumper and the Grade A Handicap Chase over 2 miles 4 furlongs. First race 3.40pm last race 7.15pm.
Thursday: The Ladbrokes.com World Series Hurdle Day
This day includes two Grade 1 races including the Ladbrokes World Series Hurdle and the Ryanair Novice Chase over 2 miles not to mention the famous La Touche Cross Country race. first race 3.40pm last race 7.15pm.
Friday: Rabobank Champion Hurdle day
The jewel in the crown of the Festival. A favourite with race goers, locals and socialisers alike. This day gets the biggest crowds and has a real party atmosphere. First race 3.40 last race 7.45pm.
Saturday: The AES Champion 4 year old Hurdle Day
Since its introduction as a Festival day the Saturday has become the second biggest day of the entire festival. The focus is on youth with the AES Champion 4 year old hurdle being the future race. The Junior Jockey Fun Club is also available that day with Pony Rides, face painting, bouncy castles and so much more. A favourite with locals and families and always has a great atmosphere. First race 2.30 last race 6.45pm.
Race Start Time - the following times are provisional and based on 2011.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday the first race goes to post at 3.40. Gates open from 12.00. The last race will be around 7.15pm (7.45pm on Friday)
On Saturday, Punchestown Family Day, the first race is at 2.30 and the gates will open at 11.30am. Please arrive early for the complimentary kiddies activities.
Accommodation
Punchestown is located just outside the town of Naas in Co. Kildare. Although just 40 minutes from Dublin we would always recommend that visitors stay locally where possible as it is there that they will enjoy the festivities. Kildare is afterall known as the Thoroughbred County but it could also be called the golfing, shopping, cultural and dining county such is the level of activity and attraction. Our partner hotels do 'festival special' rates and make sure to ask about complimentary transfers to and from the track:
Our partner hotels includes:
Killashee House Hotel - www.killasheehouse.com
Louis Fitzgerald Hotel - www.louisfitzgeraldhotel.com
Avon Ri Lakeshore Resort - www.avonri.com
Tulfarris House Hotel - www.tulfarrishotel.com
Click Here for a full list of accommodation options.
Places to Eat after Racing:
Lemongrass Citywest - Offering the finest Pan Asian cusine prepared in a slick open kitchen setting, this stylish restaurant is ideal for pre and post race dining. Conveniently located just 2 minutes off the M7 on the grounds of Citywest Hotel Lemongrass Citywest is a very popular destination. View the mouth watering dishes and prices www.lemongrasscitywest.ie
Il Lago at the Avon Ri - Located on the shores of the Blessington Lake the Il Lago restaurant is the ideal location for after racing dinner. The food aims to be a simply executed, gourmet experience based on the best of ingredients, sourced in Wicklow and throughout Ireland, and is complemented by a carefully complementary wine list. Two course for €25.95 and three courses for €29.95. To see sample menus click here
Naas - The town of Naas is the hub of apres racing activity. There are a large number of restaurants available in Naas town itself. Many of the pubs will offer pre racing lunches and post racing menus.
Ballymore Eustace - A small village with a big reputation. ballymore is the home of Paddy Murphys pub and the famous Ballymore Inn.
Kilcullen - The village of Kilcullen is a 10 minute drive south of Punchestown. Bardons pub offers excellent food and there are numerous other eateries in this picturesque village.
Two Mile House - Three words - The Brown Bear.
TRAVEL AND TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT (Click here for traffic management plan)
By Bus/Coach
Dublin City to Punchestown - MARATHON TRAVEL
Marathon Travel are the offical bus service partner for the 2012 Punchestown Festival.
They are operating services from Dublin city and also from Tullfarris, Blessington Town, Naas Court and Avon Ri Hotels
Local Route Prices: Single Journey - €6 Return - €10 or book online for 20% Discount - €8 return
Book in advance by phone: 01 4755010 international 0035314755010
Dublin City to Punchestown Prices: Single Journey - €10 – Return - €20 or book online for 20% Discount - €16 return
Book in advance by phone: 01 4755010 international 0035314755010
Andys of Naas will also offer a shuttle service departing from outside The Gem, The Five Lamps Bar and Fairgreen every 20 minutes.
Helicopter: click here for Punchestown Festival Helicopter Service
- Punchestown is located just 2 miles outside the town of Naas in Co. Kildare.
- Marathon Travel will suppy a shuttle service from Dublin City Centre and on three local routes. Please click on the link above. There are regular shuttle services from the main street of Naas to the racecourse.
- The nearest train station is Sallins and a collection service will be in operation for the duration of the festival.
- A coach service is in operation from the central bus station in Dublin Bus Aras.
- Bus Eireann Service from Bus Aras to Naas - http://www.buseireann.ie/pdf/1274694471-126.pdf
- A private bus company called JJ Kavanaghs operates direct service from Dublin Airport.
- Alternatively Dublin airport have a list of coach services on their website.
- A full travel plan will be uploaded to the website in due course. Don't worry - we'll get you here!
Public Catering Facilities:
Dobbins Food Hall
Dobbins are the official catering partner at the Punchestown Festival. The Dobbins Food Hall facility will be serving an array of dishes with top quality ingredients and home made breads. Value is the key aspect of of the Punchestown and Dobbins philosophy and we are sure you will be impressed with the quality and value on offer. There will be additional outdoor courtyard.
The La Touch Cafe bar is located on the ground floor of the main grand stand and is the ideal location for snacks and top quality coffees and pastries. Perfect if you would like to grab something and go to check out the runners in the parade ring!
In addition there will be food and coffee concessions scattered throughout the enclosures so you can avoid queues and get great quality tasty food and drinks at your convenience.
Festival Tickets:
There are numerous packages and tickets available for the festival:
1. General Admission - admission to the general enclosure, parade ring, grandstand, Dobbins Food Hall, Shopping Village and public bars. Upgrades to the reserved enclosure can be purchased on the day for €10pp.
2. Reserved Enclosure : In addition to the access outlined above, the Reserved Enclosure is a feature location that offers trackside lawns at the last fence, the famous Festival bar, additional seating, the Champagne Pavilion and is basically the social hub of the Festival. Book early for Festival Friday to avoid disappointment as there is a capacity.
3. Party Packs: The Party Pack is ideal for social groups, hens, stags, working outtings etc. This all inclusive pack gives you all you need to get your festival visit off to a cracking start. From just €19pp you receive admission, racecard, €5 beverage voucher and €5 betting voucher. Offers a package saving of €14pp.
4. Dining Packages (various prices): All hospitality options include admission as part of the package.
Live Entertainment
The entertainment package at the Festival is second to none and ensures that the famous Punchestown atmosphere greets you from the moment you enter the racecourse. The main stage is the key focus of the entertainment programme with excellent live music, children's entertainment, fashion shows, best dressed finals and expert betting panels. As you make your way around the racecourse and through the many restaurants and bars you will come across live street theatre with jugglers, stilt walkers and mime artists. The après racing music throughout the pavilions, bars and public areas is always a crowd pleaser. You have been warned – bring your dancing shoes!
Junior Jockey Fun Club!
Since the fifth day of the Festival was introduced it has become very much a family day with a big focus on the race goers of tomorrow. As a result there are lots of attractions for children in the junior jockey fun club with pony rides, brilliant bouncy castles, face painting and lots more. All children under 14 are free as are the activities. There is also a fun fair available. Dobbins do childrens Specials in the food hall and at the various outlets.
Best Dressed Ladies Competition
Glamour is an essential (though not compulsary!) element of the Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival and while the racing superstars go head to head on the track, Ireland’s most stylish ladies will be going peep toe to kitten heel when competing for the most prestigious title in the racing and social calendars.
Punchestown is renowned for its lively bar scene where racegoers can enjoy a pint of the black stuff, a sip of bubbly or something in between at one of the many bars throughout the enclosures where the brilliant atmosphere is always on tap. In the general enclosure there are numerous 'bottle bars' and kiosks throughout. Madigan Group are the official bar operators at the Punchestown Festival. The bars include:
- The Madigans Bar is located beside the horse walk and always gathers a good crowd as it is a sun trap, has outside seating and live music after racing. Betting facilities are nearby.
- The Madigans Grandstand Bar is located on the ground floor of the main grandstand.
- The Lawlors Bar is located on level one of the main grandstand and offers ample seating, Tote facilities, grandstand access and screens.
- The Guinness Festival Bar is in the reserved enclosure and has an unbeatable atmosphere. Located metres from the track and within easy access to the parade and betting rings. This bar is directly opposite the Champagne Bar and ideally located for the apres racing music and entertainment.
- The Champagne Bar is all bubbles and splash with delicious seafood platters and excellent champagne on offer. This is the best in luxury and is quite literally trackside. The atmosphere and celebrations over flow from this particular venue and was central to the massive outdoor sing along in 2010.
Last Race Last Orders Bar Cleared
Tuesday 7.15pm 9.15pm 9.45pm
Wednesday 7.15pm 9.15pm 9.45pm
Thursday 7.15pm 9.15pm 9.45pm
Friday 7.45pm 9.30pm 10pm
Saturday 6.45pm 8pm 8.30pm
Festival Shopping Village
Indulge in some retail therapy at the extensive Festival Shopping Village with everything from jewellery and clothing to cosmetics and furniture.
For more information Click Here
Dress Codes
There is no dress code at Punchestown. So dress up or dress down, it's up to you. Those attending hospitality pavilions tend to wear smart casual or suits. However, how often do you get a chance to get dressed in your finest!
Cloak Room Facilities:
There is a cloak room facility at Punchestown catering for coats and accessories. We will make every effort to accommodate luggage but must also point out at this time that all items are left at the owners risk. Punchestown will not be held responsible for any damage or theft.