Press release
Irish racing champion Ruby Walsh joins Fáilte Ireland at Thoroughbred Destination Event
Over 100 tourism providers gather for Thoroughbred Destination Forum at The K Club.
February 2025
2 min read
Thoroughbred Country Destination and Experience Development Plan
A programme focused on developing the visitor experience that makes the extraordinary thoroughbred and equine tradition, the people, their crafts and the breeding heritage synonymous with Kildare and Tipperary.
Highlighted projects
See the projects supporting delivery of the Thoroughbred Country Destination and Experience Development Plan through improved visitor access, experience development and industry mentorship.
Growing Sales through Destination Development Programme
2-year industry capability building programme to support industry to leverage and drive revenue using this USP.
Horse Country New Experience Development Programme
Creating access to stud farms, training operations and equine experiences in Kildare and Tipperary through immersive, behind-the-scenes visitor experiences.
Development of Commercial Sales Portal for new saleable experiences
Creation of a portal to sell and promote Horse Country Experiences nationally and internationally.
Featured news
Stay up to date with tourism news and events connected to the Thoroughbred Country Destination and Experience Development Plan.
EventBusiness overheads cost management clinics
Confidential one-hour clinic with an expert to cut business overheads and take control of costs now.
16 April 2026 - 31 December 2026OnlineFree
CourseEnergy cost management one‑to‑one clinic
A free one-to-one clinic helping tourism businesses manage energy costs with expert advice.
16 April 2026 - 31 December 2026OnlineFree
Press release€1.5 million Zipit Donadea Forest Adventure Park opens in Co. Kildare
New adventure park brings forest-based outdoor experiences to Co. Kildare.
July 20263 min read
ResourcesEU Just Transition Tourism Learning Network programme prospectus
Fully funded tourism learning programme for businesses and individuals in Ireland's midlands region.
July 202610 min read
Get involved
Get involved in Find Yourself on a Short Break
Use Fáilte Ireland’s Find Yourself on a Short Break campaign tools and materials to position your business and attract more domestic short-break visitors
Use the Ireland’s Ancient East brand
Use approved Ireland’s Ancient East assets and guidelines to align your business with a clear, recognisable regional brand.
Your local representatives
Fiona Moore
Officer – Kildare
Sheila Dooley Walsh
Officer – Tipperary South
Mary Allen
Support
Resources
Access the Thoroughbred Country Destination and Experience Development Plan and related resources.
ResourcesThoroughbred Country Destination Experience Plan
Access the five-year plan for thoroughbred visitor experiences in Kildare and Tipperary.
January 2021
ToolkitHorse Country storytelling toolkit
Use the toolkit to connect visitors with Horse Country stories in Kildare and Tipperary.
January 2025
ToolkitThoroughbred Experience Finder
Use this seasonal guide to connect visitors with Thoroughbred Country experiences.
July 2026
ToolkitThoroughbred Country Sample itinerary
Use a three-day sample itinerary for Thoroughbred Country and Ireland's Ancient East.
July 2025
Partners working with local community and tourism businesses
Supporting your business in Ireland’s Ancient East
View regional overview
Discover how a five year strategy is shaping sustainable tourism across Ireland’s Ancient East, supporting local destinations, communities and visitor experiences.
View Destination and Experience Development Plans
Access Destination and Experience Development Plans for locations across Ireland’s Ancient East.
Contact the local team
Connect with the local team for guidance and support in your destination.
Access resources
Use brand tools, research and funding updates to support your business.