Things to Do in Maynooth - Local Attractions

Punchestown Racecourse

Punchestown Racecourse is the home of Irish National Hunt Racing for more than 150 years is very different to any other racecourse for the simple fact that it is the only racecourse in Ireland to continue to host cross-country racing, the very founder of modern era steeplechasing. Punchestown is a 35-minute drive from the Glenroyal Hotel.

The Royal Canal Greenway

To walk or cycle from Leixlip to Maynooth along the Royal Canal Greenway will take about two hours in total. But what a two hours it’ll be. The Royal Canal Greenway stretches from Dublin through Kildare, Meath, Longford and Westmeath, and this section of it is perfect for walkers. Great for scenic walks or a cycle before a hearty meal in Shoda Market Café.

Bog of Allen Nature Centre

The Bog of Allen Nature Centre is only a 34 minute drive from the Glenroyal Hotel and makes for both an informative and fun day out. The museum is full of interesting and eye-catching exhibits, explaining the culture significance of the boglands and how bogs are preserved. The staff are very friendly and helpful, making this a great day out for all the family.

Arthur's Way

is a heritage trail across north-east County Kildare that follows in the footsteps of Arthur Guinness. In just 16 km, it links many of the historic sites associated with Ireland’s most famous brewers – the Guinness family. Follow the Royal Canal beside the Glenroyal Hotel, to start the trail in Leixlip at the Arthur Guinness Square.

Maynooth University

Maynooth is the only university town in Ireland, and as a result NUI Maynooth is naturally the focus of the whole town. Thankfully, the campus is beautiful, with gorgeous old stone buildings and lush greenery throughout. The resemblance to the fictional Hogwarts has not gone unnoticed as the university has been referenced as such by many international publications.

Maynooth Castle

Maynooth Castle is a historic ruin of a 13th century castle standing at the entrance of Maynooth University’s South Campus. The admission is free, but if you choose to go on a guided tour (for a small fee) the guides are incredibly knowledgeable and very helpful. The gardens and the gatehouse are also accessible to the public, perfect for a walk after the tour.

Curragh Racecourse

The Curragh Racecourse is one of Ireland's most important Thoroughbred racecourses. It is situated on the Curragh plain in County Kildare, between the towns of Newbridge and Kildare and is a 45 minute drive from the Glenroyal Hotel.

Kildare Village

Kildare Village is a designer outlet shopping village featuring 60% off, year-round reductions on an exclusive selection of over 50 international brands. Retail therapy at it's finest and only a 40 minute drive away from the Glenroyal Hotel.

Donadea Forest Park

Located between Maynooth and neighbouring Kilcock, Donadea forest is a lovely place to wander for a few hours, by yourself or surrounded by family or friends. The forestry is gorgeous at all times of year, but particularly in autumn as the leaves change colour. A firm favourite in the area for locals and visitors alike.

Naas Racecourse

Naas Racecourse is located in the heart of the Thoroughbred County of Kildare. Aside from top class horse racing there are events of all kinds including family fun days, summer barbecue evenings, live music events and ladies days on race days throughout the year. Naas Racecourse is a 30-minute drive from the Glenroyal Hotel.

Golfing

Golfing is a popular activity in and around Maynooth thanks to the great selection of golf courses nearby. Carton House’s O’Meara and The Montgomerie golf courses are a 10-minute drive from Glenroyal Hotel while The K Club is less than 15 minutes from our hotel.

Abbeyfield Farm

Abbeyfield Farm offers a truly magical setting for pony and horse trekking and is only a 15-minute drive from the Glenroyal Hotel. Set on over 240 acres they have a vibrant Equestrian Centre with daily ride-outs available for all standards.