Explore Athy 

Explore Athy – Step into Athy’s vibrant tapestry of heritage; discover hidden stories, local gems, and cultural treasures waiting around every corner. 

Trace the town evolution through ancient, medieval and post 16th-century eras, explore the impact of the Great War, the industrial influence of the canal, and learn about the famed Gordon Bennett race. 

Into Kildare

The official tourism site for County Kildare. Discover top attractions, great food, unique shops, scenic landscapes, and famous horse racing heritage. Plan your perfect day out or weekend stay in this diverse and welcoming region.

Discover Ireland – Athy

Enjoy Athy’s stunning setting at the meeting of the River Barrow and the Grand Canal. Find recommendations for places to stay, local attractions, and outdoor activities like golf and canal-side walks.

Irelands Ancient East

Travel through time in Ireland’s Ancient East—where history meets storytelling. Visit monastic ruins, stroll through medieval towns, explore beautiful gardens, and immerse yourself in centuries of legend and culture.

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Attractions And
Experiences 

When planning your visit to the Shackleton Experience, take time to explore more of Athy and the surrounding region.

County Kildare offers a wide variety of attractions, walks, tours, and heritage stops for every interest. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or just a taste of local life, you’ll find memorable experiences just moments away—brought to life by the warm welcome of the people you meet.

EU Just Transition Scheme

The Midlands of Ireland, supported by the EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland, is a territory dedicated to promoting regenerative tourism, helping local communities affected by the shift to a climate-neutral economy. This area is thriving with sustainable tourism development, thanks to numerous innovative initiatives and tourism projects. Visitors will enjoy the benefits of a diversified regional economy, the preservation of stunning natural habitats and biodiversity, and local communities offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Things To Do And See 

  • BoatTrips.ie – River Barrow Cruises

    Departing from the jetty right beside the Shackleton Experience, enjoy scenic river tours on the River Barrow. Private and group bookings available—perfect for a relaxing glide through Athy’s waterways.

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  • Barrow Blueway Walking Tours

    Discover 46 km of peaceful, off-road walking and cycling trails. Join a guided tour and hear tales of rebels, boatmen, and forgotten legends that once roamed the riverbanks.

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  • Irish National Stud and Gardens

    One of Ireland’s top attractions, featuring stunning Japanese Gardens, the Horse Museum, and a working Thoroughbred Stud Farm. A perfect day out for families, history lovers, and nature seekers alike.

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  • Thoroughbred Country Experiences

    Curated equine experiences across Kildare and Tipperary, from luxurious retreats to hands-on horse farm visits. An immersive way to experience Ireland’s horse racing heritage.

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  • Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre

    Explore this iconic design centre, home to a jewellery and homeware store, a fashion museum featuring global style icons, and a popular restaurant. Tours available.

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  • Burtown House and Gardens

    Just outside Athy, this early Georgian villa features parkland walks, vegetable and flower gardens, and the award-winning Green Barn Restaurant. Overnight stays also available in the Stable Yard.

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Places To Stay
Around Kildare

Athy, a historic town in County Kildare at the Barrow and Grand Canal, offers rich heritageand diverse accommodations for all travelers and budgets.

  • Clanard Court Hotel

    Award winning 4-star luxury country chic and consistently ranked No. 1 on Tripadvisor in the County

  • Aurora House

    This welcoming Bed & Breakfast operated by Teresa and Chris is located just 10 minutes’ walk from the town of Athy with a beautiful countryside location.

  • The Auld Shebeen

    Located within Athy town , the Canalside Bed and Breakfast is part of the Auld Shebeen Gastro Bar & Lounge, with a traditional personality and stylish décor it provides the perfect relaxing surroundings.

  • Kilkea Castle

    One of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles and once the medieval stronghold of the Fitzgerald’s, Earls of Kildare set on 180 acres of gardens and a meandering river Grease, boasts several accommodation options to appeal to all tastes, located 10 minutes from Athy.

  • Burtown House And Gardens

    The Stable Yard House once a series of stables has been impeccably converted, full of family antiques and beautiful views, located in the Courtyard Garden within the grounds of the historic Burtown House. It has an old-world feel with all the luxuries of contemporary living.

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