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Killarney Racecourse is widely touted as being Ireland's most scenic racecourse with outstanding views around the picturesque Kerry countryside and mountains.

County Kerry, which is one of Ireland's most popular tourist destinations, also plays host to some of the nation's most loved and unique racecourses, with Killarney and Listowel amongst them.

Killarney Racecourse also offers a spectacular golf course within the rails and surrounding the racetrack, and its proximity to the thriving town that bears the racecourse name ensures it remains a hugely popular destination.

Here's our guide to Killarney racecourse.

WhatKillarney Races, May-October
WhereKillarney Racecourse, Co Kerry
WhenMay-October annually
How to watchbet365 Sports Live Streaming & Racing TV

Key Races at Killarney

Flat

  • Ruby Stakes

With the magnificent Macgillycuddy's Reeks, Lakes of Killarney and Ross Castle providing the backdrop, the view as the horses pass the finishing line can only be described as breathtaking at Killarney. 

The Kerry venue hosts four major meetings per year, with festivals in May, July, August and October comprising 13 racedays, with a mix of Flat and National Hunt action across the board. 

The action at Killarney tends to be of a slightly lower level compared to some Irish tracks, but it is quite often very competitive and the biggest names in Irish racing are often represented here.

Both Flat and National Hunt action takes place at Killarney and the highlight of the racing calendar is perhaps the Listed Ruby Stakes which takes place at the August festival.

Track Layout

On the Flat, it is a left-handed oval of just over nine furlongs. It is a sharp track with the first bend after the winning post being particularly tight. In a quirk, all races here on the Flat take place beyond a bare mile.

Over jumps, the nine-furlong undulating track is quite sharp. There are six fences to a circuit of the chase course, with three in the dog-legged home straight of under three furlongs. All the bends are cambered and there are five hurdles per circuit, with a relatively short run-in of a furlong. 

Conditions at Killarney are changeable and water tends to get into the track quite quickly, ensuring conditions tend to vary from slow to fast, with little in between.

Visiting Killarney 

With the magnificent Macgillycuddy's Reeks, Lakes of Killarney and Ross Castle providing the backdrop, Killarney racecourse is comfortable in its position as one of Ireland's most scenic offerings.

The general admission ticket provides excellent facilities and viewing areas. The parade ring and track are both a short walking distance, while there are a variety of places to eat and drink throughout the enclosure.

The BBQ Package includes general admission, race card and a delicious barbecue feast, while the Hospitality Ticket is the premium offering. This offers racegoers exclusive access to the Panoramic Restaurant where you can enjoy the spectacular views of both the thrilling action on the track and winners enclosure in the Parade Ring. 

There is also a private balcony/viewing area and a reserved table for the day, plus a delicious 3 Course Meal with post-racing entertainment in the Jim Culloty Bar.

There is no strict dress code policy, yet the racecourse do encourage a smart/casual approach, especially in the hospitality suites. Best Dressed/ 'Ladies Day' Competitions are held in July and August, in which racegoers are actively encouraged to get involved and dress smart, with hats and Fascinators encouraged!

To see the action unfold, The Maurice O'Donoghue stand boasts a commanding view positioned directly on the finishing line and gives the best vantage point on the track.

Ross Golf Course is a nine-hole parkland course designed and built inside and around Killarney Racecourse, with magnificent views of Killarney National Park and the surrounding landscape. 

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