Search icon

Life

10th Jul 2019

Heading to the Dublin Horse Show? Here’s how to make the most of it

Her

Brought to you by Discover Ireland

Super-stylish, always fashionable and wonderfully historic.

Since 1864, The Dublin Horse Show has been one of our most enduring and best-loved festivals.

This year, the premier equestrian event takes place from August 7 to 11  at the RDS, Ballsbridge.

To make the most of it, why not combine a visit to the Horse Show with a break in Dublin?

Sure, it’s the perfect time to see the city in all its glory and enjoy a feast of live entertainment, food, kids’ face-painting and family-friendly pony rides.

So, to make the most out of the mega event, there is…

Spectacular show-jumping

The Dublin Horse Show brings some of the world’s best horses and riders to one spot so be sure to experience ALL the antics. It’s super to see it all in the flesh too compared to our usual on-screen viewing.

The Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup of Ireland — or Nations Cup as we say — is on August 9. Here you’ll see Europe’s leading riders compete for one of the most prestigious equestrian awards, the Aga Khan Trophy. There’s a huge demand for tickets, so be sure to get yours now.

One of the most popular events every year is the Land Rover Puissance jumping competition on August 10.

This is the famous event where you see that red brick wall get higher and higher with only one horse being able to scale the highest in the end. It’ll have you a little on edge but excited all the same. Again, get your tickets soon — you won’t want to miss the nail-biting show.

On the final day (August 11) you can enjoy the Pony Club Games — one of the fastest, most exciting events at the Dublin Horse Show. It’s fun, action-packed and will most definitely provide you with a few giggles too. 

Dundrum Ladies Day and more

On August 8, Dundrum Ladies Day is set to bring incredible style and the most eye-catching outfits to the day. It’s no wonder competition can be fierce — there’s normally a €10,000 shopping spree voucher up for grabs!

There’s always a full programme of fun events happening on the RDS grounds including magic shows, pony rides, face painting and bouncy castles. Plus, there’s The Keelings Kids’ Zone behind the Grand Stand — a family favourite!

There’s sure to keep little ones entertained.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Dublin Horse Show (@dublinhorseshow) on


There’s a massive accompanying trade fair too (with 300 traders in attendance) as well as a dizzying array of food options to tempt literally everyone.

Embrace this little part of Dublin

With the show itself held in Ballsbridge (both leafy and beautiful) it’s worth your while popping into Paddy Cullens pub for a glorious pint as well as the Horse Show House Pub. It serves delicious pub grub all day while Madigan Square Beer Garden caters for large group BBQs and garden parties.

If you’re looking for someplace gorgeous yet affordable to stay, check out the Clayton Hotel on Burlington Road. It’s ideally situated near the RDS and is incredibly close to the likes of the 3Arena, University College Dublin, Bord Gais Energy Theatre and The Convention Centre Dublin.

During your stay, have a tour of the Aviva Stadium — ideal for sports fanatics who want a peek inside, where some of the biggest sporting events take place.

Nearby is buzzing Ranelagh — a superb place for food and drinks options. Head to Pinnochio Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar for authentic Italian food and the ideal wine pairing for your meal. The stone walls and cosy interiors make it a great spot for evening dinner.

If you find yourself in Dublin on a sunny day, hop on the DART (in Ballsbridge) and you can find yourself in gorgeous Dalkey in 25 minutes. You’ll be moseying about with plenty of other walkers and their dogs. After you’ve explored the gorgeous spot, grab a refreshing drink and meal at The Queens pub where you can sit outside and people watch.

Now, to The Horse Show!

For more information please visit dublinhorseshow.com

Brought to you by Discover Ireland

A festival makes your break, so click on the image below to discover even more things to do that’ll make your break in Ireland something really special. Go to our festival hub here on Her to see more of what’s happening too!