A few miles south of Dublin is the government sponsored National Stud, the foundation of Ireland’s horse-breeding industry. There are guided tours that give insight to the intricacies of the ‘Sport of Kings’, and a museum devoted to the equine giants of the racetrack and the role horses have played in the history of Ireland. Next door to the stud are the Japanese Gardens, considered to be one of the finest examples of Japanese horticulture in Europe.

Dublin city is the most welcoming place you could hope to find with many sites and sounds in and around the city. Try some of the fabulous Dublin restaurants and take your pick from the selection of great Dublin hotels.