An initiative of Horse Sport Ireland

Travel Information for getting to Ireland

Go Horse Riding in Ireland

Go Horse Riding in Ireland and discover the beauty of the Irish countryside when you book a trek at an Approved Riding Centre. Experience the thrill of a pony lesson and meet new friends. Relax on a beach and hack as you listen to the breaking sound of the waves. Click here to learn more about riding in Ireland.

Children cantering ponies on Rush beach. Image courtesy of NiRiain Photography www.niriainphotography.com

Children cantering ponies on Rush beach. Image courtesy of NiRiain Photography www.niriainphotography.com

Ireland, and her romantic heritage, is woven intrinsically with the horse; it is all but in our blood.
At Irish Horse Gateway we hope that when you come to Ireland to purchase one of our world-renowned horses, you will also stay to experience our wonderful traditions, hospitality and culture.

Ireland is one of Europe’s most natural environments. Amidst the tapestry of green pastures ideal for raising world-class horses, experience some of Ireland’s fantastic five-star hotels and splendid historic Country Houses, all the while savouring local gourmet delights from award winning chefs.  Enjoy a superb range of pursuits; fly fishing, hill walking in some of the most spectacular natural wildscapes in Europe, teeing off on legendary courses or dancing the night away.

How to get to Ireland

ireland.comGetting to Ireland has never been so easy. Ireland is served with daily direct flights from North America, the UK, Europe and the Middle East as well as frequent ferry connections from France and the UK.

Visit www.ireland.com for more detailed information to help you plan your trip to Ireland.

VISA Information

Ireland Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme

Overseas visitors from a number of countries can visit Ireland under the Short Stay Visa Waiver Programme.

Click Here for more information

Information for countries that require a visa when travelling to Ireland 

Overseas visitors from a number of countries do require a visa when travelling to Ireland.  If you are travelling on business you will require certain documentation to go with your application all of which now must be done on line . Attached is the Information for application for a short stay business visa for Ireland (opens in new window)

Travelling within Ireland

The best way to get around where the horses are located is by car. Visitors wishing to drive in Ireland will require either a full valid national driving licence, or an international driving permit issued abroad. Either of the above can be obtained from your country of origin.  Clients who do not wish to drive may organise a concierge service with car hire companies of their choice.

Places to stay

In a country where we are known for a thousand welcomes, and with hospitality second to none, Ireland has a fantastic range of places to stay to suit every budget and every taste; from friendly family B&Bs to historic and sumptuous five-star castle hotels.

Things to see and do

In between the decisions on which horse or pony to buy, you may want some downtime to enjoy fantastic activities from fishing to golf, tracing your Irish ancestry or a gallop along the beach, or cycling in the great outdoors.

Things to do and enjoy in Ireland

Equestrian Centres
Ireland has wonderful riding centres with excellent facilities for riders of every ability. Enjoy trekking through spectacular unspoiled countryside, forest trails and across stunning beaches.

The Association of Irish Riding Establishments (AIRE) has the responsibility of registration and inspection of horse riding schools in Ireland. AIRE’s role and function is to represent, develop and encourage the observance of the highest standards or quality and service in the management and operation of horse riding establishments, and the provision of services and facilities ancillary or incidental thereto. AIRE promote the study, practice and knowledge of principles and methods relating to amateur equitation matters in general.

Visit www.aire.ie to find your ideal riding centre.

Equestrian Events
Ireland is host to world-renowned equestrian events throughout the year, from the famous Dublin Horse Show to Tattersalls International Horse Trials. So when you’re in Ireland to buy a horse or pony, use the equestrian event calendar on the Irish Horse Gateway to see what’s on and make the most of your trip.

Equestrian Coaches
Come to Ireland and book some time with fully qualified expert coaches. Enjoy the opportunity to train, compete and up-skill your schooling techniques. Private and customised coaching trips can be arranged. See a list of Horse Sport Ireland accredited coaches here.

Weather

Be prepared for four seasons in one day! While it is true that there are no major temperature differences between the seasons, and that rain is probable every second day, the Irish weather is manageable. The secret of coping with the Irish weather lies in taking the correct clothing. You should prepare for moderately mild weather at all times and be able to supplement basic dress with a warm sweater and/or rainproof top. For hiking, waterproof footwear is also recommended!

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