Top Five Things To Do

The Horse & Jockey Hotel is perfectly situated to discover the South East and explore its environs. We suggest the following Top 5 Things To Do.

1. Heritage & History

The Rock of Cashel

‘The Rock’, remains one of Ireland’s most spectacular landmarks rising about the plain and dominating the surrounding area. Set on an outcrop of limestone in the heart of the Golden Vale it was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster. The site, the most visited in Ireland, provides an interpretative centre, museum, guided tours and superb views over the breath-taking plains of Tipperary. Open all year round. www.cashel.ie.

Derrynaflan Chalice

Derrynaflan is an island of pastureland surrounded by bogland which was the site of an early abbey. The area became famous when a 9th century chalice, know as the Derrynaflan Chalice, was found in 1980. This ornate chalice has been described as the archaeological find of the century. A special open air dawn mass takes place every Easter Sunday in the ruins of the abbey. Guided tours with a local  of the Derrynaflan area can be arranged by the hotel.

Holy Cross Abbey

This impressive abbey became a place of pilgrimage when a relic of the true Cross was presented to the Cistercian monks in 1180AD. The annual novena takes place every September. Open all year round.

Cahir Castle

Cahir Castle is one of the largest and best preserved of its type in the country and is situated on a rocky outcrop in the River Suir. Its history dates back to the 12th century. Open all year round.

2.Indulge in the local passion of Horse-racing

Coolmore

As the name of the hotel and in fact village suggests, horses are the local passion. In and around the market town of Fethard the Coolmore farms occupy some of the finest lands in Ireland and are home to Ballydoyle, undisputedly the best stud farm in the world. Group tours of Coolmore (6 people +) can be organised at certain times. Please contact reception to check availability. Open: Monday-Friday.

Racecourses

The Horse & Jockey Hotel is in the privileged position of being in close proximity to three major National Hunt race-courses. Please see press or ask reception for details of race meetings during your stay.

Thurles Racecourse

A mecca for quality, action packed jump racing where it is very likely that you will see a future Cheltenham or Punchestown winner in action.

Clonmel Racecourse:

A charming racecourse blessed with a scenic wooded setting in the Suir River valley, a course where some of the games brightest stars have raced.

Limerick Junction:

This course provides high class racing both on the flat and over jumps. Most of the action takes place in Spring and Summer time where various grade 1 & grade 2 take place.

3. Experience the Tranquil & Unspoilt Countryside

Hill-Walking

A county of high hills and verdant valleys, Tipperary offers the walker spectacular views in idyllic countryside locations. The Glen of Aherlow, Hills of Upperchurch & the Galtee mountains all attract visitors from near and far offering walks of varying difficulties. Walking festivals are commonplace in these areas all year round.

Pony Trekking

There are various equestrian centres in the region offering anything from hour long treks to weekly packages through the picturesque mountains and plains of the Co. Tipperary countryside. Pony-trekking packages are available through the hotel on request.

Golf

There are various golf courses to choose from in the area, the 18 hole Thurles Golf Club being the nearest. Accommodation packages can be arranged for certain courses. More details at reception.

4. Enjoy the excitement of live sporting action

G.A.A.

Among followers of Gaelic Games, Semple Stadium is their mecca. Situated as it is in the heart of Tipperary, the founding place of the G.A.A. and surrounded by such hurling strongholds of Kilkenny, Limerick, Cork, Waterford & Clare, this is the venue for the games greatest contests. Lar na Pairce, in Thurles is an exciting visitor centre designed and equipped to tell the story of the GAA since it’s establishment in Thurles in 1884. Open: Monday-Saturday. All Year Round.

Greyhound Racing

Ireland is the foremost greyhound breeding country in the world. Enjoy an exciting night ‘at the dogs’ at one of two excellent greyhound stadiums in the area. Thurles greyhound stadium hosts weekly meeting on Friday & Saturday night commencing @ 8pm. Clonmel greyhound stadium hosts weekly meetings on Thursday & Sunday evening.

5. Relax at an evening of Irish Culture

The Source Arts Centre

This impressive arts centre opened in Autumn ’06 on the banks of the River Suir in central Thurles. A year round programme of events includes theatre, dance, music and art exhibitions. Full listings of up-coming events can be found on www.thesourceartscentre.ie.

Bru Bru

Situtated at the foot of the Rock of Cashel, Bru Bru present a colourful and exciting traditional show in their superb theatre through-out the summer months (Tuesday-Saturday inclusive @ 9pm). The centre is home to the celebration of native Irish traditions and the groups have preformed in many parts of the world from America to China.

Traditional Irish Music Sessions

‘Trad’ sessions take place in various pubs close by including the famous Wednesday night session in the Monks Bar, Thurles and the Monday night sessions in The Ship located in nearby Holycross.Our reception desk will be delighted to make any enquiries/arrangements needed to be made for the above.