Naas Introduction
A bustling market town today, Naas in County Kildare was once where the pre-Norman Irish kings from the Kingdom of Leinster assembled, hence its lofty moniker as the Meeting Place of Kings. Located practically a stone's throw from Dublin, it's a popular countryside getaway for urbanites who come to watch exciting horse races, hunt for bargains in a rural farmers' market and hit the links. And of course, like any good Irish town, there's no shortage of pubs that make nights in Naas as enjoyable as the days.
Hotels in Naas
A large outdoor pool, plant-filled terraces and patios, and eat-all-you-can buffets are some of the things you'll find in luxury hotels in Naas. These 4-star accommodations also offer air-conditioned guestrooms with flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with deep soaking baths. Leisure facilities normally include spas and gyms, and there are business centres for guests who are working on the go. Two- and 3-star hotels in Naas offer lower rates, but most don't scrimp on amenities. You can expect some guestrooms that have whirlpool baths, and in some cases there's a nightclub on the premises. Wi-Fi and full Irish breakfast are also usually free.
Where to stay in Naas
Most Naas hotels are situated smack dab in the town centre, where the restaurants and pubs of Main Street are within easy reach. Close by you'll also find the ruins of St David's Castle and St Mary's College, next to charming cafes filled with students. The Devoy Quarter is another option. About a 5-minute drive from the town centre, it's a quiet residential area with pretty tree-lined streets, and has easy access to the N7 road and bus routes. Or try the northeastern outskirts area near the Naas Industrial Estate, where bookstores, a state-of-the-art cinema and shopping centres are within walking distance.
Things to see in Naas
Horse racing is a big thing in Naas, and if you want to see the big races, head to
Punchestown Racecourse. Built in 1875, it hosts the popular Punchestown Festival, which features races like the Champion Chase, as well as the International Three Day Event, where showjumping competitions are held. The racecourse is also a concert venue, and musicians like Bon Jovi and AC/DC have performed here. Musical performances and performing arts festivals are also held at the
Moat Theatre. Once a school building, the theatre now houses a sophisticated auditorium that seats 200, along with rehearsal and dressing rooms and multipurpose spaces. There's also a coffee shop and a bar area where you can sip a drink before or after a show. Golf enthusiasts will find the
Naas Golf Club an enticing place to tee off. The parkland course is filled with tree-lined fairways and sloping greens, and there's a clubhouse serving hot food and refreshing pints of Guinness.
How to get to Naas
Naas is easily accessible to visitors coming in by air or by ferry. Dublin Airport is just a 35-minute ride away, and roll-on/roll-off ferry services stop at Dublin Port, just a few minutes away from the city centre. If you're planning to drive from Dublin, you'll most likely be taking the M50 motorway and the N7 road. Motorists coming from the south and southwest areas of Ireland will arrive via the M7 Motorway. A train ride to and from Dublin via the Sallins and Naas railway station runs just under an hour. Bus services operated by Bus Éireann and JJ Kavanagh & Sons are also available.
