Leopardstown Racecourse: Traditional thoroughbred entertainment
Currently one of Europe's premier racecourses, Leopardstown Racecourse was originally built in 1888 as an Irish copy of a more popular English racetrack. Then, as now, the park is overlooked by the scenic slopes of the nearby Dublin Mountains, edged by nearby Killiney Hill.
Now owned by the Horse Racing Board of Ireland, Leopardstown Racecourse was built by the Dublin-born Captain George Quinn as a suburban distraction in the quiet Foxrock area of Dublin. As the population and politics changed over the next one hundred years, Leopardstown grew into a business and recreation centre.
Through continuous improvement, a solid off-race calendar of events, and the solid growth of surrounding neighborhoods, today the grounds are synonymous with entertainment, music and more. Modern visitors can place bets on Flat and National Hunt races featuring thoroughbreds from some of the world's most elite stables – then watch their selections race a track wide enough to house a nine-hole golf course at its center.
Ample seating in the classic viewing stands make group outings to Leopardstown an ideal day out. For those not of the gambling persuasion, the race grounds are also home to several restaurants, private suites, outdoor picnic areas and a weekly Farmers Market, as well as a fitness centre and dance venue Club 92.
Local travel links to the racecourse are solid, with local shuttles, Dublin bus routes and LUAS services nearby. On race days a bus service operates from Busaras, Dublin's main hub for coach travel. For those driving to Leopardstown ample parking is available on the grounds.
HelloDublin Tip: In the summer months the grounds play host to concerts, in 2010 Irish Cider company Bulmers sponsors "Racing Rocks at Leopardstown" an outdoor concert and catered event featuring performances from artists including Fun Lovin' Criminals, plus Irish artists Aslan and Shane MacGowan.
Posted by Bridget Reilly
