Naas combines town history with parks and outdoor activities. Along the Kerdiffstown Park Art Trail, 18 carved stones tell stories of the local landscape, Irish mythology, folklore and the recent history of the Kerdiffstown landfill. At the highest point, the trail ends at three stones with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Historic trails, a variety of green spaces and a kayaking tour for beginners offer different ways to spend your time here.
Town history on the historic trails
The Historic Trails of Naas take you through the town on foot, bringing its local history to life. Naas Town Hall was built in 1854 and is a starting point for Historic Trail 1. The Old Railway Station once welcomed travellers, including the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, who came for the Punchestown Races.
The Lattin Almshouse is also on the Naas Historic Trail. It was once home to the long-established Lattin family, whose members were merchants, dancers and fiddlers. St David’s Church is associated with the burial place of Jack Lattin; a traditional dance named after him was popular in Ireland and Scotland in the 18th century. The Town Gates also tell the story of the town’s past: they once helped control access to the walled town of Naas.
Green spaces with a variety of features
deBurgh’s Woodland Gardens is a 15-acre public park of historic importance. Ancient woodland, walking paths and 18th-century water features shape its character. The Lakes extends the old Naas Railway Walk and offers opportunities to spot ducks, swans and other wildlife. Monread Park covers 12 hectares, with walking paths, picnic tables and a playground; its wildflower meadows support pollinators and biodiversity.
Other green spaces have their own distinctive features: Oak Park lies on the Tipper River and has paths, a playground, and areas for biodiversity and pollinators. Fairgreen has walking paths, picnic tables and seating; it is part of the Naas Historical Trail. Ballycane combines a playground and a large green space with the Naas Historical Trail and the Lakelands. Kerdiffstown Park complements its network of cycling and walking paths with playgrounds featuring safe play areas and modern fitness equipment.
The paths also differ in how they can be used. The Canal Walk starts at Naas Harbour and runs along the Grand Canal; it is suitable for pedestrians and cyclists. The Railway Walk from Sundays Well to Ballycane is an accessible walking route in Naas. Alongside the parks, you can choose a route by the canal or a designated walking path.
Kayaking tours and horse racing
Naas Adventure Sports offers kayaking trips through the centre of Naas. The two-hour tours are suitable for complete beginners, and all the necessary equipment is provided. The duration, suitability for beginners and provided equipment make this a clearly defined option alongside the walking paths and historic sites.
National Hunt and flat racing take place at Naas Racecourse. The racecourse is on the edge of Naas, just off the M7, with access to rail, bus and airport transfers. When choosing a hotel in Naas, consider whether town history, green spaces, a kayaking tour or horse racing will be the focus of your stay. This helps you tailor your search to the experiences that matter most for your trip.
Discover more destinations: Castledermot, Straffan, Kildangan, Clane, Calverstown, Celbridge, Kildare, Moyvally.
For the broader travel overview: County Kildare.
