Naas

Naas, known in Irish as Nás na Ríogh, meaning “place of the assembly of kings,” is a town steeped in history. Once a walled market town, Naas boasts a rich cultural heritage and vibrant community life.

Discover Naas’s Historic Landmarks

The Moat Theatre, a state-of-the-art performance hub featuring captivating shows and events year-round, named after the ancient mound or Motte adjacent to it is believed to be over 2,000 years old and was once a gathering place for kings. The building itself was formerly the Christian Brother’s School and now hosts the Naas Country Market every Friday from 9 am to 12 noon. On Saturdays, don’t miss the Naas Farmers’ Market at the newly reclaimed Potato Market, where you can sample and purchase local artisan products.

The Potato Market is located in the shadow of the walls of St David’s Castle, a 13th-century Norman castle currently undergoing renovation. This historic site adds a touch of medieval charm to the bustling market atmosphere.

A well-known landmark in Naas is Perpetual Motion, commonly referred to as Naas Ball, which signals to visitors that they have arrived in the town.

Naas is also renowned for its two racecourses, Naas and Punchestown, offering an exciting calendar of race meetings throughout the year. In September, the Naas Wild Food Festival showcases a variety of dishes from the numerous restaurants in town, celebrating the local culinary scene.

 Activities 

Bargetrip.ie: Enjoy a relaxing boat trip along the Grand Canal from Sallins, immersing yourself in the stunning scenery, rich culture, and fascinating history of the canal. Bike hire is also available. 

KBowl: Enjoy hours of fun for all ages. Younger guests will love the Wacky World soft play area, while bowling and arcades provide endless entertainment for older visitors. 

Mondello Park: Ireland’s only international motorsport venue promises excitement and adrenaline whether you are enjoying a whizz around in a Ferrari or as a spectator to one of the many events on the calendar. 

Naas Racecourse: celebrating 100 years of racing in 2024, Naas stages both flat and national hunt racing with an exciting race calendar throughout the year. In September 2024 it will host the Taste of Kildare food festival. 

Punchestown Racecourse: Home of Irish jump racing and host of the Irish National Hunt Festival each April. In 1868 the then Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII) visited the track bringing crowds from all around Ireland and again as King in 1904. 

Restaurants & Bars 

Awarded the Purple Flag in 2019, Naas is recognised for its variety of entertainment, culture, and leisure activities available from 5 pm to 5 am. Enjoy traditional music every Thursday from 8.30 pm at Fletcher’s and from 9 pm at Hayden’s, conveniently located opposite Lawlor’s of Naas on Poplar Square.

33 South Main: gastro-pub with live music in The Stores and main bar and quiz night each Wednesday. 

Bouchon: serving a mixture of classic dishes along with modern European cuisine in a relaxed setting. 

Fletcher’s: serving quality drinks since 1829. The pub is full of history and character, featuring an old-style bar, snug and lounge. 

Hayden’s: a traditional pub with a twist – live music, set dancing and trad sessions. 

Kavanagh’s: situated in the middle of Naas town, the pub is a traditional family owned property with live music most weekends and large beer garden. 

McCormack’s: the oldest family pub in Naas, live music at weekends. Mixture of snugs and large beer garden. 

Neighbourhood: Michelin Guide restaurant with relaxed atmosphere with seasonal menus and cocktails. 

Las Radas: lively and vibrant tapas bar with daily specials and sharing plates.

Vie de Chateaux: using locally sourced Irish ingredients to create a modern menu with a French twist.

Fate Restaurant: serving Asian food with some European styled dishes.

Naas is a town where history and modernity coexist, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage, local produce, and lively entertainment. Come and explore all that Naas has to offer.