agapé guide
A perfect morning in Kildare Town: brunch, then sightseeing
Kildare Town is one of the most walkable heritage towns in Ireland — and it happens to serve a very good brunch. Start slow at agapé café on Main Street, then spend the day exploring cathedrals, outlet villages, open plains, and gardens.
1. Brunch at agapé café
We open at 8 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday (9 a.m. on Sunday), and the kitchen takes orders right up until half an hour before close. Pull up a chair by the fireplace, order the Agapé Original sandwich or the Ultimate Breakfast on french toast, and stay for a second coffee. No reservations — just walk in.
2. What to do after brunch
Everything below is within a short walk or a ten-minute drive of agapé. You can comfortably fit three or four stops into a relaxed afternoon.
St. Brigid's Cathedral & Round Tower
A five-minute walk from agapé, this 13th-century cathedral sits on the site where St. Brigid founded her monastery in the 5th century. Climb the Round Tower for a view across the Curragh plains.
Tip: The tower climb is seasonal — check opening hours at the door.
Kildare Village
Just outside town, Kildare Village is one of Ireland's best designer outlet destinations. Walk the landscaped streets, browse over 100 boutiques, and grab a coffee between stores.
Tip: Arrive before noon to beat the weekend crowds.
The Curragh Plains
A short drive or brisk cycle from town, the Curragh is one of the oldest and most famous racecourses in the world. Even on non-race days, the open grasslands are worth a stroll.
Tip: Racing season runs from March to October — check the fixtures calendar.
The National Stud & Japanese Gardens
In nearby Tully, the Irish National Stud offers guided tours of the working stables and some of the country's finest thoroughbred history. The adjoining Japanese Gardens are beautifully maintained and make for a peaceful afternoon walk.
Tip: Allow at least ninety minutes for both the stables and the gardens.
Silken Thomas & Kildare Town Centre
Wander back through the town's medieval streets. The Silken Thomas pub dates back centuries and is a good spot for a late-afternoon pint. The Heritage Centre on the square fills in the gaps with local history.
Tip: Pick up a walking map at the Heritage Centre — the town's lanes reward a slow loop.
Plan your visit
agapé is at Barrett House, Main Street, Kildare — right in the centre of town. We're closed Monday, open 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday, and 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Sunday. No need to book: just walk in, order at the counter, and take your time.