The Irish Draught, Ireland's Heritage Horse

Celebrate National Heritage Week with a special afternoon exploring the story of the Irish Draught, Ireland's only native horse breed and one of our most important living heritage breeds.

As part of Heritage Week's "Exploring Heritage at Risk" theme, this event celebrates the Irish Draught as a unique element of Ireland's agricultural and cultural heritage. Once the backbone of Irish farming and rural life, the Irish Draught is considered as a rare breed by the Department of Agriculture. The breed is now recognised worldwide for its versatility and gentle temperament, yet its future depends on continued conservation and public awareness.

The afternoon features a heritage lecture by Mary McGrath, one of Ireland's leading authorities on the history of the Irish Draught Horse. Mary is co-author of The Irish Draught Horse: A History, founder of the Irish Horse Museum, an Honorary Life Member of the Irish Draught Horse Society, and has dedicated decades to breeding, judging and promoting the breed.

Following the lecture, visitors will enjoy a live showcase of examples of the breed, highlighting their conformation, characteristics, uses and versatility, before an open Q&A session.

Whether you're interested in horses, Irish history, farming traditions or living heritage, this free event offers a unique opportunity to discover why the Irish Draught truly deserves its title as Ireland's Heritage Horse.

This is a free event. Booking is required as places are limited. See booking link below.