Barberstown Castle in Straffan County Kildare has confirmed sponsorship of the Barberstown Castle Handicap Steeplechase (Listed) at the 2026 Dublin Racing Festival on Saturday 31 January 2026. The race runs immediately after the Paddy Power Irish Gold Cup in a prime slot at Leopardstown Racecourse. The Dublin Racing Festival attracts top horses trainers jockeys and international audiences with approximately 36,000 attendees expected over the weekend. Barberstown Castle has supported Irish racing through sponsorships at The Curragh Naas and Punchestown plus jockey partnerships. A special accommodation package includes stays breakfast and shuttle transfers to Leopardstown from €275 single or €295 double.
The four-star historic property features 61 bedrooms including a renovated Presidential Suite elegant public rooms dining and banqueting spaces. The Barton Rooms restaurant earned Good Food Ireland Hotel Restaurant of the Year 2025. The castle centres on a medieval keep from 1288 with Victorian and Elizabethan additions. The sponsorship aligns with the hotel’s involvement in racing hospitality.
Amanda Torrens CEO and owner of Barberstown Castle shared “The Dublin Racing Festival attracts a hugely engaged audience and represents the very best of Irish National Hunt racing. With approximately 36,000 people expected to attend over the weekend it provides a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase Barberstown Castle to both Irish and international racegoers.”
