Widely referred to as "the Ploughing Match" or simply "the Ploughing" this is rural Ireland's biggest annual event by far. In 2008 the event returns to Kilkenny for the first time in 22 years, taking place in Cuffesgrange, just a few miles from Croan Cottages.

Nominally a contest pitting the skills of international ploughmen against each other it is also a massive trade show, with livestock and machinery exhibitions, trade stalls, craft stalls, vintage motors and even fashion shows, home entertainment, interior design and art exhibitions.

All Ireland is there, and they are not deterred by rain or hail, coming in their tens of thousands whatever the weather. The event not only attracts the farming community but also a huge cross-section of people including overseas visitors and really does have something for everyone.

The ploughing competitions themselves are fascinating to watch, with an incredible level of skill in evidence as competitors vie to impress the judges with the straightness and perfection of their furrows. The horse-drawn plough classes draw huge crowds to enjoy the now rare site of massive powerful horses working happily and in harmony with their owners.

If you plan to attend, get there early. Its impossible to emphasise enough how big a crowd will attend and the resulting traffic chaos worsens as the day progresses.

To book accommodation at Croan for the Ploughing Championships, please call or email us.