SNIPPET: Dartfield Horse Museum & Park is dedicated to telling the 5,000 year old story of man's relationship with the horse. This museum is unique to Ireland there are only two other similar attractions in the world in Kentucky, USA, and Paris, France. Dartfield is set in 350 acres of scenic parkland, just off the main N6 Dublin to Galway road, located in the grounds of an old country house which was built in 1827 by Henry BLAKE. Dartfield Horse Museum and Park was the vision of the legendary horseman, Willie LEAHY, who bought the estate in the 1990s. He then had the derelict workers-cottages and stables restored into a museum offering the visitor an insight into evolution of the Irish horse, in an exquisite setting for all to enjoy. Born into a farming family in the West of Ireland, LEAHY developed a strong affinity with horses at a very young age, and his ambitions to share his love of the horse, with the beautiful and unique surroundings of Connemara, inspired him! to create The Connemara Trail riding holidays - which have been running for over 30 years. The museum charts the history of the horse and its use from the earliest times to the present day. There are live exhibits to delight everyone. Some of the world's favourite breeds of horses can be seen, from the largest to the smallest in the world. Exhibits include farm machinery, carriages, harness and interesting artefacts from the horse world. Visitors can ride the mechanised horse. For the younger visitor, there are rocking horses and computer games. From time to time there are demonstrations of horse-shoeing and the saddler's skill. The Hall of Fame details some of Ireland's most famous equine superstars. All visitors to the park are free to enjoy walking tours along safe level pathways from where you can see cattle, deer, sheep and ponies at pasture. Visitors will appreciate the chance to get away from it all and enjoy the peace and quiet of the parklands surroundin! g the museum. Carriage and pony rides are also available. In the internal stables visitors can see, at close quarters, the native Irish horses and ponies as well as other breeds from around the world. There is an art gallery and library, cafe, and a shop selling horse-related gifts. There is something for all the family to enjoy during a day out at Dartfield Horse Museum and Park, Dartfield, Kilreekill, Loughrea, Co. Galway . Website: www.dartfieldhorsemuseum.com