At Snugmore, the hardest thing for a spectator is sometimes choosing which pitch to watch. An attack breaks down one wing while, on the neighbouring pitch, another team gets ready to kick off. The Kinsale Rugby 7s Festival thrives on this rhythm: two days of rugby sevens, several matches played at the same time and, under the marquee, music to keep the day going.
The tournament takes place at Kinsale RFC in Snugmore, a few kilometres from the centre of Kinsale. Rugby sevens is played on a full-size pitch. With seven players per team, space opens up quickly: a pass reaching the wing or a missed tackle can be enough to turn an attack around. It is an easy format to follow, even if you are new to rugby.
The organiser lists several categories, including an elite men’s competition by invitation and women’s and men’s social sections. In the usual format, Saturday is devoted to the pool matches. On Sunday, the knockout stages take over, while the Plate competitions allow other teams to continue in the tournament. Choose Saturday to see more teams, or Sunday if you want to follow the decisive matches. The exact draw should be checked in the sports programme.
The 2027 edition is scheduled for 1 and 2 May. Tickets are bought online and provide access to the site after you collect a wristband at the entrance. The organiser’s visitor information page gives the final admission time: check it if you are planning to arrive for the end of the matches. The programme also includes music under the marquee and food available on site.
A paid shuttle connects the club with Kinsale town centre on Saturday and Sunday. The club also advertises free parking. If you are staying near the harbour, the shuttle means you do not have to take the car between the pitches and the town centre. Bring a waterproof layer for walking from one pitch to another; the marquee is mainly useful for taking a break between matches.
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Kinsale RFC, Snugmore, Kinsale, comté de Cork, P17 CC67, Kinsale, County Cork, Republic of Ireland, Tourist sites in Ireland
