From its involvement with the Irish linen industry in the 18th century, to the introduction of public exhibitions in the 19th and 20th centuries, to its continuing support of the sector today with the launch of the new RDS Craft Awards, the RDS has always played a pivotal role in the support of native craft and design.

Join RDS Foundation Director Niamh de Loughry, Head of Library & Archives, Natasha Serne and Research Ireland Enterprise Fellow, Dr Deirdre Foley, for the latest episode of the RDS Library & Archives podcast series, Bearing fruit: Tales from the RDS Archives, as they explore the rich history of the RDS and its involvement in the support of Irish craft.

In 2025 the RDS celebrates its 150th Dublin Horse Show. This iconic event has been a fixture in the Irish summer calendar for over a century and has influenced and shaped the horse breeding industry in Ireland from its earliest days at Leinster House to the present day at the RDS showgrounds in Ballsbridge.

Join RDS Foundation Director Niamh de Loughry in conversation with RDS Deputy CEO-Finance and Horse Show Director Pat Hanly along with Head of Library & Archives Natasha Serne for this episode of Bearing Fruit: Tales from the RDS Archives where they explore the history of the Show from its beginnings in the 19th century and how it has shaped the mission of the RDS to support the Irish horse breeder and producer by showcasing the best Irish bred horses.

From the establishment of its first laboratory in 1792 to the introduction of ESB Science Blast in 2019, the RDS has a long and illustrious history of engagement with science education in Ireland.

During the 18th century the RDS disseminated new scientific ideas through its journal publications and introduced professorships in chemistry and physics. In the 19th century it played a pivotal role in the establishment of the National College of Science and introduced a series of public lectures on all aspects of science and technology.

Today the RDS continues its commitment to STEM education in Ireland through ESB Science Blast, a free and fun-filled interactive experience designed and delivered by the RDS that seeks to engage primary school children with STEM, using 21st century skills.

Join RDS Foundation Director Niamh de Loughry in conversation with our Head of Library & Archives Natasha Serne and science communication expert Dr Brian Trench as they explore the rich and fascinating history of the relationship between the RDS and science education in Ireland across three centuries.