Kilkenny
Take a trip to Ireland’s top crafts county and have a few laughs while you’re at it!
Sightseeing
Discover 12th century abbeys and 13th century cathedrals
Castlecomer Demense, Castlecomer
Castlecomer covers an area of about 180 acres and has beautiful 19th century landscaped gardens with lakes, cascades, artificial caves and follies.
Jerpoint Abbey Kilkenny
An outstanding Cistercian abbey founded in the second half of the 12th century, Jerpoint’s chief delight is the sculptured cloister arcade with unique carvings.
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, Thomastown, Thomastown
Enjoy the gush of the enchanting waterfall and an aura of romance at this pretty garden, which looks the same now as it did over 200 years ago.
See more highlightsKilkenny Castle Garden, Kilkenny City
Enjoy the tranquil rose garden at Kilkenny Castle, as well as 50 acres of beautifully maintained gardens.
Kilkenny Castle, County Kilkenny
St Canice’s Cathedral, Irishtown, Kilkenny City
St Mary’s Church kilkenny
Activities
From the fast-paced thrills of go karting to a fun-filled summer regatta
Fishing
Learn the art of fly-fishing on the beautiful River Nore.
Go Karting, Ballyhale
This 1,000metre all-weather floodlit track offers excellent karting in a safe environment.
Graiguenamanagh Regatta and Rowing Festival, Graiguenamanagh
This fun festival is reputed to be the oldest regatta on Ireland’s inland waterways. Expect lots of swimming, diving and rowing as well as a whole host of musical events.
See more highlightsHorse racing and riding
Head to Gowran Park Racecourse and experience racing on one of the best tracks in the country. But if you prefer to be in the saddle then check out Riding in Ireland Week at Piltown in September.
Tynan Walking Tours of Kilkenny City
Enjoy an hour-long walking tour around some of Kilkenny’s City’s most important sights, and get to know the secrets of the city’s past.
Children
Get set for an outdoor adventure on a raging river or a friendly farm
Go With the Flow River Adventures Graiguenamanagh
Nore Valley Park Open Farm, Bennetsbridge
Culture & festivals
Enjoy Kilkenny’s rich cultural life with a dynamic gallery, fabulous festivals and an abundance of arts
Butler Gallery
One of Ireland’s most dynamic contemporary galleries, the Butler attracts major international artists while also nurturing local talent.
Kilkenny Craft Trail
Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival
Smithwicks Cat Laughs Comedy Festival
Check out a host of top national and international comedy acts for this sizzling comedy festival.
Eating, Drinking & Luxury
From country house opulence to atmospheric pubs
Butler House, Kilkenny City
Home to the Earls of Ormonde, Butler House enjoys sweeping staircases, plastered ceilings, marble fireplaces and a charming walled garden. Rooms are a unique balance of old and new and are spacious and comfortable.
Hudsons, Station Road, Thomastown
Delicious contemporary food in a comfortable and stylish environment overlooking a beautifully quaint garden.
Pubs, Kilkenny City
Shopping
Kilkenny is a flourishing centre for arts and crafts
Chesneau Leather, The Old Creamery, Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny
A sleek, modern and fashionable range of Irish leather bags and belts.
Kilkenny Design Centre, Castle Yard, Kilkenny
National Craft Gallery, Castle Yard, Kilkenny
A showcase for excellent Irish design.


