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Kilkenny City

Kilkenny City is bursting with unbridled energy and boasts a fascinating history and heritage – not to mention great pubs and places to eat. 

Rothe House
Kilkenny City
St Canice's Cathedral
Kilkenny Castle and Gardens

From left to right: Rothe House, Kilkenny City, St Canice's Cathedral, Kilkenny Castle and Gardens

A vibrant, flourishing city with a fascinating medieval history and a thriving crafts industry, Kilkenny City in County Kilkenny in the South of Ireland is one of the country’s most appealing cities to visit. 

With an 800-year-old Norman castle looking over the ancient streets, Kilkenny City has transformed itself into a hip, cosmopolitan destination with a diverse range of restaurants, lively pubs and bars. 

The city also hosts one of the world’s top comedy festivals, The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, with acts from all over the globe offering excellent entertainment. 

Not only that, the city is firmly established as one of the great bastions of arts and crafts, being home to the National Crafts Council, as well as the ultimate in stylish stores, Kilkenny Design. 

Discover excellent accommodation deals on offer in Kilkenny City. 

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Did you know?

Kilkenny Castle is up there with Edinburgh Castle, the Tower of London or Mad Ludwig's Castle in Bavaria – it's one of the great castles of the world. The Long Gallery might grab your attention because of its extensive portrait collection of the Butlers, who were hugely important in the area from 1391 until 1935…and arguably beyond, because Princess Diana was a descendant.

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