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.
Jerpoint Abbey, County 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.
Kilkenny Castle, County Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle has been an important site since Strongbow constructed the first castle, which was probably a wooden structure, in the 12th century. It remains in remarkable condition with many of its original features.
St Canice’s Cathedral, Irishtown, Kilkenny City
The 13th century Cathedral of St. Canice is the second longest cathedral in Ireland. The site on which the cathedral stands has been a place of Christian worship since the sixth century.
See more highlightsSt Mary’s Church, Count Kilkenny
This collegiate church was built in the late 13th century on the site of an earlier monastery. Once large and impressive there are still examples of the high quality architectural sculpture used throughout.
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
Canoe adventures for all the family from riding the rapids to serene paddles along a quiet river.
Nore Valley Park Open Farm, Bennetsbridge
Kids will love getting close to the animals at this nicely designed open farm. There’s a children’s sandpit and straw bounce, a picnic area, and a two-mile river walk.
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.
Various Pubs, Kilkenny City
Kilkenny is full of old-fashioned, atmospheric pubs that have made it the South East’s major party town. Try a pint of local Kilkenny beer at the Marble City Bar, Jim Hollands, Matthew Duggan’s, John Cleere’s and Caislean ui Cuain.
Shopping
Kilkenny is a flourishing center 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
Kilkenny stocks a good range of contemporary crafts, pottery, jewelry and clothing.
National Craft Gallery, Castle Yard, Kilkenny
A showcase for excellent Irish design.
