County Kilkenny Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in County Kilkenny with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and local food scene, we've got you covered.


Introduction to County Kilkenny

If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the serene natural beauty of Southeast Ireland, then County Kilkenny should be on your travel bucket list. Located in the heart of Ireland, Kilkenny offers visitors an authentic Irish experience with its rich history, scenic views, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, a foodie or an adventure seeker, County Kilkenny has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery as we take you through the best of County Kilkenny.

List of Places to Visit in County Kilkenny

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kilkenny Castle: A stunning 12th-century castle located in the heart of Kilkenny City, with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
  • St. Canice’s Cathedral: A towering medieval cathedral with magnificent views of the city from the top of its round tower.
  • Rothe House and Garden: A unique townhouse and garden museum showcasing the lifestyle of Kilkenny’s wealthy merchant class from the 16th to the 18th century.
  • Medieval Mile Museum: A captivating exhibition of Kilkenny’s medieval heritage with artefacts, interactive displays and audio-visual presentations.

Natural Attractions of County Kilkenny: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Nore Valley Walk: A 15 km walking trail along the tranquil River Nore, through beautiful countryside and historic sites.
  • Dunmore Cave: A limestone cave system formed over 300 million years ago, with stunning geological formations and a rich history.
  • Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum: A picturesque public park located near Inistioge, with magnificent gardens and extensive woodlands.
  • Mount Juliet Estate: A stunning estate boasting hectares of lush parklands, a championship golf course, and horse riding facilities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of County Kilkenny

With its rolling hills, lush valleys, and winding rivers, County Kilkenny has some of the best hiking and biking trails in Ireland. Here are some popular trails to discover:

  • The South Leinster Way: A 102 km hiking trail that takes you through stunning landscapes, forests, and historic towns.
  • The Barrow Way: A 9-km trail stretching along the tranquil river Barrow, with breathtaking scenery and historic landmarks.
  • The Castlecomer Discovery Park: A 80-acre park with an array of walking trails and outdoor activities, including zip lining, archery, and tree climbing.

Best Things to Do in County Kilkenny: Activities and Tours

  • Water sports: The river Nore offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.
  • Food and Drink tours: Explore Kilkenny’s renowned food and drink scene by joining a local food tour or whiskey distillery tour.
  • Horse Riding and Racing: Discover the thrill of horse riding and racing at Mount Juliet Estate or Gowran Park racecourse.
  • Festivals and Events: Experience Kilkenny’s vibrant culture by attending its annual festivals and events like Kilkenny Arts Festival or Kilkenny Cat Laughs Comedy Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for County Kilkenny

Day 1: Visit Kilkenny Castle and its stunning gardens, and take a stroll around the charming medieval streets of Kilkenny City.

Day 2: Explore St. Canice’s Cathedral and climb the round tower for breathtaking views of the city. Visit the Medieval Mile Museum and learn about Kilkenny’s rich medieval history.

Day 3: Take a scenic drive to Inistioge, and explore the picturesque Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum. Day 4: Go hiking or biking on the South Leinster Way, and enjoy the stunning countryside scenery.

Day 5: Take a whiskey distillery tour at the Jameson Experience or Ballykeefe Distillery.

Day 6: Enjoy horse riding at Mount Juliet Estate, followed by an evening dinner at one of Kilkenny’s many award-winning restaurants.

Day 7: Visit Dunmore Cave and discover its fascinating geological formations and rich history.

Food and Drink Scene of County Kilkenny

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kilkenny lamb stew: A hearty stew made with tender lamb, root vegetables, and herbs.
  • Goatsbridge Trout: A delicious trout from nearby Thomastown, served with fresh salads or potatoes.
  • Smithwick’s beer: A popular local beer, perfect for washing down your meal.

Local Beverages

  • Craft beer: Try some of Kilkenny’s many local breweries, such as Sullivan’s or Costello’s.
  • Irish whiskey: Take a tour at one of Kilkenny’s two distilleries, Ballykeefe Distillery or the Jameson Experience.

Where to Stay in County Kilkenny: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Lyrath Estate Hotel: A luxurious five-star hotel with a range of dining options and spa facilities.
  • Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel: A charming boutique hotel centrally located in the heart of Kilkenny City.
  • Kilkenny River Court Hotel: A comfortable hotel with stunning views of the River Nore, located near many of Kilkenny’s attractions.
  • Abbey House: A cosy guesthouse situated in the tranquil countryside, offering stunning views and traditional Irish hospitality.

What to Buy in County Kilkenny: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kilkenny Design Centre: Shop for unique handmade jewellery, ceramics, and pottery from local artisans.
  • Kilkenny farmers’ market: Buy fresh local produce, cheeses, and meats to bring home.
  • Nicholas Mosse Pottery: Take home some unique handcrafted pottery from the famous Kilkenny-based artist.

Local Culture and Customs of County Kilkenny

The local culture of County Kilkenny is deeply rooted in its rich history, folklore, and traditions.

  • GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) is a popular pastime, and you may find locals playing football or hurling in local parks.
  • Irish music is celebrated throughout the city in pubs and at festivals.
  • The traditional Irish language is still bery much in use in the region, particularly in small communities.

Best Time to Visit County Kilkenny

The best time to visit Kilkenny is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, the city has something to offer year-round, and shoulder seasons are great options.

Do’s and Don’ts of County Kilkenny

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Take your time to explore the city’s rich culture and history.
  • Visit the charming rural towns in the county and witness the stunning nature of the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the countryside.
  • Treat the locals with anything less than respect.

Safety and Health

Safety in County Kilkenny

Kilkenny is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always important to take precautions when you’re out and about, particularly at night. Be mindful of your belongings, and use common sense when exploring the city.

Health in County Kilkenny

County Kilkenny has a good standard of healthcare facilities available, including hospitals and clinics, so visitors should not worry about their healthcare needs.

Getting to County Kilkenny: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near County Kilkenny

Dublin Airport is the main gateway to County Kilkenny and it is only located just an hour and 20 minutes away from Kilkenny via motorway. Waterford Airport is also just an hour away from the county.

Bus Stations Near County Kilkenny

Bus Eireann operates a regular bus service between Kilkenny and all major cities in Ireland. Kilkenny’s Central Bus Station is located on John’s Quay in the city centre.

Other Transportation Options

There are plenty of private transportation options available, including car rentals, private taxis, and chauffeur services.

How to Get Around in County Kilkenny

Walking or driving are the best ways to get around County Kilkenny. However, cycling is an excellent way to explore the scenic countryside, and bike rentals are available in most of the towns.

Where to Go Next from County Kilkenny: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • The Rock of Cashel: An iconic medieval castle and church located in Tipperary, just a short drive from Kilkenny.
  • Waterford City: Ireland’s oldest city, famous for its Viking heritage and Waterford Crystal.
  • The Copper Coast: A stunning coastline with miles of sandy beaches and interesting geology.

Conclusion

County Kilkenny is a perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Southeast Ireland. From its rich history and culture to its stunning natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Kilkenny has something for everyone to enjoy. So, come and discover this magical land for yourself, and experience the warm hospitality, great food, and stunning scenery of County Kilkenny.

Kilkenny Kilkenny In 1836 floods destroyed many Irish bridges, so they were all rebuilt in attractive Georgian style. This one's at Inistioge. In 1836 floods destroyed many Irish bridges, so they were all rebuilt in attractive Georgian style. This one's at Inistioge. Brandon Hill overlooks River Barrow Brandon Hill overlooks River Barrow


    Freshford
    Graignamanagh
    Thomastown