Thomastown Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, as well as transportation options and logistics in the charming town of Thomastown, County Kilkenny, Ireland.


Introduction to Thomastown

Nestled in the heart of County Kilkenny, Thomastown is a charming town steeped in history and culture. It is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor adventures, and vibrant food and drink scene. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical sites or indulging in outdoor activities, Thomastown offers something for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide will help you make the most of your visit to Thomastown.

List of Places to Visit in Thomastown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jerpoint Abbey - a well-preserved Cistercian abbey founded in the 12th century
  • Kilfane Glen and Waterfall - a romantic garden that features a waterfall, bridge and woodland paths
  • Mount Juliet Estate and Gardens - a beautifully maintained estate that formerly served as a private residence and is renowned for its landscaped gardens
  • Grennan Castle - a 12th-century castle that offers stunning views of the River Nore
  • Black Abbey - a Gothic-style church that was built in the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved examples of the Gothic architecture in the region.

Natural Attractions of Thomastown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nore Valley Walk - a popular hiking trail that follows the River Nore and offers stunning views of the countryside
  • Brandon Hill - the highest peak of the Mount Leinster range, offering sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit.
  • Thomastown Fishing - the perfect location to try your hand at some fishing and relax while enjoying the natural surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thomastown

Thomastown is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural scenery in Ireland. There are several hiking and biking trails in the vicinity, ranging from gentle walks to challenging hikes:

  • The South Leinster Way - a long-distance walking route that stretches for 100km
  • The Barrow Way – a scenic hiking trail that follows the River Barrow
  • The Wicklow Way – offering some of Ireland’s best walking terrain

Best Things to Do in Thomastown: Activities and Tours

  • Explore the charming town centre, with its colourful streets and charming houses.
  • Take a guided tour of Jerpoint Abbey to learn its history and architecture
  • Enjoy a round of golf at Mount Juliet Estate
  • Go horseback riding through the countryside

Week-Long Itinerary for Thomastown

Day 1: Arrive in Thomastown and explore the charming town centre. Day 2: Visit Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, then head to Grennan Castle for stunning views of River Nore. Day 3: Take a guided tour of Jerpoint Abbey, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. Day 4: Hike the South Leinster Way or Barrow Way, taking in the stunning scenery. Day 5: Explore Mount Juliet Estate and Gardens, followed by a round of golf or horseback riding through the countryside. Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby cities such as Kilkenny or Waterford and learn more about the country’s culture and history. Day 7: Shop for souvenirs and relax at a local café before departing Thomastown in the evening.

Food and Drink Scene of Thomastown

Thomastown offers an exciting culinary scene featuring a range of local and international dishes. You are spoiled for choice with a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs where you can sample delicious local delicacies. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stew – Ireland’s national dish consisting of slow-cooked meat and root vegetables
  • Boxty – traditional Irish potato pancake stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables
  • Irish Soda Bread – a rustic bread that uses baking soda instead of yeast
  • Soda Farls - another type of bread which is made flat and cooked on a griddle

Local Beverages

  • Smithwick’s - a popular Irish beer brewed in Kilkenny
  • Irish whiskey - Jameson, Tullamore Dew, Kilbeggan or Midleton are popular brands you can try
  • Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale – a beer brewed in Kilkenny and known for its rich, creamy taste

Where to Stay in Thomastown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thomastown offers several options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Mount Juliet Estate - This luxurious hotel and estate features a golf course and a spa.
  • The Bridge House - A cosy guesthouse with a fireplace, comfortable furnishings and stylish interiors
  • Greensbridge House - Glorious views of the surrounding lands can be seen from this bed and breakfast.

What to Buy in Thomastown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thomastown is famous for its artisanal crafts and hand-made goods that are perfect for souvenirs. Here are some of the local products you can buy:

  • Pottery – Thomastown is home to several excellent pottery studios that craft unique and beautiful pieces.
  • Handmade textiles – including woven blankets, scarves, and shawls
  • Art – Thomastown is renowned for its vibrant art scene, and several galleries showcase local talent

Local Culture and Customs of Thomastown

Thomastown is a fascinating place with a rich history and diverse culture. The residents are friendly and welcoming, and you should take time to learn about the local customs and traditions. Some of the most notable cultural attractions in Thomastown include:

  • Kilkenny Arts Festival - an annual event that showcases local and international talent in music, theatre, and the visual arts and takes place in late August.
  • St. Patrick’s Day – the biggest national holiday in Ireland, which Thomastown celebrates with a parade and other festivities
  • Traditional Irish music - Thomastown has several cosy pubs where you can listen to traditional Irish music.

Best Time to Visit Thomastown

The best time to visit Thomastown is between April and September, which is when the weather is mild and pleasant, and most of the attractions are open. The town is especially breathtaking during the Spring and Summer months when the wildflowers are in bloom and the countryside is lush and green.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thomastown

Do:

  • Explore the charming town centre and soak up the atmosphere.
  • Try the local cuisine at one of the town’s many excellent restaurants.
  • Take a guided tour of Jerpoint Abbey or Grennan Castle to learn more about the town’s history and architecture.

Don’t:

  • Don’t miss the natural beauty of Thomastown by sticking to the tourist areas only!
  • Avoiding the off-season, particularly when several attractions may be closed.
  • Don’t forget to respect the town’s cultural traditions and customs.

Safety and Health

Thomastown is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always essential to take standard precautions to protect your health and safety.

Safety in Thomastown

  • Pay attention to your surroundings, particularly when walking alone at night.
  • Only park in designated areas and never leave valuables in your car.
  • Follow the posted signs and guidelines when hiking or biking.

Health in Thomastown

  • Travel with insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation.
  • Stay hydrated and refreshed during outdoor activities to avoid heatstroke.
  • Don’t forget to take any medication you require.

Getting to Thomastown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thomastown is well-connected to the rest of Ireland by a range of transportation options.

Airports Near Thomastown

The nearest airports are:

  • Waterford Airport - 35 km away
  • Dublin Airport - 127km away
  • Cork Airport - 120 km away

Bus Stations Near Thomastown

Thomastown is serviced by several bus services such as Bus Éireann services route 73.

Other Options

There are several day-trip companies in Kilkenny and other nearby cities that offer tours to Thomastown.

How to Get Around in Thomastown

Thomastown is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, there are several transport options available, such as taxis and buses, for those who require them.

Where to Go Next from Thomastown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thomastown is an excellent base to explore the rest of County Kilkenny and beyond. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth checking out:

  • Kilkenny - A vibrant city with an impressive castle, excellent shopping, and charming streets
  • Waterford - Home to Ireland’s oldest city and famous crystal factory
  • The Rock of Cashel - a stunning medieval fortress that offers breathtaking views of the countryside

Conclusion

Thomastown is a charming and picturesque town filled with culture, history, natural beauty, and fantastic cuisine. Whether you’re interested in exploring the town’s ancient buildings or simply lounging in a cozy pub, you’re sure to love your time in this special place. Use this comprehensive guide as a starting point to plan your perfect trip to Thomastown.

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