Things To Do
Located in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny is an ideal base for touring the City and County and also the surrounding sunny South East. Known as the Medieval capital of Ireland, Kilkenny has a rich heritage visible through its narrow streets and laneways and its historical buildings and landmarks.
From our location you can take a walk along the river (Canal Walk) that is quite beautiful that brings you along by the Kilkenny Castle grounds and into the heart of the City. Continue to take a stroll along its Medieval Mile which runs from the runs from the majestic Castle, passing the Medieval Mile Museum, Rothe House and many other sites to St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower. Beyond the City Walls there are also high heritage sites such as Kells Priory, Jerpoint Abbey, Dunmore Caves and Knockroe Passage Tomb, part of the Liguan Valley.
In terms of dining out, there is plenty of choice to suit all tastes ranging from restaurants, cafes and gastro pubs in Kilkenny City and County. There is a strong history of brewing and Kilkenny was once home for over 300 to the Smithwicks Brewery. Revisit the story by visiting the Smithwick’s Experience which is located on the site of an old Francisian Monastery. A visit to Highbank Orchards and Ballykeefe Distillery tours are well worth checking out too.
For retail therapy, there is plenty of choice; from the High Street stores, shopping centres in Market Cross and McDonagh Junction to the small independent boutiques and retailers along Kieran Street and Patrick Street. Owing to the legacy of the Kilkenny Design Centre, Kilkenny is home to a number of creative Irish craftmakers in the City and County. Pay a visit to Jerpoint Glass, Nicholas Moose, Cushendale Woolen Mills amongst many others.
Well regard for its cultural life, with art galleries including the Butler Gallery, historic buildings, craft and design workshops, theatre, , museums and live music in pubs, these are some of main reasons Kilkenny has become one of Ireland’s most visited towns and a popular base to explore the surrounding countryside. With a calendar of events throughout the year, Kilkenny is home to many long established festivals such as the Kilkenny Arts Festival, The Cats Laughs, Kilkenomics, Subtitle, Rhythm and Roots to name just a few.
For outdoor activities, there is a range of walking and cycling routes around County Kilkenny and the sunny South East. Whether it’s a quiet stroll by the river or a strenuous hike there is a trail for every fitness level with varying degrees of length and ability. There are plenty of options to enjoy a round of golf throughout the County.
Castlecomer Discovery Park has plenty of activities for young and old including its renowned treetop walk and Ireland’s longest zip. Kiltorcan Raceway also provides an option to get the adrenaline pumping.
Contact
Address
Castle Lodge,
Kilkenny,
Ireland
R95 ND74
6678622v
Phone
(+353) 56 779 0904
