County Kilkenny Travel Guide

Castles, Crafts & Countryside
From the medieval streets of Kilkenny City to ancient ruins, artisan workshops, and picture-perfect villages, County Kilkenny packs plenty to explore into a surprisingly compact area.

Kilkenny Top 5 Accommodations Kilkenny Tours More Kilkenny Tips

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Top 5 Things to Do in County Kilkenny

Kilkenny City

Ireland’s Medieval Heart
Kilkenny Castle is a natural place to begin exploring this compact, historic city. Follow the Medieval Mile to St. Canice’s Cathedral (climb the ancient round tower!), wander the narrow slips, pop into the shops, and enjoy the city’s lively pubs.
TIP: Kilkenny is very walkable. Park once and explore the historic center on foot.

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Jerpoint Abbey

A Unique Cistercian Monastery
Founded in the 12th century, Jerpoint Abbey is known for the detailed stone carvings throughout its cloister. Take your time exploring the ruins and looking for knights, saints, animals and other figures carved by medieval craftsmen.
Tip: Join a guided tour or take the time to talk with staff on site.

Dunmore Cave

Natural Wonder & Dark History
Descend into a limestone cave filled with stalactites and calcite formations while learning about its long and sometimes dark history. Dunmore Cave appears in Irish mythology and was also the site of a Viking attack recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters.
Tip: Dunmore Cave is an OPW Heritage site.

Made in Kilkenny

Craft Trail
Discover the work of local artisans creating everything from ceramics and glass to jewelry, leather, textiles and woodwork. ‘Meet the Makers’ at their studios & workshops and find something genuinely Irish to bring home! Some spots even offer experiences!
Tip: Check opening hours – these are small businesses that may not be open daily.

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Inistioge

Picture Perfect Village
Set along the River Nore, Inistioge is the quintessential Irish town, making it a popular filming location. Wander through the village, pop into a pub, cross the historic stone bridge, and visit nearby Woodstock Gardens for walks and beautiful views.
Tip: Follow the path from the village to the castle folly in the trees for the iconic photo.

Top Kilkenny Tips

Arrival Tips

Transportation In Kilkenny

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Best Kilkenny Tours

Explore Kilkenny with a guide or fun activity – these tours are top-rated and easy to fit into your itinerary.

Shenanigans Kilkenny City Walk – a magical stroll through Kilkenny’s history (hear Nevin’s podcast)

Hurling in Kilkenny​ – try the ‘fastest sport on grass’! It’s great fun & you don’t need to be sporty (hear James’s podcast)

Climb the Round Tower & tour St. Canice’s Cathedral ​- one of only 3 ancient round towers that can be scaled in the country

Kilkenny Evening Food Tour – perfect for those arriving in the afternoon (3 hour tour; start time 6pm)

Kilkenny Ghost Tour – an evening tour through Kilkenny’s past (family friendly)

​Kilkenny City Boat Trip ​- guided boat trip on the river Nore through the medieval city

​Irish Coffee Workshop​ – ay Kytler’s Inn (a spot with a witchy history)

Guided Cycling Tour – fun tour & family friendly

Medieval Mile Street Tour – includes museum entry

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Accommodations

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Butler House

The former dower house of Kilkenny Castle. Boutique styled rooms and a lovely garden. Direct access to the shops in the former stables & castle during the day.
Best for solo & couple stays.

Lawcus Farm Guesthouse

One of the most popular farm stays in Ireland. Family Suites & kitchenettes in some rooms.
Terrific for anyone who wants a terrific farm stay.

Croan Cottages

Self-catering farm stay about 20 minutes from Kilkenny City.
Very comfortable cottages and loads of animals.
Perfect for families with active kids or couples who want a rural stay.

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Lyrath Estate

17th century house with a modern hotel extension. Stay in historic manor or modern hotel. Just 10 minutes from Kilkenny City.
A special location for couples + large suites for families.