A Visit to Kells Priory, County Kilkenny

Mention Kells to anyone visiting Ireland and their thoughts move immediately to the Book of Kells, now housed at Trinity College in Dublin.  The famous book is associated with Kells, a heritage town in County Meath, not the beautiful medieval priory we visited in County Kilkenny.

We first ‘discovered' Kells in 2005, having gotten lost on our way to Dublin. Our memories of this nearly ‘hidden' site, its majestic space surrounded by quiet countryside, lured us back.

The Seven Castles at Kells Priory

At first glance you wouldn't recognize this as an Augustine priory; the walls enclose an area of almost 3 acres and with the seven tower houses spaced along the walls it appears more like an enclosed village. Locally known as”the Seven Castles”, the priory is maintained by the Office of Public Works and is free to enter and explore.  During our first visit much restoration was being done to the inner monastic buildings. In 2017 we found the scaffolding mostly gone and the grounds well maintained, introducing us to areas that had previously been hidden by overgrowth.

The priory has an intriguing past.  It was founded in 1193 by Geoffrey FitzRobert, brother-in-law to Strongbow.  During its first 150 years the priory was attacked and burned three times- including a Palm Sunday attack in 1326 by the Scottish army of Edward Bruce.  And in 1324 it saw an inquisition of heretics which led to Ireland's first “witch” being burnt at the stake.

The land surrounding Kells Priory is privately held.  You may have to dodge sheep droppings, but this site is well worth your time.  Since you have to be your own guide here, take a minute to stop by the post office in town and purchase a book about the Priory’s long and embattled history or purchase a copy of Neil Jackman's book Ireland's Ancient East prior to your trip (it is a great asset as you work to plan your itinerary!)

Click here to listen to Neil Jackman on the Traveling in Ireland Podcast

Free parking is available at the top of the hill overlooking the priory and the river.

Hutchinson's Mill on King's River

You can also access Kells Priory by parking on the other side of King's RIver at Hutchinson's Mill and follow the walkway.  The mill was built around 1800, which makes it quite new in relation to the priory.  It has two mill races, one still houses a water wheel.  The King's River is noted for its salmon fishing and hydro-power.