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A vibrant, flourishing city with a fascinating medieval history and a thriving crafts industry, Kilkenny is one of the south east of Ireland’s most appealing places to visit. Read More
Take a trip to Ireland’s top crafts county and have a few laughs while you’re at it!
An energetic county with rich historical roots, County Kilkenny is truly fascinating. Wander the cobbled streets of the Medieval Mile where Irish folklore is embedded in every step. Learn about its Norman heritage and delight in the amazing arts and crafts scene.
Explore the countryside taking in the scenic views and exploring monastic ruins. With cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and so many more great things to do in Kilkenny, you’ll be back time and time again. A vibrant, flourishing city with a fascinating medieval history and a thriving crafts industry, Kilkenny is one of the southeast of Ireland’s most appealing places to visit. For a quieter pace of life, head out into the unspoiled surrounding countryside where you’ll be lulled into submission by the tranquil River Nore and beautiful forest parks.
With an 800-year-old Norman castle looking over the ancient streets, Kilkenny has transformed itself into a hip cosmopolitan destination with a diverse range of restaurants, lively pubs and bars.
The city also hosts one of the world’s top comedy festivals, The Cat Laughs Comedy Festivals, with acts from all over the globe offering excellent entertainment.
For a quieter pace of life, head out into the unspoiled surrounding countryside where you’ll be lulled into submission by the tranquil River Nore and beautiful forest parks.
By Plane
The nearest major airport to Kilkenny is Dublin Airport offering direct flights from over 100 destinations around Europe, the USA and Middle East. Shannon Airport and Cork Airport are also accessible from Kilkenny.
By Sea
County Kilkenny is a convenient location for access to the Rosslare, Dublin and Cork car ferry ports. Ireland’s Eurport in Rosslare provides direct access to the U.K. and Continental Europe. Brittany Ferries operates services from Rosslare to both Roscoff and Cherbourg (France) and Bilbao (Spain). Stena Line operates services to Fishguard in the UK and Cherbourg, France. Irish Ferries offer daily services to Pembroke. DFDS operates a service between Rosslare and Dunkirk (France). Brittany Ferries operates a service between Cork-Roscoff (France).
By Bus
Bus Éireann provide services to County Kilkenny from Dublin and Waterford and also connections to Cork, Limerick and Galway.
By Train
The Dublin / Waterford line serves County Kilkenny with stations at Kilkenny City and Thomastown.
Castlecomer Discovery Park
Castlecomer Discovery Park and Visitor Centre consists of a wonderful 80 acre discovery park in the Castlecomer Demesne. The 80-acre activity park features a wide range of exciting activities for all ages with a playground, elf and fairy village, giant bouncing net and junior woodland adventure course. Paddle a canoe onto the lake, explore the walking trails and zoom along the treetops on Ireland’s longest zipline over water.
Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle is open all year round and is largely a Victorian remodelling of the thirteenth century defensive castle furnished with the family paintings and tapestries and objects d’art. Visitors can choose to explore the ancestral home of the Butler family with either a self guided visit or a guided tour. The visit of the Castle includes the dining room, Victorian nursery and the picture gallery with its hand painted hammer beam roof.
Smithwick’s Experience
Located in the heart of Kilkenny City, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is a multi-sensory experience that brings to life the history of Ireland’s oldest ale. Immerse yourself in the story of Smithwick’s, where over 300 years of history combine with extraordinary brewing innovations to create the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, and embark on a journey like no other
Nore Open Valley Farm
Your children are sure to talk about Nore Valley Park long after you’ve left it, as you plan your next visit to a destination with camping and caravan facilities, an activity centre and open farm. You can rent a mobile home or a lodge and the peaceful park in the valley is supervised at all times. Check out the TV room, pool room, a new children’s play area, crazy golf and archery at this family-friendly place just a short drive from the city of Kilkenny.
Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile and Medieval Mile Museum
Running through the centre of Kilkenny city, The Medieval Mile is a discovery trail linking St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Anglo-Norman castle and much more in between. The Medieval Mile Pass gives you access to everything on the trail, as well as discounts for various cafes and restaurants, and is the best value way to see the attractions along the route. The historic setting of The Medieval Mile Museum is 13th century St. Mary’s Church, now converted into a modern museum. Here, you’ll begin to understand the city’s medieval past as Kilkenny’s 800-year story is told using the best modern technology
Rothe House & Garden
Rothe House is a early 17th-century merchant’s home built in 1594, consisting of three separate town houses, three enclosed courtyards and a newly restored garden to the rear. It was built between 1594 and 1610, by a wealthy Kilkenny merchant, John Rothe Fitzpiers. Rothe House was his family home and place of business, as he was an importer of fine cloths and silks from England and the continent. He lived here with his wife, Rose Archer, and their twelve children. The Garden is a reconstruction of an early 17th-century Irish town garden, and includes a large orchard of fruit trees, complemented by a large vegetable and herb garden
Nore Valley Park Kilkenny
Low season mid-week offer – 3rd night half price Offer – 7 nights for the price of 6
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Yes, Kilkenny offers a great blend of cultural attractions and tranquil countryside. Campers can enjoy peaceful locations while still being close to the city’s medieval sites, vibrant arts scene, and family-friendly attractions.
Yes, there are campsites located within a short drive of Kilkenny City, making it easy to explore the Medieval Mile, local museums, and restaurants while staying in nature.
Absolutely. County Kilkenny offers a variety of family-friendly activities such as open farms, forest parks, historic sites, and fun attractions like Castlecomer Discovery Park.
Yes, the county is perfect for walkers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Scenic rivers, forest trails, and adventure parks provide plenty of ways to stay active during your stay.
Many campsites in the region are pet-friendly, but it’s always best to confirm the pet policy with each site before booking.
Kilkenny is well connected by road, train, and bus, with direct services from Dublin, Cork, and Waterford. It’s a convenient and scenic base for campers exploring the southeast of Ireland.
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