Welcome to Set Theatre, a state of the art 400 capacity music venue in Kilkenny, constructed in 2009, designed by the renowned David Collins Studio. Constructed in 2009 it is a state of the art venue which can hold 252 people seated and 400 standing/seated. A multipurpose room which can cater for music acts, comedy, film and conferencing amongst others.

This exciting, intimate venue plays host to a packed programme of shows throughout the year with top music acts, comedians, talks, tribute acts and more, making it one of the top venues in the south east of Ireland.

Ireland's Top Laser Tag Arena for Kids' Parties & Group Events

Are you ready for an exhilarating outdoor adventure that combines the thrill of combat with the safety and cleanliness you’ve been searching for? Look no further! LaserWars brings you the most advanced lasertag system, based on the proven military technology of MILES (Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System).

If you’ve ever enjoyed the excitement of paintball or airsoft, prepare to be blown away by LaserWars. We’ve taken the best elements of those games and eliminated their downsides. Safety is our top priority, which is why LaserWars is completely harmless and clean. Say goodbye to the need for goggles, masks, or overalls. Our game is played with lightweight weapons for everyone, including women and children, as well as full-size replicas for the “big kids” who want the most authentic experience.

Welcome to Lingaun Valley where history has meaning and its legend continues.

Legendary valley beneath the shadow of Sliabh na mBan. A wealth of ancient and historic sites are scattered along this path. The region is extremely rural in nature and has a strong tradition of farming.

There are many varied interesting sites in the Lingaun Valley, some of Christian and pre-Christian occupancy in the valley, High Crosses and probable monastic settlements, the industrial heritage of the Slate Quarries and the architecture of Ahenny village with houses built for the workers who were originally mainly from Wales. Ogham Stones from the 9th century at Lamogue – with the oldest form of written old Irish language inscribed, Knockroe Passage Tomb constructed more than 5000 years ago with its unique alignment to the sunrise and the sunset on the day of the Winter Solstice each year.

This is part of a collection of interconnected Megalithic sites in the area, some of which are on private land.

Come and see for yourself how the Lingaun River flows though time, the enchantment and mysteries of Ireland’s historic and pre-historic past coupled with the beauty and tranquility of the present day countryside.

The Hot Box Sauna in an outdoor Finnish Sauna perched on the banks of the River Barrow at Graiguenamanagh-Tinnahinch.  Guests spend 45 minutes sessions between the sauna and the river using the flowing water as a natural plunge pool to cool off between bursts in the heat.    

Bookings can be made with ease on our website www.thehotboxsauna.ie 

Kayak & SUP tours and paddling on river Nore, Kilkenny.

Take an easy paddle upriver with us in the peace and tranquility of the river Nore where you will learn some of Kilkenny’s rich history and wildlife. Pass old sites including former Kilkenny College, Kilkenny Castle, St Johns Bridge, The Carnegie Library, Former Smithwick’s Brewery with a view of St Canice’s Cathedral. Learn about the use of water power for Kilkenny industry and float down leisurely taking in Kilkenny from the river.

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European Artistic Craft Day -  https://www.journeesdesmetiersdart.fr/europe/ireland/

The Historical Harp Society of Ireland brings to life a lost sound world. Founded in 2002, it leads a rediscovery of Ireland’s illustrious medieval musical instrument, depicted in the national emblem: the early Irish harp. Join us for our annual summer festival in Kilkenny, Ireland and live online to rediscover, and immerse yourself, in the music and traditions of Gaeldom's exquisite, ancient harp.

Visit irishharp.org for information on all of our events and resources.

Celebrating Irish music, culture and creativity with a big festival in a small city!

15th - 18th March 2024

During the St. Patrick’s Festival, Kilkenny city and county come alive with pageantry, craic agus ceol. Centred around the St. Patrick’s Day Parade but stretching across the weekend, visitors can enjoy the thrill of American Marching Bands, a parade of local colour, interactive workshops for all ages and the best in live Irish music at Kilkenny Tradfest. All in a small intimate city that’ll make you feel right at home.

St. Patrick’s Day may be celebrated all around the world but there is nothing quite like celebrating it in Ireland. With a packed St. Patrick’s Festival programme, a wealth of heritage and culture, and so much to do and see, Kilkenny is the perfect place to spend St. Patrick’s 2024!

Festival activities include:
- St. Patrick's Day Parade
- Street Entertainment
- Live Music
- Interactive Workshops
- The Big Wheel
...Plus lots more special events to be announced!

For more information check out the website and social media channels.

Website – Facebook – Instagram – Twitter

Visit Smithwick’s and Experience Ireland’s most popular ale.

Here in the heart of historic Kilkenny, we’re less than 90 minutes from Dublin. We’re less than a 10 minute stroll from the iconic Kilkenny Castle, and are very proud to be part of Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile.

Immerse yourself in the story of Smithwick’s, told as only a local knows how. Where 300 years of history combine with extraordinary brewing innovations, to create the Smithwick’s tour – an experience like no other.

Our experience is the perfect way to enjoy a pint of your favourite Smithwick’s Ale, right in the heart of Kilkenny. Why not take the opportunity to upgrade your ticket and taste our red ale, pale ale and Kilkenny beer? (You might even have a new favourite by the end of your tour.)

Nothing beats getting stuck in and experiencing some hands on experiences. As part of your tour, you’ll have the chance to mill the malt, stir the mash and smell the hops, just as you would in the brewing process.

Get ready to experience a tour with more than a few surprises along the way. Our local guides are waiting to introduce you to some very memorable characters, as you’re transported back in time.

Premium Tour – Masters of Ales

Join our Masters of Ale tour and learn about the evolution of ale and how the Smithwick’s family played a prominent role. With sensory touchpoints along the way, the tour includes sensorial masterclass where you’ll isolate the senses and break down the raw ingredients across different ale styles. Finish with a guided tutorial on how to pour the perfect pint of Smithwick’s!

- Guided Sensorial Tour
- Welcome Refreshment
- Tasting Masterclass of 4 Ales
- Pint Pouring Tutorial
- Engraved Glass Gift Memento
- Over 18s Only

Sensory-friendly Visits

Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny has partnered with Ireland’s National Autism Charity, AsIAm, to offer sensory friendly hours and ensure that autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals can visit the Kilkenny city centre site with confidence. Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny will provide designated low-sensory tours. The first tour/early hours of selected sensory friendly days will include noise and light reduction. This will involve turning down music, dimming lighting and more. All three experiences will also offer one free carer ticket per customer, if required.

Sensory kits are available at reception, along with visual guides of the buildings and sensory maps year round. During the designated sensory friendly tours, additional signage will be placed around the buildings, marking high sensory areas. Staff have been trained by AsIAm.ie to better understand how to cater to customers with autism or neuro divergencies.

Savour the taste of Kilkenny this October Bank Holiday weekend!

27th - 30th October 2023

One of Ireland’s favourite food festivals, Savour Kilkenny marks the end of autumn in the stunning setting of Kilkenny’s Medieval city. Known for its diversity and quality of food producers, distilleries, breweries, restaurants and cafés, Kilkenny is home to some of Ireland’s and Europe’s best food.

Taking place over the October bank holiday weekend Savour Kilkenny brings visitors on a journey of discovery and taste that will truly awaken the senses! With a programme that showcases the very best of Kilkenny and Irish products, chefs and culinary ideas.

Expect talks from experts, demos from top chefs, unique dining experiences and all the food stalls you can imagine packaged into a festive atmosphere in the beautiful surrounds of Kilkenny city. Entry to the Savour Market and the majority of cookery demos and talks is free!

A visit to Savour is the perfect foodie weekend away or day trip with the family. Follow @SavourKilkenny for programme announcements and the latest event news.

This is a weekend you won’t want to miss so get planning and book your trip to Kilkenny for the October Bank Holiday weekend!

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Gaelic games form part of the flavour of Kilkenny, from UPMC Nowlan Park in Kilkenny city to each of the 41 clubs, to be found in every parish in the county, from Clooneen in the north to Glenmore in the south.  The GAA represents our national games and there is nowhere quite like Kilkenny to experience it. Kilkenny is known as the home of the hurling thanks to the county's continued success in the sport over the years.

Kilkenny GAA promotes all our gaelic games:

• Hurling
• Gaelic football
• Camogie
• Ladies Gaelic football
• Handball

The Kilkenny Senior Hurling team has, since the turn of the Millennium, been the most successful hurling team ever. This success has been founded upon our club games which are run throughout the spring, summer and autumn culminating in our local championship finals in UPMC Nowlan Park. In recent years, the Kilkenny Senior Camogie team has also been one of the most successful teams in the country, with their success again based on the thriving camogie club competitions in Kilkenny.

While football is not as strong in Kilkenny as in some other counties, our footballers participate in national competitions at the appropriate level. In recent years, our underage club footballers have competed at national level while Kilkenny Ladies Football continues to develop.

Handball flourishes in Kilkenny with many national and international champions representing Kilkenny. Handball alleys can be found throughout the the county. Click here for information on handball fixtures. Wherever you are in Kilkenny, you will find the true flavour of Kilkenny at our Gaelic Games.

Click here for a list of all GAA Clubs

Click here for fixtures and results of GAA matches

Discover ‘live’ dinosaurs at the new ‘Jurassic Newpark’ farm and adventure trail at the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny.

‘Jurassic Newpark’ will feature an interactive walk-through experience with life-sized robotic dinosaurs that move and roar. Prehistoric species on display will include Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Brachiosaurus, Velociraptor, and dinosaur eggs, making it the ultimate experience for any Dino fan!

Tickets include access to all areas! Jurassic Newpark, Wildlife Farm, Fairy Trail & Adventure Trail.

Hotel Residents can visit the park complimentary throughout their stay.

Barnstorm is passionate about creating inspirational and transformative theatre for children, young people, and adults. We produce a comprehensive programme of professional productions for young Kilkenny and national audiences and arts participation programmes for Kilkenny’s youth and community sectors.

Our Kilkenny Youth Theatre is open to all teens from 10 – 18.

Enjoy a light-hearted evening of songs & stories from Irish folklore by the talented Ollie Grace in Bollards Bar in Kilkenny City centre.

Shows will run every Thursday evening in Bollards Bar until the end of September. 

Ollie is a native of County Kilkenny with a deep passion for music and folklore. He has extensive experience performing shows on his own and with others across the world. He is a registered Irish National Tour Guide with more than 20 years experience working in tourism and heritage. Ollie's previous show ran for over 14 years in the Brazen Head Pub in Dublin and he has been consistently rated on Trip Advisor as one of the top evening entertainments in Dublin.

Now, back in Kilkenny Ollie's show "The Hidden Folklore of Ireland" is one not to be missed.

Explore:

• Our earliest customs and beliefs from our Celtic past
• The world of the imagination, the spiritual, the mysterious, the unseen and including of course the world of The Irish Fairies
• How our people lived their daily lives, the houses they lived in and the crucial importance of the potato to their survival
• Our songs and story-telling which still have such joy, meaning and importance for us
• The lightness and laughter that shaped us as a people and helped us to survive and thrive down through many difficult centuries

The show will have particular emphasis on our rich heritage of songs and music. This will involve a degree of spirited audience participation!

The Book & Coffee Shop is located on William Street in the heart of Kilkenny City. They specialise in quality second hand books, literary gifts, home made cakes and coffee. The look forward to welcoming visitors to browse through their selection of books and gifts for sale.

They accept online payment by credit, debit card or Paypal. They also have a call and collect service.

Book and Coffee shop tokens available for any amount. Valid for all time. Can be exchanged for books, gifts, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, cakes etc. 

Click Here for a 360 Tour of The Book & Coffee Shop.

Music in Kilkenny brings international and Irish artists of exceptional quality to perform in beautiful and historic venues of this medieval City and County.

Music in Kilkenny, in existence for more than twenty years, presents two seasons of concerts annually from September to May. They provide a performance platform for world class artists from Ireland and abroad. Their diverse programming includes classical music in all its forms: from medieval to contemporary, traditional Irish music, world music and Jazz. They benefit from the many beautiful venues throughout Kilkenny City and County.

Hydrobike Rental

Hydrobikes - the most exciting new water adventure experience in Ireland to “Explore The Nore like Never Before!”

Hydrobikes provide a gentle, low-impact aerobic total body workout; but it all depends on how fast you pedal. Take a hydrobike out for a leisurely ride along the Nore, a fast cardio workout, photography session, or a spot of fishing. They are non polluting, easy to ride, lightweight, safe, stable and are the perfect way to experience water sports. Hydrobikes are super dog friendly, and your furry friend will love the ride as much as you will. They are easy to ride and suitable for adventurers from ages 8 upwards. 

Hydrobikes are single-seated, one person per bike with a minimum age requirement of 8. 

Life Jacket included in cost. 

Quick Details: 

Duration: 1 hour
Availability: Daily

Adult 18+
€25

Child up to 17 years
€15

Stay

The elegant grandeur of a magnificent Georgian Manor House. The chic sophistication of Hunter’s Yard. Our two residences draw on centuries of local Irish history to weave a rich tapestry of vibrant stories and memorable moments for every guest who stays with us… All wrapped up in the very finest contemporary comforts, state-of-the-art facilities and breath-taking surroundings imaginable.

Whether it is our Jack Nicklaus signature-designed golf course that draws your eye, or our Michelin-starred restaurant, or the chance to soak up surroundings that have seduced and thrilled guests in countless years gone by: we’d love for you to add your own experiences to the Mount Juliet story. Become part of our history, today. Stay with us.

Experience

There is a legacy to the Mount Juliet experience that stretches far beyond the luxury of the bedrooms and the decadence of the dining options. Perhaps you feel the urge to thunder through open pastures and traipse across woodland trails on horseback. Maybe you want to feel the tug on your line and the splash from the River Nore as a salmon takes your bait. And have you ever felt the singular rush of an arrow flying forth from your bow or a falcon swooping down to land at your command?

We offer a unique range of activities on the estate, unparalleled in the way they combine deep-seated historical traditions with the best modern equipment and practices.

Dine

Just like the former Lady of the house after whom it is named, The Lady Helen restaurant is an iconic part of the Mount Juliet story and lives long in the memory of all who visit.  The Michelin-starred restaurant has become a true destination for diners, who long to experience the way that Head Chef John Kelly takes locally sourced produce to soaring new heights with every dish. Against a stunning backdrop of rolling pastoral views, Kelly and his team offer a culinary experience that is conjured from that very land, with many of the dishes using ingredients from the Mount Juliet estate and local suppliers just a stone’s throw beyond its walls. Across varied tasting menus and a carefully composed table d’hote, our dedicated team combine influences from around the world with the most evocative of Irish traditions.

Our Story

Like all the best stories, Mount Juliet Estate is, at heart, a love story. Built on a ridge overlooking the River Nore by the first Earl of Carrick, it is named after his beloved wife, Lady Julianna Butler. In the centuries that followed, the estate experienced the fullness of Irish history, a magnificent icon of Kilkenny that changed with the world around it and the distinctive characters that occupied it, yes, but never lost the qualities that guests can still enjoy to this day.

The story of Mount Juliet is an ongoing one, in which our family of staff and all of our guests play a part.

Manor House

The Manor House is the beating heart of the estate and has been ever since the first Earl of Carrick and his wife Juliet first made it their home in 1750. Step through its pillared entranceway and you enter a place out of time: lovingly preserved for the present-day; intimately updated in the most faithful manner.

A sense of romance – of people and place and time turned into something truly special – touches every inch of the Manor House, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the 32 unique bedrooms. While many of them share their captivating views of the River Nore and the paddocks of the Ballylinch Stud, each one is individually designed and named after a famous figure connected with the area or estate.

Hunters Yard

Hunter’s Yard takes the ideals and attention to detail that have made the Manor House so special for so long, and channels them into an entirely new type of residence. The 93 rooms that make up Hunter’s Yard offer a haven-like retreat from the everyday for the whole family; a luxurious habitat for winding down from time spent exploring the estate or playing on the golf course.

Every room offers the most inviting of modern amenities and furnishings, all wrapped up in a light and airy ambience.

Book your stay today Mount Juliet Estate Autograph Collection

Our Video

Click Here for the Latest Deals

Jenkinstown House is the perfect glamping hideaway located just 15 minutes from Kilkenny City. Located on the grounds of a truly magnificent residence are self catering Shepherds Huts, the perfect choice for those seeking to immerse themselves on a relaxing escape in the stunning Kilkenny countryside. 

Jenkinstown House has been the subject of a major programme of renovation and redecorated to provide an extremely elegant residence. Every design detail has been meticulously considered in the restoration to create a fine landmark in the Kilkenny countryside. Great flair and craftmanship has gone into creating a stunning property which retains its period style with accommodation fit for the 21st century.

Glamping

Plan your bespoke getaway in one of their Shepherds Huts located on the grounds of Jenkinstown House. Each hut is self-catering with a kitchenette and ensuite bathroom. Each hut has it’s own patio complete with deck chairs, table and parasol. A garden door gives you direct access into Jenkinstown Woods which offers lovely walks, woodland trails and picnic areas.

Event Spaces
The Drawing Room is the perfect space to host your after-dinner coffee or afternoon tea. Decorated in the Renaissance style it is complete with outstanding views of the Kilkenny countryside.

The Gothic Hall is an impressive example of Gothic architecture. The Main entrance to the house leads to this great hall complete with 2 fireplaces and a 16-seater banquet table. Candleabras are available to complete the desired atmosphere of candle-lit dining. Suitable for wedding parties, birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, business conferences.

The Thomas Moore Theatre is a 106-seater live venue. With tiered seating and acoustically-treated walls and ceiling it provides the ideal atmosphere to experience whatever entertainment you would like to provide on the stage. The space can be used for anything from film screenings to lectures, weddings to music recitals, or drama rehearsals or performances.

Weddings

Plan your special day at Jenkinstown House with bespoke chapel, banquet hall, drawing room and outdoor courtyard. The grounds of the historic house, as well as Jenkinstown Woods on the doorstep, offer unique photo opportunities to capture your special day. Get in touch for more details.

Bridies is an old-world bar, pub and general store with a charming walled garden to the rear. It is very popular with locals, and serves the best pint of Guinness. Hidden in the middle of Kilkenny's Medieval City, it's charm and old world style make this small bar the perfect place to meet your friends or to maybe make some new ones. It is part of Langton's Hotel Kilkenny and is named after one of the original founders of Langton’s, Bridie Langton.  Bridie’s Bar & General Store is certainly not one to be missed. 

The General Store is located at the front and has a beautiful old-world charm. The shop which is stocked with a mix of old quarter sweet jars, cards, gifts and pastries, is one of Kilkenny’s most photographed buildings. Bridies Store offers high quality specialty coffee produced by skilled baristas together with a large selection of homemade pastries, sauces, oils and treats, prepared daily on-site.

It also serves as a gift shop, boasting Irish made goods, like our large Voya range, Chunky Knits by Lisa, Soah Flowers & so much more.Entered through saloon doors reminiscent of a speak easy. The chat is always plentiful and only on big match days is a TV allowed into the Bar.To the back there is a long-walled Garden. Dotted down the garden are bus shelters where you can sit and enjoy the outdoors with a beer in hand, maybe even in the sunshine!  It is an escape from the hustle and bustle.If you are any way curious, then why not discover the charm of Bridies Bar & General Store.

Bridies Award winning garden is found by passing through the quirky sweet & gift shop and the snug old wold bar. When the sun shines, Bridies Garden is the perfect place to unwind. Enjoy the walled Gardens, bus shelters and the colourful blooms and planting whilst listening to some music. Why not join us for a beer in Bridies Garden and soak up the sun with friends and escape from the hustle and bustle of Kilkenny City.

 Bridies Bar and General Store is part of Langtons Hotel in Kilkenny City, renowned particularly for its impeccable customer service, good wholesome cuisine and genuine welcome. Visit www.langtons.ie.

Biddy Earlys Kilkenny

Kilkenny's best Cocktail and Party Bar has been slinging shots, mixing drinks and giving nights to remember since 1996. Visit Biddy Early's and we'll get your party going - you won't want to leave. You will find them on John Street in the center of Kilkenny's nightlife.

COCKTAIL HAPPY HOUR
Monday - Thursday: 12 noon - till 8pm
Friday - Sunday: 12 noon - till 6pm

What's on

There's always something on with nightly entertainment including: Karaoke, Live Bands, DJ sets, Private Cocktail Classes, Whisky Tasting and Sipping Masterclasses.

Find out more about What's On in Biddy Earlys or check out their Facebook page.

The luxurious 4 star Newpark Hotel has centuries of heritage steeped in its walls. It rests on the edge of medieval Kilkenny City, a cultural gem of festivals and historical sites. This family-friendly Kilkenny hotel is the ideal base for exploring the city and its surrounds. Local attractions include Kilkenny Castle, the Cathedral of St. Canice and Round Tower and the Medieval Mile to name but a few. However, there is no need to leave the property to enjoy a break away. It is located on over 40 acres of parkland and offers luxuriously appointed guest rooms. Also on offer are mouth-watering dining options, a fully equipped Health Club & luxurious Spa and magnificent gardens. A go karting track, animal petting farm, playground and more importantly a fairy trail are provided to make that family trip extra special.

The Flynn family have a renowned reputation for a warm welcome and true hospitality in this Kilkenny hotel.  A relaxed atmosphere has been created and an outstanding experience for all guests. The stylish guest rooms offer unparalleled luxury not to mention astounding views over the luscious, green gardens. The view extends as far as the Urban Fen walk, with acres of peaceful parkland as far as the eye can see.

Also available are elegant banqueting suites, suitable for a large or intimate Kilkenny wedding and spacious conference facilities. The dedicated team at the Newpark Hotel will ensure all your needs are met whether you are staying for business or pleasure.

Book Now and enjoy a stay at Newpark Hotel Kilkenny today!

For Hotel Deals Click Here 

The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is a multi-award winning four star hotel with 118 well appointed guestrooms, HOBAN Bar & Brasserie, Leisure Club and a host of versatile meeting and banqueting spaces.

The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is Kilkenny’s premier, four star city centre hotel; with accessible car parking and free WiFi. It is located next to Kilkenny City landmarks such as the magical Kilkenny Castle, the intriguing St. Canice’s Cathedral, Medieval Rothe House and just a few steps away from the finest boutiques, theatres, bars and restaurants, not to mention the hotels own restaurant, bar and lounge, leisure club with the city's only gym and 21m pool, conference, wedding and private function facilities.

The inviting atmosphere of Savour Restaurant provides the perfect setting to start the day. And over a wholesome or even a hearty breakfast, guests discover homemade breads, scones and preserves from Chef David Oulton and his team; including the brown soda and sourdough breads from the bakery that also makes the signature homemade Madeira cake
that guests so enjoy.

HOBAN Bar & Brasserie is fabulously glamorous with a distinctly Art Deco feel. A cosy snug and warm fire provides the perfect backdrop to an extensive Cocktail and drinks list. A palette of rich peacock blue and russet orange combine with soft leathers, velvet and brass to give a warm ambiance to this contemporary brasserie – the perfect spot to relax after a busy day's sightseeing or to treat yourself after stressful week at work.

The Ormonde Leisure Club set out comfortably over two floors offers a friendly service with guest needs at the centre of its operations. Get moving on the broad range of gym equipment or be invigorated with our Fitness Classes, or perhaps, for a more relaxed mood, take time our in out 21m deck level pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi or Steam Room.

Set spaciously over two floors, all 10 meeting and conference rooms offer natural daylight, complimentary WiFi access, air conditioning and inclusive audio visual equipment. The ideal choice of conference venues in Kilkenny.

Facilities: Sauna, Fitness centre, Golf course (within 3 km), Jacuzzi, Indoor pool, Bicycle rental, Water sports facilities, Restaurant, Bar, Snack bar, Special diet menus, Free! WiFi, 24-hour front desk, Luggage storage, Room service, Meeting/banquet facilities, Business centre, Laundry, Dry cleaning, VIP room facilities, Ironing service, Bridal suite, Currency exchange, Packed lunches, Car hire, Tour desk, Fax/Photocopying, Trouser press, Vending machine, Non-Smoking rooms, Facilities for disabled guests and heating.

Visit KilkennyOrmonde.com and book your stay today!

For Hotel Deals Click Here 

The luxury, sophistication and style of Lyrath Estate are unsurpassed among Kilkenny hotels. Lyrath Estate is a multi-award winning hotel, spa and luxury wedding venue offering some of the finest accommodation, dining, and conference facilities in Ireland. Located amidst 170 acres of mature parkland, the Estate is home to a host of native wildlife including ducks, rabbits, hares, and squirrels. Lyrath Estate is a family-friendly hotel, boasting a leisure centre with a 17m swimming pool, 22 seater private screening room, outdoor playground and Reilly’s Fun Club. Guests can also avail of activities such as archery, falconry, cycling and walks throughout the Estate.

Escape and unwind with romantic breaks at Lyrath Estate – enjoy fine dining at our Two AA Rosette winning Yew Restaurant, rejuvenate with an Oasis Spa signature treatment, such as the award-winning Neroli Blossom Ritual, enjoy afternoon tea in The Atrium and catch up over cocktails in Tupper’s Bar! Try a tomahawk steak or lobster in the casual chic Grill & Bar.

The historic setting, exceptional facilities and exquisite food, mean Lyrath Estate is the ultimate wedding venue in Kilkenny. The award-winning Oasis spa voted 'Irish Tatler Hotel Spa of the year' is a popular destination for spa days & pamper breaks in Ireland not to mention among Kilkenny hotels.  The Kilkenny Convention Centre, part of Lyrath Estate, is the largest convention/conference venue in Kilkenny, with state of the art facilities, natural daylight and ample free parking we can cater for up to 1500 delegates theatre style, or 850 for a gala dinner.

Book your stay today in this top class hotel www.lyrath.com

Check Out the Latest Lyrath Estate Deals Now 

Shankill Castle has been home to the Cope family since 1991. They have opened up their vibrant house and gardens for visitors to experience the history behind the castle.

Take a stroll through the gardens which are deeply soaked in Victorian history. There are remnants of 18th-century lime alles and 19th-century laurel lawns which give you an idea how long the land dates back.

The Coach House Cafe in the gardens aim is to share seasonal, local and organic food prepared from scratch in their kitchen, using the bounty of the walled garden and organic farm. The simple, wholesome menu covers light lunch, weekend brunch, artisan tea, organic coffee and a spread of homemade cakes and treats. Keep an eye on their What’s On page for special pop-up food events as they are always worth experiencing. As well as using their own produce, Shankill works closely with local suppliers to bring you the best local produce that can be found on their simple, wholesome menu.

Shankill Castle is home to Elizabeth Cope, whose work fills and colours the walls of the house and café. Elizabeth’s energy and creativity infuses everything they do at Shankill. Studio visits can be arranged by appointment which we highly recommend looking into.

Shankill Gardens and Coach House café open Thursday to Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kilkenny Foodie Tours offers food tasting and cultural walking tours through Kilkenny's medieval narrow streets and alleyways. On their tours, you will visit local artisan food producers and meet the owners who share their insight on the delicious tastes found in the historic city.  From world-class produce and exceptional seafood to unbeatable whiskey, there is so much to discover in Kilkenny.

Kilkenny Foodie Tours organises Foodie Day Trip to Kilkenny.

Visit chocolatiers, take a guided tour of Ballykeefe gin distillery, and more artisan food and experiences in this chauffeur-driven guided tour of Kilkenny County’s top food and craft producers.

QUICK DETAILS

For the itinerary or to book click here.

Hire Canoes and accessories from Paddle Your Own Canoe for 1 to 5 days canoe and camping adventures, experience the wonders and delights of the barrow River.

Do you dream about escaping stress for a couple of days and drifting down a river in a canoe?  Or setting off on an adventure and getting back to nature for a holiday, a break or something new with friends, family or work colleagues?  Paddle Your Own Canoe offers you the opportunity to rent a canoe and camping gear and organise your multi day trip down the River Barrow. Pass through beautiful countryside, villages, towns and historical sites on a journey with Paddle Your Own Canoe . 

This modern, chic hotel is Kilkenny’s largest 4* hotel and is decorated with Italian marble, French wallpaper and custom pieces of furniture throughout. Hotel Kilkenny will ensure you feel immersed in style and ready to relax. This 138 bedroom hotel is located just off the Ring Road with plenty of free car parking available & fast speed wifi throughout the hotel.

Relax in the 5* Leisure Centre with a 20 metre pool, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room.  Dine in either Taste Restaurant or the funky 1831 Rosehill Bar which offers an extensive drinks, wine and cocktail list including some specialist drinks carefully assembled by the Pure team. The food menu has been crafted to offer a great variety of dishes to suit all needs.

Renowned for weddings & the impeccable service, Hotel Kilkenny also offers a vast range of conference and meeting space.  Whether its a private party, large conference or small meeting room, we cater for all events.

Base yourself in Hotel Kilkenny and explore the wonderful medieval city that is part of Irelands Ancient East. Book your stay today www.Hotelkilkenny.ie

Click Here for Hotel Deals

Take a guided boat tour of Kilkenny in a traditional Irish Open-Boat on the historic river Nore as it flows through the city. Learn of the often unspoken and local history that the river holds. Witness the wildlife that thrive in the urban environment and that have shared the waterways with man for thousands of years. See Kilkenny as both invaders and settlers did, entering the city by boat. Be sure to bring your camera as you'll have the opportunity to capture some very unique views of Kilkenny including a rarely viewed angle of the Castle, as seen from river level.  

The guides are friendly, entertaining and possess a love for the job they do. You'll find the boat trips relaxing, informative and most of all memorable. To get a feel of what to expect, have a look at this fantastic video.

The 30 minute trips in Kilkenny are by group booking only due to Covid 19.

For more information, call Cliff on 00 353 (0)87 2061999.

Ormonde Language Tours offers walking tours of Kilkenny in English, French and German. Each kilkenny walking tour is conducted in one language by John, a history loving native of Kilkenny. John is studying modern languages with the Open University and he has also completed the National Tour Guide training course. John will show you the best of Kilkenny city and you will be amazed by our fascinating history. You can book a tour online and if you request a tour in your language at a different time, just ask.

Kilkenny has many fabulous sights to see. Old ecclesiastical monuments such as St. Canice’s Cathedral, St. Francis and the Black Abbey. Medieval buildings such as Shee Alms house, Kytler’s Inn and Rothe House. Our most well-known building though is Kilkenny Castle, originally built in the 12th century, much of the current building comes from this period and is mixed with a 19th century remodelling. The river Nore flows through the city centre and is crossed by five bridges in the city. After you have finished your walking tour, take a stroll through the castle park. Kilkenny has a vibrant nightlife and also some of the best restaurants in Ireland and boasts having one of Ireland’s 16 Michelin star restaurants. We have plenty of superb casual eateries as well. Kilkenny has a very creative craft scene and many studios can be visited.

Walk through Ireland’s most beautiful city with Ormonde Language Tours and admire the fantastic scenery. Stroll along the river Nore and appreciate the view of the Blackstairs mountains in the distance. Visit Kilkenny’s architectural heritage dating back to the 9th century. Learn about the many important people native to Kilkenny with your guide who is Kilkenny native and speaks French and German. If you are short on time, a walking tour with Ormonde Language Tours is the ideal way to get to know Kilkenny. 

TOUR MEETING POINT

Nicholas Mosse Pottery was established by Nicholas Mosse in 1976 after periods of training in England and Japan. His mission was to produce beautiful, functional pottery in the style of Irish Spongeware. Irish spongeware was the traditional pottery of Ireland used in the 18th Century. It was mainly made in simple honest shapes with a decoration applied with a cut sponge.

From their pottery mill in Kilkenny the team at Nicholas Mosse create a range of beautiful pottery for all occasions. Each of the pieces are made by hand and crafted with the greatest care for detail. Inspired by the rural surroundings, the patterns capture the charm of Irish country-living and bring it straight to your home. Visit their Irish Country Shop and Cafe to experience how they make their pottery or buy their best selling pieces and patterns online. 

Located in the heart of one of Ireland’s most vibrant cities, W.H.Good ltd, or ‘Goods of Kilkenny’ as it is known was founded in 1927 by William Henry Good, who first opened a small shoe shop at no. 90 High Street. Later the store grew and expanded to include clothing and linens.

During the sixties his son, Vivian Good joined the business and the expansion and development of the store continued for what was to become a 5 decade period, seeing the addition of a basement in 1977 to house the expanding shoe business and in the early 1990’s the extension of the second floor along with the addition of a lift to service all four floors.

These additions increased the stores retail space to 20,000 sq ft consolidating Goods’ position as Kilkenny’s leading Department store.

In 2004 Goods underwent a major refurbishment and refocusing program which saw the whole store being refitted and modernised as well as the addition of some top national and International brands. The store now focuses on fashion, lingerie, cosmetics, footwear and accessories for stylish women of all ages.

Redefine your Steak-House experience at Butcher Restaurant in the Heart of Kilkenny. Quality contemporary food & Cocktails are served in their relaxed and intimate restaurant. Enjoy the finest cuts in the best company!​

When visiting Butcher Restaurant guests are sitting just nine miles from Summerhill Farm, Thomastown, where they rear their own traditional breeds including purebred Hereford, Galloway and Aberdeen Angus. These cows are born and raised at Summerhill and are grass fed for 10 months of the year. The restaurant host, Mark Williams is a 6th generation beef farmer at Summerhill Farm. Mark has been supplying beef to top restaurants around Ireland since the 1990's which is how he met their Head Chef James Dewberry and was inspired to open this restaurant, Butcher in the heart of this medieval city.

The former St Mary’s Church has been converted into a modern museum, and is a venue for select events and exhibitions. Designed to enrich the cultural life of the city and provide a new international standard attraction for visitors the museum has several functions: as the starting point for understanding Kilkenny’s medieval history, to display Kilkenny’s Civic Treasures and replicas of some of Ossory High Crosses and to provide a space for temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

The 13th century St Mary’s church and graveyard is the finest example of a medieval church in Ireland. As the starting point of the ‘Medieval Mile’ trail, it brings to life Kilkenny’s history as Ireland’s premier medieval city. Displays of Kilkenny’s civic treasures and replicas of some of the High Crosses of Ossory illustrate the local Gaelic monastic heritage and the ancient city’s historic role in Ireland.

Kilkenny’s 800-year story is told with a contemporary twist within the new museum. The customer experience contains a long colourful interactive table similar to a giant iPad, an elongated plasma TV screen and projected imagery onto a giant wall allowing visitors to get immersed in the rich history with the aid of modern technology.

Visitors to the museum will come face to face with the physical remains of people who walked the streets of Kilkenny centuries ago, and will discover how forensic analysis has revealed many of their secrets in the brand new cutting-edge exhibition 3 Lives, 3 Deaths, One Life Unlived.

The wonderful, welcoming Museum Guides and Assistants cannot wait to help you safely experience the Medieval Mile Museum, and tell you their wonderful stories…

For your health and safety the Team at the Museum have introduced set entry times and designed a new Interactive Audio Tour which can be downloaded directly to your device.

Since 1934, Newbridge Silverware has been Ireland’s premier designer and producer of homeware, jewellery and giftware products and it is this unique history of craftsmanship and experience, combined with a contemporary and fresh attitude to design, that puts Newbridge Silverware on the cutting edge of modern living.

At Hurling Tours Ireland, we provide a unique cultural Irish experience for visitors. Established in the home of hurling, Kilkenny, we give guests an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Irish culture, by attempting our most ancient sport, hurling. Hurling is a game steeped in tradition and history, played with a passion and intensity that is unmatched in any other sport.

You would be mad to visit Ireland and not try our unique and national sport. You will discover the history of hurling and how in 2023 it is still the fastest field game in the world. This is all done inside  a Hurling team's dressing room in Kilkenny City, giving you that up-close, intense matchday experience. Once you are up-to-date on the basics of the game, we take you on to the 'field of dreams' to try a few skills for yourself. This will be an unforgettable experience that will always be remembered long into the future. We give everyone an opportunity to take a shot at the goalposts, and score like the Kilkenny Cats so often do.

We have had visitors from many different nationalities and backgrounds fall in love with Hurling and the culture it creates in Ireland. Visitors from Canada, USA and Australia even promising to join a GAA Club when they return home, it is never too late to try new things and why not the sport that is at the heart of Irish culture and community.

Our other location is halfway between Kilkenny and the Rock of Cashel in the picturesque village of Freshford. Here customers will receive an exciting and culturally immersive introduction to our native sport before making their way to the local hurling field next door. Check us out on TripAdvisor to see reviews from past visitors.

Located in the lush Barrow river valley Cushendale is the oldest woollen mill in Ireland, with a heritage dating back to when the monks of Duiske Abbey first established a mill on this site in 1204.  Today, Cushendale is one of only two remaining vertical mills in Ireland where every stage, from fleece to fabric, is completed on site at this historic woollen mill.  A six generation family business, Cushendale creates lifelong yarns and textiles, rich in provenance, craftsmanship and sustainability.

Visit the mill shop where authentic Irish products in Irish wool, lambswool and mohair are showcased against the backdrop of this historic working mill.

[video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://visitkilkenny.ie/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Cushendale-from-fleece-to-fabric-for-six-generations.mp4"][/video]

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 17:30

Saturday: 10:30 - 17:30

Closed daily 12.30-13.30

Closed Sundays & Bank Holidays

Click here to Shop Online Now 

Visit Kilkenny Union Workhouse, adjacent to Kilkenny Train Station, now beautifully restored as MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre to take this FREE audio visual self-led tour.

Hear the heartbreaking and poignant human stories recorded in local newspaper articles and minute books from the Board of Guardians, a true reflection of the Kilkenny Famine Experience from the perspective of the Workhouse inmates and staff.

A great pub located in Stoneyford, Kilkenny just a short distance from Mount Juliet, that offers the best craic and great music. Malzards offers a traditional Irish Pub experience, with traditional Irish instruments available for you to play, or sing along with the local musicians in the bar.
Learn how to hurl: in a relaxed, fun environment, learn all about Ireland's ancient Gaelic game of hurling with neighbours, young and old will love it!

G.L. Ryan Jewellers is located in the heart of the medieval city of Kilkenny, the vibrant heartbeat of the south-east. With its narrow paved streets and pedestrianised shopping areas, lively evening cafes and nightlife.

Located on High Street, the main shopping street, we are directly across from the entrance to the Market Cross, Kilkenny's premier shopping centre, with ample car-parking close by.

Whether you're getting engaged or just looking for that perfect gift? At Ryan Jewellers we have been helping people find the right quality jewellery for all occasions for over 70 years.

Visit: www.ryanjewellers.ie

JJ Kavanagh & Sons has 101 years Coach Hire experience offering high-quality transportation for any group size or organization across Ireland, UK and Europe. 100% Irish owned and has developed from being one of the first private providers of public transport, into the largest privately owned coach company in Ireland today.

To maintain its brand leader status well into the future, the company has developed a top-class e-commerce system, providing customers with flexible online booking and payment options including Online Ticket Booking and Smartcard Usage. Leveraging the benefits of modern technology ensures real customer convenience and greater real-time consumer insight on travelling preferences and frequency. Contactless Payment Now Available

Kavanagh Chauffeurs Services offers day trips to Kilkenny

From romantic weekend breaks to fun family days out, you’ll find a wide range of things to do in Kilkenny. A lively city with a relaxed atmosphere, with many walking trails and tours to take. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve put together a short destination guide of our day trips to Kilkenny by recommending the best things to do in Kilkenny. Take a look and start planning your coach trip today here.

Kavanagh Cars, Executive Car Hire is the ultimate Chauffeur drive service in Ireland.

Whether you are planning a tour around Ireland, looking for airport transfers, or need to arrive at your meeting in style, Kavanagh's can tailor the ideal transport option for you.

Our fleet of vehicles range from elegant cars to luxurious coaches, and  professional mature drivers will ensure that your time spent with them will meet the highest standards in comfort, convenience and professionalism.

Private Tours 

Ireland is an extremely popular destination thanks to its rich history and stunning scenery, both rural and urban. If you are interested in sampling some of Ireland’s must-see attractions at your own pace, we recommend booking one of our chauffeur-guided private tour services. After discussing your expectations, budget and interests, we can design a private tour around you with the aim of ensuring you make the most out of your trip to Ireland.

All of our vehicles are fitted with free on-board Wi-Fi.

Sit back, relax and let Kavanagh's Chauffeur Service take care of the rest.

Kavanagh's Chauffeur Service accepts all major credit and debit cards.

Murphy Jewellers was established at 85 High Street Kilkenny in 1903 by Patrick T. Murphy, whose name resides above the door to this day.

A skilful craftsman, he built a solid reputation for reliable, personal service in quality jewellery and watch-making. This tradition has continued over three generations in his family to become the successful jewellery business that you can visit today.

Murphy Jewellers is in the same family for three generations as a successful, progressive and vibrant jewellery business located in the heart of Ireland’s medieval capital.

They are delighted to present to you their latest catalogue (on their website) of fine jewellery, illustrating a selection of our newest lines. They welcome the opportunity of showing you this jewellery as well as their more regular, classic styles on your next visit to their shop.

With private viewing rooms, individual attention is always assured.

Rudolf Heltzel, the Irish luxury house best known for its stunning high-end pendants and unique engagement rings, was founded in 1968 by Rudolf Heltzel. The brand’s expertise lies in the execution of their own designs using ancient techniques on precious metals and the finest gemstones. Rudolf Heltzel Ltd is still under family control and is proud to carry the torch of a dying jewellery tradition into another generation.

The creations are extravagant and elegant, timeless in their design, and made entirely by hand. Quality. Integrity. Beauty. These are the guiding values at Rudolf Heltzel.

Their promise is to only produce wonderful, exceptionally well-crafted pieces in an ethically sound way. “When a woman wears a Rudolf Heltzel article she will feel proud and special in the knowledge that this rare piece of art is hers alone. She owns something that no one else has had or can have.”

Their gallery at 10 Patrick Street, open to the public, displays and sells an exciting range of instantly recognisable, hand made engagement rings and dress pieces in 18ct gold, sterling silver and platinum, set with carefully selected diamonds and magnificent precious gemstones.

Rudolf Heltzel Goldsmith

At Goatsbridge Fish Farm, trout is their passion. Their knowledge and experience farming rainbow trout has been passed down through three generations. Each catch comes daily from the crystal clear waters of The Little Arrigle River, giving their trout unique taste and texture. They love trout, and they know if you give it a try you will too! Goatsbridge Trout is available from their online shop, all major supermarkets in Ireland as well as specialist shops, or directly from their farm gate. Visitors are welcome to look around their trout farm at any time during opening hours.

Come and see Goatsbridge visitor center and shop, where you can sample and buy our products. The center is located beside the trout ponds, and you can organise single or group tours around the farm where you will learn all about Goatsbridge Trout Farm, it’s herritage and business history. Visit https://goatsbridgetrout.ie

When you visit Medieval Kilkenny your Kilkenny experience should be with a local qualified, experienced and knowledgeable guide and historian and Pat Tynan’s Medieval Walking Tour will give that real Kilkenny experience in a city that has become a Medieval Wonderland!!

Daily Kilkenny Medieval Mile Walking Tours, Private Walking Tours can be arranged at a time to suit clients and group Medieval Walking Tours all year.

                                       All Walking Tours to be pre booked. Bookings can be made on www.                                                       kilkennywalkingtours.ie or e-mail Pat at pat@kilkennywalkingtours.ie 

                                       Monday to Sat 11am and 2pm.  Sunday tours book in advance. 

The Kilkenny Whiskey Guild is a collection of 10 establishments throughout Ireland's Medieval capital. Each premises will stock a minimum of 60 Irish Whiskeys and will assist in the customers experience through knowledgeable staff, tasting flights, food pairings and mixology.

Regular whiskey tasting Kilkenny events will be held in each of the Guild Houses designed to heighten the public’s knowledge of Irish Whiskey history production and various styles. The guild aims to make Kilkenny the leading Whiskey tourism destination in Ireland.

Kilkenny Whiskey Guild Members include: Brewery Corner, Billy Byrne's, The Dylan Whisky Bar, Langton's, Lanigan's, Left Bank, Matt the Miller's, Paris Texas, The Hibernian Bar and The Wine Centre

​

Shenanigans - The Kilkenny City Walk is the fun way to experience historic Kilkenny City, the jewel in the crown of Ireland’s Ancient East. Blending comedy, magic, history, whimsical fun and plenty of Shenanigans our guides will take you on a jolly jaunt tracing Kilkenny City’s fascinating Medieval Mile, regaling you with unique anecdotes, fun facts and a good dollop of irreverent humour, craíc and mischief. Not just a guided tour ... a MIS-guided tour!

The fun, magical, historical & hysterical way to experience Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile.

Red Mill’s flagship retail store as Ireland's premier shopping destination for country lifestyle brands including Fairfax & Favor, Welligogs, Dubarry, Ariat, Toggi, Le Chameau & many more. In the purpose built, state of the art premises you'll find a carefully curated selection of Country Living wares - from saddles and horse feeds, to clothing & footwear, to dog food and kennels. The Red Mills Cafe is open from 8am where you’ll find freshly brewed coffee from Irish Cork based roasters Badger & Dodo, as well as a selection of homemade scones and treats. Pop into our store at Cillin Hill where our experienced staff are on hand to help with advice on the right feed for your horse, what you need to get when bringing home a new puppy - and everything in between.

Can't make it to the store? Shop online or call them on (056) 4449011 and they'll deliver straight to your home or work. You can also order online and collect in our Kilkenny store. Click here for more information on Delivery and in store collection.

The Design & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) is the national agency for the commercial development of Irish designers and makers, stimulating innovation, championing design thinking and informing Government policy. DCCoI's activities are funded by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation via Enterprise Ireland.

Kilkenny Design Craft Centre offers an unrivalled selection of Irish handcrafted gifts. While it has many imitators, the Centre remains Ireland’s most prestigious source of Irish gifts of exceptional quality, all chosen with a discerning eye for quality, uniqueness and style.

The Centre’s unequalled supplier list, drawn from Ireland’s most eminent craftspeople and designers, gives visitors a uniquely special shopping experience, allowing them to purchase the best of Irish crafts and design under one roof. Visitors from outside of the EU can avail of highly attractive tax free shopping.

MADE in Kilkenny is a multidisciplinary craft group organised and run by its members on a voluntary basis with the mission to promote Kilkenny County as the premier destination in Ireland for authentic handmade Irish crafts of exceptional quality. Kilkenny has long had the reputation for being a centre of creativity, and the MADE in Kilkenny collective has actively contributed to this perception over the last decade. The group has striven to bring together the considerable wealth of craft talent found in Kilkenny to a wider audience, to foster excellence in craftsmanship, and to promote the economy and tourism of the county.

Now ten years on, the members of MADE in Kilkenny include a diverse collection of makers. The steady behind the scenes work of all of them, past and present has created a collective with a solid identity and a strong brand name that represents the best in craft.

In 2021, Kilkenny was named a World Crafts Council Craft City and Region - one of only four regions to achieve this recognition in Europe - through the work of MADE in Kilkenny.

Learn more about MADE in Kilkenny and their makers here.

Situated in the heart of Kilkenny city and growing from strength to strength since 1994. We continually boast some of the best known branded shops and retail outlets in Ireland, including such names as Supervalu, Heatons, and Penneys, to name but a few.

We as a Centre pride ourselves not only on the quality of the products and services we provide but on the fact that in this ever changing, fast moving retail environment one thing has and will never change for us, the importance of you, the customer.

Unique place where you Create Your Own Signature Scent. Our workshops are for creative, design sensitive people. You’ll find the perfect perfume in our collection; including the hottest brands!

Butterslip opened in 2005, full of colourful ideas and wild notions, the result of much day dreaming, notebook scribling, scrapbook filling and finally one great flight of madness. The scribbler, day dreamer and committed pritt sticker here is me, Anne, still often to be found doodling and daydreaming – these days I just try and make it look more productive. The name is taken from Butterslip Lane in Kilkenny, one of the city’s many curious and charming side streets, and where we first opened the eponymous shop (there was a very nice party, complete with a clown, cakes, lots of balloons and liquorice allsorts).  In early 2007, Butterslip moved, but kept the lovely name, to a bright and sunny corner of Rose Inn Street where we still reside, along with our notions.

Castleinch Sunday Market is a very large event which is held every Sunday at Castleinch Venue. You’ll find traders of all kinds, selling everything you can imagine! Some traders come from as far afield as West Cork and even Co. Mayo! That’s quite a commitment, but it shows how popular and important the Car Boot Sale has become. Some traders depend on the Car Boot Sale for their income, others do it because they love to have the craic and meet people.

Frank Wall Mans shop is located on High St renowned throughout the south east for quality value and exceptional personal service.

Founded in 1969 by Patrick Clancy Kilkenny Crystal is Ireland’s oldest Family-owned Crystal Studio Workshop.

Patrick was the first Irish born crystal designer and is regarded as the most important due to the iconic original designs he created. Miroslav Havel the head designer at Waterford visited the studio in Callan to meet Patrick and see his work. The range of Castle shaped items that Patrick pioneered became the symbol of Kilkenny Crystal and Patrick's signature piece.

Our use of traditional techniques means that our crystal is likened to antique quality. Each piece is deeply cut by hand and then polished with care to retain a fine finish.

We create many original designs and unusual pieces and due to the limited number of pieces produced each year many items become valuable collectors items.

MacDonagh Junction, an multi award winning retail and leisure hub is located in the heart of Kilkenny City beside the train station.

It is built around the beautifully restored former Kilkenny Famine Workhouse and railway buildings, The Shopping Centre also offers the FREE heritage attraction, the Kilkenny Famine Experience, which starts at the customer service desk.

MacDonagh Junction is home to many of the top high street brands such as Dunnes, Next, H & M, Life Style Sports, River Island, TK Maxx, Skechers, Boots, Carraig Donn, Jack & Jones, Regatta, Pamela Scott, JD Sports, Field’s Jewellers, The Works, Card Factory, Swan Outlet Menswear, Eason, K-Bowl and Art It walk in studio. MacDonagh Junction is also home to Peter Mark Hairstylists, Boston Barber, Flair Beauty Boutique, Eden Medical, Byrne Eyecare, Claire’s Accessories, Hale, and Foroige Drum Youth Centre. For food and drink options underneath the huge, glazed atrium of the Workhouse Square, customers can choose from Costa, Starbucks, The Panty, O’Brien’s Bagel Bar, Quigleys, Eddie Rockets and Jump Juice.

It offers 3 hours parking for €2.60, luxurious changing and award-winning baby feeding suite, buggy and wheel chair loan, electric vehicle charge points, height adjustable changing bench, free wi-fi and children’s play area. The Centre is also Ireland first Age Friendly Shopping Centre. Dedicated parking is offered for older customers, sensory needs and expectant mums. The Centre also offers an Age-Friendly Discount Club on Wednesday mornings and Quiet hours on Sunday from 12-2pm.

Large retail department store in Kilkenny specialising in Footwear, Outdoor and Luggage with Camping in the summer and Ski in the winter.

It also offers a fantastic selection to visitors in Casual Clothing, Sports House & Home, Garden Furniture, Barbeques, Crafts and Childrens clothing. Padmore & Barnes offers a unique blend of quality product in world famous brands such as Ecco, Josef Seibal, Lowa Alpine, Columbia, Samsonite, Nike, Vango and Musto to name but a few.

The store is open 7 days a week and has a large car park.

A visit to Rothe House is high on the list of things to do in the Marble City. 

Rothe House is a unique Tudor merchant’s townhouse, built between 1594 and 1610. The property comprises three houses, three enclosed courtyards and a large garden to the rear. The property is a lot bigger than it looks from the street! To accommodate his growing family, on this long, narrow plot John Rothe Fitzpiers built three houses, one behind the other, with cobbled courtyards in between. To the rear is a half-acre garden that runs all the way back to the City Wall. 

The property is now owned by Kilkenny Archaeological Society and is home to their large collection of artefacts relating to Kilkenny city and county. The garden has been painstakingly reconstructed to reflect the Rothe Family garden and is planted with heritage varieties of vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruit; there are even resident ducks!

The house is open to the public and visitors will have the opportunity to make their way through the houses, courtyards and gardens on a self-guided tour. Full guided tours can also be arranged for groups by contacting reception@rothehouse.com.

OPENING HOURS

Tuesday to Sunday
11am to 6pm

*Last entry at 5.15pm

In the shadow of Saints, follow in the footsteps and hear stories of hermits and knights at St. Canice's Cathedral, Ireland’s best-preserved medieval Cathedral, appearing to the visitor today very much as it did to our Norman & Gaelic ancestors 800 years ago. Touch what they touched. Walk where they walked. Climb to the top of the Round Tower which is a thousand years old and, on your visit, don’t miss The Medieval Effigy tombs, The Great East Window and The Kytler Grave Slab.

Built between 1202 and 1285, St Canice's has been preserved in its original style and form. Worship has taken place here for over 800 years. See the wonderful stained glass and the largest collection of ancient monuments. View Kilkenny and the surrounding area from the 9th century round tower (weather permitting) and see the seat of the bishop of Ossory dating back to 1120AD.

Facilities include:
Gift shop, toilets, wheelchair access. Information leaflets are available in 15 languages. Group and guided tours available by booking in advance.

St Mary’s Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic Cathedral which stands at the heart of our medieval city. It was consecrated in 1857 and built, in that post famine time, by the contributions of the people of Kilkenny at an estimated cost of £25,000. This magnificent Cathedral is made from hand-cut Kilkenny Limestone and is 186 feet high, visible from all approaches to the city, and has a cruciform design.

The model for this wonderful Cathedral was Gloucester Cathedral from the south west of England and its architect was William Dean Butler of Dublin, who coincidently also designed St Kieran’s College at its new, and current home, in 1836 (St Kieran’s College is the oldest Catholic Secondary School in Ireland).

St Mary’s Cathedral is actually the second church to bear this name in Kilkenny. The first was founded in 1218 and was located behind the Town Hall just off High Street, the main street of Kilkenny City. That location is now the home to the Medieval Mile Museum.

Why not visit this wonderful Cathedral and take our interactive tour, in the major languages, by scanning the QR codes throughout the Cathedral and along the tour corridor at the front of the Cathedral.

Facilities include:

• Information leaflets
• Interactive self-guided tour
• Gift shop
• Toilets
• Wheelchair access
• Cathedral cafe (coming soon)

St Mary’s is also an active, Roman Catholic, faith community; with Masses as follows

Kilkenny is steeped in theatrical history. From the time the Duke of Ormonde (1698) brought the first Strollers Theatre group to Kilkenny, to the present day, Kilkenny has been synonymous with the world of theatre.

Located in the heart of Kilkenny City, the Watergate Theatre have been keeping audiences entertained since 1993 with local, national and international productions, live music, dance, comedy and much more.

Set-up in 2017 by Morgan Ging & his wife Anne, Ballykeefe Distillery is an eco-friendly, Single Estate Irish Family Farm Whiskey Distillery, located in picturesque countryside, just 15 minutes out-side the medieval city of Kilkenny, producing a range of premium spirits. A ‘field to glass’ family operation, every grain of barley in our Whiskey is sown, grown, harvested, milled and distilled on our family farm. Located in the area where the birth of Irish Whiskey was first recorded in 1324, Ballykeefe Distillery is a multiple award winner for quality and sustainability.

A tour of Ballykeefe Distillery is a must for anyone with an interest in Kilkenny’s historical association with Irish Whiskey. Our guided tour enables guests to explore our distillery and discover the ancient art of Irish Whiskey making and the craftmanship that goes into each of our casks. Guests will experience first-hand the sound, smell and feel of a fully operational distillery, with a behind-the-scenes tour visiting each stage of the brewing and distilling process. Guests will sample the spirits in the repurposed horse stable which now serves as the tasting room, with its high ceilings, exposed brick and reclaimed wood tables and bar, fresh with knowledge of their history and the craftsmanship devoted to their making. The duration of the tour is approx. 1 hour.

Guided Distillery Tours are offered on a request basis. Tours may be arranged, Monday to Friday (excl. Bank Holiday Mondays), subject to availability, from April to October.

For all tour enquiries, please contact us on +353 87 700 4538 / info@ballykeefedistillery.ie

Nestled at the foot of the old Ballykeeffe Quarry, Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre brings the authentic atmosphere of an open-air Italian theatre to the quaint Kilkenny countryside. The once-bustling slate quarry had lain abandoned and in disarray for many years, with most indifferent to its very existence.

However, in the late 1990s, a team of dedicated volunteers recognised a unique potential which was brought to fruition through hard work and perseverance, and in the year 2000 the amphitheatre proudly played host to the first of many performances – the Irish Defence Forces band & the Dublin Male Welsh Voice Choir.

Butler Gallery is one of Ireland's leading contemporary art galleries and museum's with a permanent collection. They are located in Kilkenny City Centre at the heart of Ireland's Ancient East. Offering a unique blend of art and history they aim to inspire you. Explore their significant collection of 20^th century Irish art, discover contemporary work by living artists, take part in family friendly art activities, and find out about a heritage spanning 800 years in their historic building and walled gardens.

Relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch or a delicious treat in the café, MUSE coffee + food. Butler Gallery is open six days per week (closed on Mondays except bank holidays).

FREE ENTRY. All are welcome. 

Join their mailing list here to receive all the latest Butler Gallery news, including event and exhibition updates.    

Kilkenny-based Cartoon Saloon is an Academy Award®-nominated animation studio formed by Paul Young, Tomm Moore and Nora Twomey in 1999. From award-winning short films such as From Darkness, Cúilín Dualach/Backwards Boy, Old Fangs, The Ledge End Of Phil, and Somewhere Down the Line, to TV series like Skunk FU! and now Puffin Rock (launched on RTEjr in Jan 2015 and to be broadcast worldwide later this year), Cartoon Saloon has carved a special place in the international animation industry.

Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann is the largest group involved in the preservation and promotion of Irish traditional music. They are a non-profit cultural movement with hundreds of local branches around the world, and  they’ve been working for the cause of Irish music since the middle of the last century (1951 to be precise). Their efforts continue with increasing zeal as the movement launches itself into the 21st century.

The Comhaltas movement is organised into local branches, where most activities and classes take place. Branches are organised into regions (counties, in Ireland), and regions into provinces. Comhaltas Regional Resource Centres also provide additional services and facilities in their areas.

Craobh Osraí Marble City Branch of Comhaltas in Kilkenny was formed in 1987. Music classes for all ages and levels are thought through the winter months in a fantastic array of instruments. Follow their Facebook Page @OsraiComhaltas  to stay informed on all activities including concerts and session happening in the County of Kilkenny that has involvement from Craobh Osraí Marble City Branch of Comhaltas in Kilkenny.

Visit the unique Heritage Site in Jerpoint Park and enjoy a guided tour of the footprints of a deserted 12th Century Medieval town dating back to 1200AD. Your local guide will delve into the history and importance of this once thriving town called Newtown Jerpoint. Take a step back in time and explore the standing remains of St. Nicholas's Church, the domestic tower and the stunning 14th Century Medieval Tomb. Jerpoint Park also offers Angling for wild Salmon and wild brown trout or why not try something completely unique and come watch our Sheep Dog demonstration, showcasing man and dog working together as one. www.jerpointpark.com

*Guided Heritage Tours

Unearth the footprints of a 12th Century Medieval Town called Newtown Jerpoint plus the Tomb Effigy of St. Nicholas with a Guided Heritage Tour.
Daily tours: 10.30am & 2.30pm from mid April to mid October.

*Sheep dog demonstrations

Sheep dog Demonstrations at Jerpoint Park shows Sheep Dog Demonstrations at Jerpoint Park show a strong bond of respect between man and dog.
Border collie dogs are the preferred dogs used here & is a wonderful event to see man and dog working together as one.

Daily sheep dog demo: 11.30am & 3.30pm from mid April to Mid October

*Fishing

Fishing for wild brown trout and wild salmon on the River Nore – rods and bait available for hire.
Fishing Daily: between mid April to end of September. 

If you have any queries about Jerpoint Park please ring Maeve on 086 6061449

Kilfane Glen and Waterfall located in Thomastown, Kilkenny is a pristine example of a romantic era garden dating from the 1790s. Untouched for 200 years, it is a picturesque paradise with a waterfall tumbling its way to a rushing stream and woodland paths leading to a cottage orné. Tiny bridges sit among ancient trees, wild fox-gloves, ferns and other historically correct 18th century planting.

The garden is listed as an Irish Heritage garden and was awarded assistance in 1993 by the European Union Cultural Commission. As an amenity it covers about 15 acres of easily accessible natural landscape. Other nearby gardens of historic significance are Altamount, Haywood (Luyteens), Mount Juliet, Woodstock and Ballymaloe Kitchen Gardens.

Go back in time to a 12th Century castle, remodelled and restored and set in 1830's splendour and extensive parklands: includes art gallery and playground. Publications are also on sale.

Few buildings in Ireland can boast a longer history of continuous occupation than Kilkenny Castle. Founded soon after the Norman conquest of Ireland, the Castle has been rebuilt, extended and adapted to suit changing circumstances and uses over a period of 800 years.

Today, Kilkenny Castle is open to visitors all year round and is largely a Victorian remodelling of the thirteenth century defensive Castle. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to see this grand country house and walk through its fifty acres of rolling parkland with mature trees and an abundance of wildlife. Other features include a formal terraced rose garden, woodlands and a man-made lake, which were added in the nineteenth century. There is also a tearoom, playground and several orienteering trails for visitors to enjoy.

Please note that free admission on the first Wednesday of each month is not applicable at Kilkenny Castle.

Access for visitors with disabilities to ground floor and the gardens only.

Kilkenny Cat Laughs is Ireland’s annual craic pilgrimage, and has been heralding the start of the summer season since 1995. Now in it’s 25th edition, the festival has played host over the years to international and domestic world class comedy and is renowned for treating both talent and audience to a warm, welcoming and convivial atmosphere in Kilkenny, at the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East. Cat Laughs has a reputation for being the comedians’ comedy festival, and for creating an atmosphere where anything can happen.

Over the years the festival has nurtured the fledgling careers of Irish acts like Dara Ó Briain, Aisling Bea, Graham Norton, Dylan Moran, Maeve Higgins, Ardal O’Hanlon, Joanne McNally, Deirdre O’Kane, David O’Doherty, Des Bishop and many, many more. We have also welcomed international luminaries like Bill Murray, Zach Galifianakis, Laura Kightlinger, Bill Burr, George Wendt, Ross Noble, Peter Kay, Bill Bailey, Tig Notaro, Emo Philips and Sarah Millican among others.

In 2017, Matt Smyth and Dan Colley of Collapsing Horse Theatre took over the reins as Artistic Directors, bringing some of their own comedy influences onboard and and building on the fine legacy of the festival. They took the helm again in 2018 and 2019 and look forward to combining the best in comedy standup with new names in the world of improv, sketch, podcasts and more. Roll on summer!

Kilkenomics is Europe’s first economics festival which brings together some of the world’s leading economists, financial analysts and media commentators with some of our funniest, sharpest standup comedians. We’ve been called “Davos with jokes” and we wouldn’t disagree with that assessment.

Our informal, entertaining formats invite our audiences to engage and enjoy. As we like to say: it’s serious, but it’s fun too! Jump into Kilkenomics now and engage with as many shows as possible, equip yourself with the information and insight we hope can help us all make smart choices for our futures - inform and entertain yourselves.

People who have taken part in previous years include David McWilliams (co-founder of the festival), Constantin Gurdgiev, Max Keiser, Gillian Tett, Rory Sutherland, Linda Yueh and Yanis Varoufakis.

The Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival will celebrate its 25th year with a wide range of Irish and international acts, performing in venues throughout Kilkenny city from 28th April to 1st May. Since 1998 the festival has attracted some of the finest names in the Americana/Roots canon, including Calexico, Giant Sand, Ryan Adams, Alejandro Escovedo, Guy Clark, Chuck Prophet, Ray LaMontagne, Richmond Fontaine, Rodney Crowell, Phosphorescent, Sturgill Simpson and Alabama Shakes.

Audiences wind their way through the medieval streets sampling the huge range of music in the 30 plus venues, hosting over 40 Irish and international acts, with over 90 ticketed and free shows from early afternoon until late into the night.
There’s a mixture of old and new acts on the free pub gig trail and all styles are catered for, from swing to bluegrass, rockabilly to cajun, folk, blues and beyond.

View the 2023 programme here.

The Wine Centre is a multi award winning specialist off licence based on John Street in the heart of Kilkenny city. We first opened our doors in 1965 and have been renowned for our dedication to customer service and excellence in product selection ever since.

We boast an extensive collection of both new and old world wines and over 300 craft beers which are available both in-store and online at www.thewinecentre.ie. Specialising in whiskey, our in-store ‘Whiskey Wall’ carries over 120 whiskeys from around the world - including a selection of rare & collectables. We also carry an extensive range of gins and other spirits from Ireland and abroad.

The Wine Centre is a proud member of the Kilkenny Whiskey Guild and we carry the largest selection of Irish Whiskeys available in the South East of Ireland. Regular public wine and whiskey tasting events are held in-store while private tastings can also be arranged. We provide personalised, specialist advice and expertise to customers, whatever the budget.

Celebrating Irish traditional and folk music with ceol agus craic. Kilkenny Tradfest takes place each March, on the St. Patrick's festival weekend, in the fantastic pubs and venues of Kilkenny city.

With headline gigs, the Bulmers Music Trail, and a mix of ticketed and free events, there is a gig,session and venue to suit everyone. Plus, St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny takes place on the same weekend. Guaranteed fun from day to night!

Visit KilkennyTradfest.com to plan your St. Patrick's weekend of music in Kilkenny!

High quality is one of our top priorities. From our meats to our cheeses, from our fresh produce to our eggs, we’re committed to serving you the very best.

Open 24 hours a week, 7 days a week with a Drive Thru also

The leading Gastro pub in the South East of Ireland. Our newly refurbished pub in the heart of Kilkenny city is now known as one of the leading Gastro pubs in the South East and is home to a wood smoking oven offering a fusion of traditional American South West favourites with the sophistication of New Orleans French Quarter.

Paris Texas has an extensive range of beers on tap and in bottle to meet and challenge your tastes – just as our food does. We also pride ourselves on our range of spirits, particularly whiskeys, rums, gins and vodkas. All these spirits encourage experimentation so we probably have a cocktail with your name on it. Some even use our home-made lemonade. We also offer all our wines, including prosecco, by the glass as well as bottle.

We deliver quality food at affordable prices ensuring its popularity with locals and visitors alike. American Barbeque food is perfect for sharing with friends or a beer and for casual dining. Our smoked meats, often dry-rubbed or marinated result in some of our dishes being both smoky and spicy. Not all our meats are smoked, there is something for everyone!

So if you want to experience ‘real deal’ American southwest cuisine and a genuine Irish welcome we think you have made the right choice. Our team are always on hand to help you with menu choices and suggestions that will suit your mood today.

Soak up the atmosphere and savour the ancient craft of independent, artisan brewing at Sullivan’s Taproom, located at 15 John Street Kilkenny.

Combine internationally award winning craft beer with a delicious daily menu containing items such as wood fired pizzas, burgers, tacos, wings and more! Established in 1702 at The Malting’s on James's Street, Kilkenny, the brewery survived a fire in 1880 and was lost on horse bet in 1918 before being revived in 2016 by members of the Sullivan and Smithwick families.

Sullivan’s Brewing Company is now back stronger than ever producing award winning beer – The Malting’s Red Ale was voted Best Draught Ale in the world, 2017/18! Sullivan’s Taproom also boasts rotational taps allowing you to sample a variety of craft beer each time you visit, as well as a new and improved heated outdoor dining area, including the extremely popular 8 person outdoor pods!

Christmas party packages

Kiltorcan Raceway is one of Ireland's best go-kart circuit's and is known to be challenging, exhilarating and fun, while still being an extremely safe track.

So whether you are coming as an individual, group of friends, on a corporate team building day or that all important fun filled hen or stag party the team at Kiltorcan Raceway will make sure your time here is packed with excitement and fun while ensuring your safety at all times.

If you are new to go-kart racing or are an experienced driver our state of the art kart's paired with our outdoor super smooth 1000 metre, all weather, floodlit go-kart track will offer you the buzz of a lifetime.

The beautiful Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum are located overlooking the River Nore Valley and the picturesque village of Inistioge. The gardens date to the 1740's with the main development taking place in the 1800's. A period of disrepair followed during the 1900's following the burning of Woodstock House, however in 1999, Kilkenny County Council undertook an ambitious programme of garden restoration which is now well advanced. Features include a walled garden, rose garden, rockery garden, a recreated Turner Conservatory, a collection of rare and exotic trees in the arboretum and much more including many tranquil woodland walks.

Ten Pin Bowling is a family activity that can be enjoyed by all ages from children as young as 3 years of age. At KBowl you can experience state of the art computerized scoring systems while relaxing on leather sofas enjoying a selection of refreshments. We now serve food. Why not have some pizza and chips with your bowling, kids meals and much more.

Always popular is the KZone area with air hockey and more. All lanes are fully accessible to wheelchair users and are fitted with side bumpers to ensure the best chance of a STRIKE every time!!

Don't forget we offer a 10% discount on 1 hour of bowling to visitors who show their hotel or b&b card/keycard/key

Kilkenny Activity Centre, as seen on TV3, BBC, RTE and Irish TV, is a purpose built activity centre which caters for groups from age 7+. Our activities include bubble soccer, splatball, paintball, giant darts, an outdoor assault course and loads of fun! We are located to the rear of the Orchard House Bar and Restaurant and our grounds, which cover five acres include two bubble soccer fields, four paintball arenas and of course our "Hells Kitchen" assault course.

Located just a short distance from the city centre we offer packages to suit individuals and groups alike, be it birthday parties, school tours, hens, stags, corporate groups or families looking for a fun day out.

Kilkenny City Tours' tourist train was established in 2011, as a convenient way for visitors to see all the wonderful sights of Kilkenny city. Since its inception it has since grown to become one of the most sought after things to do in Kilkenny city. Rated as the number 1 Tour it has also been awarded the "Certificate of Excellence" by Tripadvisor.com, which is awarded based on consistently earning great reviews from travellers!

The Kilkenny City Tour is a wonderful way to see all the historical sites and points of interest in Kilkenny city. Departing from Kilkenny Castle you will be taken on a historical and fascinating tour with a full commentary of detailed insights, facts, and folklore of the medieval city.

Book your tickets today https://kilkennycitytours.com/

Kilkenny Cycling Tours offers you the opportunity to visit historical and cultural sites around Kilkenny including Kilkenny Castle, The Kilkenny Design Centre, Shee Alms House, The Tholsel, St. Mary’s Church, Rothe House & Gardens, The Courthouse (Grace’s Castle), St. Francis’ Abbey, The Black Abbey and St. Canice’s Cathedral.

Experience Irish hospitality while having an enjoyable easy-paced cycling around the medieval capital of Ireland with photo opportunities and historical information provided at each destination.

Kilkenny Golf Club 18 Hole Championship Parkland Course in Kilkenny. Playable all year round due to sand based greens. Close to city centre. Full catering facilities available.

The course, which is of championship standard, is set on 120 acres of parkland and measures 5,933 metres with a par of 71. The course is mostly flat terrain with an abundance of trees. Notable features are the difficult par threes, the long par four eleventh and the final four holes which have ruined many a fine card! See Gallery here. 

A feature at the 10th tee is a “Fulacht Fiadh”, or ancient Irish kitchen. This type of structure dates back to the Bronze Age when these ancient cooking places were horse shoe shaped mounds made up of small pieces of stone and situated close to a water source or in marshy ground.

After a game visitors will find the clubhouse, like the city - very friendly where they can relax in a convivial atmosphere and partake of the Bar and full catering facilities available throughout the day.

Join us on a fun filled tour of Kilkenny's finest sights. Sit back, relax in comfort and let us bring you to many spectacular buildings and places that Kilkenny has to offer. Hear all about the sights on our fully narrated tour and sing along to many favourite traditional songs and music played onboard. With tight and demanding time schedules on your holiday this is the best way to get your bearings in a place that you haven't seen before.

Starting from Kilkenny Castle we will take you on a 30 minute tour through the streets of Kilkenny, along the way you'll see many historical sights including St. Canices Cathedral, St. Francis Abbey Brewery, The Old Court Houss and many, many more. Meander along the picturesque lanes and streets of Kilkenny and let us take you on a nostalgic journey reminiscent of the gone steam train. View route map here.

Mountain View is one of the most stylish places around - fabulous, private & totally unique!

We’re completely relaxed at Mountain View! A modern, light filled venue embracing the open air & space, Mountain View is where design & style meets nature. A place in which to marry, eat, drink & party, with perfect spaces hosting from 20-200 people, we’ve got you covered!

Atmospheric by day and seductive by night, The Greenhouse is a relaxed and stylish Bar & Eatery. Whether your joining us for a date night, a catch up with friends or a fully-fledged celebration, we look forward to welcoming you! We open for dinner on Friday and Saturday from 5pm and brunch on Sunday from 10am. Outside of this we open for large groups and events, so do get in touch!

An idea born in the midst of the pandemic – Mountain View Markets acts as a beacon for sustainable food production, beautiful artisanal products, short supply chains and social connection, drawing visitors from all over Ireland. At Mountain View Markets, we don’t just showcase good food and artisan products, we celebrate it. Open every Sunday (during certain months of the year) the Market is a real pleasure to wander around.

The National Reptile Zoo is Ireland’s only dedicated reptile zoo! They give you the unique opportunity to come face to face with some of the world’s most amazing animals – including giant pythons, monitor lizards, snapping turtles, tortoise, alligators, tarantulas and more!

They pride themselves on providing a hands-on, interactive experience for every visitor through their hourly Animal Encounters, it’s an experience not to be missed!

Come explore and enjoy some fun at the farm or stay in our campsite full of mod cons at the delightfully idyllic Nore Valley. Take time out and stroll around the energetic farm while the children play in an interactive and relaxed setting. Bottle feed lambs or goats and feed the ducks and turkeys as well as learning a great deal of knowledge about your Irish heritage of farming. Relax with a cup of tea and home baked scones, biscuits and plenty of other delicious treats while the boys rip up the tracks on our Go-Karting race course. With endless things to do at Nore Valley, there is something for the whole family.

Pure Adventure is based in the heart of the Barrow Valley in the Picturesque Village of Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny. Pure Adventure is a family run business that is built on a passion for the outdoors and for water sports and our mission is to share our passion with our visitors, giving you a great experience and memories that will last a lifetime.

Pure Adventure offers a range of Kayaking, Canoeing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Hill Walking activities to suit all ages and abilities. All equipment is supplied and all guides are fully qualified and highly experienced.

For Fitness, for Leisure, for Family Fun - The Watershed is THE sports and leisure facility in Kilkenny and one of Ireland's finest.

Non-members are welcome to the enjoy the extensively equipped Pool and Fitness Gym facilities where you can enjoy a dip in the 25m Fina Standard Swimming Pool, take part in a Les Mills fitness class or perhaps work out for fitness or pleasure in our Gym where an experienced staff member will be on hand to offer instruction and advice.

Young children will love the Toddler Fun Pool with aqua play features and The Watershed also run a popular Multi-Activity Camp programme and Swim Skills programme specially developed for children of primary school age, throughout the school holiday periods - the ideal way to keep your children active and entertained while you take part in some local retail therapy or sightseeing.

Castlecomer Discovery Park offers an exciting range of activities around the estate including tree top walks, climbing walls, boating, adventure playgrounds, orienteering and most recently Ireland’s longest zip wire and high ropes challenge. At the hub of the site, there is the Irish Mining Museum, a purpose-built cafe, craft village, and spaces for educational activities.

Castlecomer Discovery Park comprises 80 acres of natural woodland and lakes. It opened to the public in 2007 to commemorate the coal-mining heritage following the closure of the local mines in 1969. It aims to develop rural tourism, generate local employment and regenerate the town.

Countryside Leisure Activity Centre, Bonnettsrath (Less then 10 mins from city centre) Offers a range of activities including Clay Pigeon Shooting, Indoor Rifle Target Shooting and Archery. All equipment provided and full instructions given. Perfect for all Hen and Stag Parties. 

Archery is becoming an ever popular activity, its an competitive sport where your strength and accuracy are tested to the full by the experienced instructors who will teach you how to load, aim, shoot and score no matter what the weather !!!  Archery is available as a stand-alone activity or as part of our package deal of three activities. All equipment provided with safety briefing. 

Kilkenny Footgolf newest combines two of the worlds most popular sports football and golf. It is similar to golf in layout with 18 individual holes and the aim is to get the ball into the hole in as few shots as possible. Footgolf holes are shorter than golf which means a more enjoyable experience while playing. An ideal sport for kids, families, friends, etc. At Pococke Golf Centre we are delighted to welcome everyone to enjoy sport while maintaining social distancing. You don’t need to bring anything other than yourself, we are happy to provide footballs but please bring your own if you wish to and you will get an additional discount.

​We also offer a 18 hole Golf course which consists of 7 par 4s and 11 par 3s. A nice test of golf with some of the shortest holes the trickiest with bunkers and water around the greens. A nice and challenging course for all golfers. No membership is not required so please just ring to book. Golf clubs for rental available are also available.

Pococke Golf Centre is a located just on the edge of Kilkenny City and great location for everyone to have a great time while enjoying the outdoors whether playing Footgolf or Golf.

If you have any questions check out our website or want to book please ring us on 0567775644 or contact through email pocockegolf@gmail.com.

Looking to get the family active in outdoor activities – then this is the perfect opportunity for you! Go with The Flow brings you adventurous Canoeing trips in Kilkenny. Our unique experience offers you the chance to explore the beautiful countryside of Kilkenny by taking you into beautiful, unspoilt and exciting waterways. Our charismatic instructors will guide you along exclusive trails and show you how to shoot weirs and ride the rapids. We will pass through dramatic landscapes, mysteries wooded valleys and old navigations once used by the Guinness barges to deliver Ireland’s favourite tipple. Bring a picnic, visit the playground of The Incredible Mr Kavanagh and take a swim in tranquil sheltered waters of our favourite remote pools.

Commitment To The Art.

Enclosed bays, putting green and pitching area. Lessons available from golf pro. From age 10 to adult. 10 year olds must be accompanied by an adult.

Cost: Large basket €10 and small basket €5.

Opening hours

Monday – Friday 10.00am – 9.00pm

Saturday – Sunday 10.00am – 6.00pm