Kilkenny is well-known for its lively medieval city, but have you uncovered the character that lives in the county’s towns and villages? They are an excellent extension of everything that the city has to offer – top-class hospitality, incredible local food and drink, incredible crafts, fascinating heritage sites and so much more.
It is well worth planning a trip – whether by foot, bike, car, public transport or even kayak! – to uncover the gems that lie in our towns and villages. Keep reading for a brief rundown of just some of the vibrant villages and terrific towns to give you a flavour of what to expect from some brilliant places you may not be familiar with.
Ballyhale
Baile Héil
If you are a GAA fan, you have certainly heard of the Ballyhale Shamrocks who hail from this area and are one of the most successful hurling clubs in Ireland. The rolling countryside here is the perfect setting for Mountain View – an incredible outdoor Sunday market chock full of Irish food, craft and gifts. The Greenhouse Restaurant on site overlooks the green surrounds and the glamping tents are the perfect tranquil escape during the summer months. Thrill-seekers can also have an adrenaline-filled visit to Ballyhale by stopping by Kiltorcan Raceway – Ireland’s top outdoor karting track which is also home to top of the range karting and golf simulators.
Bennettsbridge
Droichead Bineád
Named after Saint Benet, Bennettsbridge was historically a major crossing point on the River Nore and, nowadays, is home to some of the top crafts in the county. Nicholas Mosse Pottery has been handcrafting gorgeous tableware in Bennettsbridge for many years using techniques dating back to the 18th century. Watch the potters at work before sitting back in their café for a cuppa and home-baked treats.
Just a stone’s throw away is The Little Mill Company where they continue the traditional method of milling flour. All of the wheat that is milled here is grown locally and is perfect for whipping up delicious baked goods. A short drive takes you to Zwartbles Ireland – a farm of Zwartbles sheep known for their striking black-brown wool. Their wool is sheared and spun locally to create quality products such as blankets and rugs. You can meet even more furry and feathered friends down the road at Nore Valley Park – a campsite and open farm. Meet all of the farm’s residents from baby chicks to alpacas and if you don’t have a tent or campervan, stay in the on-site mobile homes or wooden lodges.
Tip: As seen on RTÉ’s Tracks & Trails, the Nore Valley Walk is a 12km trail that runs from Kilkenny city centre out to Bennettsbridge with scenic views along the River Nore. It is a great trail for spotting local flora and fauna!
Callan
Callainn
It is said that Callan gets its name from the High King of Ireland Niall Caille, so it is no surprise that this area is steeped in history. Less than 15 minutes from the city centre, Castleinch Venue boasts one of Ireland’s largest indoor and outdoor weekly Sunday market. There are also regular autojumble and vintage rally events held here too, so there is a day out to suit everyone at this market. Looking for a memento from your trip to Kilkenny? Pick up a piece of stunning glassware crafted by Kilkenny Crystal. Each piece is created with the Deep Accurate Cutting method to carve patterns into the crystal for a truly stunning addition to your home.
Castlecomer
Caisleán an Chomair
Castlecomer was a prominent mining town since the mid-17th century until the closure of the mines in 1969. This story is told in depth at the Coal Mining Museum at Castlecomer Discovery Park. As well as this, the park is also home to an incredible array of outdoor activities – including Ireland’s longest zipline over water – and walking trails. Conveniently located nearby is the 4-star Avalon House Hotel, a boutique hotel with family rooms, a restaurant and a bar so you can extend your visit to Castlecomer and squeeze in all the activities! Head 10 minutes towards the city and you’ll come across Dunmore Cave – a series of limestone chambers that house some of the most impressive calcite formations in Ireland. Take a guided tour of this natural marvel to uncover a different side to Kilkenny’s past.
Cuffesgrange
Gráinseach Chuffe
Cuffesgrange is a townland that is full of things to do. Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre is an open-air theatre at the foot of the old quarry which hosts many musical acts during the summer months. Not far from the venue is Ballykeefe Distillery – an eco-friendly on farm distillery brewing spirits. Take a tour of the distillery to get an in-depth understanding of the distilling process for the various spirits from gin and vodka to whiskey and poitín.
It is a great area for keen foodies as you can get involved in a cookery class with esteemed chef Anne Neary at Ryeland House Cookery School. Brush up on your skills and learn something new with kids day classes for ages 9 and up and classes for adults with guest experts. A short drive brings you to Highbank Orchards – an organic apple orchard home to a distillery and a fabulous farm shop. Take a tasting tour and sample everything from their award-winning syrup to apple wine!
Freshford
Achadh Úr
Located in the north of the county, Freshford is a great spot to spend a day immersing yourself in Irish culture. Fuel up for the day at The Loop Café where they serve up home-baked goods with tea and coffee, as well as innovative lunch options. Then, it’s time to gear up and learn all about the art of hurling at Hurling Tours Ireland. Your guide James will tell you about the history of the Irish sport, teach you the basics and you will put your newfound knowledge into practice on the pitch. End your day with craic agus ceol (fun and music) in a local pub for a truly Irish experience. Need help getting around? JJ Kavanagh & Sons coaches service much of Kilkenny and are conveniently located in Urlingford, just 15 minutes from Freshford. They also service key events in Kilkenny throughout the year so you don’t miss out on any of the action!
Goresbridge
An Droichead Nua
Although its name translates to ‘The New Bridge’, Goresbridge gets its name from the bridge that crosses the River Barrow in this village. Stretch the legs with a tranquil stroll along the river bank here. Make the most of your time here with a cosy stay at Killure Lodge. Choose from beautiful rustic accommodation in the lodge or the barn for a unique stay to give you a taste of rural living in the Kilkenny countryside.
Gowran
Gabhrán
Once the residence of the Kings of Ossory, Gowran historically was a town of great importance. Step back in time at St. Mary’s Church to take in the impressive ruins and hear the town’s stories on a free tour. Nowadays, the area is well-known for Gowran Park – one of Ireland’s top racecourses which hosts race meets, events and is also home to an 18-hole championship golf course. It is the ideal spot for a day (or more) out for sports enthusiasts. Rest your head at Kilbawn Country House, a luxury 4-star bed & breakfast ideally located just a short drive from the racecourse. Need a lift home? No problem! Kavanagh’s Executive Car Hire is conveniently located in Gowran for a comfortable transfer experience.
Graiguenamanagh
Gráig na Manach
Meaning ‘valley of the monks’, Graiguenamanagh is a riverside town on the River Barrow which sits at the foot of Brandon Hill and is a haven for water activities. Try your hand at canoeing, paddle boarding or kayaking with a choice of fantastic guides from Go With The Flow, Paddle Your Own Canoe and Pure Adventure. Ever cycled on water? Give it a go with Kilkenny Hydrobikes. If you prefer a more relaxed experience along the river, The Hot Box Sauna is a Finnish sauna that sits right on the riverbank where you can watch the water flow by from its toasty interior.
Take a break from the water activities and brush up on your culinary skills at The Edward Hayden School of Cookery with none other than Chef Edward Hayden. Pay a visit to Ireland’s oldest woollen mill at Cushendale Woollen Mills which has been operated by the Cushen family since the 1800s but its history dates back to 1204. Why not browse their store for a high quality memento of your visit to Graiguenamanagh that will last as long as your fond memories.
With so much to do, it’s only right to extend your visit with a stay nearby so that you can recharge and go again the next day! Stay in the heart of Graig at Waterside Guesthouse which sits right alongside the river or head for the hills to Brandon View House where you’ll find amazing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Blackstairs Mountains.
Inistioge
Inis Tíog
Inistioge is a picturesque village in a lush valley on the River Nore and its beauty has seen it become a filming location for a number of films. Not only can you take a wander through the village itself, there are a number of walking trails that you can explore to immerse yourself in nature. If you’re coming from Thomastown, the 10.9km Thomastown to Inistioge trailhead takes you into the heart of the village and there are 3 breathtaking walks as part of the Woodstock Loop in the village. Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum is the gem in the crown of Inistioge. With everything from manicured walled gardens and towering tree avenues to the beautiful tea room conservatory, it is a truly captivating place.
Paulstown
Baile Phóil
Paulstown is a village just 15-minutes from Kilkenny city near the border with County Carlow. Just outside the village is the beautiful Shankill Castle – a castle with gorgeous gardens and a café. Originally built by the Butler family during the medieval period, rebuilt in 1708 and the house as it is now was expanded in the 1820s. The Cope family now look after the house and artist Elizabeth Cope’s works are on display throughout the house. Take a tour of the house and gardens before relaxing in the café with a cuppa.
Stoneyford
Áth Stúin
Just a 10-minute drive from Thomastown is the village of Stoneyford and though it may be a small village, it is full of character. Malzard’s Pub is a real hive of activity in Stoneyford. Not only was it named Innovative Pub of the Year in 2023, they also run hurling tours so that you can learn all about Kilkenny’s prowess in one of Ireland’s national sports before giving it a go for yourself. Finish up with a pint and live music in the pub and you can even stay in their on-site log cabins or park up at their camping pitches. Less than 2km away is Oldtown Farmhouse – a bed and breakfast on a farm with an award-winning propagation nursery. Enjoy incredible views of the countryside here before resting up in their cosy rooms.
Thomastown
Baile Mhic Andáin
Situated along the River Nore, Thomastown was founded in the 13th century as it was identified as an important crossing point on the river. Remnants of the town’s history can be explored at Jerpoint Park which is home to The Lost Town of Newtown Jerpoint. Join a guided tour of the 12th century town and Cistercian Abbey and if you’re lucky, you may catch a sheepdog display during your visit. Just a stone’s throw away is Jerpoint Abbey – another incredible medieval abbey with detailed stone sculptures. Marvel at more craftsmanship at Jerpoint Glass where you can watch master glass blowers at work in their studio creating amazing glassware. Less than 10 minutes away, you will find the mystical Kilfane Glen and Waterfall. Sitting on 15 acres, the serene gardens and rushing waterfall give you the feeling of stepping into a fairytale.
Thomastown is probably best known for the 5-star Mount Juliet Estate which hosted the 2022 Irish Open at its championship Jack Nicklaus golf course. Stay in the opulent Manor House or the luxurious modern Hunter’s Yard and embark on a culinary journey at the Michelin star-awarded Lady Helen Restaurant. Foodies can continue the adventure at Goatsbridge Trout and Truffle Fairy both based in Thomastown for award-winning fish products and handmade chocolates.
Windgap
Bearna na Gaoithe
The village of Windgap gets its name from its location on a pass through hills east of Slievenamon and it is a treasure trove of heritage sites. Lingaun Valley is a historic area that sits on the border of counties Kilkenny and Tipperary that meanders through the townlands and villages of Grangemockler, Killamery, Knockroe, Tullahought, Ahenny, Kilmacoliver, Faugheen and Kilkieran. Discover ancient high crosses, portal and passage tombs, ogham stones and more as you pass through this area with history at every turn. For an exhilarating competition experience, stop by Laser Wars for advanced laser combat that is suitable for groups of adults and children (ages 7+) alike. Windgap Community Centre and Lakeside Tearooms are the heart of the village as a meeting place, events space and a spot to stop for a delicious hot meal – perfect after travelling through time at historical sites and laser combat!