Why You Should Visit Kilkenny In 2024

Kilkenny is home to Ireland’s Medieval Mile – a mile-long trail through the city that is chock full of medieval history at every turn. Lined with historic sites including St. Canice’s Cathedral (pictured), Rothe House and the iconic Kilkenny Castle, wander through cobbled streets and hear the stories of days gone by in a city that blends the old and the new. You could spend a whole day discovering all of the sites here alone!

Kilkenny is not only a feast for the eyes, but also a treat for the taste buds. Kilkenny has previously held the title of Ireland’s Top Foodie Destination and you will quickly find out why when you visit. Whether you prefer relaxed atmospheres at cafés and gastropubs or enjoy fine dining at Michelin restaurants, you will find it all in Kilkenny’s wide selection of eateries. Be sure to try some award-winning local produce too such as Highbank Orchards, Goatsbridge Trout (pictured) or a pint of Smithwick’s iconic red ale.

Kilkenny’s events calendar is always brimming with festivals and events that cover a variety of interests. Experience history talks, music gigs, comedy shows, art workshops, cookery classes, sports events and so much more throughout the year. The county plays host to an impressive line-up of annual festivals including St.Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny, Tradfest Kilkenny, Kilkenny Cat Laughs, Kilkenny Arts Festival, Kilkenny Animated, Savour Kilkenny, Kilkenomics…the list goes on!

Photo: Kilkenny Roots Festival

Just one of four designated World Craft Council Craft regions in Europe, Kilkenny boasts an incredible array of local craftspeople and designers. Browse through an array of jewellery, textiles, ceramics, and other handmade goods and take home a piece of Kilkenny’s artistic spirit. For an even more unique experience, get tips from the experts as you blow glass, make your own jewellery or paint a masterpiece with your newfound skills.

Photo: Nicholas Mosse Pottery

One thing that you can be guaranteed of in Kilkenny is that you will never be stuck for something fun to see or do! Gorgeous gardens and trails, hands-on experiences with creatures big and small and thrilling team-building activities – you’ll have to plan a return trip to do it all! Both the River Nore and the River Barrow run through County Kilkenny, so Kilkenny also boasts a wide variety of water activities through tranquil valleys and picturesque towns.

Photo: Go With The Flow River Adventures

Kilkenny is known as the home of hurling in Ireland and their GAA teams boast an impressive number of national titles. Whether you are an avid GAA fan or have never watched a game of hurling, experiencing the thrill of a match at Nowlan Park – the home grounds of Kilkenny GAA – is not one to be missed. View the full list of fixtures here. Want to give it a go yourself? Pick up a sliotar and have a puck about with Hurling Tours Ireland, Malzard’s Pub and Hurling Experiences and The Kilkenny Way Hurling Experience.

Photo: Hurling Tours Ireland

Situated in the heart of the South East of Ireland, Kilkenny is well serviced by motorways and transport connections making it the perfect spot for a staycation or a midpoint for a reunion with family and friends. Travelling from further afield? County Kilkenny is conveniently located within 90 minutes of both Rosslare Europort and Dublin Airport, as well as just under 2 hours from Cork Airport. Learn more about getting to Kilkenny here.

Photo: Ireland’s Medieval Mile