Kilkenny is rich with history, culture, and charm, making it a captivating destination for visitors.
The city’s centerpiece is the stunning Kilkenny Castle, a historic fortress with beautifully landscaped gardens and captivating exhibits that offer a glimpse into Ireland’s storied past.
In addition to its architectural wonders, Kilkenny City is home to the impressive St. Canice’s Cathedral and the adjacent Round Tower, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding area. For art enthusiasts, the Kilkenny Arts Festival and Butler Gallery showcase local and international talent, adding to the city’s cultural richness.
Wander through the charming streets to explore a range of eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and traditional pubs, each contributing to Kilkenny’s unique character.
Venturing beyond the city, Kilkenny County offers a wealth of natural beauty and historic sites. The scenic Blackstairs Mountains and Woodstock Gardens are perfect for hiking and outdoor activities, while the picturesque Graiguenamanagh and Bennettsbridge are charming towns with their own unique attractions. The Smithwick’s Experience, a brewery tour in Kilkenny, provides a taste of local heritage and brewing traditions.
Whether you’re exploring the historic streets of Kilkenny City or enjoying the serene landscapes of Kilkenny County, this region promises an enriching experience with something for everyone.
Local Attractions
Rothe House
Rothe House is a late 16th-century merchant's townhouse complex located in the city of Kilkenny, Ireland.
The complex was built by John Rothe Fitz-Piers between 1594 and 1610 and is made up of three houses, three enclosed courtyards, and a large reconstructed garden with orchard along with a museum accessible to the public.
Kilkenny Design Centre
Kilkenny Design Centre, once the stables of historic Kilkenny Castle, sits beside The National Design & Craft Gallery. It showcases exceptional Irish & contemporary gifts and crafts.
It also features an award-winning food hall & restaurant, serving delicious homemade dishes daily, making it a must-visit destination for culture, craft, & cuisine.
Butler Gallery
Butler Gallery is a contemporary art gallery and museum in Kilkenny, Ireland. Founded in 1943 by George Pennefather, it is named after Susan (Peggy) and Hubert Butler.
Now housed in the beautifully redeveloped Evans’ Home, a 19th-century almshouse for former domestic servants, the gallery offers a rich cultural experience in historic surroundings.
Smithwick’s Experience
The Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny occupies the historic site where Smithwick’s was brewed from the 1700s until 2014.
Originally owned by Franciscan friars who brewed beer before their 1537 dissolution, the site now offers a visitor centre and tour featuring brand history, tastings, holograms, a bar, visual effects, and an engaging gift shop.
Black Abbey
Founded in 1225 just outside Kilkenny’s original city walls, The Black Abbey was a peaceful Dominican friary.
Known formally as the Church and Priory of the Most Blessed Trinity, it’s locally called The Black Abbey after the friars’ black cappas. Restored after years of turmoil, it reopened for public worship in the 1800s.
St. Canice's Cathedral
St Canice’s Cathedral has been a sacred place of Christian worship since the 6th century. As the mother church of a bishopric spanning six dioceses and eight counties, it welcomes pilgrims and tourists alike.
Still active today, it offers regular services, inviting all to experience its history, spiritual comfort, and architectural beauty.