Kilkenny may not be the first city that comes to mind when visiting Ireland, but it truly is a hidden gem. Living only 30 minutes away, I can assure you this wonderful city has a lot to offer. From its rich history to its charming streets, Kilkenny is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ireland.
One of the things that makes Kilkenny so special is its medieval charm. The city is home to several historic landmarks, including Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral and while this will be a delight to history buffs It’s also a great destination for foodies, with plenty of restaurants and pubs serving up delicious Irish cuisine
Kilkenny’s History
Kilkenny is a city rich in history and culture, with a deep heritage that dates back over 800 years. Walking through the winding streets of this ancient city, its medieval history giving insights into where knights and lords once roamed.
The city was founded in the 6th century by Saint Canice, who built a monastery on the site where St. Canice’s Cathedral now stands. Over the centuries, Kilkenny grew in importance, becoming a major centre of trade and commerce in the region.
Hugely significant in Kilkenny’s history was the construction of Kilkenny Castle in the 12th century. The castle was built by the Normans and served as a symbol of their power and authority over the region. Today, the castle is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, with visitors from all over the world visiting to exploring its impressive architecture.
In the 14th and 15th centuries, Kilkenny became a thriving centre of art and culture, with many famous poets, musicians, and artists calling the city home. Now thanks to The Kilkenny Arts Festival, which takes place every August is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-see event for anyone interested in the arts.
Throughout its history, Kilkenny has been a city of great importance, both in Ireland and beyond. Its strategic location and rich landscape have made it a hub of trade, commerce, and creativity, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique charm and beauty.
Things to See and Do in Kilkenny
As someone who has visited Kilkenny several times, I can attest to the fact that this charming city has plenty to offer. Here are some of my favourite things to see and do in Kilkenny:
Kilkenny Castle
No trip to Kilkenny would be complete without a visit to the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. This stunning castle dates back to the 12th century and has been beautifully restored. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history, or simply stroll through the gardens and enjoy the picturesque views.
St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower
Another must-see attraction in Kilkenny is St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower. This impressive cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework. Visitors can climb the round tower for breath taking views of the city.
Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny
For beer lovers, a visit to the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is a must. This immersive brewery tour takes visitors through the history of the iconic Smithwick’s beer, from its humble beginnings to its current status as one of Ireland’s most loved beers. Of course, the tour includes plenty of opportunities to sample the beer for yourself!
Kilkenny’s Food and Drink Scene
I always enjoy the tastes of something local when visiting a place, so I was more than surprised by the diverse and delicious food options available in Kilkenny. From traditional Irish pubs to modern cafes and restaurants, Kilkenny has it all.
One of the must-visit places for food and drinks is Kilkenny’s Irish Pub. This pub has been rated as one of the top Irish pubs in the country and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pub offers a wide variety of traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew, fish and chips, and shepherd’s pie, along with an impressive selection of beers and whiskeys.
For those looking for a more modern dining experience, there are plenty of options available as well. One of my personal favourites is The Hole in the Wall, a cosy restaurant that offers a variety of delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s rustic decor and medieval charm make for a unique and memorable dining experience.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, be sure to check out Cakeface Patisserie. This charming cafe offers a variety of delicious pastries, cakes, and desserts, along with a selection of specialty teas and coffees.
Overall, Kilkenny’s food and drink scene is bustling with life that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Irish cuisine or something more modern and innovative, Kilkenny has something to offer everyone.
Where to Stay in Kilkenny
Kilkenny, has so much to offer accommodations wise. From cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, there is something for everyone’s taste and budget.
One of my favourite places to stay was the Kilkenny River Court Hotel. It is located right on the River Nore, offering stunning views of the city and the castle. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the staff are always friendly and helpful. The hotel also has a lovely restaurant and bar, which is perfect for a relaxing after after a day of sightseeing even for non staying visitors.
For those looking for a more traditional Irish experience, I recommend staying at a bed and breakfast. The Rosquil House is a charming B&B located just a short walk from the city centre. The rooms are cosy and decorated with a touch of Irish charm. The owner, Mary, is incredibly friendly and welcoming, and she serves a delicious breakfast in the morning.
If you’re on a budget, there are also several hostels in Kilkenny. The Kilkenny Tourist Hostel is a great option for backpackers and budget travellers. It is located in a quiet residential area, but still within walking distance of the city centre. The hostel offers both dormitory and private rooms, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
No matter where you choose to stay in Kilkenny, you’ll be sure to have a memorable experience. The city is full of history and charm, and the people are friendly and welcoming.
Getting to Kilkenny
If you’re planning a trip to Kilkenny, you’ll want to know the best way to get there. As someone who has visited Kilkenny multiple times, I can tell you that there are several options available.
By Car
One of the most popular ways to get to Kilkenny is by car. If you’re driving from Dublin, it will take you approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Kilkenny. The drive is straightforward, and you’ll be able to enjoy some beautiful scenery along the way.
By Bus
Another option is to take a bus. There are several bus companies that operate routes to Kilkenny from Dublin and other major cities in Ireland. The journey takes approximately 2 hours, and the buses are comfortable and affordable. https://www.buseireann.ie
By Train
If you prefer to travel by train, you can take a train to Kilkenny from Dublin or other major cities in Ireland. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, and the trains are comfortable and reliable. https://www.irishrail.ie
By Air
If you’re traveling from overseas, you can fly into Dublin Airport and then take a bus or train to Kilkenny. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to Kilkenny. https://www.dublinairport.com
No matter how you choose to get to Kilkenny, you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring this charming city.
Martina has been writing travel blogs since 2004, having spent all her life living in Ireland she has travelled the length and breath of the emerald Isle and still to this day finds some new to see and do.