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11 best things to do in Kilkenny
Explore all there is to see in Kilkenny.
Cobbled streets filled with medieval history, ancient caves, an abundance of local craft and plenty of craic – it’s easy to see why a visit to Kilkenny makes for a brilliant break.

Here’s 11 great activities to add to your trip itinerary for the Marble City and beyond.

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1Kilkenny Castle

Although you’ll find Kilkenny Castle right in the heart of the city, once you’re inside its walls you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Originally built by the Normans in 1195, the castle now features magnificent gardens, woodland paths and a man-made lake, all added in the 19th century.

The castle is open to visitors throughout the year, with a tearoom for refreshments and a playground if you’re bringing kids. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle's impressive chambers, including the magnificent Long Gallery.

People in the Long Gallery in Kilkenny Castle
Admire the art on display in Kilkenny Castle's Long Gallery.
2St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower

The round tower of St. Canice’s Cathedral is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny and, weather permitting, you can climb to the top of its 30 metres for incredible views of the city and nearby countryside. The religious roots of the site go back centuries, evident in the tombstones and round-headed stained glass windows.

Interior view of St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower in Kilkenny city
Step inside beautiful St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower.
3Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile and Medieval Mile Museum

Running through the centre of Kilkenny city, The Medieval Mile is a discovery trail linking St Canice’s Cathedral and the Anglo-Norman castle and much more in between. The Medieval Mile Pass gives you access to everything on the trail, as well as discounts for various cafes and restaurants, and is the best value way to see the attractions along the route.

The historic setting of the Medieval Mile Museum is in 13th-century St. Mary’s Church, now converted into a modern museum. Here, you’ll begin to understand the city’s medieval past as Kilkenny’s 800-year story is told using modern technology.

People in the Medieval Mile Museum in Kilkenny city
Dive into Kilkenny's history at the Medieval Mile Museum.
4Butler Gallery

Experience the incredible exhibitions at the Butler Gallery, just steps from the edge of the River Nore in the centre of Kilkenny city. Admire art by Irish and international artists spanning contemporary works, 18th century pieces and an impressive collection of prints, sculptures and photos.

An exterior image of the Butler Gallery in County Kilkenny.
View the Butler Gallery's work by Irish artists.
5Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny

Ideal for rainy days and right in the heart of Kilkenny city, the Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny will give you insight into more than 300 years of brewing history. All tours are led by passionate and local guides who will take you from the first brewed Smithwick's ale in 1710 to your own fresh pint at the end of the tour, plus all the history in-between.

People on a tour in the Smithwick's Experience in Kilkenny city
Go behind the scenes at the Smithwick's Experience.
6Jerpoint Glass Studio

Take a 20-minute spin to pretty Thomastown to check out a business where playing with fire is actively encouraged. Here you’ll find Jerpoint Glass Studio run by the four siblings whose parents established the internationally-renowned business in 1979. Every piece is made by hand and you’ll get to watch skilled glassblowers manipulate the red-hot molten glass.

7Jerpoint Abbey & Jerpoint Park

While you’re there, nearby Jerpoint Abbey is wonderfully preserved from its 1158 origins and you can get a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Cistercian monks who once lived there. Afterwards, take a walk, or a drive to Jerpoint Park where you can see the remains of a deserted medieval town. During the summer you can even watch sheepdog demonstrations as man’s best friend rounds up herds of sheep.

People on a tour of Jerpoint Abbey in Co. Kilkenny
Explore the remains of Jerpoint Abbey.
8Dunmore Caves

Fancy visiting one of the darkest places in Ireland? At Dunmore Caves, voyage deep into chilly chambers formed over millions of years, discovering stories of archaeological finds from 928 AD. Afterwards, sit and wonder at it all in the lovely tea room onsite. The caves are just a 15-minute drive from Kilkenny.

Brave the darkness in the Dunmore Caves.
Brave the darkness in the Dunmore Caves.
9Castlecomer Discovery Park

Put the phones down and let nature take over at Castlecomer Discovery Park. Spread across the 80-acre grounds of the Castlecomer Demesne you'll find treetop walks, climbing walls, ziplines, as well as other activities such as canoeing and orienteering which are great fun as a family. 

People at the Castlecomer Discovery Park in Kilkenny
Take to the trees in Castlecomer Discovery Park.
10Kilkenny Design Centre

Back in the Marble City, Kilkenny Design Centre often showcases emerging Irish craftspeople and their exceptional work. Browse their range of beautiful trinkets and bring home your choice of Irish-designed jewellery, knitwear, fine china, pottery and glass. 

Silver bracelet on display at the Kilkenny Design Centre in Kilkenny city
Marvel at the incredible skill and craftsmanship at Kilkenny Design Centre.
11Highbank Organic Orchards

The Calder-Potts family produce delicious apple juices, ciders and their cult product, Highbank Organic Orchard Syrup at Highbank Organic Orchards in Cuffesgrange, just ten minutes outside Kilkenny city. Visit the farm, which dates back to the 17th century, and pop into the organic farm shop to stock up on their ‘Pip to Sip’ produce.

See Kilkenny car-free

There are so many ways to enjoy Kilkenny city, and one of them is car-free. Discover the Marble City and all its attractions without the car.

More to discover
Family funTravel to lovely Thomastown without a car

Thomastown is the kind of village you would expect to see in a children’s storybook. Thick branches of ivy drip down the sides of the village church, wild daisies grow out of the stone walls and the traditional shopfronts look just as they might have done a century ago. Best of all? It’s an easy day trip from Kilkenny, with loads of public transport options that’ll get you there without a car.

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