Historic Sites in New Ross

"Once the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde, Kilkenny Castle, located in the heart of Kilkenny City, is a 12th century castle, remodelled in Victorian times and set in riverside parklands. The magnificent castle overlooks the River Nore and has guarded this important river crossing for more than 900 years. Visitors can explore the castle - including the Butler Art Gallery, with contemporary art exhibitions - at their leisure."

"With eight centuries of history whispering from its walls, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most iconic and historic sites."

"The original house was built between 1594 and 1610 and was the home of landowner and Mayor of Kilkenny City, John Rothe Fitz Piers, his wife and their children. It is the only example of an early 17th-century merchant’s townhouse in Ireland and it’s a gorgeous place to visit and take pictures. They have a perfect recreation of the original Rothe Garden as they discovered the archaeological remains of the gardens original layout and used popular plants and flowers of the time to recreate it."

"In the middle of Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile is our hidden gem, Rothe House and Gardens. Built between 1594 and 1610 by the Cistercian order, it went on to become home to the Mayor of Kilkenny John Rothe Fitz Piers and his family. Kilkenny Archaeological Society (KAS) now owns the building complex and have complied an impressive museum collection from Kilkenny and the surrounding countryside."

"Built by John Rothe between 1594 and 1610 Rothe House is one of the finest examples in Ireland of a Tudor era merchant’s house. Now owned by Kilkenny Archaeological Society it houses a collection of Bronze Age artifacts, ogham stones and period costumes. The Garden is a recreation of a historic garden from the 17th century and is the only urban garden of this period which is open to the public."

"By the north bank of the River Nore is a 16th-century tower left over from a Medieval hospital set up around the 13th century. The heavily fortified hospital was positioned outside the centre of Kilkenny and mainly treated lepers. The name “Maudlin” comes from Mary Magdalene, as leprosy was a disease generally associated with prostitution in Medieval times."

"As you climb the Round Tower, a monk’s voice encourages you onwards, up 121 steps and back through 1,000 years to the Age of Saints and Scholars. And so you begin to understand the deep-rooted importance of the tower and the 13th century cathedral to the vibrant medieval city of Kilkenny. The 6th century Christian site here was named Cill Chainnigh,Gaelic for the Church of Canice, which also gave its name to Kilkenny."

"St. Canice's Cathedral is one of Kilkenny’s most famous attractions and is one of the most important medieval churches in Ireland. Its founding history goes back to the 6th century, but the building as we know it today was only built in the 13th century. Admire the round stained glass windows, marble floors and a number of fascinating 17th century tombstones."

"Built between 1202 and 1285 this graceful Cathedral has been preserved in its original style and form. Inside the massive walls is an exuberant Gothic interior, given a sombre grandeur by the extensive use of the locally quarried black marble. Worship has taken place here for 800 years."

"The Parlour promises Tea Rooms with a twist, and that’s just what this Art Deco-inspired café has to offer. Located in the historic Port of Waterford building right by the water, there are several experiences. Coffee addicts will find their niche in the Chamber of Coffee which takes artisan coffee-making to a whole new level."

"Cafe la Coco is a small, cozy family-run cafe in the heart of Kilkenny City. Loved by the locals and tourists visiting Kilkenny, Cafè la Coco offers delicious breakfast and pastries in the morning, great coffees, and super tasty lunches. Tables are available on the kerbside on Patrick Street."

"Cafe La Coco is a bright, sweet and cosy café on Patrick’s Street in Kilkenny City Centre. The warm and welcoming atmosphere is mirrored in their very friendly staff. If you can tear your eyes away from the interior, have a look at it’s jaw dropping brunch menu."

"Based on The Tramore Rd in Waterford offers something different to its customers. It offers The Living Café, Furniture & Home Accessories Store and even a cookery school!. The flagship store is based on Sarsfield St Limerick; it has two additional stores in Limerick following its success- based in Corbally and Castletroy."

"Another café that I love to swing by when I'm in Waterford is the Hook & Ladder. It's cute and cosy with a decor most of us would probably die for in our own kitchens. I would definitely recommend one of their cappuccinos or lattes with one of their scones."