Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Kilkenny

"Ireland’s second-largest medieval cathedral (after St Patrick’s in Dublin) has a long and fascinating history. The first monastery was built here in the 6th century by St Canice, Kilkenny’s patron saint. The present structure dates from the 13th to 16th centuries, with extensive 19th-century reconstruction, it’s interior housing ancient grave slabs and the tombs of Kilkenny Castle’s Butler dynasty."

"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, St Canice's has been preserved in its original style and form. Worship has taken place here for over 800 years. See the wonderful stained glass and the largest collection of ancient monuments."

"Founded in 1172 and remodelled in Victorian times this majestic stone castle stands beside the river and within a 50 acre park. Two wings of the Castle have been restored to their 19th century splendour and include a library, drawing room and magnificent Long Gallery. The river wing also houses the Butler Gallery of contemporary art."

"Rising above the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most visited heritage sites. Stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it has a history dating back to the 12th century, though much of its present..."

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

"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."

"Tudor Rothe House (1594) lies about a five-minute walk from St. Mary's. Once a merchant's house, this historic building was created around two courtyards. Restored in 1966, it has been a major tourist draw ever since."

"Nestled in the centre of Ireland’s Medieval Mile, Rothe House and Garden is the only example of an early 17th-century merchant's townhouse in Ireland, and is one of Kilkenny's hidden gems."

"Dating to 1225, this Dominican monastery was built outside Kilkenny’s city walls as a way of staying independent from the old Irish and English quarters. The abbey is close to a tributary of the River Nore, and over 800 years has suffered repeated floods. Like all abbeys in Ireland and Britain the Black Abbey was shut down during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, but unlike most, it was preserved as a courthouse."

"Originally home to a group of peaceful Dominican Friars, Black Abbey has been standing since the year 1220 and got its name from the colour the friars wore. While on the outside it may look like any other ancient stone structure, the inside is where you can witness the beauty and character of the church. It is home to the largest and most impressive Rose Window in Ireland depicting the five mysteries of the Rosary."

"Founded in 1225 by William Marshal, this Dominican abbey takes its name from the monks' black habits. Much of what survives dates from the 18th and 19th centuries, but remnants of more ancient archways are still..."

"One of Ireland's most magnificent landscaped gardens, Altamont covers 16 hectares on the banks of the River Slaney, with carefully selected plantings arranged in naturalistic settings where peacocks, swans, squirrels and wild hare abound, surrounding an ornamental water-lily lake. The gardens are off the N80 at Kilbride Cross, 24km southeast of Carlow town."

"The Butler Gallery in the basement of Kilkenny Castle is one of the country’s most important art galleries outside Dublin. Small exhibitions featuring the work of contemporary artists are held throughout the year. Also in the basement, the castle kitchen houses a popular summertime cafe."

"Located on the historic site of Evans' Home, Butler Gallery is the South East of Ireland's leading Contemporary Art Gallery."

"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."

"One of Ireland’s finest Cistercian ruins, Jerpoint Abbey was established in the 12th century, with the tower and cloister dating from the late-14th or early-15th century. It is famous for its unusually large number of medieval stone carvings – look for the series of unusual and often amusing figures, both human and animal, carved on the pillars around the cloister. The abbey enjoys a lovely rural setting about 2.5km southwest of Thomastown on the N9."

"Billy Byrne’s is one of Kilkenny’s most famous hotspots located in the heart of this Medieval City. Visitors of all ages will love it here with a reputation for good beer, good food and a warm welcome. There is a dedicated live music room at the back of the bar, not to mention a funky beer garden furnished with rescued sofas and homemade tables, like a beach bar in the middle of the city!"

"Bring a touch of the sea and sand to your outdoor drinks gathering at Billy Byrnes Bar on John’s Street. Scattered with rescued sofa’s and hand-made tables, this funky beer garden resembles a beach bar in the middle of the city!. Visit: www.billybyrnesbar.com"

"Billy Byrne’s makes the list because it had a slightly different vibe to the other bars. It’s a bit more of a mix between traditional and modern. The draught list in terms of craft beer was somewhat limited – again, 12 Acres and a couple of Irishtown taps."

"It’s all in the name, and Cafe la coco does exactly what it says on the tin – serving the very finest of quality coffee in its small, friendly, owned-run café. They’ve become Kilkenny’s No 1 wholefood cafe by caring deeply about the quality of the ingredients from the best local artisan producers. Pop in and savour the aromas and flavours for yourself!"

"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."

"If you fancy a view with your favourite tipple, then the Terrace Bar in Kilkenny’s River Court hotel offers you river and castle views, where you can soak up the sun and take in some of Kilkenny’s most iconic sites!. Visit:Riverview Bar & Terrace Kilkenny | River Court Hotel"

"We sidled up to the bar and noted both Bollard's and Smithwick's branded merchandise was on sale. We tried a fruit crumble and custard for dessert along with a frothy cappuccino. I smiled when I saw a sign as we were heading out: "Soup of the Day: Jameson! :-)"