Do & See

Do & See

Do & See

Kilkenny

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Home Europe Ireland KilkennyDo & See

Do & SeeGuide was updated: 16 September 2024

Kilkenny – a beautiful and ancient city where history and modernity fuse together on an unspoiled landscape. The ancient medieval city of Kilkenny has protected its precious heritage whilst evolving as one of Ireland’s most vibrant small cities. Its narrow slipways, side streets and preserved buildings, are matched only by its reputation for fine dining, great shopping, entertainment and accommodation.

The Blackbird Gallery

The Blackbird Gallery

One of Ireland's most prestigious commercial galleries, The Blackbird showcases the very best of Irish and international contemporary art.

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Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle is a 12th century castle, remodelled in Victorian times and set in riverside parklands. Once the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde, this fascinating building is located in the heart of Kilkenny City.

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Rothe House and Garden

Rothe House and Garden

A unique, early 17th-century, Irish merchant’s townhouse and garden set in the centre of Kilkenny City, Rothe House and Garden is also the base of genealogical research for those looking to trace their Kilkenny ancestry.

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National Design & Craft Gallery

National Design & Craft Gallery

Established by the Crafts Council of Ireland in 2000, this is the country's leading center for contemporary craft and design.

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St. Marys Cathedral

St. Marys Cathedral

St. Marys is a gothic revival-style Catholic cathedral that dominates the skyline of Kilkenny City. Taking inspiration from Norman architecture, the impressive house of worship was designed by renowned architect William Deane Butler in 1849.

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Butler Gallery

Butler Gallery

Located in the interior of Kilkenny Castle, The Butler Art Gallery is a contemporary art space that exhibits emerging and established artists, both Irish and international. The gallery also has an expansive collection of 20th century art.

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Kells Priory

Kells Priory

Kells Priory is one of the largest and most impressive medieval monuments in Ireland. This Augustine priory features a collection of jutting medieval towers, inspiring its local nickname: "Seven Castles".

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Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny

Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny

Since 1710, Smithwick's Superior Irish Ale has been crafted and perfected in Saint Francis Abbey Brewery. Join a guided tour and get a flavour for some freshly-brewed ale.

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Black Abbey

Black Abbey

Established as a Dominican friary in 1225, the Black Abbey has seen plagues, sieges, and upheaval. Restored and opened as a public place of worship in 1864, the friary boasts stunning stained glass windows and interesting interiors.

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Dunmore Cave

Dunmore Cave

10km from of Kilkenny City, history and geology superimpose to form a unique learning experience. The cave was described in one of the earliest Irish texts, The Traids, and has turned up archeological artefacts from almost two thousand years ago. Geologists won't want to miss the calcite cave formations, some of Ireland's finest.

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Kilkenny Road Train Tours

Kilkenny Road Train Tours

View historic Kilkenny city by road train. The daytime tour passes 15 historical sites while the evening tour takes a spookier tone: hear stories about Kilkenny's Ghosts and even try some witch's brew.

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Pat Tynan Kilkenny Walking Tours

Pat Tynan Kilkenny Walking Tours

Enjoy a humorous and informative walking tour of Ireland's medieval city, led by a proud local of the medieval capital of Ireland.

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Medieval Kilkenny Stories Through Time

Medieval Kilkenny Stories Through Time

Medieval Kilkenny Stories through time is the city's first street theatrical Walking Tour. The tour starts from the Hole In the Wall on High Street, about a 10 min walk from Kilkenny Castle.

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The National Reptile Zoo

The National Reptile Zoo

Want to touch a snake or see a chameleon catching its prey? The National Reptile Zoo is Ireland's only reptile zoo and houses over 100 different species, from Alligators to Tortoise and Toads to Pythons.

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Jenkinstown Wood & Walled Garden Walk

Jenkinstown Wood & Walled Garden Walk

Enjoy a relaxing walk in the beautiful Wood & Walled Garden, just a 10-minute drive from the city. Both nature and history lovers will find something to admire: the forest floor is a carpet of bluebells in summer, and the route is scattered with old relics. Pass by a deer enclosure to and a garden commemorating Thomas Moore, whose lyrical poem "The Last Summer Rose" was inspired by these grounds.

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Kilkenny Boat Trips

Kilkenny Boat Trips

Experience the medieval city as our ancestors did: by boat. Cruise down the historic river Nore and take in unique views of historic buildings - keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife! Tours leave every half an hour in summer only and are led by animated locals proud to share tales from local lore with visitors from near and far.

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