Kilkenny Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland)

Truly a medieval city, Kilkenny has much to keep tourists fascinated during their stay. Almost all of the attractions are located within easy strolls of each other in the city centre and trace the city's long history, through winding streets past religious and secular buildings, leading to the breathtaking Kilkenny Castle itself.

This city is a great place for walking, either along the banks of the River Nore or around its centre, and in its rural surroundings are ancient country houses in stunning grounds and more heritage buildings. Apart from the famous castle, other notable tourist attractions in Kilkenny include the Shee Alms House, the Butler Dower House, the Black Abbey, the St. Francis Abbey Brewery and St. Kieran's College.

Kilkenny Castle

Address: The Parade, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 056 742 1450
This amazing late 12th-century castle, home to the Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde, lies in extensive landscaped parklands and was remodelled in the 19th century. The magnificent Long Gallery, library, bedrooms and drawing room are decorated in the late Georgian style and the servants' block is now a famous art gallery, the Butler Gallery, showing changing exhibitions of contemporary works. Kilkenny Castle has been managed by the state since the 1960s, becoming one of the city's principal tourist attractions. Many visitors come here for the ornamental gardens alone.
Open hours: daily, June to August - 09:00 to 17:30; September - 09:30 to 17:30; October to February - 09:30 to 16:30; March and April - 09:30 to 17:00; May - 09:30 to 17:30
Admission: charge, discounts for students, seniors, families and groups

Kilkenny Tourist Office / Shee Alms House

Address: Shee Alms House, Rose Inn Street, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 056 770 4100
What better place to site a tourism office than in a 16th-century Tudor building? Built in 1582, this arched and colonnaded structure was formerly used as a home for 12 poverty-stricken local people, who were provided for by a local lawyer and his bequest. This community service continued for 150 years before the Shee Alms House reverted to private ownership. Now it's a great place to get Kilkenny info, plus a free map!
Open hours: daily - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: free

Butler Dower House

Address: 16 Patrick Street, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 056 772 2828
Appearing rather like a French chateau from a fairytale, this stunning turreted building set in a Georgian garden was another of the homes owned by the Butler family, the Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde, and lies just beyond the castle. Now a luxury hotel, Butler Dower House is still well worth seeing, and during the summer Arts Week, many exhibitions take place here.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

Black Abbey

Address: Parliament Street / Abbey Street, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 056 772 1279
This Dominican abbey was founded in 1225, next to the city walls, and boasts glorious stained-glass windows. The Black Abbey earned its name since the Dominicans wore black cloaks over their habits and were often known as the 'Black Friars'. Over the years, the abbey has played a part in many important historical events, such as the Oliver Cromwell siege in 1650, and much restoration work ensures that this attraction remains in a good state of repair. Nearby is Black Freren Gate, the only surviving remnant of the ancient city gates.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free

St. Francis Abbey Brewery

Address: Parliament Street, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE
Tel: +353 056 779 6498
This absolute must-see is literally Ireland's oldest brewery, founded in 1221 and demolished during King Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries, with only the abbey tower and chancel left standing. In 1710 the St. Francis Abbey Brewery started up again and is still working today, with tours and tastings taking place during the summer season.
Open hours: June to August, Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

St. Kieran's College

Address: College Street, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE
This magnificent Gothic structure was completed in 1840 and is of national importance. Originally a seminary, St. Kieran's College is now functioning as both a famous hurling academy (a traditional Gaelic sport played with sticks) and secondary school for boys, with the actor Ralph Fiennes being amongst the most famous former students. The building is closed to the public, but its exterior and lovely grounds are worth visiting.
Open hours: daily
Admission: free