Discover Kilkenny

The 12th-century Norman Kilkenny Castle overlooks the River Nore and served the Butler family as its seat for over 600 years; its opulent interiors and sprawling grounds are open to visitors today.

The Medieval Mile connects Kilkenny Castle with St. Canice's Cathedral along medieval streets and historic buildings such as Rothe House, one of Ireland's best-preserved Tudor merchant houses.

Over 30 meters high and around 1,000 years old, the Round Tower next to the Gothic St. Canice's Cathedral is one of the few climbable round towers in Ireland, rewarding the steep climb with a panoramic view over the entire city.

Kilkenny has brewed beer since the Middle Ages and gave its name to the well-known Smithwick's ale brand; at the historic brewery on the edge of town, visitors can learn more about the city's centuries-old brewing craft on a guided tour.

From Dublin, a train or bus connects both cities in about one and a half to two hours. Kilkenny also lies conveniently between Dublin and Cork, making it a good day trip or stopover on a road trip.

The 12th-century Norman Kilkenny Castle overlooks the River Nore and served the Butler family as its seat for over 600 years; its opulent interiors and sprawling grounds are open to visitors today.

The Medieval Mile connects Kilkenny Castle with St. Canice's Cathedral along medieval streets and historic buildings such as Rothe House, one of Ireland's best-preserved Tudor merchant houses.

Over 30 meters high and around 1,000 years old, the Round Tower next to the Gothic St. Canice's Cathedral is one of the few climbable round towers in Ireland, rewarding the steep climb with a panoramic view over the entire city.