Kilkenny

Living History, Loving Culture

Ireland’s Medieval Mile: Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice’s Heritage, Craft, Festivals

Other options

Journey Overview:

Located in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, Kilkenny offers a truly unique visitor experience where heritage meets cosmopolitan chic. By day, wander cobbled streets, explore the Medieval Mile and visit the restored Kilkenny Castle. Then by night enjoy the vibrant nightlife and Michelin starred restaurants or indulge in a spot of retail therapy at one of the design studios.

Medieval Mile Museum

Kilkenny's Medieval Mile Museum is Irelands newest visitor attraction, located on the 13th century site of St Mary's cruciform church and graveyard. As the starting point of the 'Medieval Mile' trail, it brings to life Kilkenny's history as Ireland's premier medieval city. Displays of Kilkenny's civic treasures and replicas of some of the High Crosses of Ossory illustrate the local Gaelic monastic heritage and the ancient city's historic role in Ireland.

Medieval Mile

More tales await along the city’s Medieval Mile, where history meets the here and now. You’ll pass the Shee Alms House, built in 1582 to “accommodate 12 poor persons”; Kyteler’s Inn, owned by Alice Kyteler – the first person in Ireland to be accused of witchcraft; and St Canice’s Cathedral, one of only two round towers in the county that you can climb. The grandeur of this 13th century Cathedral is breath-taking.

St. Canice’s Cathedral

A must see in Kilkenny, the Cathedral has wonderful stained glass that includes two windows from the Harry Clarke Studio, Dublin. The Round Tower is the oldest standing structure in the city offering great views and has become a popular spot for marriage proposals!

Rothe House and Garden

Rothe House is a unique, early 17th-century, Irish merchant’s townhouse and garden, set in the centre of Kilkenny City. It is also the base of genealogical research on Kilkenny ancestry. Rothe House is also home to a vast collection of over 300 artefacts from Sir John Lavery paintings to a 1894 wedding dress.

Woodstock Gardens

The beautiful Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum are located overlooking the River NoreValley and the picturesque village of Inistioge. Stroll through the gardens or take a walk through the tranquil woodland then relax and enjoy tea at the Tea Rooms in the wonderfully restored Turner Conservatory.

Dunmore Cave

A short journey outside Kilkenny city, you can descend into legend at the fascinating site of the Dunmore Cave. History tells of a grisly Viking massacre here in the 10^th century, but the cave is also famed for the archaeological treasures it has yielded in the past. And that’s not to mention its rumoured connection to an elaborate system of underground passageways.

If you have more time…

Walk, canoe or cycle from Graiguenamanagh to the ecclesiastical village of St Mullins along the River Barrow. It’s an easy trail of about 7km past weirs and loughs with wonderful views.

Location Kilkenny

Distance from ports.

Dublin 88 miles / 141 km
Rosslare 58 miles / 93 km

Accommodation options

Pembroke Hotel
Brandon View B&B
Church View B&B

Pembroke Hotel

The Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny is a relaxing 4 star boutique hotel in the heart of the old city quarter, behind Kilkenny Castle and just 5 minutes’ walk from Kilkenny centre. Kilkenny was the medieval capital of Ireland and is steeped in history, myths and legends. Stroll along the main street for a wide selection restaurants and traditional Irish pubs

Brandon View B&B

Surrounded by scenic, peaceful countryside in Co. Kilkenny 6 km miles from Graignamanagh with the coastal town of Waterford a 35-minute drive away. All ensuite rooms have TV, radio and iron with bright, classic décor.

Church View B&B

Kilkenny city is just 4 km away in a secluded spot with pretty garden. In this medieval city visitors can explore Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice’s Cathedral with its ancient round tower, as well as the many pubs and renowned restaurants the city boasts.