11 best things to do in Kilkenny
Cobbled streets filled with medieval history, ancient caves, an abundance of local craft and plenty of craic – it’s easy to see why a visit to Kilkenny makes for a brilliant break.
Here are the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny and great activities to add to your trip itinerary for the Marble City and beyond.
- 1. Kilkenny Castle
- 2. St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower
- 3. Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile and Medieval Mile Museum
- 4. Butler Gallery
- 5. Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny
- 6. Jerpoint Glass Studio
- 7. Jerpoint Abbey & Jerpoint Park
- 8. Dunmore Caves
- 9. Castlecomer Discovery Park
- 10. Kilkenny Design Centre
- 11. Highbank Organic Orchards
When visiting Kilkenny, make sure to explore the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny that are perfect for any traveler.
Discover the 11 Best Things to Do in Kilkenny
View places on map1 Kilkenny Castle
Although you’ll find Kilkenny Castle right in the heart of the city, once you’re inside its walls you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Originally built by the Normans in 1195, the castle now features magnificent gardens, woodland paths and a man-made lake, all added in the 19th century.
The castle is open to visitors throughout the year, with a tearoom for refreshments and a playground if you’re bringing kids. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle’s impressive chambers, including the magnificent Long Gallery.
2St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower
The round tower of St. Canice’s Cathedral is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny and, weather permitting, you can climb to the top of its 30 metres for incredible views of the city and nearby countryside. The religious roots of the site go back centuries, evident in the tombstones and round-headed stained glass windows.
3Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile and Medieval Mile Museum
Running through the centre of Kilkenny city, The Medieval Mile is a discovery trail linking St Canice’s Cathedral and the Anglo-Norman castle and much more in between. The Medieval Mile Pass gives you access to everything on the trail, as well as discounts for various cafes and restaurants, and is the best value way to see the attractions along the route.
The historic setting of the Medieval Mile Museum is in 13th-century St. Mary’s Church, now converted into a modern museum. Here, you’ll begin to understand the city’s medieval past as Kilkenny’s 800-year story is told using modern technology.
Don’t miss out on the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny, ensuring a memorable experience.
Experience the incredible exhibitions at the Butler Gallery, just steps from the edge of the River Nore in the centre of Kilkenny city. Admire art by Irish and international artists spanning contemporary works, 18th century pieces and an impressive collection of prints, sculptures and photos.
5Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny
St Canice’s Cathedral is one of the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny, offering stunning views.
Ideal for rainy days and right in the heart of Kilkenny city, the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny will give you insight into more than 300 years of brewing history. All tours are led by passionate and local guides who will take you from the first brewed Smithwick’s ale in 1710 to your own fresh pint at the end of the tour, plus all the history in-between.
Take a 20-minute spin to pretty Thomastown to check out a business where playing with fire is actively encouraged. Here you’ll find Jerpoint Glass Studio run by the four siblings whose parents established the internationally-renowned business in 1979. Every piece is made by hand and you’ll get to watch skilled glassblowers manipulate the red-hot molten glass.7Jerpoint Abbey & Jerpoint Park
While you’re there, nearby Jerpoint Abbey is wonderfully preserved from its 1158 origins and you can get a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Cistercian monks who once lived there. Afterwards, take a walk, or a drive to Jerpoint Park where you can see the remains of a deserted medieval town. During the summer you can even watch sheepdog demonstrations as man’s best friend rounds up herds of sheep.
Visiting the Butler Gallery is among the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny for art enthusiasts.
Fancy visiting one of the darkest places in Ireland? At Dunmore Caves, voyage deep into chilly chambers formed over millions of years, discovering stories of archaeological finds from 928 AD. Afterwards, sit and wonder at it all in the lovely tea room onsite. The caves are just a 15-minute drive from Kilkenny.
Learn about brewing at Smithwick’s Experience, one of the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny.
Put the phones down and let nature take over at Castlecomer Discovery Park. Spread across the 80-acre grounds of the Castlecomer Demesne you’ll find treetop walks, climbing walls, ziplines, as well as other activities such as canoeing and orienteering which are great fun as a family.
Jerpoint Glass Studio shows craftsmanship, making it one of the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny.
Dunmore Caves are a thrilling visit, ranking among the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny.
Back in the Marble City, Kilkenny Design Centre is renowned for showcasing emerging Irish craftspeople and their exceptional work. Browse their range of beautiful trinkets and bring home your choice of Irish-designed jewellery, knitwear, fine china, pottery and glass.
Castlecomer Discovery Park is an adventure and among the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny.
The Calder-Potts family produce delicious apple juices, ciders and their cult product, Highbank Organic Orchard Syrup at Highbank Organic Orchards in Cuffesgrange, just ten minutes outside Kilkenny city. Visit the farm, which dates back to the 17th century, and pop into the organic farm shop to stock up on their ‘Pip to Sip’ produce.
Shop local crafts at Kilkenny Design Centre, one of the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny.
There are so many more activities to enjoy the Marble City. Start planning your next visit to Kilkenny.
Highbank Organic Orchards offers fresh produce and is one of the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny.
Explore the 11 best things to do in Kilkenny for an unforgettable adventure.
