Dunmore Cave
Castlecomer Road
Ballyfoyle
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 776 7726
Dunmore Cave contains nearly a quarter of a mile of passages and despite being one of Ireland’s smallest caves is nevertheless one of its most fascinating. It was the site of a Viking massacre in 928 AD and features thousands of bat skeletons encased in the calcite limestone.
Jerpoint Abbey
Thomastown
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 772 4623
Jerpoint Abbey is one of the most impressive religious sites in Ireland and is found in County Kilkenny in the south-east of the country. Built in 1160 by Donal MacGillapatrick, the King of Ossory, it gives visitors an insight into medieval monastic life. Guided tours take visitors around the Cistercian abbey is approximately 45 minutes and there are guidebooks in various languages to help you discover more.
Kilfane Waterfall and Glen
Thomastown
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 772 4558
A classic example of a Romantic era garden can be found at Kilfane. Dating from 1790, the site includes an enthralling waterfall and areas of woodland, making for a relaxing and romantic attraction. The garden opens each year during July and August and it proves particularly ideal for wedding photographs.
Kilkenny Castle
The Parade
Kilkenny
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 770 4100
Kilkenny Castle dates from the 12th century, although the interior underwent a major refurbishment during the 1830s. Today the castle features a library, drawing room, bedrooms and the Butler Art Gallery. The castle’s extensive parklands, meanwhile, are a joy to explore on a fine day. Visits tend to last in the region of one hour and talks take place in the Long Gallery should you wish to learn more.
Rothe House
Parliament Street
Kilkenny
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 772 2893
Rothe House is a Tudor period house comprising three stone buildings divided by cobbled courtyards. The house was restored during the 1960s and now features a museum filled with local artefacts and period costumes. Formerly a merchant’s townhouse the house was built between 1594 and 1610 and is now home to some 2,500 historical items.
St Canice’s Cathedral
Coach Road
Kilkenny
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 776 4971
The 13th century St Canice’s Cathedral is the second longest cathedral in the country. The site on which the cathedral stands has been a site of worship since the 6th century, while the adjacent 9th century round tower offers unsurpassed views of the town. The cathedral’s accompanying round tower is said to be the oldest building in Kilkenny while it is also worth noting there is a shop onsite that sells cathedral-related jewellery.
St Francis Abbey Brewery
Parliament Street
Kilkenny
County Kilkenny
Republic of Ireland
Tel: +353 (0)56 779 6498
The St Francis Abbey Brewery has been a key part of local life for approximately 300 years. Smithwick’s Ale was first brewed here in 1710 and continues to be so to this day, as well as Budweiser for the Irish market. The brewery covers 25 acres of land in Kilkenny and tours cover the whole grounds, taking in the exhibition hall, the abbey, the brewing process, the tasting room and the cellar bar.