Introduction
Nestled in the heart of Ireland's fertile farmland, Kilkenny is a county traversed by the meandering River Nore. At the very heart of the county lies the historic town of Kilkenny who’s rich history dates back to the 6th century when it was founded by St. Canice, who established a monastery that would shape the town's destiny. However, when the Normans arrived in the 12th Century, they bestowed upon it one of their main power bases – the majestic Kilkenny Castle – making it the medieval capital of Ireland. In the present day, Kilkenny wears a contemporary crown as the Festival Capital of Ireland, hosting numerous international celebrations.
Why We Love kilkenny:
Ascend St. Canice's Cathedral for breathtaking views of Kilkenny City – the 30-meter climb is a small price to pay for the vista that awaits at the summit. Immerse yourself in the county's natural beauty with leisurely walks, including strolls through the exquisite Kilkenny Castle Park gardens or take a tour to listen to the Viking attacks and stories of Dame Alice Kyteler, the witch of Kilkenny. Stop by Smithwick’s brewery where over 300 years of history combine to immerse you in the story of Ireland’s oldest ale, head off on a tantalising food tour, get a special piece of jewellery commissioned by Rudolf Heltzel, learn about the lost traditions of a family farm distillery at Ballykeefe Distillery, paddle the easy white water on some of the city's weirs, watch master craftsmen create incredible pieces at Jerpoint Glass, visit a 6th generation textile weaver, create a unique piece of pottery while enjoying the Made in Kilkenny Craft Trail and much more. As night falls, Kilkenny's vibrant nightlife comes to life, inviting you to explore buzzing bars, award winning restaurants, and cozy pubs.
Access & Location:
Kilkenny is easily accessible by road from Dublin, just a scenic 90-minute drive away. Shannon Airport on the west coast of Ireland also provides convenient access being 2 hours 15 minutes away. With its central location, Kilkenny serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes that Ireland has to offer.
Famous for:
Kilkenny is synonymous with hurling (one of Ireland's native Gaelic games), boasting the most senior titles in Ireland and earning its reputation as the home of the revered Kilkenny cats. Notable Kilkenny Cats include James Hoban, the White House's architect. In the heart of Kilkenny town, Kytelers Inn, a medieval haunt, enchants visitors with its cozy wood and stone bars, nightly Irish music, and a touch of the supernatural – as one of Ireland's oldest inns, it's rumoured to be haunted.
A word you will hear a lot:
"Deadly": This seemingly straightforward phrase might carry a hint of risk and intrigue, but in reality, it serves as a versatile replacement for words like fantastic, stylish, or extraordinary. Essentially, "deadly" is a way to express admiration for something remarkable, whether it's a killer pair of shoes or an amazing new hotspot in the city
"Lousy": In stark contrast to "deadly," we have the word "lousy," which is employed to characterize something that lacks impressiveness. This term carries a bit more complexity, as it can also be used to denote unpleasant actions. For instance, if someone fails to keep a promise, this action could certainly be labelled as "lousy."
Worth considering if:
Often referred to as the "Marble City," exudes medieval charm and cultural richness. This county's central location in the southeast makes it easily accessible for a day trip if you are based in Dublin. However, this county is also perfect for your full five star incentive stay if your group flies into Dublin and wants to avoid the longer transfer times heading towards the south west of Ireland. With its historic castle, charming streets, and vibrant arts scene, Kilkenny captures the essence of Ireland's heritage
