Kilkenny Castle

Famous for it's arts and heritage, Kilkenny is one of Irelands favourite tourist destinations. Located in the heart of the sunny south east, Kilkenny is within easy reach of Dublin and Cork Airports, and Roslare Harbour. The beauty of the city, as well as its charming character, and abudance of restaurants and pubs, make it a popular year round holiday destination.

 

Formerly the medieval capital of Ireland, many of Kilkenny's medieval roots are still evident today, in its cobbled streets, winding laneways, and its spectacular medieval buildings, such as Kilkenny Castle, Rothe House, Saint Canice's Cathedral and City Hall, which in former times functioned also as the City Jail.

 
City Hall, Main Street, Kilkenny
Pottery Workshop in the Kilkenny Design Centre

The establishment of the Kilkenny Design Centre in the 1960s helped to re-enforce Kilkenny's reputation as an important creative centre, and the city is home to many artists and traditional craftworkers. Kilkenny's newest exhibition space, The National Craft Gallery, is located in the Crescent Building, formerly the stables of Kilkenny Castle, which are also home to a large number of craft shops and workshops.

 
 

In addition to its many historical and cultural attractions, there is also plenty to do in Kilkenny, with the Arts Festival, the Cat Laughs Festival, and The Rhythm and Roots Festival, among others. There is an active nighlife scene in Kilkenny, with plenty of quality restaurants, as well as pubs, music venues, night clubs, and the famous Watergate Theatre.

 
Traditional Pub, Kieran Street, Kilkenny