Kilkenny's tourist office is located in the restored Shee Alms House in the centre of the city. This former 16th- century almshouse was first founded in 1582 by Sir Richard Shee to accommodate "twelve poor persons in the city" and is now the focal point for walking tours and any other information you may require about Kilkenny city or county. Shee Alms House also hosts the City Scope Exhibition, a miniature sound-and-light recreation of the city in 1642.
A centuries-old marvel, this larger-than-life castle has long been recognized as an icon of Norman history and occupation. Built first as a wooden castle for Strongbow or Richard de Clare in the 12th Century, Kilkenny Castle over its extremely long existence has been altered and restored several times. This Norman castle by the riverside was strategically placed to defend the city and played a pivotal role in the region's history and politics. Its surrounds unfold spectacularly with well-tended rose gardens and velveteen expanses, features that enhance its already beautiful setting. It is also home to the Butler Art Gallery, which is renowned for its rotating art exhibits. Managed by the Office of Public Works, this once royal residence is one of Ireland's most popular attractions.
The steps outside this courthouse are a great place to take a breather and indulge in a spot of people-watching away from the hustle and bustle of High Street and the multitude of shoppers. The building is on the site of an ancient castle built around 1210. This was replaced in 1566 by the present building, which was eventually yielded to the authorities by its owner for use as a jail. It became a courthouse around 1792 and still houses the local district and circuit courts. The foyer also functions as an exhibition venue during the Kilkenny Arts Festival in August.
This curious 18th-century tower was first built in 1761 by Alderman William Colles. Originally used for commercial purposes, the Tholsel was destroyed by fire in 1981. Now superbly restored, the building is home to the offices of Kilkenny Corporation and houses the city's municipal archives. Anyone with an interest in architecture should certainly pay it a visit.
The Parade Tower is a part of the historic Kilkenny Castle. It functions as an entertainment venue, conference hall, and cultural events. The tower is a popular place to hold local events. It is equipped with modern technology hence, is conducive to hold conferences and other events. Events such as, The Ancient Harp Music of Ireland, and a handful of Kilkenny Arts Festival events are held here. Parade Tower is an an excellent place to experience the cultural flavor of Kelkenny and Ireland.
First founded in 1225, this Dominican friary takes its unusual name from the fact that the resident monks used to wear a formal black cappa over their white habit. Established by William Marshall, Earl of Pembroke, the abbey has had a turbulent history, having been shut down by Henry VIII and later left to ruin. Restored in the 1970s, the abbey features a range of monastic exhibits, including a pre-Reformation Irish oak statue of St. Dominic, and several stone coffins. The abbey is still in use today by members of the founding Dominican Order.
One of the finest English Renaissance buildings in Kilkenny city, this former merchant house was built by John Rothe-Fitzpiers in 1594 and served as the family home for Rothe, his wife and their twelve children. The complex features the restored facades of three houses, each separated by cobbled courtyards. A 17th-century garden occupies part of the house's backyard, which features a fruit orchard and a mini herb garden. Managed by the Kilkenny Archaeological Society, this well-preserved house is an excellent exemplar of post-medieval architecture. It is now home to a variety of artifacts and exhibits that trace the life and history of the city's early inhabitants.
A striking vision in grey, this Gothic church is the second-longest cathedral in Ireland. Originally established by Saint Canice as a monastic settlement in the 6th Century, the cathedral features a variety of exhibits of historical interest, including stained glass windows, limestone grave slabs and medieval carvings by Rory and William O'Tunney. One of its most salient features is its "Celtic Christian" round tower, one of the few remaining medieval vestiges of its kind that can be ascended to the top. It also notably enshrines prominent Ossory bishops.
Located 10 miles south of Kilkenny city, Thomastown is a small town, with a population of about 2,500, situated on the banks of the river Nore. A perfect location for those who wish to unwind, the area is surrounded by lush countryside, offering fine views of the granite hills to the south of the town. Thomastown's signature attraction, Jerpoint Abbey dates back to 1200AD, while the delightful Kilfane Waterfall and Glenshould provide distraction for both young and old. Ample accommodation can be found in the many quality B&Bs in the area, but if it's real luxury you're after, your best option is probably the Mount Juliet Hotel and Golf Course.
This Cistercian abbey dates from around 1200AD and is reputed to have been built on the remains of a Benedictine abbey founded by Donal MacGillapatrick, King of Ossory. With much of its interior still intact, Jerpoint provides a good insight into early Christian Ireland. Items of note includes a 14th-century east window, Irish-Romanesque transepts and chancel, and a 15th-century central tower. Access to the roof is available via the staircase and the tower's restored cloister piers feature a variety of unusual medieval carvings.
First found in the early 1200s, Inistioge was originally the site of an Augustinian priory, which overlooked the River Nore. Surrounded by scenic hills and forestry, the village is acknowledged as one of the most picturesque destinations in Ireland, and unsurprisingly has been the location for a number of international movies. The immediate environs comprise the Woodstock Estate, which offers a sublime riverside walk amongst an untouched forestland. Some of the other must-visit attractions of the town include the Mermaid Gallery Inistioge and St. Columcille's Church.