Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre is located just outside Kilkenny near Kilmanagh. This open-air stage hosts events mostly during the height of the summer months when it is a delight to be outdoors, even late into the night. Besdies concerts and theatrical events, the venue also hosts family days and lectures.
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.
One of Kilkenny's most respected venues, Cleere's has been playing host to intimate theater performances and traditional music sessions for as long as anyone can remember. Its Monday night trad session has assumed almost legendary status, and guest musicians and singers are always very welcome. Attracting mainly a younger crowd, Cleere's is also a great place for a pint of Guinness. So sit back with a tall one and enjoy the show.
Although only established in 1993, the Watergate Theatre has become a focal point for much of the theatrical activity in Kilkenny city and county. The venue plays host to a variety of both visiting productions and local amateur drama societies. Homegrown professional companies, including Barnstorm and Bickerstaffe, have also performed at the Watergate to great acclaim.
One of the darkest places in Ireland, the Dunmore Caves consist of a series of underground chambers said to be the site of legendary battles. The Vikings plundered the caves in 928AD; thousands of victims' bones were discovered within perhaps as a result. Anyone with an interest in history or geology will enjoy it here. There are regular guided tours and both an exhibition center and museum at the cave entrance. Be warned though: the caves are not for the faint-hearted or claustrophobic.
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.
First built around 1200s, Duiske Abbey is one of the finest Cistercian Abbeys in County Kilkenny. The interior features a variety of items of historical interest, including the 9th-century Celtic crosses of Akylthawn and Ballyogan. Duiske's adjacent Abbey Center also houses a range of exhibits, including several examples of contemporary Christian art.
The Capuchins have been in Kilkenny since 1699 but the present friary was built in 1847. The altarpiece in the church is a notable painting of Christ after the crucifixion by celebrated Italian painter Guardachini. The Friary is also notable for having Kilkenny's only walk-in confession service. Ring the bell inside the front door and a friar will dutifully make his way from their living quarters to listen to your sins.
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.
Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre is located just outside Kilkenny near Kilmanagh. This open-air stage hosts events mostly during the height of the summer months when it is a delight to be outdoors, even late into the night. Besdies concerts and theatrical events, the venue also hosts family days and lectures.
Jerpoint Park is Ireland’s best surviving example of a deserted 12th-century medieval town (Newtown Jerpoint). There you can visit the ruins of the Saint Nicholas church and his tomb. The lost town dates back to the 12th Century and is steeped in history. This unique place is now opened all year round and also offers tea rooms in the beautiful Belmore House and different activities like fishing, pony & trap rides and more.
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.