Visiting County Kilkenny? This part of the Irish province of Leinster has a number of attractions that you won’t want to miss. Plus some interesting sights that are a bit off the beaten path. So why not take your time and spend a day or two in Kilkenny when visiting Ireland? Here are some ideas to make it worth your while.
County Kilkenny Fast Facts
Need some basic information about County Kilkenny quickly? Well it doesn’t get any faster than this:
- The Irish name for County Kilkenny is Contae Cill Chainnigh , which literally refers to “Kenneth’s Church” (today known as “St. Canice’s Cathedral”).
- The letters in the local license plate numbers are KK – following the Irish car registration system (first and last letter), it should be KY, but that was already taken by County Kerry (coming first in alphabetical order).
- The county town is Kilkenny, with Callan and Castlecomer being other towns of local importance.
- In terms of size, County Kilkenny weighs 2,062 square kilometers.
- County Kilkenny’s population is 95,419 according to the 2011 census… plus an undisclosed number of Kilkenny cats.
- A misleading nickname is used for the city and county, referring to them as the “Marble City” and the “Marble County” respectively. The locally built stone is commonly known as ‘Kilkenny Marble’, even though it is not marble, but a finely polished carboniferous limestone, polished and shiny when wet (which is often quite common).
- In GAA circles, Kilkenny players are also known as “Noresiders” (from the naks of the River Nore) or “Cats,” the latest nickname dating back to the legendary Kilkenny Cats and their fighting spirit.
St. Canice’s Cathedral – the real «Kilkenny»
Saint Canice’s Cathedral in Kilkenny is ranked among the best churches in Ireland and serves as a fitting reminder of the Middle Ages. He also gave the name to the city and county. “Kilkenny” means none other than Kenny’s church, another name for Canice. A beautiful round tower stands right next to the cathedral. It is climbable and offers a great view over Kilkenny – those who are claustrophobic or suffering from vertigo are encouraged to buy a postcard.
Missing wall at Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle is worth a visit when passing through Kilkenny, the castle that overlooks the city. This is a perfect example of an old defensive facility that is being adapted and converted. In disrepair, the restored Kilkenny Castle today is a gem among Ireland’s heritage sites. It is only missing a full wall, making its defensive properties a joke.
Have a Smithwick’s
Smithwick’s Brewery is responsible for the fact that the Kilkenny name is known all over the world… as a type of beer. Not only the brand “Smithwick’s” is produced here, but also the famous “Kilkenny”. Which are not identical, despite persistent rumors that “Kilkenny” is just the export name for “Smithwick’s” as people couldn’t pronounce it correctly. Try it… the beer and the pronunciation. After a few pints, everything will be “smiffix” for you.
Medieval Kilkenny at Rothe House
The Rothe House in Kilkenny was built between 1594 and 1610 and is a typical Elizabethan merchant’s house with two backyards. Find out all about the history of the city here.
The Witchcraft Hours at Kyteler’s Inn
Kyteler’s Inn is one of Kilkenny’s must-see places – a good, cozy pub with a satisfying menu in the restaurant area. But current culinary concerns are less of a reason than the mysterious history of the royal house. The black cat on the pub sign will give you a clue… the house was the home of Dame Alice Kyteler, a rich woman who managed to outlive no less than four rich husbands. Somehow suspicion fell on her and she was accused of witchcraft. The pub is supposedly haunted. But not for Dame Alice, but for her poor servant Petronella.
Ecclesiastical aspects of Kilkenny
The Black Abbey and the Black Freren Gate are named after the “black friars,” or the Dominicans, who had a monastery here. They are not the most exciting church ruins in County Kilkenny, but a solid piece of Kilkenny’s medieval and Irish history.
Splendid Jerpoint Abbey
Jerpoint Abbey must be a strong contender for the ruin of Ireland’s most picturesque abbey (the best view is from the busy road, unfortunately). And it ranks high on the list of places that really should be explored on a guided tour. Unless you are fairly familiar with ecclesiastical ruins, you will need some explanation. The guides also point out the best parts, which you might otherwise miss.
Priory of Kells
Founded in 1193 by the Augustinians of Cornwall, the impressive remains of the Priory of Kells spanned no less than five acres, with walls and towers of 15th century dwellings. But make no mistake, this is not the Kells famous for the round tower and tall crosses (which is Kells in County Meath, sometimes home to the ‘Book of Kells’).
Live Irish Folk Music Sessions in Kilkenny
Visiting County Kilkenny and having to do something at night? Well, you could do worse than go to a local pub (which, by default, will be an »original Irish pub«) and then join a traditional Irish session… so why not give it a try?
Most sessions start around 9:30 pm or when a few musicians get together. Here are the pubs to go to …
Kilkenny City
- “Anaconda” – Monday
- «Caislean ui Cuain» – Tuesday
- “Cleere’s” – Monday
- “Matt the Miller’s” – Tuesday
- «Hotel Metropole» – Thursday
- «Pump House – Wednesday
- “Ryan’s” – Tuesdays and Thursdays
Mullinavat – «Murphy’s» – Saturday
