Kilkenny Castle — Attraction in The Municipal District of Kilkenny City

Based on the reviews of Kilkenny, it said that you can basically see the Castle from anywhere in the city. We found this mostly true and it is certainly a main reason that tourists make their way to this town. We saw it while crossing the bridge as we hiked to our hotel from the train station. We saw it as we crossed the street to our hotel and all over anytime another building wasn't blocking it or in the way. Once it was time for our tour, it was a beautiful sunny day with bright blue skies, a few clouds, and a good breeze.

We opted for the guided tour rather than the self-paced because of the reviews online and we would agree with what others are saying. For an hour long tour, you definitely get your money's worth. Our guide, John Kelly did a fantastic job keeping the group engaged and was a wonderful storyteller. It was really interesting to hear about the history of the castle and it's residents, the Butler family (and company). Our favorite part was the terrace leading our the garden, which the road had to be removed in order to make room for this expansive garden. You could see this all from the "guest rooms" which were decorated to match some of the periods the researchers were able to find picture of and replacate. Most of the items and decor were not originals, as we learned that there was a lot of damage before the castle was turned into a museum. We learned that the last "owner" sold the property for very very little in the 1960's to the community so that they could refurbish and open it to the public. The long room at the end of the tour was incredibly detailed and impressive. It was fairly new in construction compared to the rest of the castle and its design was inspired by an upside down ship hull.

After the tour we had plenty of time to explore the park and surrounding area.

For more recommendations and tips from our Ireland trip......

My visit to Kilkenny Castle was an unforgettable experience, offering a deep dive into Ireland’s rich history and architectural splendor. Nestled in the heart of Kilkenny, this majestic castle is a testament to centuries of Irish heritage.

Castle Tour

The guided tour of the castle was exceptional. The knowledgeable guides provided detailed historical context, bringing the castle’s storied past to life. The restored rooms are beautifully maintained, showcasing exquisite period furnishings, artwork, and tapestries. Walking through the grand halls and lush gardens, one can easily imagine the grandeur of the castle’s heyday.

Art Gallery

The castle also houses an impressive art gallery, featuring a diverse collection of paintings and artifacts. It was a delight to explore the various exhibits and learn about the local and national artists represented.

Gardens and Grounds

The expansive gardens and grounds surrounding the castle are equally stunning. The meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and serene lake offer a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic. The walled garden and the rose garden are particularly charming, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Facilities and Amenities

Kilkenny Castle is well-equipped with visitor facilities, including ample parking, clean restrooms, and a lovely café where you can relax and enjoy some refreshments. The gift shop offers a wide range of souvenirs, from local crafts to historical books.

Overall Experience

Kilkenny Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting Ireland. Its rich history, beautiful architecture, and picturesque gardens make it a standout destination. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a beautiful place to explore, Kilkenny Castle has something...

We visited Kilkenny Castle as one of our major sights to be seen during our visit to Ireland. The castle was built in 1195 on the bank of the River Nore. I'm sure this location was strategic at that time but now it is just a very beautiful location. We toured the very well maintained castle and enjoyed seeing the various furnished rooms on two different floors within the castle. I could only imagine what it was like to be in this castle 800 years ago. We were walking through history. What a great feeling to be standing inside such a historic castle. I love museums and antiquities. I try to picture myself as a person from the past making the item I'm viewing or actually using the item for it's intended purpose. In Kilkenny Castle, I was inside the historic item in which I envisioned myself as a castle visitor in the days of old. After our walking tour of the castle interior, we went outside to visit the beautiful garden. The grounds were magnificent. The flowers, their beds and the grass were manicured so well. Walking to the rear of the garden and looking back toward the castle provided an imposing view of the castle. There are many castles to be seen while in Ireland, but if you only have time to visit one, this is a great one to see. We picked this Castle specifically to visit and no one in our group of 8 folks had any regrets upon completion of our castle and castle grounds tour. I think you will enjoy your...