Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Carlow

"Address: Irishtown, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE Tel: +353 056 776 4971 The second-largest cathedral in Ireland, this stunning medieval landmark was constructed 800 years ago, is a major visitor draw, and has been in regular use since its founding. Careful restoration over the years has ensured that the cathedral remains well-preserved. Situated next-door is a 9th-century Round Tower, which measures around 30 metres / 100 feet in height and when climbed, gives magnificent views of the city and surrounding countryside."

"On an ancient spot where there has been a church since the 500s, St Canice’s Cathedral is an Early Gothic monument from the 13th century. At 68 metres it’s the second longest cathedral in Ireland and both its architecture and fittings will keep you rapt for good hour or two. Outside you’ll notice the faux battlements that give the cathedral a fortified air."

"In the 6th century a monastery was built on the site of the cathedral by St Canice, who is Kilkenny’s patron saint. There used to be a wooden church which apparently was burned down in 1087. The round tower is located just outside the cathedral and is the oldest building on the site."

"Rising above the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most visited heritage sites. Stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it has a history dating back to the 12th century, though much of its present look dates from Victorian times.During the winter months (November to January) visits are by 40-minute guided tours only, which shift to self-guided tours from February to October. Highlights include the Long Gallery with its painted roof and carved marble fireplace. There's an excellent tearoom in the former castle kitchens."

"Once the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde, Kilkenny Castle, located in the heart of Kilkenny City, is a 12th century castle, remodelled in Victorian times and set in riverside parklands. The magnificent castle overlooks the River Nore and has guarded this important river crossing for more than 900 years. Visitors can explore the castle - including the Butler Art Gallery, with contemporary art exhibitions - at their leisure."

"The impressive Kilkenny Castle dates from the 12th century and awaits visitors with its imposing walls and towers, amid picturesque gardens and parks. The mighty structure was once sold to the Republic of Ireland by the then owners, the Ormondes, in 1967, and renovated in the following years. Stroll through the cultivated gardens, which are free admission, or take a guided tour of the inside of the castle."

"The original house was built between 1594 and 1610 and was the home of landowner and Mayor of Kilkenny City, John Rothe Fitz Piers, his wife and their children. It is the only example of an early 17th-century merchant’s townhouse in Ireland and it’s a gorgeous place to visit and take pictures. They have a perfect recreation of the original Rothe Garden as they discovered the archaeological remains of the gardens original layout and used popular plants and flowers of the time to recreate it."

"Built by John Rothe between 1594 and 1610 Rothe House is one of the finest examples in Ireland of a Tudor era merchant’s house. Now owned by Kilkenny Archaeological Society it houses a collection of Bronze Age artifacts, ogham stones and period costumes. The Garden is a recreation of a historic garden from the 17th century and is the only urban garden of this period which is open to the public."

"Dating to 1225, this Dominican monastery was built outside Kilkenny’s city walls as a way of staying independent from the old Irish and English quarters. The abbey is close to a tributary of the River Nore, and over 800 years has suffered repeated floods. Like all abbeys in Ireland and Britain the Black Abbey was shut down during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, but unlike most, it was preserved as a courthouse."

"Originally home to a group of peaceful Dominican Friars, Black Abbey has been standing since the year 1220 and got its name from the colour the friars wore. While on the outside it may look like any other ancient stone structure, the inside is where you can witness the beauty and character of the church. It is home to the largest and most impressive Rose Window in Ireland depicting the five mysteries of the Rosary."

"This priory of the Dominican Order was founded in 1225 by William Marshal the Younger, son of the above-mentioned William Marshal. The Dominicans were often called “Black Friars” because they used to wear a black cloak. Hence the name Black Abbey."

"One of Ireland's most magnificent landscaped gardens, Altamont covers 16 hectares on the banks of the River Slaney, with carefully selected plantings arranged in naturalistic settings where peacocks, swans, squirrels and wild hare abound, surrounding an ornamental water-lily lake. The gardens are off the N80 at Kilbride Cross, 24km southeast of Carlow town."

"Opened in 1954, Billy Byrnes has undergone refurbishments in recent years and now houses a a secret garden, an outdoor terrace and a bunker beach bar. The beach bar sports bright colours and funky furniture, creating an ocean like atmosphere in the heart of Kilkenny!. In the secret garden area is where you’ll get the opportunity to listen to local and international musicians, including the genres of rock, jazz and folk."

"Bring a touch of the sea and sand to your outdoor drinks gathering at Billy Byrnes Bar on John’s Street. Scattered with rescued sofa’s and hand-made tables, this funky beer garden resembles a beach bar in the middle of the city!. Visit: www.billybyrnesbar.com"

"Ireland Travel Guides contains affiliate links all throughout the site. If you choose to purchase a product or book services through our affiliate links, this earns us a commission at no extra cost to you. For our complete disclosure, click here"

"Perched dramatically at a strategic height and commanding a crossing on the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle dominates the "High Town" of Kilkenny City. After many facelifts over the centuries, Kilkenny Castle today exhibits a blend of architectural styles. It is one of the best tourist attractions in Kilkenny."

"By the north bank of the River Nore is a 16th-century tower left over from a Medieval hospital set up around the 13th century. The heavily fortified hospital was positioned outside the centre of Kilkenny and mainly treated lepers. The name “Maudlin” comes from Mary Magdalene, as leprosy was a disease generally associated with prostitution in Medieval times."

"These lavish gardens with architectural features, lakes and woodland were landscaped by Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll and completed in 1912. The centrepiece is a sunken garden, where circular terraces lead down to an oval pool with a magnificent fountain.The gardens are 7km southeast of Abbeyleix, off the R432 to Ballinakill, in the grounds of Heywood Community School."

"Perched dramatically at a strategic height and commanding a crossing on the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle dominates the "High Town" of Kilkenny City. After many facelifts over the centuries, Kilkenny Castle today exhibits a blend of architectural styles. It is one of the best tourist attractions in Kilkenny."

"Located in a quiet secluded courtyard just off the main tourist area, Kilkenny’s River Court Hotel provides one of the most picturesque backdrops for outdoor dining. With a view of Kilkenny Castle and overlooking the River Nore, the Terrace at the Kilkenny River Court is the perfect place to sit back, unwind and enjoy a glass of prosecco after a day exploring the Medieval City. Whether you are on a girly getaway or couples staycation you will love soaking up the ambience in this unique location."

"This stunning four-star property sits alongside the River Nore in the centre of Kilkenny city. Not only is the waterside setting something special but the hotel offers its guests views of the 12th century, Kilkenny Castle. Rooms are bright and contemporary with tonnes of natural light and neutral shades."

"If you fancy a view with your favourite tipple, then the Terrace Bar in Kilkenny’s River Court hotel offers you river and castle views, where you can soak up the sun and take in some of Kilkenny’s most iconic sites!. Visit:Riverview Bar & Terrace Kilkenny | River Court Hotel"

"As one of Kilkenny’s leading pubs, Rafter’s Gastro Pub serves superb food in a friendly atmosphere. The beer garden is a great place to relax and nourish your appetite and has a tv for all the live sporting events taking place this summer. When a place like Rafter’s has a great reputation as a local go-to place to eat and drink, you know it’ll be good!"

"Rafter’s is a great place to chill after exploring the Medieval City. You will love the relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff. On their new rooftop garden, they’ve got food coming from their sizzling stone and a reputation as a local go-to spot for live music and sports events."

"Dating to 1225, this Dominican monastery was built outside Kilkenny’s city walls as a way of staying independent from the old Irish and English quarters. The abbey is close to a tributary of the River Nore, and over 800 years has suffered repeated floods. Like all abbeys in Ireland and Britain the Black Abbey was shut down during Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, but unlike most, it was preserved as a courthouse."

"Originally home to a group of peaceful Dominican Friars, Black Abbey has been standing since the year 1220 and got its name from the colour the friars wore. While on the outside it may look like any other ancient stone structure, the inside is where you can witness the beauty and character of the church. It is home to the largest and most impressive Rose Window in Ireland depicting the five mysteries of the Rosary."

"This priory of the Dominican Order was founded in 1225 by William Marshal the Younger, son of the above-mentioned William Marshal. The Dominicans were often called “Black Friars” because they used to wear a black cloak. Hence the name Black Abbey."

"Rising above the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most visited heritage sites. Stronghold of the powerful Butler family, it has a history dating back to the 12th century, though much of its present look dates from Victorian times.During the winter months (November to January) visits are by 40-minute guided tours only, which shift to self-guided tours from February to October. Highlights include the Long Gallery with its painted roof and carved marble fireplace. There's an excellent tearoom in the former castle kitchens."

"Once the principal seat of the Butler family, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde, Kilkenny Castle, located in the heart of Kilkenny City, is a 12th century castle, remodelled in Victorian times and set in riverside parklands. The magnificent castle overlooks the River Nore and has guarded this important river crossing for more than 900 years. Visitors can explore the castle - including the Butler Art Gallery, with contemporary art exhibitions - at their leisure."

"The impressive Kilkenny Castle dates from the 12th century and awaits visitors with its imposing walls and towers, amid picturesque gardens and parks. The mighty structure was once sold to the Republic of Ireland by the then owners, the Ormondes, in 1967, and renovated in the following years. Stroll through the cultivated gardens, which are free admission, or take a guided tour of the inside of the castle."