Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Kilkenny

"Ireland’s second-largest medieval cathedral (after St Patrick’s in Dublin) has a long and fascinating history. The first monastery was built here in the 6th century by St Canice, Kilkenny’s patron saint. The present structure dates from the 13th to 16th centuries, with extensive 19th-century reconstruction, it’s interior housing ancient grave slabs and the tombs of Kilkenny Castle’s Butler dynasty."

"St. Canice's Cathedral is one of Kilkenny’s most famous attractions and is one of the most important medieval churches in Ireland. Its founding history goes back to the 6th century, but the building as we know it today was only built in the 13th century. Admire the round stained glass windows, marble floors and a number of fascinating 17th century tombstones."

"Built between 1202 and 1285, St Canice's has been preserved in its original style and form. Worship has taken place here for over 800 years. See the wonderful stained glass and the largest collection of ancient monuments."

"Founded in 1172 and remodelled in Victorian times this majestic stone castle stands beside the river and within a 50 acre park. Two wings of the Castle have been restored to their 19th century splendour and include a library, drawing room and magnificent Long Gallery. The river wing also houses the Butler Gallery of contemporary art."

"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..."

"With eight centuries of history whispering from its walls, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most iconic and historic sites."

"In the middle of Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile is our hidden gem, Rothe House and Gardens. Built between 1594 and 1610 by the Cistercian order, it went on to become home to the Mayor of Kilkenny John Rothe Fitz Piers and his family. Kilkenny Archaeological Society (KAS) now owns the building complex and have complied an impressive museum collection from Kilkenny and the surrounding countryside."

"Tudor Rothe House (1594) lies about a five-minute walk from St. Mary's. Once a merchant's house, this historic building was created around two courtyards. Restored in 1966, it has been a major tourist draw ever since."

"Nestled in the centre of Ireland’s Medieval Mile, Rothe House and Garden is the only example of an early 17th-century merchant's townhouse in Ireland, and is one of Kilkenny's hidden gems."

"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."

"Founded in 1225 by William Marshal, this Dominican abbey takes its name from the monks' black habits. Much of what survives dates from the 18th and 19th centuries, but remnants of more ancient archways are still..."

"Situated in the heart of the city is the iconic Kilkenny Castle. The Castle park offers a relaxing setting against the hustle and bustle of the city with over 50 acres of charming grounds to be explored. The Rose Garden to the front of the castle offers spectacular views over Kilkenny City and it is a firm favourite for both visitors and locals."

"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."

"Address: Abbey Street, Kilkenny, Republic of Ireland, IE Medieval Kilkenny was surrounded by city walls, complete with gates and defensive towers, of which enough remain to be of interest. Talbot Tower (Talbot's Bastion) and the Black Feren Gate, the only surviving gate, are on the High Town circuit close to the Abbey Street walls, and another stretch of wall runs through the brewery's grounds. The city walls define the structure of the medieval city and are now part of a heritage conservation project."

"Billy Byrne’s is one of Kilkenny’s most famous hotspots located in the heart of this Medieval City. Visitors of all ages will love it here with a reputation for good beer, good food and a warm welcome. There is a dedicated live music room at the back of the bar, not to mention a funky beer garden furnished with rescued sofas and homemade tables, like a beach bar in the middle of the city!"

"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"

"Billy Byrne’s makes the list because it had a slightly different vibe to the other bars. It’s a bit more of a mix between traditional and modern. The draught list in terms of craft beer was somewhat limited – again, 12 Acres and a couple of Irishtown taps."

"Kilkenny’s first patisserie located on the Medieval Mile in the shadow of St Canices Cathedral, this Kilkenny cafe is the perfect resting point for coffee lovers and foodies alike. Cakeface Patisserie offers handmade quirky and unusual cakes not to mention pastries and desserts that are works of art. The beautiful restored seating area, furnished with funky furniture is a great spot to drink your coffee and indulge in a delicious cake or handmade sandwich."

"Cakeface Patisserie a must visit on any trip to Kilkenny and a cake lovers paradise. It is the brainchild of pastry chef duo Laura & Rory Gannon. Cakeface was born out of the desire to create unique, quirky and unusual cakes pastries and desserts."

"In this crowded little deli, takeaway wraps, paninis, baps, bagels and thick-cut-bread sandwiches are assembled using choice imported meats and cheeses (plus a few top-notch local varieties). Market in Kilkenny City"

"Insomnia Café in Market Cross Shopping Centre is spacious and family-friendly and has quite an extensive menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and snacks as well as their coffee and drinks menu."

"In the middle of Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile is our hidden gem, Rothe House and Gardens. Built between 1594 and 1610 by the Cistercian order, it went on to become home to the Mayor of Kilkenny John Rothe Fitz Piers and his family. Kilkenny Archaeological Society (KAS) now owns the building complex and have complied an impressive museum collection from Kilkenny and the surrounding countryside."

"Tudor Rothe House (1594) lies about a five-minute walk from St. Mary's. Once a merchant's house, this historic building was created around two courtyards. Restored in 1966, it has been a major tourist draw ever since."

"Nestled in the centre of Ireland’s Medieval Mile, Rothe House and Garden is the only example of an early 17th-century merchant's townhouse in Ireland, and is one of Kilkenny's hidden gems."

"Founded in 1172 and remodelled in Victorian times this majestic stone castle stands beside the river and within a 50 acre park. Two wings of the Castle have been restored to their 19th century splendour and include a library, drawing room and magnificent Long Gallery. The river wing also houses the Butler Gallery of contemporary art."

"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..."

"With eight centuries of history whispering from its walls, Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's most iconic and historic sites."

"An excellent choice if you want to be in the heart of Kilkenny, this 200-year-old hotel built in the 1800s still keeps its old-world charm but with updated, modern amenities. With Kilkenny’s top shops on your doorstep and a bar on-site with live music on Saturday’s, there’s no shortage of entertainment in and around this prime hotel."

"Welcome to The Club House Hotel Kilkenny As Kilkenny's oldest hotel, The Club House boasts 220 years of service. Our mission is for your comfort and enjoyment. The Hotel is situated on Patrick's Street in Kilkenny City Centre in a wonderfully restored Georgian building."