Top 10 Kid Friendly 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..."

"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."

"This fortified Augustinian monastery is the best sort of ruin, where you can amble around whenever you like, with no tour guides, set hours or fees. Most days you stand a chance of exploring the site alone (apart from some nosy sheep); at dusk with a clear sky the old priory is simply beautiful. The ruins are 500m east of Kells on the Stoneyford road; from the car park, head to the right of the walls to find the main entrance."

"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."

"The Butler Gallery in the basement of Kilkenny Castle is one of the country’s most important art galleries outside Dublin. Small exhibitions featuring the work of contemporary artists are held throughout the year. Also in the basement, the castle kitchen houses a popular summertime cafe."

"Located on the historic site of Evans' Home, Butler Gallery is the South East of Ireland's leading Contemporary Art Gallery."

"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."

"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."

"Bridie’s is part of Langton’s hotel complex – it’s a bar which doesn’t look like a bar from the exterior. Apart from the massive sign that says ‘Bar’, that is.  You’d swear it was a sweet shop otherwise. In fact, when you walk through the doors, it’s like an olde world general store."

"As soon as you enter the Bridie’s Bar you find yourself immersed in another era and, above all, in a place that seems all but a bar. At the entrance, there is a sweets shop but as soon as the last door goes, you enter the real pub, a surprise for everyone."

"Top design talent was employed by the Langton's empire to create this reproduction trad grocery-pub. The front is a beguiling retail potpourri of souvenirs, jokes, toys, preserves and deli items."

"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"