County Kilkenny is home to rolling green hills of verdant pasture, meandering, picturesque rivers with architecturally amazing arched bridges.
You'll find an abundance of stone castles from the middle ages, ancient monasteries and cathedrals, and Ireland's most magnificent medieval city. It truly is a spectacular county.

Image Credit - Geograph.ie
In today's post join me on a photographic tour of this beautiful county.
Here's a little sampling of what awaits you in County Kilkenny.
Table of Contents
- Location of County Kilkenny
- Kilkenny City
- Kilkenny Castle
- Medieval Mile
- St. Canice's Cathedral And Round Tower
- Rothe House
- Kells Priory
- Bennettsbridge and the River Nore
- Inistiogue
- Jerpoint Abbey
- Dunmore Cave
- Duiske Abbey
- Kilmogue Portal Dolmen
- Medieval Castles
- Kilfane
- Websites For Planning A Trip To County Kilkenny

Location of County Kilkenny
County Kilkenny is one of the twelve counties of the ancient province of Leinster.

County Kilkenny's coat of arms features three sheaves of grain, perhaps because a golden ale has been brewed there since the 1200's.
The Smithwick's brewery continues brewing beer to this very day.

Kilkenny's GAA county colors are black and amber, and this county is proud of its hurling team.
They have won more All-Ireland hurling finals than any other county.
Kilkenny City
Kilkenny is an old medieval city with a rich heritage and magnificent historical buildings and landmarks.

Beginning as a monastic settlement it grew into a thriving commercial center in the middle ages, and became home to a majestic castle on the banks of the river Nore in the 1200's. Shop fronts are colorful and inviting.

The city's tourist office is located in the Shee Alms House, which was built in 1582 by Sir Richard Shee to "accommodate twelve poor persons." There's history everywhere you turn in Kilkenny.
Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle dates to the 12th century and was the principal seat of the Butler family, the Dukes of Ormonde.

In the 12th century Strongbow, the legendary or infamous Norman invader of Ireland, built a fort where Kilkenny Castle now stands. It was Strongbow's son-in-law William Marshall who built the city walls, and the first stone castle on the site.
His industrious efforts ensured Kilkenny grew into an important seat of Norman power and a medieval market city.
This enormous stone castle was remodeled in Victorian times and is surrounded by extensive and beautiful parklands.

Open to the public, the central block of this ancient castle includes a library, drawing room, and bedrooms, which were all decorated in 1830's splendor. Many of the Butler family portraits and their extensive art collection are on display in the Long Gallery.
A suite of former servant's rooms is home to the Butler Art Gallery. Exhibitions and events are scheduled frequently. The castle is open for tours and their schedule is available here.

The picture above really shows off Kilkenny Castle's amazing positioning on the banks of the river Nore.
Medieval Mile
Kilkenny was once the medieval capital of Ireland, and the past beckons around every corner. The city's rich medieval heritage is clearly evident in its narrow streets lined with historical buildings and cultural landmarks.

The Black Abbey can be seen in the photo above. Built in 1225 it was a center of Kilkenny life for centuries. It was repressed in 1543, under the direction of the notorious Henry VII and was converted into a courthouse.
Restored in 1778, it is home to stunning staned glass windows, and and extensive collection of statues and relics.
St. Canice's Cathedral And Round Tower
Kilkenny City's origins predate the arrival of the Normans. Saint Canice gave his name to the city which is Cill Chainnigh in Irish, meaning the church of Canice. The saint founded a monastic settlement here in the 6th century.

The magnificent round tower dates back to the 9th century and stands beside an ornate stone cathedral, built in the 13th century.
Another of our infamous invaders, Cromwell wreaked havoc on the cathedral in 1650. Restoration wasn't completed until the 18th century.
Rothe House
Rothe House is actually a complex of three houses built by John Rothe, a wealthy merchant.

The first of these Tudor mansions, seen here, was built in 1594 but as his family grew, he built further houses behind the first.
Today Rothe House is home to folk and costume exhibitions.
Kells Priory
The ruins of Kells Priory are situated near the village of Kells about 15 km south of the city of Kilenny. This ancient holy site dates from the 14th and 15th centuries.
Standing on over 4 acres the ruins consist of a church, a chapel, a sacristy and a number of domestic buildings.

In March 1540 this Priory was dissolved under none other than Henry VIII's direction.
Bennettsbridge and the River Nore
Kilkenny's rivers are magnificent with arched bridges spanning their waters at various locations. Bennettsbridge is home to this beautiful old bridge.

This quaint village has become home to many potters and craft producers in recent years.
Inistiogue
Inistioge is a picturesque and historic village on the river Nore in South Kilkenny.

Nestling in the Nore valley it offers some of the best scenery in the region. This ten arched bridge spanning the River Nore is a favorite of photographers.

The recently restored gardens of the Woodstock estate are spectacular.
Jerpoint Abbey
Jerpoint Abbey is an old Cistercian monastery founded in the second half of the 12th century.

The ruins are amazing and the church boasts old Romanesque details in the stonework.
A 13th to 16th century tomb sculpture can be seen in the transept of the chapel.

The tower and cloister date from the 15th century. The sculptured cloister arcade has many unique old carvings.
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore cave offers visitors a glimpse at history blended with geology. This cave system is a series of chambers formed over millions of years. Some of Ireland's finest calcite formations are found here.

An old Irish annal tells of a Viking massacre at the cave in the year 928 A.D., and Viking artifacts have been found within the cave.
Duiske Abbey
Founded in the 13th century this former Cistercian monastery was yet another victim of the Dissolution, and was suppressed in 1536. The abbey gradually fell into ruin.

However, today it is the Catholic parish church of Graiguenamanagh. An old medieval carving is housed within, showing a cross-legged knight in chain mail, and about to unsheath his sword.
Kilmogue Portal Dolmen
This portal dolmen was built by our neolithic forefathers about 6000 years ago

Kilmogue dolmen is known locally as "Leac an Scail" which means stone of the warrior or hero. The sheer size of this portal tomb is amazing.
A large capstone rests on two large portal-stones and a pillow stone lies on a back stone, making it one of the largest dolmens in Ireland. Some of the signposts for this dolmen read "Harristown" dolmen.
Medieval Castles
Norman tower houses or Medieval keeps dot the Kilkenny countryside. You will pass ruins of old castles as you drive around, or some, like Burnchurch Castle still stand proud and tall today.

Built in the 15th century this old castle in a National Mounument.
Kilfane
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is a pristine garden dating from the 1790s, located near Thomastown. In the middle of these ancient trees a waterfall tumbles its way to a rushing stream.

Open in July and August you can ramble along woodland paths and enjoy the natural beauty of Ireland.

In the ruins of Kilfane church stands a large stone knight dating from the late 13th or early 14th century.
He is known locally as "Long Cantwell" and he bears a sword and shield with the Cantwell coat of arms. He may have been a local lord and a crusader.
Websites For Planning A Trip To County Kilkenny
If you're planning to visit Ireland's medieval city and its surrounding county, here are some very helpful links.

And you can explore more of Ireland's thirty-two counties through this link.
Previously we visited County Kildare on our alphabetical journey around Ireland.
Plus next up on our tour is County Laois.
Happy arm chair travels around Ireland.

Slán agus beannacht,
(Goodbye and blessings)
Mairéad -Irish American Mom
Pronunciation - slawn ah-gus ban-ock-th
Mairéad - rhymes with parade
Here are some more recipes and ramblings you might enjoy..
Karen
Just gorgeous!
Have you ever read Betty Smith's Maggie-Now? It starts off in County Kilkenny.
Irish American Mom
Hi Karen - Thanks so much for the book recommendation. I've never read it. I'll add it to my "to read" list.
All the best, and thanks for stopping by.
Mairéad
Patricia
Mairead, you have done County Kilkenny a great service by posting this! This beautiful County would surely be on my radar now for a visit! Thank you!
Irish American Mom
Hi Patricia - More and more visitors learn about the beauty of County Kilkenny every year. Ireland's coastal counties often take center stage when tourists are planning their trips, but Kilkenny is well worth a visit. Lots of history and scenery all around.
All the best,
Mairéad
Mary
Oooh the memories this post brought back!! In 2012 we stayed near Kilkenny for a few days! A truly lovely and historic place! Thank you for so clearly bringing to life the history and beauty of this magical place! Makes me want to go back again!
Blessings to you and yours!
Irish American Mom
Hi Mary - How lucky you are to have had the opportunity to stay in Kilkenny and appreciate its magical sites. I'm thrilled this little post stirred some fond memories of a lovely vacation.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Tammy
I loved it! I have a friend who lives in Thomastown and it was fun to see just how beautiful her home really is. All of Ireland because of your blog. 🙂 Oh yeah, love your recipes.
Irish American Mom
Hi Tammy - Thanks so much for your kind words about my blog. It's lovely to hear you enjoy my recipes and ramblings.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Anne
Lovely post.
One part of my paternal line (O'Neill, O'Neil, Neile, Neil) hails from Balinamona (west of Thomastown), another (Foley,) from Bennettsbridge, another (Cashin, Casheen) from Urlingford, and another (Rooney, Roany) from reshford as well as names like Carey and Reddy for which we have no locations.
I have a great fondness for Kilkenny. 🙂
Irish American Mom
Hi Anne - You truly are a Kilkenny woman at heart. Your Kilkenny roots run deep. And it truly is a beautiful county. Thanks so much for checking out my collection of photos of this wonderful part of Ireland.
All the best,
Mairéad
Gene
Loved Kilkenny, the castle, the Farmers' Market, the many streets of shops. We visited a hurling club and saw the "hurlies" being made by a local craftsman. All of that was made pale by the beautiful country side. I wore green this week for the first time.
Gene
Irish American Mom
Hi Gene - I'm delighted to hear you got the opportunity to experience County Kilkenny in all its glory during your trip to Ireland. Glad to hear you wore some green this week to celebrate my homeland.
All the best,
Mairéad
Marypat Bowen
Also Kilkenny is home to Nicolas Mosse pottery which is my very favorite!
Thanks for reminding us of this beautiful part of Ireland......
Irish American Mom
Oh yes, Marypat. His pottery is superb. I love his fuchsia pattern. I believe he's located in Bennettsbridge.
Best wishes,
Mairéad
Bill Cokas
Had a brief but memorable time in Kilkenny, staying a Lawcus Farm Guest House (just outside of town), visiting the castle, having some stew and a pint in Kyteler's Inn and visiting an arts/crafts fair. All in the rain!
Irish American Mom
Hi Bill - A good stew and a nice pint on a rainy day - sounds lovely. Glad to hear you had a memorable time in Kilkenny. I loved it when I visited about 2 years ago. So much history on the doorstep.
All the best,
Mairéad
Nora Leonard Roy
My family and I took a relaxing trip to Ireland many years ago, when our kids were in their teens. We spent a week in County Kilkenny, exploring and enjoying the relatively quiet pace there. We were especially drawn to Graiguenamanach, as well as Inistioge, Bennettsbridge, and The Rower.
Thanks for the update on that special corner of Leinster.
Irish American Mom
Hi Nora - A week in Kilkenny sounds wonderful. It truly is a lovely corner of Leinster, and it's a lot less hectic than some tourist favorites like the Ring of Kerry. I'm so glad you stopped by to let us know about your memorable time there.
All the best,
Mairéad
irishnannie
Never knew the derivation of Kilkenny...thank you! Also a new Saint for my prayers...Canice...always learning...God bless you and thank you, Mairead*!
Irish American Mom
Prayers to St. Canice - what a great idea. I'm sure there are many old Irish saints that aren't prayed to like they were years ago. I love reading stories about our Irish saints. Have you ever read the book "How the Irish Saved Civilization"? It tells the story of how Irish monks brought Chritianity back to Europe after the fall of the Roman Empire. It's intriguing.
Blessings to you too, Irishannie.
Mairéad
Irishnannie
I am familiar with Thomas Cahill's work. I hope one day that his work that pays much needed heed to the critical part the Irish have played in world history, will be allowed in & focused on in textbook studies for young people everywhere. In the meantime I think we have to work hard to be sure our own children & their children are at least aware of what should cause them so much pride...that they are Irish!
You do such good work, Mairead*! Thank you!
Irish American Mom
I agree. One of the reasons I started this blog was to create a record of their heritage for my children, and to teach them about the Ireland of my youth. We have so much to be proud of. Thanks so much for reading my ramblings and for supporting my efforts to share my love of Ireland and America.
Enjoy your Easter weekend.
Mairead
Irishnannie
Same with me with my Finney the Leprechaun! It was such a good way to learn "Fun Irish Facts" and have simple reading fun, too! My youngest daughter participated in a program called Irish Way years ago...I understand Grace Kelly (famous Irish American actress who married Prince Rainier of Monaco)was instrumental in getting the program (study in Ireland for 4 weeks in the summer)started because she did not want young Irish Americans to lose a sense of their Irish heritage. Same, I think, to what you & I are saying.
My oldest, Kate ( whose Family loved your potato soup!)went to school for a college semester at the University in Galway & then went on to serve as the New York Rose in Tralee in 2001. Add to that many visits to Ireland including my children seeing their Grandparents graves in Cobh ( no Family I know of still there)and I think we have at least established that bridge to our homeland...such a privilege to be Irish...That being said I will always appreciate America for allowing my Dad to come here, find work & have a Family. As a dual citizen I could not feel more blessed!
The real challenge is re- learning our Irish! My Dad grew up in Ireland before the Republic & never was allowed to learn Irish in school...but my grandchildren know more now than I did for most of my life...we just keep trying to learn! It' s hard when you don't "hear" it regularly! My children make fun of my referring to them as "a chuisle(s)." They like to say I' m calling them a choozle! Hahaha!
Hope i haven't as you say "rambled" too much!
Thank you for your good work, and know it is appreciated. God bless you & your Family & happy, happy Easter!
Irish American Mom
Lovely to hear your family story and to understand your connections to Ireland. How wonderful that your grandchildren are learning Irish. My kids are learning too, and I find I am slowly retrieving the Irish I learned many years ago.
All the best for a very blessed Easter.
Mairéad
irishnannie
...really nice pictures!
Irish American Mom
Hi Irishannie - I'm so glad you like this photo collection from County Kilkenny.
All the best,
Mairéad
Chery Barker
Mairéad, I would love to one day see some medieval castles and buildings like these. Can't imagine standing in buildings and communities with such a long history. Maybe one day ... but at least I can enjoy seeing some of the sites you share here. Thank you! 🙂
Irish American Mom
Sorry I missed your comment when you wrote it Cheryl. I hope you get to see some old castles some day. Sometimes we take these old buildings for granted in Ireland, and forget that some have stood for nearly one thousand years or even longer. In America we don't have as many long-standing physical connections to the past, and every time I am in Ireland, it amazes me when I see old church ruins, castles and round towers, even in the suburbs of a big city like Dublin. So glad you enjoy my little tours of Ireland.
All the best,
Mairéad
Jeff Ford
I came across your blog while looking for information on what marriage was like for women in 1850s Ireland. You have a really nice blog. I especially like your piece on Kilkenny which is where my 2x great-grandparents were from. I like how you are highlighting Irish food and recipes.
Irish American Mom
Hi Jeff - Thanks so much for your kind words about my blog. I love to cook Irish food and I am blessed to share my recipes here on my blog. Thanks for checking out my recipes and ramblings. Kilkenny City and county are beautiful places - I hope you've had the chance to visit the land of your ancestors.
Take care,
Mairéad