What The Locals Say - Kilkenny Castle

The first of our guest blog posts comes from Niamh, who lives and works in Kilkenny City. Here are Niamh's highlights when you go to Kilkenny City to scratch off Kilkenny Castle from your list.

Above: Close up of Kilkenny Castle on Scratchable Map Ireland

One of my favourite places to visit in Ireland is the wee city of Kilkenny.The main attraction for tourists is the famous Kilkenny Castle, situated in the centre of the town. On a sunny day the castle grounds are lined with both locals and visitors embracing the “fine weather”. I highly recommend a tour of the castle. Both the tour guide and the artefacts on show were really engaging.

After a visit to the castle, be sure to nip into The Left Bank for a coffee or a drink. If you’re feeling peckish Rive Gauche at The Left Bank has a wonderful menu. The Hibernian Hotel is less than five minutes walk from the castle. It a beautiful quaint hotel in the centre of the city. The restaurant at the hotel is a great venue for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The Smithwick’s Brewery Experience is also an enjoyable tour, situated on the High Street. Or if you’re looking for something more outdoors, Castlecomer Discovery Park is a great place to visit. It’s located in Castlecomer about 25 minutes from the city centre. There is a restaurant there along with many outdoor activities including a Zip Line and water sports. 

Personally, my favourite weekend to visit the Marble City is for the Cat’s Laughs weekend on the June bank holiday. Renowned comedians flock to the city for a series of live shows. The city has a great buzz on a normal weekend, but the buzz is electric on this weekend. 

If you want a spa treatment the treatments found at The Lyrath Hotel are second to none. “Afternoon Tea” is also a very enjoyable experience there. The grounds are beautiful, the rooms are spacious, and the relaxation ambience is infectious. The hotel is only a short ten-minute drive from the city.

If you need a spa break, a girly night away, a romantic getaway or just a good night out, then Kilkenny is the place for you. There really is something for everyone in the city.

Niamh

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