THE THEBEST BESTOF OFIRELAND IRELANDSeries Series
Kilkenny Craft and Majesty City of Craft and Majesty INCLU
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Experience the Vibrancy of the Marble City & County! 2013
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Kilkenny Castle
Credits Editor: Rachael Finucane Contributing writers: BrĂana Walsh, Rosaleen Regan, Matthew Faughnan and Rachael Finucane. Photography: Many thanks to all contributors (see individual photos for information). Copyright retained by photographers/organisations.
Kilkenny Craft and Majesty
THE BEST OF IRELAND Series
Contents 4. Welcome to Kilkenny
73. Food & Drink
102. Further Afield
So much to see and do in captivating Kilkenny.
Eat, drink and be merry while experiencing the best of Kilkenny’s restaurants, cafés and pubs.
So much to explore in the neighbouring counties.
6. History & Heritage
91. Accommodation
106. Competition
Take a trip into the past and see some of Kilkenny’s fine structures and landmarks.
21. Arts & Culture
See why Kilkenny is often called the creative heart of Ireland with lots of entertainment venues, galleries and craft outlets.
Visit, stay, or just indulge in some of the fantastic facilities offered by Kilkenny’s hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, hostels and camping sites in the city and county.
Share your story of Kilkenny to be in with a chance to win a weekend for two.
107. Feedback
We urge visitors, business owners and citizens to share their views on this guide.
108. Useful Information
Useful information for services in Kilkenny.
31. Activities
Pursuits for all ages to relax or get your pulse racing and your adrenaline pumping.
109. County Map
49. Festivals & Events
110. City Map
A guide to Kilkenny’s local festivals and events.
Map of Kilkenny County.
Map of Kilkenny City.
53. Shopping
A guide to Kilkenny’s shopping and some of the independent retailers that make an impression.
A Tourism and Marketing Initiative from Southern Marketing Design Media For enquiries about inclusion in updated editions of this guide, please contact 061 310286 / info@southern.ie No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. © Southern Marketing Design Media 2014. Every effort has been made in the production of this magazine to ensure accuracy at the time of publication. The editors cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any alterations made after publication. Cover image : © Kilkenny Arts Festival 2013
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Kilkenny Welcome to Kilkenny © Evelyn McNamara
Captivating
Kilkenny
So much to see...
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Kilkenny extends a ‘Céad míle fáilte’ to everyone and provides an unforgettable experience
ilkenny’s captivating past is written all over its vibrant present with historical landmarks scattered throughout this compact, cosmopolitan city and the wider county.
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Its citizens are known as ‘cats’, arising from their fabled determination in ancient, tribal times. As the famous Limerick goes: There once was two cats of Kilkenny Each cat thought there was one cat too many. So they fought and they fit And they scratched and they bit 'Til instead of two cats there weren't any. Kilkenny - ‘Cill Chainnigh’ in Irish - is named after St. Canice. Legend has it that Cainnech moccu Dalánn (his name before sainthood) was known as one of the ‘Twelve Apostles of Ireland’ and preached all over the British Isles. He came to Kilkenny around 597 AD, allegedly leading a Christian force to get rid of the last stronghold of druidic rule.
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Kilkenny Tradfest
He founded a monastery near what is now the site of St. Canice’s Cathedral. This religious and native Irish settlement expanded with the invasion of the Normans in the 12th century. With their arrival came the building of the city walls and the fortress, Kilkenny Castle, which still stands today as well as a host of other historical buildings from around that time such as the Black Abbey. Kilkenny was an advanced city in terms of commerce and politics and continued in this vein through the centuries. William the Earl Marshall, established a Charter to attract citizens and create trade in 1208 and the first parliament was held in the late 13th century. In the late 14th century, the castle became the Irish home of the powerful Butler family when James Butler, 3rd Earl of Ormonde, bought the castle. By the 17th century, Kilkenny was a prosperous merchant city - granted official status in 1609 by King James I. Notable structures such as Rothe House sprang up. Following the Irish rebellion,
Kilkenny Welcome to Kilkenny © Kilkenny Arts Festival
Kilkenny Roots Festival
© Anthony Griffin
the first meeting of the Catholic Confederation Parliament was held here in 1642. Oliver Cromwell later suppressed this parliament, signaling a time of considerable upheaval in Irish life. This is just a taste of Kilkenny’s riveting past so the winding, narrow streets and lanes have many tales to tell! Kilkenny today is a thoroughly modern city and one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations. Internationally acclaimed annual events like the Kilkenny Arts Festival and the Cat Laughs Comedy Festival attract
thousands. The hospitality and retail sectors are also going from strength to strength. Its main industries are brewing, technology, food processing as well as craft & design.
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The beauty of Kilkenny makes an impression on locals and visitors alike
The foundation of the Government sponsored Kilkenny Design Workshops, in the sixties left a lasting legacy of creativity. Many craftspeople and other innovators are based around the city and county. Coincidentally, in 1967, one of the true jewels of local craftsmanship through the ages, Kilkenny Castle, was handed back to the people of the city. It is now preserved for future generations.
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The ‘cats’ of Kilkenny have flourished through the ages but their resolve has never been stronger than in the sporting arena. The Kilkenny hurlers’ prowess is legendary - having won a record-breaking 34 All-Ireland titles to date. Kilkenny people have also excelled in the worlds of politics, religion, science and the arts. The beauty of Kilkenny makes an impression on locals and visitors alike. As native writer, Francis McManus, summed it up: “The dearest thing I know is a memory of sunny Sunday mornings in Kilkenny; the lovely line of castle, roof-top, spire and round tower against the pale blue sky, the sun revelling in the quiet colours of old stone, old walls, old tree; the tip-tap of the feet of people on the flagstones, and above all the flocking floating notes of the church bells. Sunday has a flavour of its own there, a clean, sweet, warming flavour.” Kilkenny extends a resounding ‘Céad mile fáilte’ to everyone and provides an unforgettable experience that will have visitors grinning like a Cheshire cat.
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Kilkenny’s exciting past is very present in modern day with a selection of medieval gems, places of worship and historical sites to explore.
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
Don’t Miss:
History & Heritage
• Taking a time machine back to medieval Ireland by exploring Kilkenny Castle. • Basking in the reverent atmosphere of Kilkenny’s cathedrals, abbeys and churches. • Taking in the architecture, interior and grounds of Kilkennys city’s landmark buildings. • Seeking out tales of brewing, witchcraft and more exciting historical facts. • Touring County Kilkenny’s heritage sites, including Jerpoint Abbey, Kells Priory and many others.
St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower The Close, Coach Road 056-7764971 www.stcanicescathedral.com The grounds upon which the magnificent St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower now rest have been a place of worship since the 6th century. ‘Cill Channigh’, the Gaelic version of Kilkenny, literally translates as ‘the church of Canice’. The modern city grew out of the early Christian settlement here so the site is a vital part of the city’s structural and cultural heritage. The earliest church is presumed to have been made of wood and was replaced by a stone church before the English
Gothic-style cathedral was built between 1202 and 1285. The 100ft round tower - which may have been a refuge and/or watchtower dates back to the 9th century and is the oldest standing structure in the city. Visitors can still climb up the steps inside to get spectacular views from the top; it is one of only two towers in Ireland where you can still do this.
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It is the second longest cathedral in Ireland
Some of the most imposing features include the marble columns, high ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, tombs of many bishops of Ossory and other prominent figures and monuments like the ancient stone chair of St. Kieran. The peaceful and reverent atmosphere is down to the fact that it is a working place of worship and many pilgrims also come here to pray. Regular Church of Ireland services take place here and all are welcome. St. Canice’s Cathedral also plays host to occasional concerts and events because of its fine acoustics.
The massive cathedral, built in local limestone, has been refurbished many times over the centuries but the majority of the original building remains. It is the second longest cathedral in Ireland.
St.Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
Kilkenny Castle & Park The Parade 056-7704100 www.kilkennycastle.ie Sitting on a height overlooking the city and the River Nore, the majestic Kilkenny Castle has witnessed over 800 years of history. The stone fortress was built on the site of an earlier defensive structure by William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke and was completed in 1213. The grounds include landscaped gardens and parkland, which are open to the public. It has undergone many changes in its existence and these alterations and additions map a unique journey through the styles of many eras. The castle became the Irish home of the powerful Butler family when James Butler, 3rd Earl of Ormonde, purchased it in 1391. This dynasty ruled the area for many centuries living there until 1935. The 10th Earl of Ormonde started the changes to adapt the medieval fortress into a luxury home - roofing the tower nearest the river and adding the Great Gallery and formal gardens. The elaborate entrance was built in the 17th century and in the 19th century, more work was carried out in the fashionable Castellated Baronial style. Arthur, 6th Marquess of Ormonde, gave the castle to the people of Kilkenny for a token ÂŁ50 in 1967 and the Office of
Public Works has managed the buildings since the late 60s. Extensive archaeological excavation, conservation and restoration projects have been carried out since then. Today, the tour and various multimedia exhibitions chart the history of the castle and the fortunes of its occupants. You can walk around the courtyard, manicured gardens and through the opulent bedrooms, halls and various state rooms. A section of the basement was refurbished and is now the Butler Gallery, which hosts art exhibitions and some of the National Gallery’s art collection is on display throughout the castle.
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The lavish surroundings of Kilkenny Castle was the venue for many momentous events i.e. the meeting of the parliament of the Confederate Ireland government in the 1640s. Now it still has top class conferencing and banqueting facilities in the Parade Tower Wing. If visitors want refreshments or a meal, the Victorian Castle Kitchen restaurant is on site. There is a public car park close to the castle; group tours can be booked and concessions/family tickets are available. Opening hours vary according to the season but the castle opens at 9/9.30am and closing times range from 4.30-5.30pm.
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
The Black Abbey Abbey Street 056-7721279 The Black Abbey, one of the first houses of the Dominican Order in Ireland, was founded by William Marshall the Younger and completed in 1225. It is also known as the Convent of the One and Undivided Trinity but the ‘black’ in the name refers to the black cloaks the friars wore. It has a fascinating history. In 1349, the priory community was severely affected by the Black Death plague; eight members died in three months. The order was suppressed by the protestant Queen Elizabeth and the abbey was converted into a courthouse until the end of the 17th century, when it was partially restored. From 1642 to 1649, the Black Abbey hosted the government called the Irish Catholic Conderation - playing a major role in trying to save Irish religion and the king, Charles I. In the early 1800s, it became a place of public worship and a parish church. It is thought that the church has been altered architecturally over time but it
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It is also known as the Convent of the One and Undivided Trinity but the ‘black’ in the name refers to the black cloaks the friars wore
TIMELINE
Kilkenny’s History 1208 - Charter by William the Earl Marshall to attract citizens and create trade in Kilkenny 1213 - Kilkenny Castle completed 1293 - First parliament in Kilkenny during medieval times 1366 - Statutes of Kilkenny were enacted through a parliament held by the Duke of Clarence 1375 - Parliament held by King Richard II in person.
has some beautiful features such as the tower, interior stonework, wooden ceiling and both clear and stained glass windows. The large stained glass window behind the altar is called the ‘Rosary Window’, made up of five vertical panels. It was created in 1892 by Mayers of Munich and is the largest stained glass window in Ireland.
1609 - Kilkenny granted its charter by King James I, constituting it as a city 1642 - First meeting of the Catholic Confederation Parliament in Kilkenny 1650 - Oliver Cromwell arrives in Kilkenny in March 1687 - Charter of James II revokes the Charter of James I creating the city and county of Kilkenny 1690 - Charter of William III restoring the Charter of James I 1798 - Kilkenny under martial law in the year of the United Irishmen uprising 1839 - Election of the Board of Guardians of the Kilkenny Poor Law Union 1904 - Visit of King Edward VII to Kilkenny 1923 - Kilkenny Castle occupied by Anti-Treaty (IRA) forces 1965 - The Kilkenny Design Workshops were opened 1967 - The Marquess of Ormonde presented Kilkenny Castle to the people of Kilkenny 1985 - Kilkenny became the first city to win the Irish Tidy Towns Competition 2012 - Kilkenny senior hurling team won the All-Ireland Championship for the 34th time
The Black Abbey
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Franciscan Friary
Kilkenny History and Heritage
St.Mary’s Cathedral
St. Mary’s Cathedral James's Street 056-7771253 www.ossory.ie Situated on the highest point in Kilkenny City, the spectacular St. Mary’s Cathedral was designed by eminent architect, William Deane Butler, and hewn from local limestone. Bishop William Kinsella raised the idea to build the Roman Catholic cathedral to replace St James’s chapel in 1842. Building work began the following year and was completed in 1857. The early English Gothic style cathedral is believed to have been heavily inspired by Gloucester Cathedral in the U.K. St Mary’s—which is also known as the church of St Kieran and the Cathedral of the Assumption—has a cruciform plan and elaborate design features, inside and out including an impressive 186ft tower, a high limestone altar and some striking stained glass windows. Relics of Saints Cosmos, Damian, Clement and Victoria are kept here. St Mary's also has a famous sculpture
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The spectacular St Mary’s Cathedral was designed by eminent architect, William Deane Butler
of the Madonna by the 19th century Italian neoclassical sculptor, Giovanni Maria Benzoni. There have been many renovations and additions over the years—with a large contribution made from parishioners. In fact, a significant amount of the funding for construction was collected locally. St Mary’s still has a loyal flock today. There are daily services and all are Best Of Ireland Series
welcome. On a visit to St. Mary’s Cathedral, stop a while and browse in the Chapter House Book Shop and Tearooms. Located in the grounds of the cathedral, the shop and tearooms first opened its doors to the public in September 2012. The Chapter House itself was built in the late 19th century by then Bishop of Ossory, A. Brownrigg, and has recently been restored to its former glory. The bookshop is on the ground floor and specialises in religious and spiritual books as well as goods including rosary beads, statues, candles, cards and other religious items. The Chapter House Tearooms on the lower floor are bright and airy and are enhanced by the original cut stone walls and brickwork. There is also a small courtyard where you can sip tea and read your new book or enjoy the views of the cathedral itself. The bookshop is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am–5pm. The tearooms open Monday to Saturday, 9am-5pm and Sunday from 10.30am-4pm. For further information, contact Sr. Lil Meagher of the Holy Family Sisters of Bordeaux on 056-7703884.
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
The Tholsel High Street 056-7751500 The Tholsel has held many guises since its foundation in 1761 but it is currently used as Kilkenny Town Hall. Alderman William Colles was the man behind it and it occupies a dominant position on the city’s main thoroughfare. Its original use was a place to collect tolls, hence the name; it is derived from two old English words: ‘toll’, meaning tax and ‘sael’ or hall. It was subsequently used as a courthouse, custom house, guildhall and a meeting place for merchants. It now hosts various arts events. It has some fine examples of stone masonry and architecture. The unique front of the Tholsel features a double five arch arcade, which was used as a covered market place and today it is a spot for
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It has some fine examples of stone masonry and architecture.
buskers and the site for the traditional crib at Christmas time. There is an octagonal tower projecting from the slate roof, which has a large clock and viewing platform. On the southern façade, there is a relief sculpture of the Kilkenny’s coat of arms. The building underwent extensive renovation after a fire in the late 20th century but was restored to maintain the original character of this local landmark.
Famine Heritage of MacDonagh Junction MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, Dublin Road The historic nature of the MacDonagh Junction site is well documented. On the site was the former Union Workhouse built in 1842 to accommodate up to 1,300 local poor. When the potato famine began in 1845 the Poor House quickly became the City Famine Workhouse. The Workhouse system was a shining beacon for the Victorian belief in inspiring the poor to better themselves by making the alternative a brutal and degrading experience. Only the most destitute entered the Workhouse. It was, at the time the fifth largest workhouse in Ireland. It served as a city famine workhouse between the years of 1845 – 1852. During that time it housed at one stage a staggering 4,357 local men, women and children at the height of the famine in 1851 in the worst living conditions imaginable. The Workhouse only accepted orphans, complete families or the very old and infirm. Women and men were segregated upon entry and rarely saw each other again. The gross overcrowding meant
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The City Famine Workhouse that the spread of infectious disease, and consequential mass deaths, resulted in further logistical and economic challenges to the workhouse institution. In 1872 the Sisters of Mercy were invited to come to the assistance of the people and of the Workhouse, which they did in 1875. The ‘paupers’ as they were so described now became patients and they numbered about 600. The Workhouse subsequently became part of the Central Hospital System in 1921 and was run as such up to 1942 when it was replaced by St. Luke’s Hospital which opened on the Freshford Road. Over 800 skeletal remains from the Great Famine of 1847 were discovered Best Of Ireland Series
at the site during a specialist archaeological dig, prior to construction works. These were taken into care for analysis (under the authority of the National Museum of Ireland). These remains were respectfully re-interred in the Famine Memorial Garden at Goods Shed Square in 2010. The Workhouse buildings have been sensitively and beautifully restored forming an integral part of the retail element of MacDonagh Junction. Visit the Workhouse Square to see the old structure merged with modern award winning architecture, visit the memorial garden at Goods Shed Square and take time to read the Heritage display boards near Quigley’s Café.
Kilkenny History and Heritage
Rothe House & Garden Parliament Street 056-7722893 www.rothehouse.com A wealthy local merchant built this beautiful townhouse and, now restored, it is a museum and the home of Kilkenny Archaeological Society. The complex - built by John Rothe - was completed between 1594 and 1610 and is the only example of an early 17th century merchant’s townhouse in Ireland. The distinctive façade of the first house held John Rothe’s own shop while his living quarters were upstairs. Two more houses were built behind this one with the gardens behind. The Rothe family were key figures in Kilkenny’s trade, religious and political life. They were particularly involved in the Confederation of Kilkenny in the 1640s, and lost their lands as a result of this. The house has been tastefully reconstructed and the museum is housed in some of the rooms. There is a wide variety of artefacts of archaeological and historical interest such as pewter ware, fossils, flints, stone axe heads, 18th
century furniture, a Viking sword, a skeleton of a giant Irish deer, paintings/prints/plans, a medieval beam and much more.
Opening times vary according to season but Rothe House always opens at 10.30am on Monday to Saturday and closes at either 4.30 or 5pm.
Information panels complement the displays. There is also a selection of quern and millstones in one of the courtyards.
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The house has been tastefully reconstructed and the museum is housed in some of the rooms
During 2014 a new exhibition space telling the story of the house itself and Kilkenny in the 1600s will be installed. The picturesque walled garden has a collection of vegetables, herbs and fruit trees - all authentic to the period. Rothe House is the Family History Centre for the city and county, with a comprehensive genealogical database and a genealogist to help people trace their roots.
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A wealthy local merchant built this beautiful townhouse and, now restored, it is a museum and the home of Kilkenny Archaeological Society
Rothe House & Garden
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
Kilkenny’s Place in Irish Brewing History
ohn Smithwick started brewing ale in Kilkenny City in 1710 and even though St Francis Abbey Brewery—formerly the oldest working brewery in Ireland—shut down production in 2013, there are exciting plans afoot to mark this strong brewing heritage.
from their own well, as would have been common at the time.
Smithwick’s.
What began as a cottage industry was now a booming business and Edmund Smithwick continued to expand the brewery as the ale became popular nationwide.
Much like in Dublin’s renowned, Guinness Storehouse, where the brewing of stout is illustrated, The Smithwick’s Experience (name TBC) in Kilkenny is due in 2014. It is expected to guide visitors around the facility and show how Smithwick’s distinctive red ale and other beers are concocted.
In celebration of this heritage and fine taste, a new Smithwick’s Experience is slated to open in the summer of 2014
Now part of the Guinness Ireland Group, Smithwick’s legacy of brewing lives on. Smithwick’s is a seven time winner of La Monde gold medal. From this small brewery in Kilkenny, Smithwicks has become a global brand enjoyed in the UK, France, North America and Korea.
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The brewery on Parliament Street takes its name from the 13th century abbey of the same name. The Franciscan abbey started as a small chapel but soon expanded. It continued to do so until it was dissolved in the 16th century and fell into disrepair. The friars returned and continued to use it. Legend has it that the friars used to brew light ale for visitors
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The company absorbed the abbey into its grounds in 1854. The sacristy was restored and now serves as an oratory at the brewery. The nave and chancel of the abbey still survive on the grounds; the ruins are depicted in the logo of Best Of Ireland Series
In celebration of this heritage a new visitor experience is slated to open in the summer of 2014 at St. Francis Abbey. Who knows what delights it will hold? More information on www.smithwicks.ie.
Kilkenny History and Heritage
A Rock Solid Past
Butter Slip side from the best known attractions, Kilkenny City has a few more interesting buildings which visitors can see while walking around the streets. Read on for a description of some notable sites, which stand among many, in Kilkenny’s heritage. Kilkenny Courthouse, formerly known as ‘Grace’s Castle’, on Parliament Street has a fascinating history. The earliest recorded building is Grace’s Castle, built in 1210. It was a town house of the wealthy Grace family, who leased or sold the building to the British Crown in 1566. It was used as a jail from the 16th century and converted to a courthouse around 1792. Major remodeling work was done in each of the following centuries so it has architectural features from several eras. More recently, it underwent an extensive modern refurbishment where a 3,000 square metre extension was added. The building is used for District and Circuit Courts. The front of the building still retains some of the original features of the jail, which are visible from street level. In 2008, an archaeological dig on the site to the rear of the courthouse
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yielded many finds, including burials and medieval artefacts. The Shee Alms House has housed Kilkenny’s main tourist office since 1981 but it has a long history—dating back to the 16th century and is one of the few remaining Tudor alms houses in Ireland. The Shees were a wealthy merchant family in Kilkenny (much like the Rothes who built Rothe House) and in 1582, Sir Richard Shee (a lawyer and a Deputy Treasurer of Ireland) founded the alms house “to accommodate 12 poor persons”. The last record of any occupants in the house dates back to 1830. The alms house was acquired by Kilkenny Corporation in 1978 and restored to its original condition. Kilkenny grew off the back of trade but this rise in trade in the medieval era meant that diseases, such as the Black Death, spread. There is a medieval hospital on Maudlin Street in the city—known as Maudlin Tower or Castle. There is evidence that a hospital operated in the area from 1327 onwards but this building was constructed in the 16th century. The structure is 25 metres high and has Best Of Ireland Series
four storeys with a stair turret continuing up to the battlements. It formed part of the Hospital of St Mary Magdalen. This hospital cared for people with leprosy, among other ailments. Kilkenny has winding, narrow, cobbled streets and many little laneways dating back to the medieval era. These alleys are known as ‘slips’ and offer shortcuts between streets. Some have names relating to the past i.e. it is thought that Horseleap Slip was probably given its name because veterinary surgeons practised here and horses also exercised on site. One of the best examples is the Butter Slip with its arched entry and stone steps, connecting High Street with St Kieran’s Street. This dimly lit passageway dates back to 1616 and is so named because it was once lined by butter vendors on market days. These days, it is lined with retail outlets but you might be lucky to hear a busker’s music echoing down its length. Lonely Planet calls it “the most picturesque of Kilkenny’s many narrow medieval corridors”.
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
County of Rich Heritage
Jerpoint Abbey Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny 056-7724623 This spectacular Cistercian Abbey dates back to the 12th century and has rightly been designated as a National Monument of Ireland. It was constructed in 1180 by the King of Osraige, Donogh O'Donoghoe Mac Gilla Patraic and dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. The church with Romanesque detail is original. In the transept chapels there are 13th to 16th century tomb sculpture while the tower and cloister were added
in the 15th century. One extraordinary feature is a sculptured cloister arcade with intricate carvings. Carvings are prominent throughout with another great example at the tomb of Felix O'Dulany, Bishop of Ossory, who was buried here in 1202.
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Constructed in 1180 by the King of Osraige
The abbey flourished until Henry VIII dissolved all the monasteries in the 16th century. It was handed over to the 9th Earl of Ormond in 1541. It is very close
to Newtown Jerpoint - famous for being the reported resting place of St. Nicholas of Myra. The ruins are well preserved and there is a visitor centre with a fascinating exhibition charting its history. There are guided tours available in high season and admission for adults is â‚Ź3 (concessions/family rates too). It opens from 9am-5.30pm from early March to September; in October until 5pm and November to early December from 9.30am-4pm. December to March it opens for pre-booked tours only.
Jerpoint Abbey
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
Dunmore Cave Castlecomer Road, Co. Kilkenny 056-7767726 Dunmore Cave is a unique wonder of history and geology, combining some of the best calcite formations found in Ireland with tales of an ancient Viking massacre.
The limestone cave - from the Irish ‘Dún Mór’ or ‘great fort’ - has various chambers formed over millions of years but is also renowned for its rich archaeological finds. The cave, which overlooks the Dinnin River valley, was first mentioned in the early historical record, Triads of Ireland. It has a quarter of a mile of passages and its deepest point is 46 metres. The most
The Buffalo at Dunmore Cave
Kilmogue Dolmen Kilmogue, near Mullinavat, Co. Kilkenny Kilmogue Dolmen, also known as Harristown Dolmen, is said to be the tallest and one of the most spectacular portal tombs in Ireland.
capstone reaches up over 4 metres. The entrance faces north-east. It is located around a kilometre from Harristown Crossroads. Visitors should turn left down a country lane and at the
spectacular of the calcite formations is the Market Cross - a cross-shaped column nearly six metres high. A Viking massacre took place there in the year 928 AD - as documented in the 17th century Annals of the Four Masters and supported by evidence. In the late 19th century, excavators discovered a large amount of human remains in the cave. In 1999, over 40 silver and bronze artefacts were discovered in a rocky cleft deep in the cave. The haul, which included silver, ingots and buttons woven from silver, was dated to 970 AD. Although it was declared a national monument in 1944 but was not developed as a show cave with a visitor centre/tours until 1967. The visitor centre has a great selection of interesting exhibitions and displays. Opening hours vary according to the seasons. From March to mid-June/mid-September to the end of October, it opens seven days from 9.30am-5pm; mid-June to mid-September from 9.30am-6.30pm and November to March, Wednesdays to Sundays from 9.30am-5pm. The last tour leaves at least an hour before closing.
bottom of the lane there is a signpost pointing to the dolmen. It is about 40 metres from the signpost hidden behind some bushes.
It is a megalithic tomb, a type of aboveground burial chamber, which is built of large stone slabs (megaliths) laid on edge and covered with earth or other, smaller stones. Most dolmens originate in the early Neolithic era and most were built around 4,000 to 3,000 BC. The dolmen could be up to 6,000 years old and is likely to have been built by Neolithic farmers. A great feat of engineering, it is known locally as 'Leac an Scail' or stone of the warrior or hero. The unique cantilevered capstone rests on two large portal-stones and a pillow stone, resting on a back stone. The portal stones are around 3.7 metres high and the
Kilmogue Dolmen
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Kilkenny History and Heritage Kilkee Round Tower
reland is rich in early Christian and medieval history and Kilkenny is no exception. And to add to that it has a link to one of the world’s most famous buildings. Step back in time with a visit to one of the county’s heritage sites.
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Duiske Abbey in the town of Graiguenamanagh was built in the 13th century as the church of a Cistercian monastery and has seen many conversions itself through the eras. In the 1500s, the abbey was suppressed and fell into disrepair. It later served as a Protestant Church of Ireland before being returned to the Catholic community in 1812. It was fully restored in the 1980s and today this national monument serves as a Catholic parish church. The churchyard is home to the Aghakiltawn and Ballyogen Crosses, dating from the 8th and 9th centuries.
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Step back in time with a visit to one of the county’s heritage sites
Kilree Round Tower is about 14 km south of Kilkenny and 4 km from the village of Kells. The round tower sits behind a cemetery surrounded by trees, with the doorway facing the ruin of an early church—altogether an ethereal atmosphere. It dates from the 8-11th centuries and is a capless, battlemented
Kilkenny History and Heritage © Travis Price
tower about 27 metres high. To the west of the tower stands the 9th century 2.75 metre sandstone Kilree High Cross. Killamery High Cross, also known as the ‘Snake-Dragon Cross’, sits in a graveyard in the village of Killamery near the Tipperary border, on the N76 road. It is one of the Western Ossory group of crosses and measures 3.65 metres high. It is highly decorative with intertwining serpents and open-mouthed dragon as well as panels depicting Noah in the Ark and John the Baptist. A worn inscription on the base is a prayer for Maelsechnaill, the High King of Ireland from 846-862. Grannagh Castle, on the northern bank of the River Suir, was built by le Poers after the Norman invasion in 1169. King Edward III, after falling out with le Poers, granted the castle and lands to James Butler, the second Earl of Ormonde in 1375. The castle was originally a large, square, walled enclosure with cylindrical corner towers.
James Hoban Memorial
The estate and original fortified and moated dwelling were first occupied by the De Frene family. In the early 17th century the estate passed to the Purcell family who built the current castle. It was later seized by Oliver Cromwell's army. Subsequent owners include Thomas Wright and the Swift family, relatives of Jonathan Swift. Foulksrath Castle was the oldest youth hostel in Ireland before it closed in 2009 and is privately owned.
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It is highly decorative with intertwining serpents and open-mouthed dragon
Killamery High Cross
constructed in 2008 at Desart, Cuffesgrange. Kilkenny-native, Hoban was the architect who designed The White House in US capital, Washington DC—home to many an American President during their terms—and the memorial is close to his birthplace. It was built to mark the 250th anniversary of his birth and was erected by architecture students from the Catholic University of Washington DC and local craftsmen. At 30 meters long and three meters high, the structure is an impressive tribute. History buffs can discover these and more while touring around the county. Other fine examples include Callan Motte, Tinnahinch Castle, Grangefertagh Abbey, Burch Church Castle and more.
A thoroughly modern monument, The James Hoban Memorial, was
The old river facade (late 13th century) survives complete with its south-west tower, parts of the north-east tower and the connecting wall. The Butlers added a tall tower house and two-storey dining hall. Foulksrath Castle is a 15th century Anglo-Norman tower house in Jenkinstown, about 12km from Kilkenny city. It retains most of the original outer wall and main tower with the remains of a 13th century moat protecting its outer walls.
Foulksrath Castle
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Kilkenny History and Heritage
Kells Priory Kells, Co. Kilkenny 056-7751500 The King's River runs alongside this striking Augustine priory beside the village of Kells. One of the most distinctive features is the cluster of medieval tower houses spaced out along and within the walls. These features make it look more like a fortress than a church and gives it the local nickname of 'Seven Castles'. The ruins consist of a church, a chapel, a sacristy and several domestic buildings. There were over 20,000 archaeological finds at the priory including pieces of carved stone, pottery, floor and ridge
tiles, metal objects and even painted window glass. It was founded by Geoffrey FitzRobert -brother in law to Strongbow - in 1193. It was built on the site of an earlier church, which was dedicated to St. Mary, the Blessed Virgin and was the parish church of the village. During the first 150 years, the priory was attacked and burned no less than three times and it is thought the walls and fortifications date back to this era. In another exciting episode in 1324, the Bishop of Ossory, Richard de Ledrede, paid a visit to the priory. Around this time, the Bishop was pursuing a Kilkenny sect of heretics including Alice Kyteler and William Outlawe. Arnold de
Paor, Lord of Kells, was a supporter of Outlawe and subsequently imprisoned the Bishop in Kilkenny Castle. This caused a massive scandal and upon his release, the bishop tried Dame Kyteler’s maid who then burned at the stake. The dissolution of Kells Priory was in March 1540 and the entire property were given over to James Butler, 9th Earl of Ormonde. The four acre site is located about 15km south of Kilkenny City, Kells Priory is a national monument and run the Office of Public Works. It opens year round and there are tours available by appointment.
Kells Priory
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture Kilkenny Arts Festival
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From live entertainment to crafty endeavours to festival celebrations, Kilkenny has a fantastic arts and cultural offering.
Arts
& Culture Best Of Ireland Series
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture © Barnstorm Theatre Company
Culture Down to a Fine Art
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ilkenny is often referred to as “the creative heart of Ireland” because of the important role the city and its citizens play in the artistic and cultural life of the country.
The rich traditions of literature, theatre, music, visual art, craft and other passionate pursuits like sport have persisted through the centuries. Kilkenny has several annual festivals celebrating the arts and many individuals engaged in a creative life. Kilkenny has a long history of theatre and performance. There is an account dating back to 1366 of a Dublin theatrical troupe setting up in Kilkenny. Playwright, Henry Burkhead, wrote and printed a play called A Tragedy of Cola’s Furie, or Lirenda’s Miserie in 1645. The play was about the Irish rebellion of 1641 from an English point of view. During the late 18th century, it became popular for wealthy people to have plays performed at their houses and this led to
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the rise in the number of amateur acting companies. One of the leading troupes was founded by Sir Richard Power in Kilfane in 1802, he and his brother set up a public theatre called The Athenaeum. This theatre was extremely popular, holding an annual carnival, gaining worldwide attention and attracting famous actors of the day like Miss O'Neill and Thomas Moore.
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The creative heart of Ireland
In the Illustrated Guide to the City and County of Kilkenny (1884), PM Egan wrote: “Some of the brightest scenes, the gayest assemblages, the most fashionable of audiences, the foremost galaxy of wit and taste... were experienced at Kilkenny during the halcyon period of its theatre.”
When The Athenaeum closed in 1819, the local theatre scene continued to thrive and in 1902, the Kilkenny Theatre was set up. In more recent times, the
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Watergate Theatre was founded in 1993 and the Set Theatre in 2009. Cleere’s Pub often hosts theatre too. All of these and other venues host a range of events in various artforms. Today, there are vibrant theatre companies based in the city such as Barnstorm Theatre Company, The Devious Theatre Company and Kilkenny Youth Theatre. Kilkenny playwright, Thomas Kilroy, has been much lauded nationally and beyond. The internationally acclaimed actors, Ralph and Joesph Fiennes, lived in Kilkenny for a time in their youth. Theatre is also one of the pillars of the Kilkenny Arts Festival since it was set up in the 1970s. The festival—which is held annually in August—also incorporates dance, street performance, music, literary events, visual art and crafts. All types of music can be sampled every night of the week in Kilkenny. Traditional sessions and live bands are the most common form of entertainment
Kilkenny Arts & Culture Tomm Moore, Cartoon Saloon
Rudolf Heltzel
© Anthony Griffin
© IFTA (Irish Film & Television Awards)
in the many bars. Kilkenny Tradfest in March celebrates trad music in all its guises. Kilkenny has produced several well-known musicians, such as bands Kerbdog, Engine Alley and Jeremy Hickey (R.S.A.G). Former Kerbdog guitarist, Cormac Battle, is now a DJ on national radio station, RTE 2fm. The annual Smithwick’s Kilkenny Roots Festival is dedicated to niche music genre, Americana. It has attracted some of the biggest names in that canon and on average, hosts over 30 acts from all over the world in umpteen local venues. Kilkenny has also become synonymous with stand-up comedy thanks to the annual Cat Laughs Comedy Festival. This is held around the June Bank Holiday weekend and attracts the best in Irish and international comedians. Kilkenny has its own Film Club doing regular screenings. The organisation, Young Irish Film Makers, is based there, as are prestigious companies like Cartoon Saloon and Mycrofilms.
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Kilkenny may be small, but as a fixture on Ireland’s cultural landscape, it is perfectly formed.
The primary venue for visual art is the Butler Gallery, based in Kilkenny Castle, which has a permanent collection as well as constantly changing visiting exhibitions. The Blackbird Gallery is another respected venue and printmaking collective, Blackstack Studio, also produces work for exhibition. Well-known artists from Kilkenny include Christopher Hewetson, Edmund Garvey, Mildred Anne Butler, Gerard Casey and Tony O’Malley. The Kilkenny Design workshops were set up in 1963 and opened in Castle Yard in 1965. The Craft Council of Ireland (now renamed the Design and Craft
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Kilkenny Roots Festival
Council of Ireland) was founded in 1971 and established its base in Kilkenny, also at the Castle Yard in 1989. The major sectors within the Irish industry are pottery, glass, jewellery, textiles and furniture. The design and craft council supports native craftspeople and runs prestigious education/training programmes. The Castle Yard is also home to the National Craft Gallery, the Kilkenny Design Centre and a number of on-site workshops for artists. There are workshops scattered around County Kilkenny with concentrations in places such as Castlecomer and Thomastown. The MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail is a great way to discover these hidden gems and learn more about Irish craft. Kilkenny has crafted many a gifted ‘maker’ but has become the chosen base for many more. Kilkenny may be small, but as a fixture on Ireland’s cultural landscape, it is perfectly formed.
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture
Arts & Culture
Don’t Miss:
• Joining the audience for a vibrant live performance in Kilkenny’s two theatres and a multitude of other venues. • Beholding the visual art, sculpture and assorted media on display in local galleries. • Enjoying the varied entertainment at one of Kilkenny’s exciting festivals. • Viewing a cinematic masterpiece at Kilkenny Film Club. • Making the most of the crafty atmosphere by following the MADE in Kilkenny craft trail.
Watergate Theatre Parliament Street 056-7761674 www.watergatetheatre.com This 382 seat theatre hosts a diverse, year round programme of drama, music, dance, visual art and more. The Watergate—a converted cinema—has been entertaining audiences since it was opened in 1993 by then President of Ireland, Mary Robinson. It continues a proud tradition of theatre in Kilkenny, which has been a popular draw in the city for centuries.
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This 382 seat theatre hosts a diverse, year round programme of drama, music, dance, visual art and more
The theatre has a versatile mix of national and international acts—split between professional/amateur dramatics, classical/contemporary music, opera and comedy.
It staunchly supports local endeavours and so is a favourite venue for local drama productions and musicals, for instance. The upstairs gallery also holds regular exhibitions of paintings and photographs (upstairsgallery@hushmail.com). The impressive proscenium auditorium has a large balcony, with room for 75, and a wine bar service/coffee dock for refreshments. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday 2pm-6pm and Sundays/Bank holidays one hour prior to performances.
Watergate Theatre
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture
The Set Theatre
The Set Theatre 69 John Street 056-7721728 www.set.ie The Set Theatre is one of Kilkenny’s most spectacular venues, which runs a busy programme of theatre, comedy, music, film and other events. Built in 2009, the state of the art theatre can hold 252 people seated and 380 patrons, between standing and seating. As well as acts from Ireland and abroad, the Set can host conferences and corporate events; it also sometimes acts as a nightclub. The Set has won much praise in a short time and won the IMRO Best Live Music Venue Award in the Leinster category three times since opening. There is a spacious car park behind the venue and is a part of Langton’s Hotel, which has numerous bars and restaurant facilities. The flagship venue was designed by the prestigious David Collins Studio in London. 2013 marked the passing of David Collins. Originally from Dublin, David earned a degree at Bolton Street School of Architecture. From the
beginning, David’s company vision was to balance aesthetics with rationale in all design projects. He was inspired by the likes of Eileen Gray, Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe, big names in the world of interior architectural design.
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The opulent décor is equal to the spectacle on stage and was a finalist in the FX International Design Awards in 2010. The Set and the David Collins Studio stand as a marker of David Collins’ legacy.
The Set Theatre, one of Kilkenny’s most spectacular venues, runs a busy programme of theatre, comedy, music, film and other events
The studio employed a multidisciplinary team to bring a multifaceted approach to all projects. Set Theatre has all the hallmarks of a David Collins Studio project with deeply textured exteriors that at once feel brand new and full of history. It incorporates a balcony and the colour scheme of vivid red, blue and gold is intended to conjure up the glamour of a former age.
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture
“ The Blackbird Gallery
The Blackbird Gallery Castle Yard, Castle Road 087-7843015 www.theblackbirdgallery.ie Nestled in Castle Yard is a superb gallery showcasing the very best of Irish and international contemporary art, The Blackbird Gallery. Established in 2006 by Valerie Walshe, The Blackbird Gallery is set over several
The Butler Gallery Kilkenny Castle 056-7761106 www.butlergallery.com The Butler Gallery is a leading contemporary art gallery, which has been exhibiting for 70 years in the heart of Kilkenny City. Located in the former kitchens of Kilkenny Castle, the gallery has a permanent collection as well as holding a diverse programme of contemporary exhibitions “which reflects the constantly changing nature of visual art practice”. The gallery aims to provide a platform for the best of Irish art and artistic talent today but also has a strong commitment to presenting the work of internationally acclaimed artists—all to challenge and stimulate the audience. Butler Gallery has also developed a significant programme of education projects encouraging the participation of various audiences in the activities of Butler Gallery, including family, school,
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floors of a Georgian style building and stands firm as one of Ireland's most prestigious commercial galleries. The gallery houses an impressive collection of national and international works both on canvas and paper. Renowned artists such as Louis Le Brocquy and Charles Cullen hang alongside some of Ireland’s rising stars, offering a wonderful cross section of Ireland’s artistic talent. William Grace’s colourful seasonal landscapes and intimate country scenes are among some of the notable works youth, adult and older age programmes. These opportunities encourage meaningful public engagement and contribute to the development of an audience of diverse age groups, backgrounds and abilities. In 2008, Butler Gallery was awarded Full Museum Accreditation in 2008 from The Heritage Council of Ireland’s
Showcasing the very best of Irish and international contemporary art
found here. Expansion in 2009 and renovations in early 2014 are testament to the vision and commitment of its owner, which have led to the growth of this gallery as one of the finest in the country. The gallery hosts live performances and individual artists’ shows. They operate an international delivery service, wish list and gift voucher service and are happy to advise you on an artist or piece for your collection. The Blackbird Gallery is open Wednesday to Friday from 11am–5pm and Saturday from 11am–5pm. During the summer season the gallery is open every day. Further information is available on the website www.theblackbirdgallery.ie. Museum Accreditation Scheme for excellence in caring for collections, museum management and exhibition, education and visitor services. It is a not-for-profit organisation. The gallery is free of charge and open to the public seven days a week, all year round.
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture
Kilkenny Film Club www.kilkennyfilmclub.com If you know your Anderson from your Allen; your Cronenberg from your Von Trier, film buffs like yourself are well catered for at Kilkenny Film Club.
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Films are typically shown on Tuesdays at 8pm every fortnight
The club - which anyone can attend for one night or a whole season - aims to bring international, independent and world cinema to movie enthusiasts in the south east region. The carefully selected films are typically shown on Tuesdays at 8pm every fortnight (see current season programme
Kilkenny Film Club for specific details). Films are shown at the Set Theatre in John Street so viewers can enjoy the full cinematic experience in luxury. Tickets are priced per film or there ia a season ticket for seven films. Tickets are
available at the venue from 7.30pm on the evening and all prices are correct at time of going to press. Kilkenny Film Club is a non-profit organisation assisted by Access Cinema and The Arts Council.
over 120 countries worldwide.
The Secret of... Cartoon Saloon
Adrien Merigeau’s short film, Old Fangs, was selected for the Sundance film festival, receiving awards all over the world. Tomm Moore’s highly anticipated second feature film, Song of the Sea, is currently in production and is due for release late in 2014. The studio is also working with Baby Cow, Hot Cod and Sky comedy to create the animated sequences in the hit series, Moone Boy, starring Chris O’Dowd.
The Secret of Kells
Not many Irish production companies can count an Oscar nomination among its accolades, but Kilkenny’s Cartoon Saloon has that honour.
films, television commercials, graphic novels and children’s books. It works with clients such as Disney, BBC and Cartoon Network.
The animation studio began as an informal partnership between a group of animators brought together by Paul Young and Tomm Moore in 1999. It has since grown into a multi-award winning animation and illustration design studio. It develops and produces feature film and TV series projects while producing short
Cartoon Saloon was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature film for The Secret of Kells in 2010. It also produced its first TV series, the Irish Film and Television Award (IFTA) award winning, Skunk Fu! It was also nominated for a BAFTA. The series has been sold to broadcasters in Best Of Ireland Series
Cartoon Saloon has been invited to direct and produce a piece on one of the chapters of Kahlil Gibran’s book, The Prophet, which will come to life in 2015 as an animated feature. It is also working on its first 2D/3D combination project—a short film for the Irish Film Board called The Ledge End of Phil. Cartoon Saloon recently launched a selection of limited edition prints of The Secret of Kells, signed by the director. For more information, Cartoon Saloon see www.cartoonsaloon.ie and can be contacted on 056-7764481/056-7764455 or info@cartoonsaloon.ie.
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture Elly Devane at the ‘Future Fashion’ exhibition in the National Craft Gallery
Home of Design & Craft The Kilkenny Design Centre and National Craft Gallery are two must-see local gems conveniently located in one place - the picturesque and historic Castle Yard. The complex is directly across from Kilkenny Castle. The Castle Yard was built around 1790 and housed the stables/coach-houses of the fortress. The distinctive entrance building has an arched gateway and copper domed clock-tower. The entire complex was refurbished in the 1960s. The front building combines retail outlets and a restaurant. Assorted operating workshops are located further back. These were once home to the Kilkenny Design Workshops from 1965 to 1988 - an internationally acclaimed design practice and notable for being the first in the world to have been established by the government of a country. The gallery is in the second building.
National Craft Gallery Castle Yard 056-7796147 www.nationalcraftgallery.ie The National Craft Gallery is Ireland’s leading centre for contemporary craft and design. The bright and airy gallery space - with wood floors and large windows - is beautifully appointed and was established by the Design and Craft Council of Ireland. It has a dynamic year round exhibition programme of Irish and international work and explores various themes in more detail through a diverse events
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programme which is very inclusive and family-friendly. Events include children’s and adult workshops, music gigs, evening talks, film screenings, right down to social occasions such as ‘crafternoon tea’, lunchtime ‘taster tours’ and ‘bring along baby’ tours. The gallery education space always has activities and worksheets to hand. The National Craft Gallery welcomes school tours of all levels, from primary school to third level. The staff can devise age-appropriate workshops on request at a reasonable cost. The gallery opens from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-5.30pm and Sundays, 11am-5.30pm and admission is free.
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture
Kilkenny Design Centre
Kilkenny Design Centre Castle Yard 056-7722118 www.kilkennydesign.com Kilkenny has long been the capital of craft in Ireland and Kilkenny Design Centre showcases this industry in all its glory. The shop has a vast selection of craft and designer products from all over the island of Ireland. The range is diverse and includes pottery and china, glass and crystal, home textiles, knitwear, jewellery, accessories, paintings/prints, Celtic themed giftware and all manner of homewares and unique pieces. Some of the brands stocked include the Orla Kiely Collection, Magee, Jack Murphy, Erin Knitwear, Waterford Crystal, Belleek, Paul Maloney Pottery and Newbridge Silverware while locally
produced goods by Nicholas Mosse and Jerpoint Glass are also available. The centre supports tax-free shopping through Fexco and offers a worldwide shipping service. The food hall is a favourite local haunt offering free Wi-Fi. It serves fair trade organic teas and coffees and sweet/savoury delights, gourmet ‘takehome’ meals and carefully chosen artisan food gifts from the south-east and beyond as well as fresh baked goods from the centre’s renowned bakery. The Castle Yard workshops are still occupied by various craftspeople including artists, potters and jewellers. The public can see them at work, talk to them about their art and browse their wares. It opens seven days a week – Foodhall from 8.30am and shop from 10am.
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Kilkenny Arts & Culture © Trail Kilkenny
Kilkenny’s Craft Trail
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Whatever you are after, you will find something unique and made with great passion in any of the outlets featured on the map
ormed in 2009, ‘MADE in Kilkenny’ was set up to foster excellence in crafts in Kilkenny and has charted a dedicated craft trail made up of 26 professional craftspeople of various disciplines around the city and county.
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furniture, glass, jewellery, leather, millinery, stone carving and textiles. There are many exciting artists, studios, workshops, galleries and craft shops to be discovered in Kilkenny—particularly in picturesque county locations such as Bennetsbridge and Castlecomer.
MADE in Kilkenny also encourages the growth of the indigenous, professional craft industry and promotes Kilkenny as a shopping destination for authentic, handmade craft in Ireland.
Whatever you are after, you will find something unique and made with great passion in any of the outlets featured on the map. In fact, you can see pieces being made in the workshops of the best known designer-makers in Ireland.
Kilkenny has been a national hub for craft since the 1960s when the Irish Export Board made a radical move in setting up the Kilkenny Design Workshops. A state-sponsored design consultancy was an unusual concept but admired the world over. Since then, Kilkenny has built on this reputation and appeals to many artists as a base. The diverse categories in the trail include basket weaving, candlemaking, ceramics,
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Some entries in this guide are featured in the trail, which is available online and in a hard copy brochure. Those profiled within include jewellery-makers Rudolf Heltzel (pg 61) and Carl Parker (pg 66), Moth to a Flame candle makers (pg 65) and potters Nicholas Mosse (pg 64) and Rosemarie Durr (pg 65). For more information on the MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail, see www.madeinkilkenny.ie or pick up the purple-coloured trail brochure in the tourist office and other outlets.
Kilkenny Activities
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They say “idle folk have the least leisure� and there is no fear of being bored with the wide range of activities in Kilkenny City and County to experience.
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Kilkenny Activities
Activities
Don’t Miss: • • • • • • • •
Getting your pulse racing with an active pursuit or adventure activity. Hiking, biking, angling or golfing your way around Kilkenny. Ruling the animal kingdom at a pet farm or reptile zoo. Enjoying indoor fun at a bowling alley or cinema. Shouting encouragement at a sports match or event. Getting out in the fresh air at a park, garden or playground. Seeing the sights and learning new facts while taking a tour. Sampling Kilkenny’s foodie scene on the TASTE of Kilkenny food trail, or indeed walking or cycling on the many designated trails.
Kilkenny Airsoft Wallslough Village, Co. Kilkenny 056 7795719 www.kilkennyairsoft.ie The first fully automated indoor airsoft shooting range in Ireland, Kilkenny Airsoft is a safe and fun place to practice your target shooting or play a few war games with friends.
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Kilkenny Airsoft is a safe and fun place to practice your target shooting or play a few war games with friends
For those unfamiliar with airsoft, this is a recreational activity where spherical non-metallic pellets are shot from replica firearms. Whether you have never held an airsoft gun before or you are en experienced shooter, there are shooting facilities here to cater for everyone. Located just three kilometres from Kilkenny City, an afternoon spent shooting here is an afternoon well spent. There are special packages on offer for families, birthday parties, stag and hen
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Kilkenny Airsoft
parties. Participants must be over eight years of age and food and drink are available here. Kilkenny Airsoft has a Pistol Club where you can learn how to handle airsoft guns safely, how to maintain your gun and improve your aim in a friendly social atmosphere. Airsoft guns and accessories are available to purchase in the attached shop. The shooting range is open Monday to Friday from 12-9pm and from 12-8pm on weekends. Best Of Ireland Series
Kilkenny Activities
Pure Adventure
Pure Adventure The Quay, Graignamanagh, Co.Kilkenny 087-2265550 www.pureadventure.ie For an active holiday, Pure Adventure has thrilling activities for all ages. Pure Adventure is run by Patrick McCormack, a fully qualified outdoor education instructor with many years experience guiding tours & training canoeists.
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For an active holiday, Pure Adventure has thrilling activities for all ages
You can also try your hand at sea-kayaking on the stunning Copper Coast where you can get up close and personal with marine wildlife and see some wonderful natural features such as sea stacks, arches, caves, tunnels, blowholes and caverns. Pure Adventures trips and tours are suitable for everyone even if you have never been in a canoe or kayak before it’s the perfect way to have your first experience. If you would like to develop skills, Pure Adventure runs canoeing & kayaking courses teaching people from beginner to advanced skills levels.
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You can get up close and personal with marine wildlife and see some wonderful natural features
Pure Adventure offers activities suitable for everyone from hens & stags, school tours and youth groups, families & friends with plenty of full day and half day options to choose from.
The team at Pure Adventure offer amazing activities and experiences, ideal for getting out seeing the stunning surrounding countryside. You can try your hand at canoeing, kayaking or SUPing (stand up paddle boarding). Whether it’s an adventurous action filled white water adventure or a chilled out cruise along the meandering river this is a day well spent. Best Of Ireland Series
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Kilkenny Activities
Kilkenny’s Walking and visit to Kilkenny offers guests a breath of fresh air, in more ways than one. Kilkenny City and County have an impressive range of natural beauty spots. Kilkenny also has a selection of mapped and signposted walking and cycling trails, which offer the perfect opportunity to refresh the senses. Nore Linear Park features a network of over 7km of accessible cycleways and footpaths on both sides of the River Nore as it flows through Kilkenny city and outskirts. It is divided into four sections: The West Bank from Bishops Meadows to the weir at Talbot's Inch; The Peace Park between John's Bridge and Green's Bridge in the city centre; The Canal Walk parallel to Kilkenny Castle grounds; The Lacken Walk from the Dublin Road on to Bennettsbridge. The Thomastown to Inistioge Trail on the Nore Valley Walk takes you through diverse countryside, pastoral lands and woodland. It
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passes the ruin of Grennan Castle at the start, followed by the pretty Dysart Woods and Dysart Castle. The Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge Trail is the second part of the Nore Valley Walk. It starts under the Ossary Bridge and heads south for 11km following the River Nore to Bennetsbridge. Once in Bennettsbridge you could then try the O’Gorman’s Lane Loop. This is a 4km trail starting at the Primary School and traversing country roads, old laneways, woodland tracks and riverbank. Castlecomer Discovery Park on part of the former Wandesforde Estate in Castlecomer offers 6km of themed forest walks looping around two man-made lakes and interspersed with wooden sculptures and picnic areas as well as a children’s playground. There is also a tree top walk in the midst of the canopy 10 metres above ground offering stunning views! Castlemorris Wood Walk consists of three looped walks that start and Best Of Ireland Series
finish at the Grand Gates of Castlemorris Estate which lies west of the villages of Newmarket and Hugginstown and east of the village of Kilmaganny in South Kilkenny. The Holly Loop consists of 6km of forest track and grasslands; the Fern Loop is a 3km moderate walk; the Pheasant Loop is a 7km moderate-hard walk. The forest is closed to walkers during pheasant shooting season. Kilmacoliver Walk is a 6km loop walk starting at the Watering Place— wildlife lakes fed by fresh water springs—1km from the village of Tullahought on the border with Tipperary. At the summit (261m) is a circular enclosure of standing stones believed to be a megalithic tomb dating back 5000 years. Callan’s Abbey Meadow Walk is situated on the north banks of the King’s River in the town of Callan, about 15 kilometres from Kilkenny City along the N76 national road. This wheelchair accessible trail links architectural, archaeological and
Kilkenny Activities © Trail Kilkenny
Cycling Trails cultural sites in and around the town. It begins at the entrance to the Abbey meadow and continues around one of the town’s earliest surviving developments, a 15th century Augustinian Abbey. Seating is available along the route. Mountain Grove Woods features a 4km trail that traverses the beautiful mixed woodlands at Mountain Grove in the picturesque village of Piltown, situated between the hills and forests of South Kilkenny and the foothills of the Comeragh Mountains. Jenkinstown Park and Gardens offers two short walking trails – the Jenkinstown Wood Loop and the Walled Garden Loop. It is situated off the N78 road about 10 km north of the Kilkenny City. It offers varied woodlands, picnic sites and a deer park. The woods are carpeted in bluebells in late spring and are quite a sight to behold. The Islands Walk, Urlingford starts opposite the library/courthouse on the Dublin side of town and is a short walk through the hinterland of
Urlingford. It takes you through the town, past a restored 15th Century church and on into forest with mixed evergreen and deciduous species, passing the River Goul and a 15th Century castle on its banks.
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A selection of mapped and signposted walking and cycling trails
Experienced walkers might like the Brandon Hill Loop, a 12 km trail starting in the town of Graiguenamanagh and traversing hillside, forestry tracks and minor roadways. Three cycle trails are also being developed by Trail Kilkenny. The North Kilkenny Cycle Route stretches for 83km and the trail begins in Ballycannan. The route, which is mainly along quiet country roads starts at Ballycallan and passes through Tullaroan, Freshford, Best Of Ireland Series
Ballyragget, Castlecomer and finishes back where it started. The signs are up along the route but the mapboards and route guide have not yet been completed. The East Kilkenny Cycle Route (roughly 65km) begins at Bennettsbridge and takes in Graignamanagh, The Rower, Inistioge, Thomastown before ending back at Bennettsbridge. The signs are up along both routes but the mapboards and route guides have yet to be completed. The third cycle route, which is the longest and is 110km, is the South Kilkenny Cycle Route. The planned route starts at Thomastown and passes through Inistioge, New Ross, Kilmacow, Piltown, Knocktopher and ends in Thomastown. This route is still in the planning phase but it is definitely one to watch out for. Kilkenny hosted the very successful Kilkenny Trails Festival in 2013 and for more information on upcoming events, as well as local walking and cycle trails, can be found on www.trailkilkenny.ie. | 35
Kilkenny Activities
Kilkenny’s tops for Family Fun!
Kilkenny is awash with family friendly activities to keep grown-ups, tots and teens entertained. Whatever the weather, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep the family occupied. Get out and make some family memories you will treasure forever. If you want to have fun in the water The Watershed Sports and Leisure Centre (056-7734620) has a 25 metre, six lane pool, a five metre learner’s pool and a kiddie’s pool where your little ones can learn how to swim. When the weather is good a trip to Ballyrafton Wood or Nore Valley Pet Farm (056- 7727229) will excite and
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delight with plenty of fresh air and the chance to see and pet some lovely animals. Castlecomer Discovery Park (056-4440707) has everything from tree top walks, nature trails and a playground with a mini zip-wire and climbing wall. Reptile Village (056-7726757) in Gowran has a fascinating array of reptiles. Should you want an active holiday experience for the family there are plenty of activity centres ready to take you on a family adventure. Pure Adventure (087-2265550) offer lessons and treks for those interesting in kayaking and canoeing, or you can pay a visit to Kilkenny Activity Centre (086-2611567)
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to go on a treasure hunt and take on the assault course. Of course, there is always going to be a rainy day, so a day at Kbowl (056-7788200) playing ten-pin bowling is just the ticket. Alternatively the Kilkenny Omniplex (1520-444700) has all the latest family blockbusters. In this section, there are also special features in this section on Kilkenny’s parks & gardens, walking & cycling trails, playgrounds, food & craft trails and more—all family friendly. And of course, there is a lot to see and do in other sections of this guide like history & heritage and arts & culture too. For more tips, see www.visitkilkenny.ie.
Kilkenny Activities
The Watergarden Gardens & Café Ladywell Street, Thomastown, Co.Kilkenny 056-7724690 www.camphill.ie/Thomastown Take some time out with a visit to The Watergarden, where you can stroll the peaceful gardens or sit and enjoy a light bite al-fresco. Established in 1993, The Watergarden provides a day service on behalf of Camphill Thomastown.
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You can stroll the peaceful gardens or sit and enjoy a light bite al-fresco
Its primary task is to provide a supportive environment where people with special needs can participate in work activities in order to learn and practice useful skills as well as make a meaningful contribution to the local community. The Watergarden offers the public surprisingly large and peaceful gardens, open free of charge, as well as a
The Watergarden Gardens & Café so you can take in the beautiful surrounds as you sip.
café and art gallery. The beautiful walled garden is situated by a stream, offering the perfect opportunity to revive the senses. You can also visit the kitchen garden which supplies the café with many of its ingredients, or pay a visit to the garden shop.The café serves teas, coffees and light refreshments, using fresh, local and organic ingredients when possible. Seating is available indoors and outdoors
The art gallery is available for use by arrangement and is open to the public. They also run arts and crafts workshops from time to time as well as special seasonal events. The Watergarden Café is open Tuesdays to Fridays from 10am until 4.00pm. Lunch is served from 12.30pm to 2.30pm.
Cinema in Kilkenny There is a four screen Omniplex Cinema in Kilkenny located at the Fairgreen in the city (1520-444700; www.omniplex.ie). This shows all the latest releases, from children’s movies to Hollywood blockbusters. It opens daily from 2pm and from noon on Saturday and Sunday. All screens boast high-backed, luxury stadium seating in all auditoria giving a perfect view from every seat. Kilkenny has a few connections with the film industry in that the award-winning animation studio, Cartoon Saloon, is based here. Also, acclaimed British actors, Ralph and Joseph Fiennes, and their filmmaker sister, Martha, lived in Kilkenny for several years. Ralph Fiennes starred in The English Patient, Schindler’s List and several films in the Harry Potter franchise.
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Kilkenny Activities Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum
Kilkenny Parks & Gardens hough it is named the ‘Marble City’, Kilkenny is also very green thanks to the wealth of natural beauty blooming in its many parks and gardens and if you venture into the county, there is more still to enjoy.
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of the River Nore as it flows through the city. It has a network of accessible cycleways and footpaths on both sides of the river and although it is still a work in progress, there are over 7 km of footpaths and cyclepaths available for use.
There are numerous public parks in the city and some of the playgrounds listed on pgs 42-43 are located in parks too.
The grounds of the majestic Kilkenny Castle (056-7704100; see pg 9) are perched overlooking the city and the River Nore. The grounds offer 20 hectares of splendid scenery and feature tree-lined avenues, a well-established rose garden, a variety of shrubs, large statues of various figures and an ornamental lake.
Newpark Marsh Eco Park is set over 23.7 acres and is dominated by Newpark Marsh—a designated proposed Natural Heritage Area. With plenty of green spaces and an abundance of native trees, the park boasts a multi use games area, footpaths, cycle lanes, a playing pitch and dressing rooms as well as a picnic area and a place to feed the ducks. Garringreen Neighbourhood Park is located east of the city centre and can be accessed from the Johnswell or Hebron Roads. The park measures nearly 7 acres and includes play areas, footpaths, cycle lanes and a playing pitch. The 6.5 acre Loughboy Neighbourhood Park is on Bohernatounish Road, on the southern outskirts of Kilkenny City. It has a lot of footpaths for walkers. The Nore Linear Park follows the banks
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Rothe House (056-7722893; see pg 13) consists of a beautiful townhouse and gardens. The garden is a recreation of a 17th century garden and is the only urban garden of this period open to the public. It opens Monday to Saturday from 10.30am-4.30/5pm with additional hours in summer. Jenkinstown Park, 10km north of Kilkenny City, was once part of a large estate. The beech wood here is renowned for its carpet of bluebells in late April. Tree species include rare Chinese Necklace Poplars, ash, oak and Norway spruce and the park has a variety of Best Of Ireland Series
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Though it is named the ‘Marble City’, Kilkenny is also very green thanks to the wealth of natural beauty blooming in its many parks and gardens
fauna including foxes, badgers, squirrels and bats and an enclosed deer park. The beautiful 18th century Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum (087-8549785/087-8580502) overlook the River Nore Valley and the picturesque village of Inistioge. Here, you’ll find here a collection of exotic
Kilkenny Activities Kilfane Glen & Waterfall.
trees in the arboretum, woodland walks as well as a walled garden, rose garden, rockery and a recreated Turner Conservatory. It also has one of the longest Monkey Puzzle avenues in Europe. Admission is €4 per car. Group tours are available on request. There are Tea rooms on site too. For a walk on the wild side, visit the unique Fiddown Island Nature Reserve. It is located in South Kilkenny near the picturesque village of Fiddown on the River Suir. The state-owned reserve was established in 1988 on a 60 plus hectare island site. The alluvial woodland is dominated by willow and reed swamps and is known locally as ‘Sally Island’ due to the willow, or Sally rod, that grows there. It is the only known site of its particular type in Ireland and is home to otters, kingfishers and seasonal visitors include reed bunting, sedge warblers, mute swans, moorhens, coots and herons. Kilfane Glen and Waterfall (056-7724558) is a romantic era garden dating from the 1790s, untouched for two centuries. It covers about 15 acres of easily accessible natural landscape and is exceptionally beautiful with its waterfall, stream, woodland paths, tiny bridges and
restored cottage, set among trees and plants. There are also pieces of art in situ. Every year one or two artists are invited to submit proposals for a site specific work and selected pieces is installed/created. The garden is listed as an Irish Heritage garden and it opens to the public daily from 11am- 6pm from July 1 to August 31. Admission is €7 per person with reductions for students, OAPs and families. The Watergarden (056-7724690; see pg 37) in Thomastown offers the public large and peaceful gardens, free of charge, as well as a café and art gallery. There is a walled garden by a stream and a kitchen garden which supplies the café with ingredients. Opening hours are from Tuesdays to Fridays, 10am-4pm.
Woodstock Gardens
The gardens at Mount Juliet (056-7773000) near Thomastown are quite spectacular. The estate is also home a luxury hotel and golf course but the grounds incorporate a designated trail where visitors can take in the well maintained herb, rose and walled gardens. Visits are by appointment only and there is an admission fee. Best Of Ireland Series
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Kilkenny Activities Castlecomer Discovery Park
Castlecomer Discovery Park Castlecomer Discovery Park The Estate Yard, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny 056-4440707 www.discoverypark.ie Castlecomer Discovery Park comprises 80 acres of stunning natural woodland and lakes with 6km of great walking trails. This beautiful park opened to the public in 2007 and has already been twice nominated as ‘One of the 3 Best Family Attractions in Leinster’ (Primary Times).
complete the course in teams or solo, or opt for a nature trail and unearth the magic of the park. For the more adventurous, discover your inner climber on the Tree Top Adventure Walk Activities, 10 metres above the ground, high among the trees. This 140 metre course provides a real mental and physical challenge—children love it while adults laugh with fear. There is also the opportunity to reach new heights on the great outdoor climbing wall with different levels for all to enjoy, or experience the daring ‘Leap of Faith’—climb the 7 metre pole, try and balance on the platform and then take a leap of faith.
The Visitor Centre stands on the site of a former grass drying building which was located in the estate yard of the Wandesforde Estate. Here you will find the fascinating interactive multimedia Coal Mining Exhibition, charting the formation of coal over 300 million years. Then it continues through Castlecomer’s coal mining history of over 300 years, which includes the discovery of plant and animal fossils. And after all that, relax with a snack or light lunch in the award-winning Jarrow Café, recommended by the acclaimed Bridgestone Guide.
It is situated on the grounds of the former Wandesforde Estate where many of the stone buildings have been beautifully restored to preserve the character of the estate. These can be admired as you enjoy the award winning craft studios located in the former stable buildings, where you can also meet the craft makers at work and find a novel gift. Enjoy trout fishing on the picturesque lakes, where fishing lessons can be arranged and rod hire is also available. Explore the new permanent 1, 2, 3km orienteering trails, where you can
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Castlecomer Discovery Park Exhibition
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Kilkenny Activities
Reptile Village Gowran, Co. Kilkenny 056-7726757 www.reptilevillage.net Visitors young and old can learn about this exotic class of wildlife first-hand in Ireland’s only reptile zoo. Reptiles residing in the ‘village’ include live snakes, lizards, tortoise, turtles, crocodiles, alligators, spiders, scorpions, iguanas, frogs, salamanders and many more species. The idea of ‘look but don’t touch!’ is dispelled somewhat because it also offers the unique chance for people to handle some of the animals! You can snake your way through the tropical enclosures where the animals are displayed and then interact with reptiles in special zones. This huge zoo is 6,000 square feet and includes over 120 animals so there is something for everyone. Other facilities include a soft play area for young explorers as well as a snack bar, indoor and outdoor picnic areas and
Nore Valley Pet Farm Annamult, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny 056-7727229 www.norevalleypark.com Open since 1989, Nore Valley Pet Farm is the family friendly day out where the little ones can get up close to a veritable Noah’s ark of animals. Set in the idyllic Nore Valley, take some
a souvenir shop. The founder/director, James Hennessy, has nearly 30 years experience dealing with animals all over the world. The zoo ultimately aims to conserve reptiles in the wild through captive breeding and education. Reptile Village accommodates school/group tours, birthday parties and corporate events. Reptile Zoo opens from 10am-6pm all year round. Admission prices vary; adult and family tickets are available too.
time to stroll around the farm where you can bottle feed the lambs and goats or feed the ducks and turkeys. There are rabbits and baby chicks to cuddle, as well as cows, ponies, donkeys, deer and ostriches. There are also plenty of other activities including pedal go-karts and trailer rides, mini golf, giant chess, an indoor 3d maze, swings and slides. You can bring a picnic to have in the picnic area or you can relax with a cup of tea and a home baked scone. Walk off the treats along
the two mile river walk and nature trail. Nore Valley Pet Farm isn’t just for the little ones; there are group packages available for youth groups and stag or hen parties. The team building packages offer both a mental and physical challenge to promote better team dynamics. Nore Valley Pet Farm is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm.
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Kilkenny Activities
PlayAway! ilkenny has a multitude of playgrounds for little ones to get some fresh air and get rid of some excess energy! Read on for a description of play areas, big and small, all across the city and county.
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There is a playground at Kilkenny Castle Park. This is open in line with the park’s hours, which change seasonally (see sign on main entrance gate). The relatively new playground has a variety of swinging and climbing equipment to keep kids of all ages busy. There are plenty of benches for adults to relax on too, or families to picnic in fair weather. For more information, contact Colm Mangan (Monday to Friday) on 087-6349153. Talbot’s Court Playground is located on the Freshford Road in the city and is a small neighbourhood playground with unrestricted access, which opens all year round. It is suitable for children aged two to 14. 42 |
At Lovers Lane, the Newpark Close Playground can be found. It offers adventure play with unrestricted access, year round and it suitable for children aged two to 14. It is across the road from Newpark Marsh Park, which includes a wildlife area, soccer pitch, multi-use area, games area and footpaths for walking too.
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Kilkenny has a multitude of playgrounds for little ones to get some fresh air and get rid of excess energy
The Bishops Demesne Neighbourhood Park is near the Kilkenny Borough Council City Hall. The five-acre parkland includes adult Best Of Ireland Series
exercise equipment, a soccer pitch, a multi-use games area, playgrounds and footpaths. At Garringreen on the Johnswell Road lies The Playground Next Door. This five- acre park open to the public year round and its facilities include a soccer pitch, a multi-use games area, cycle lane and footpaths. The playground is for kids aged two to 14. There is a playground at the Fr McGrath Centre on St Joseph’s Road. A joint community and Local Authority project, it is open all year round with unrestricted access. It has a wide range of swings, frames and the latest equipment. It is ideal for children aged two to 14, including children with disabilities. County Kilkenny has its fair share of community playgrounds so while exploring the county, you can take a pitstop at several towns and villages to stretch those little legs!
Kilkenny Activities
At Castlecomer Discovery Park, kids can enjoy Timber Tumbles Playground among the other facilities. The adventure play area has unrestricted access and is open all year round (suitable for children aged two to 14). Church Avenue Playground is located on said avenue on the Kilkenny Road, Castlecomer. This ‘pocket park’ includes a hopscotch area, a multi-sports wall, a multi-use games area and footpaths as well as a wildlife area. Happyland Playground at The Fair Green in Callan is set in a 10-acre park, which is open to the public year round. The park includes two soccer pitches, a multi-use games area and footpaths. It is for children aged two to 14. The Earth is Fun play area at Marsh’s Street in Thomastown has a special theme based on the history of Thomastown and the River Nore.
This community playground is open to the public year round and is for children aged two to 14.
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County Kilkenny has its fair share of community playgrounds
A playground was recently added to Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum, which is situated just outside the village of Inistioge. There are a number of features and the surface is bark chip for safety. It is suitable for children under the age of 14.
These details also apply for Place to Play Playground at The Fair Green in Graiguenamanagh; the Mullinavat Amenity Area adjacent to the local handball alley on the Main Street of Mullinavat; Blackthorn Hills Playground at Blackthorn Hills, Ferrybank and the Ballyhale Amenity Area at Station Road, Ballyhale. For more information, contact the Parks Department at Kilkenny County Council on 056-7794373 or parks@kilkennycoco.ie.
Rising Stars Playground is next to the Community Hall on the Main Street of Mooncoin in County Kilkenny. This community playground offers adventure play for children aged two to 14 years with unrestricted access, all year round.
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Kilkenny Activities © Trail Kilkenny
The True TASTE of Kilkenny he eminent playwright, George Bernard Shaw, once said that “there is no sincerer love than the love of food” and Kilkenny has an interest in food which proves just that!
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Kilkenny may be a small city but two of its restaurants were awarded a renowned Michelin star in 2013. Campagne in Gashouse Lane in the city and the Lady Helen restaurant at the Mount Juliet Estate in Thomastown were among nine Irish restaurants awarded stars in the Michelin guide—a veritable bible for foodies. Quoted in The Irish Times the Chairman of Kilkenny Tourism, Colin Ahern said that the awards cemented Kilkenny’s reputation for “ top class artisan food producers” and as “one of the top food destinations not just in Ireland, but in the world”. Kilkenny has its own food trail, TASTE of Kilkenny, which is a project established to promote awareness of local food producers and the food
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outlets, cafes and restaurants that support such businesses. The range of producers and food outlets is staggering—over 38 at last count. From confectionary to cheese, fish to farmers, bakeries to cookery schools, markets to eateries, the trail stretches all around city and county. All members “are committed to delivering a high quality product using mainly traditional methods and remaining as organic as possible whilst highlighting the potential of the county as a leader in high quality produce”.
Langton’s (pg 95); Kilkenny Tea Rooms (pg 78); the Marble City Car & Tea Rooms (pg 83); Bridie’s Bar & General Store (pg 83); the Set Theatre (pg 25) and the Watergarden (pg 37). For more information on the trail and detailed descriptions of member outlets, see www.trailkilkenny.ie/food-trail or pick up the orange-coloured trail brochure in the tourist office and other outlets.
The trail offers local people and visitors alike to truly experience the fine fare of Kilkenny, whether in an orchard or a café. The spotlight is also on the traditions, practices and people behind the vibrant food culture here. It informs and raises awareness of how our food gets to the plate. Members in the trail which are featured in this guide include: A Slice of Heaven (pg 81); Kilkenny Design (pg 29/77); Best Of Ireland Series
© Trail Kilkenny
Kilkenny Activities
Kilkenny for Sport From fishing to football and horseracing to hiking, Kilkenny is a real sporting county with umpteen outlets for sports and spectacle. Kilkenny is situated in the Nore Valley on both banks of the River Nore with its many tributaries so it is an ideal spot for angling. Be sure to enquire about fishing permits before casting your line anywhere. There are various established fishing areas to enjoy the sport. These include Jerpoint Park (056-7793186/086-6061449) where anglers can fish for wild salmon and brown trout; Castlecomer Discovery Park (056-4440707) where rainbow trout is the ‘fish of the day’; Mount Juliet estate (056-7773000) boasting “game angling at its very best with wild Atlantic salmon and brown trout” and Ardaire Springs (086-8128937) which, covers over 2.5 acres of lakes stocked with rainbow trout. Those with an interest in all things equestrian are spoiled for choice here. If you want to try your hand at horse riding and trekking, there is Danville House Farm (086-1209210) and Warrington Top Flight Equestrian Centre (056-7722682). Gowran Park (056-7726225) is the only grade one racecourse in the south-east. The picturesque course—one mile and four furlongs in length—hosts roughly 16 race meetings throughout the
year featuring both National Hunt and flat race meetings. The hospitality is second to none too, with a range of dining options available as well as bar and Tote betting facilities. With the likes of Scanlan Park (athletics) and Nowlan Park (GAA), there are often sports events on to enjoy. Adventure sports and outdoor pursuits are also popular in Kilkenny. Pure Adventure (087-2265550) run kayaking, canoeing and sea kayaking trips on the Rivers Barrow and Nore and on the south east coastline as well as stand up paddle boarding in Kilkenny City. Kilkenny Airsoft (056-7795719) is the first fully automated indoor airsoft shooting range in Ireland—where people of all ages can enjoy target/combat games. Other options include a diverse range of activities with Go with the Flow River Adventures (087-2529700); Kilkenny
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Activity Centre (086-2611567) or Team Dynamics (056-7763635) and Laser Combat (087-1233117). For a more leisurely watersport—swimming—you can visit the Watershed Sports & Leisure Centre (056-7734620), which also has a state of the art gym, a multi sports arena, an outdoor running track and four floodlit Astroturf pitches. Kilkenny’s local clubs have excelled is many disciplines. These include Kilkenny City Harriers, Marble City Boxing Club, Kilkenny City Storm, An Oige and Tyndall Walking Clubs, Kilkenny Gymnastics Club, Badminton Bridge Club, Kilkenny Chess Club and Kilkenny Rugby Club to name but a few. Soccer, hockey, handball and Gaelic Games are played all over city and county.
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Kilkenny Activities
Tours of all Types! What better way to get a true experience of a place than to go on a tour? There are several tours operating in Kilkenny involving trains, bikes, walks and even hurleys! Kilkenny City Tours (086-7301500) use a miniature road train to ferry people around the key sights in the city. The 25 minute tour starts at Kilkenny Castle and there is a running commentary all the way through as you pass by historical landmarks like Rothe House and St Canice’s Cathedral. The evening tour has a spooky element with ghost stories galore. The tours run March to October. The Kilkenny Way Hurling Tour (056-7721718/086-8171978) is a unique, action-packed tour that gives an insight into the world’s fastest field game and an opportunity to learn the basic skills from real players in the most successful hurling county. Dubbed ‘the ultimate hurling experience’, the two-hour tour runs seven days a week. Tynan Medieval Walking Tours (087-2651745) runs several daily tours from mid-March to October. The 70 minute tours are delivered by an experienced guide and take in the most notable sights on Kilkenny’s ‘medieval mile’. The tour outlines the city’s
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fascinating history and most famous characters is glorious detail. Tours leave from Kilkenny Tourist Office on Rose Inn Street. Experienced and novice cyclists alike can get on their bikes to enjoy the surroundings of Kilkenny. Kilkenny Cycling Tours (086-8954961) offer several options. Guided tours depart twice daily in high season and take in sights like Kilkenny Castle, St Mary’s Cathedral and St Francis’ Abbey on the 12km and two and a half hour circuit (which can be tailored specifically too). Bike ‘N Hike allows participants to cycle out to Bennettsbridge and return on foot via the Nore Valley Walk.
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What better way to get a true experience of a place than to go on a tour
Waterside Bike & Hike (086-4084008) offers both bike tours and rental. From its base in Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny, cyclists can explore the Barrow River towpath—a safe and
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traffic free bike trail—and spot some of the wonderful wildlife along the way. Guided tours of individual entities are available too. One notable one is the guided heritage tour of the site of Newtown Jerpoint (086-6061449). The once thriving 12th century town close to Jerpoint Abbey was only opened to the public in 2011 and the site contains the tomb effigy of St Nicholas of Myra—the remains of the Turkish holy man are said to have brought to Ireland for safekeeping by Knights of the Crusade.
Kilkenny Activities
Tee time in Kilkenny From Padraig Harrington to Rory McIlroy, Darren Clarke to Graham McDowell, Ireland has produced its fair share of golfing legends. Golf is an exceptionally popular hobby and Kilkenny boasts no less than six great golf courses. Mount Juliet in Thomastown (056-7773012) is one of the premier courses in the country. In contention for the title of ‘greatest golfer of all-time’, Jack Nicklaus, designed this top class championship course. Located around 20 minutes from Kilkenny City, the par-72 course has been open since 1991 and attracts golfers from the world over. Its undulating fairways, water hazards and manicured greens provide a real challenge.
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Golf is an exceptionally popular hobby and Kilkenny boasts no less than six great golf courses
Mount Juliet hosted the Irish Open from 1993-95 and also two World Golf Championship events in 2002 and 2004. Gowran Park Golf & Leisure (056-7726225) is not only a superb parkland golf course, but is also home to the only grade one racecourse in the south-east. Located near the village of
Gowran Park Golf & Leisure Gowran—16km outside the city—the 71 par golf course was added in 2001. All 18 holes present a trial for golfers of all levels. Against the stunning vista of the Blackstairs Mountains, golfers can amble through some of the 130 acres of mature woodlands and lakes of the Annaly Estate, where 15 holes are located and three on the racecourse. Kilkenny Golf Club in Glendine (056-7765400) is just a few minutes drive from the High Street. The par 71, championship golf course is set on 120 acres of parkland. Notable features of the course are “the four very challenging par threes, the long tree lined par four eleventh and a par four with a testing undulating green of some 40 metres long”. Castlecomer Golf Club (056-4441139) is a par 72 parkland course set in a 200 year old forest with picturesque views. Completed in 2003 and designed to
Mount Juliet Golf Course
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Mount Juliet hosted the Irish Open from 1993-95 and also two World Golf Championship events in 2002 and 2004
USGA standards, Pat Ruddy designed it to be unique and it boasts “18 holes of tremendous character and challenge which will compel any discerning golfer to return again”. Callan Golf Club (056-7725136) is located in Geraldine, on the Knocktopher Road, about a 1.6km from the town of Callan and 19km from Kilkenny City. Established in 1929, the mature 18 hole parkland course features well placed spinneys, bunkers and water hazards. Mountain View Golf Course (056-7768122) is in Ballyhale, Kiltorcan—around 26km from Kilkenny City. This course is a case of “by name and by nature” with fantastic views. Developed by the O’Neill family, its 120 acre expanse includes carpet-like greens, creative hazards and one off additions such as two handmade wooden bridges, which featured in the film, Braveheart.
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Kilkenny Activities
Hurling ‘Clash of the Ash’
The so-called ‘Clash of the Ash’ is the main sport played and followed in Kilkenny - which is hardly surprising as the county is the most successful ever at hurling in Ireland. The Kilkenny branch of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) was founded in 1887. There are three clubs in the city catering for all age groups - James Stephens, often referred to as “The Village”, Dicksboro and O'Loughlin Gaels. There are another 38 clubs dotted around the county. Nowlan Park is the county team’s home ground and county headquarters of Kilkenny GAA. From here the voluntary board coordinates the activities of over 40 clubs. As of September 2012 - when Kilkenny beat Galway in a thrilling replay match - Kilkenny won its record 34th All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship. The ‘Cats’ hold a number of records in the fastest field game in the world, including the honour of having won the most Provincial Championships (Leinster) with no less than 68 titles! The local support is phenomenal, with
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thousands attending games at Nowlan Park, and at the national stadium, Croke Park. During GAA season, the city and county is literally covered in team colours black and amber with flags, signs, bunting and window displays. Some of Ireland’s most celebrated hurlers hail from Kilkenny including nine time All Ireland medal winner, 2012 Hurler of the Year and widely regarded as the greatest hurler of all time, ‘King’ Henry Shefflin. Other famous names include DJ Carey, JJ Delaney, Eddie Keher, James ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick, Noel Skehan, Pat Henderson, Frank Cummins, Fan Larkin, Richie Power, Eddie Brennan, Jackie Tyrell and current senior team manager, Brian Cody. One of the many mythic stories surrounding Kilkenny hurling is that the team may have the blessing of St. Nicholas of Myra on its side. It is claimed that the remains of the saint who inspired the modern figure of Santa Claus - were interred in a village near Jerpoint Abbey in County Kilkenny in the 13th century.
Kilkenny Festivals & Events
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Kilkenny is famous Ireland and the world over for its festival scene so whether you have a passion for fashion or the arts, film or food, you can soak up the atmosphere all year round.
Festivals & Events
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Kilkenny Festivals & Events © Kilkenny Arts Festival
KILKENNY Festival Frenzy! ilkenny has a very lively calendar of festivals the whole year round, providing fun and frolics for all ages. Subject matter ranges from comedy to food, music to fashion and lots in between. If you’re planning a visit to the Marble City and the wider county, be sure to see what festivals are on when to truly see Kilkenny at its most vibrant.
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St Patrick’s Day on March 17 celebrates Ireland’s patron saint and parades, along with other events, happen all over the country. Kilkenny’s celebrations get an added boost with Kilkenny TradFest (March 14-17 in 2014), which is a feast of traditional music, song and dance. The festival began in 2013 and events include a Trad Trail, music and dance workshops, family activities and more (www.kilkennytradfest.com). Knights and fair maidens are invited to joust in Kilkenny for Ireland's first Medieval Week—taking place from March 29-April 6 Sunday 2014. Events will include royal feasts, storytelling, workshops, demonstrations, historic
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tours, a medieval market, tours, a fun run and many family friendly pursuits in city and county. It is hoped the city’s heritage will be further marked by natives dressing up in ye olde medieval costumes! See www.visitkilkenny.ie for more details.
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Kilkenny has a very lively calendar of festivals the whole year round
For watersports enthusiasts, the All Ireland Kayak and Canoe Club Championships 2014 will come to Kilkenny on April 12 and 13 (www.canoe.ie). Canoeing Ireland will hold a total of eight events over the weekend on the Rivers Nore and Barrow, in Kilkenny City and in Tramore, County Waterford. Disciplines include various styles of canoeing/kayaking polo and surfing. Best Of Ireland Series
The Bealtaine Festival is all about celebrating creativity as we age and events are held in Kilkenny and nationwide for the whole month of May (www.bealtaine.com). It showcases the talents and creativity of both first-time and professional older artists with performances and exhibitions in areas like dance, cinema, painting, theatre and more. One of the most successful annual festivals in Ireland devoted to a niche music genre is the Kilkenny Roots Festival (www.kilkennyroots.com). Held annually in early May (May 2-5 in 2014), this festival draws some of the biggest names in roots/Americana music and also includes sub-genres like country, folk, blues, bluegrass, rockabilly and Cajun. Organisers invite audiences to sample music in over 30 venues. MOJO Magazine said that the “Kilkenny Roots might just be the best pound for pound festival of its kind anywhere”. The Sky Cat Laughs Comedy Festival (www.thecatlaughs.com) takes place annually in various venues in Kilkenny in late May/June (May 29-June 2 2014). For five days, laughter is king in
Kilkenny Festivals & Events
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medieval Kilkenny and the cream of Irish and international comedy talent perform. It will celebrate its 20th birthday in 2014 and the festival attracts around 30,000 visitors annually. Aside from individual shows, there is a festival nightclub, late variety shows and other informal events.
The Kilkenny International Gospel Choir Festival will have its third outing this June (June 13-15 in 2014). “Come and be inspired” is the message with concerts, workshops, a cultural evening, Sunday worship, a walking tour and more happening over the weekend. Gospel choirs from Ireland and abroad can take part and visitors can simply enjoy the divine musical experience. See www.kilkennygospelchoirfestival.com to get in tune with the events. On the August Bank Holiday weekend, the Graignamanagh/Tinnahinch Regatta & Rowing Festival takes place (August 3-4 2014). Reputed to be Ireland’s oldest regatta, events include rowing, swimming, diving, cot racing (traditional fishing boat), an Iron Man Competition, novelty events, children's activities and live music in the local pubs.
cNamara © Evelyn M fest tKilkenny Trad
Undoubtedly, one of Ireland’s premier events, the Kilkenny Arts Festival takes place annually in mid August (August 8-17 2014) at assorted venues. Over 40 years in existence, The Kilkenny Arts Best Of Ireland Series
Festival (www.kilkennyarts.ie) offers a packed multidisciplinary programme with events involving theatre, music, visual art, literature, craft, children’s and street theatre, film and the classical arts such as opera. It draws 23,000 visitors annually to over 30 indoor and outdoor venues. It attracts established groups/practitioners from all over as well as commissioning new works for its innovative line-ups. The Kilkenny Trails Festival (www.kilkennytrailsfestival.ie) takes place in September (2014 dates TBC). Formerly known as the Kilkenny Walking Festival, it promises “hikes, bikes and family fun” and draws on Kilkenny’s various themed trails, with a multitude of events besides. Look out New York, Paris and Milan! Kilkenny has its own Fashion Week in October (www.kilkennyfashionweek.com). Running from October 8-11 in 2014, there is a busy schedule of fashion-themed planned and bumper fringe programme to suit every age and
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Kilkenny Festivals & Events © Dylan Vaugha n
© Evelyn McNamara
Kilkenny Medieval Week (Courtesy of Kilkenn y Tourism)
Kilkenny Tradfest
Week Kilkenny Fashion © Kilkenny Trai
taste. It aims to promote Kilkenny as a leading shopping destination and showcase the great choice of city centre shopping. Later in October, Savour Kilkenny gives a real taste of Kilkenny City and county (www.savourkilkenny.com). There is a full menu of events served up for this annual food festival (2014 dates TBC). Since its humble beginnings several years ago, this October snack has grown into a feast with the tagline: “For the love of food”. Events include cookery demonstrations, food market, talks, tours, exhibition, a food lovers’ trail and more. There are tie-ins with local restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars too. The Rockfall Music Festival—now in its 26th year—takes place every year over the October Bank Holiday weekend (October 24-27 in 2014). Held in a variety of venues, live music and street entertainment form the core of the activities. Best of all: the local bands play for free and all monies raised from the Festival are donated to the O’Neill Centre in Kilkenny. More details at www.rockfallfestival.com.
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The Kilkenomics Festival is Ireland’s first event of its kind dedicated solely to economics, albeit with a comic edge, and it attracts many notable economists and commentators (www.kilkenomics.com). It has been running every November since 2010 (2014 dates TBC), this unique festival aims to demystify national and global economic issues through stimulating and informative events in many city venues. The SUBTITLE Film Festival (www.subtitlefest.com) in November offers film buffs a chance to see some of the most popular European films that aren’t available at your neighbourhood cinema. As well as this, the festival (November 24-30 2014) allows viewers an opportunity to meet the filmmakers and stars. For more information and updates on these festivals and others in Kilkenny, see www.visitkilkenny.ie.
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ls Festival
© Anthony Griffin
Kilkenny Root s Festival
Kilkenny Shopping
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From big brands to independent stores to craft outlets, Kilkenny offers plenty of opportunities to shoppers to pick up a unique item, whatever that may be.
Shopping Best Of Ireland Series
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Kilkenny Shopping
A Shoppers' Paradise
ilkenny is the perfect place to ‘shop ‘til you drop’ with a great mix of chain stores and independent retailers to suit every taste and budget.
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It has a solid reputation among fashionistas as the place to go to find a perfect fit for everyday clothing or for a special occasion. Many of its boutiques and shoe shops are established and continually building their profiles. There are new outlets springing up all the time - spread throughout the city and main thoroughfares like High Street, Kieran Street, John Street, Rose Inn Street and the Parade.
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A solid reputation among fashionistas as the place to go to find a perfect fit
Bespoke shops are just the start with many familiar names in high street fashion and assorted hidden gems too. In October 2012, the city held its inaugural fashion week, which was a roaring
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success and is now an annual event. Local, regional and Irish designers and producers are promoted. Kilkenny boasts two large shopping centres - Market Cross on High Street and MacDonagh Junction, near the city’s primary train/bus station. There is also a small market on the Parade on Thursdays from morning until afternoon. Service is to the fore in all types of stores and owners will often be on site, serving or chatting with customers. Kilkenny may be a medieval jewel but the retail sector is far from the dark ages! If you are ready for a true fashion quest, there are wares fit for a king or queen to be found.
Kilkenny Shopping MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre
MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre Dublin Road 056-7777600 www.macdonaghjunction.com
wheelchair and buggy service; baby changing areas and public toilet facilities. Parking costs €2 for 3 hours, with 1,100 car spaces and a battery start service available.
Located beside the train station, it is home to many of the top high street brands such as Dunnes, Next, River Island, TK Maxx, Carraig Donn, Jack & Jones, Only, Name It, Mexx, Pamela Scott, Champion Sports, Field’s Jewellers, Eason, Carphone Warehouse, Claire’s Accessories and H&M.
The main eating area is known as The Workhouse Square— a covered outdoor space consisting of the beautifully restored former Famine Workhouse buildings. Eateries include The Courtyard Bar & Grill, Quigley’s, BB’s Coffee & Muffins, Costa Coffee and O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar & Bagel Factory. Eddie Rockets can be found at the centre’s main entrance. MacDonagh Junction has additional unique historical aspects, all detailed in a display in Workhouse Square beside BB’s Coffee & Muffins.
MacDonagh Junction is also home to a pharmacy, hairstylist’s, beauty salon, art studio, juice bar and more. You will find St Canice’s Credit Union and Foróige Drum Youth Centre here too.
For families and children there is a free play area beside HB Sweet Factory and K-Bowl, the 10 pin bowling centre at the front of the premises.
MacDonagh Junction is the largest shopping centre in the South East.
Services in the centre include: An Post postal kiosk; ATM; free Wi-Fi; Best Of Ireland Series
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Kilkenny Shopping
Mimi Boutique 4 Kieran Street 056-7751001 www.facebook.com/mimi.kilkenny Just one look at the hot pink exterior of this chic, bijoux boutique and you know you are on to a good thing. A treasure trove of beautiful and elegant designs, from evening wear to casual chic, Mimi’s has what your heart desires. And it doesn’t end there, Mimi boutique also stocks all the latest styles of accessory so you don’t have to go far to create the perfect outfit. You can find designs by Eva Kayan, Tara Jarmon, Lauren Vidal, jeans from Pieszak, rain wear by Ilse Jacobsen, jewellery by Dyrberg/Kern as well as items from Malene Birger, Penny Black, Oky Custo Barcelona, Rene Derhy and Yaya. For those big occasions there is occasion wear from Sonia Pena and Daisy May. All of these brands and clothes are selected for their style, elegance and most importantly current fashion trends. Whether you need knitwear, work wear or an outfit for a first date, Mimi Boutique is definitely worth a look. With prices as attractive as the clothes, you don’t need another reason to visit Mimi Boutique.
Mimi Boutique
Moore’s Fashions 8 Parliament Street 056-7721146
Moore’s Fashions
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Moore’s Fashions has been catering to the needs of the fashionable lady for almost 100 years. The reason behind Moore’s Fashions continued success is their courteous, efficient and helpful service where the customer is top priority. Stocking an extensive range of coats, jackets, knitwear, skirts, trousers and blouses there is plenty to browse through in this delightful store. The traditional store front is a nod to the interior with a diverse range of styles and fashions. Should you have a formal occasion like a wedding or even a night at the theatre, Moore’s fashions stocks occasion wear from many leading national and international labels such as Michele. Áibhéil of Adare
Kilkenny Shopping
Market Cross Shopping Centre High Street 056-7752666 www.marketcross.ie Market Cross Shopping Centre was developed in 1994. It is located in the heart of Kilkenny City and boasts up to 40 retail outlets and a multistory car park with some 500 spaces. Developed as an outdoor centre, Market Cross blends in with the nearby street retailers, thus giving it that magical and rare street trade atmosphere. Anchored by SuperValu, Penneys and Heatons, the Centre is also complemented by a selection of Irish brand outlets and boasts some well-known multiples, adding great strength and variety to visiting customers. The fashion aspect is supported by outlets such as Monsoon, Virgo, Swamp, Wallis, Vero Moda, Uniform World, Elverys Sports, Paco, Taylor for Blue, Radical, Blooming Days Maternity, along with anchors Penneys and Heatons. When taking a break, try one of the savoury outlets: SuperValu, Happy Times, Kilkenny Café, Mr. Simms Sweet Store or Stephan’s Pretzels. If you are looking for accessories or service shops you’ll find Meteor, eMobile, Carphone Warehouse, Peter
Market Cross Shopping Centre
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Located in the heart of Kilkenny City
Mark hairdressers, Art & Hobby, SpecSavers, Euroworld, DryCleanIT and Compugeek as well as an ATM and rest rooms. For your health and beauty needs, they have L’Occitaine, Holland & Barrett, Kosmos Accupuncture, Lloyds Pharmacy and Tony Quinn.
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On a visit to Market Cross, don’t be surprised to see additional features performed live in the centre on occasion, such as fashion shows, craft fairs (first weekend monthly), mall entertainment, costume characters, customer competitions, local live performances and recitals. Core trading hours are 9am-6pm Mondays to Wednesdays and Saturdays, late night opening on Thursdays and Fridays and 12pm-6pm on Sundays. All at Market Cross Shopping Centre look forward to seeing you on your visit to Kilkenny.
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Kilkenny Shopping
The Sweater Shop
The Sweater Shop 81 High Street 056-7763405 www.thesweatershop.ie For traditional knitwear with a twist, trust the Sweater Shop for the widest range of Irish designs. The Sweater Shop on High Street is 100% Irish owned and is renowned for its superb selection of quality Irish woollens at reasonable prices. They sell a variety of knitwear from different wools e.g. soft and cosy merino, pure new lambs’ wool, Donegal tweed wools, with heavy and light knits for all seasons. They stock a wide range of the traditional—and recently back in vogue—Aran sweaters and cardigans for men, women and children, including some colourful versions. Don’t be fooled by the name though, The Sweater Shop sells a lot more than just
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sweaters. The range of Irish tweed caps for men and the cute tweed ‘Newsboy’ cap for women come in a variety of colours as well as knitted caps with matching gloves and mittens. Gift ideas can be found in the range of ponchos and scarves, including a trendy take on the Aran style with a chunky snood or the likes of the luxurious wool cashmere scarf. Light polyester scarves with Irish designs are further options. They also stock a beautiful range of blankets and throws and the friendly staff is more than happy to help you find something to suit. No room for chunky knits in your suitcase? Not to worry, they have a large selection of ladies’, gents’ and kiddies’ T-shirts and sweat shirts with various Ireland and Kilkenny designs as well as the Guinness T-shirt collection. The Sweater Shop is open from Monday to Saturday, 9.30am-6pm and you can also shop online at www.thesweatershop.ie. Best Of Ireland Series
Kilkenny Shopping
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Luxe Room Fashion & Accessories
Luxe Room Fashion & Accessories 4 William Street 087-3132210 www.luxeroom.ie Ladies, for a luxury shopping experience while in the Marble City, look no further than Luxe Room Fashion & Accessories. Located on William Street, the luxury
brand fashion and accessories store is right at home on this pretty boutique-laden Georgian street. The shop decor is inspiring and murals on the walls reflect the medieval history of the city. Chandeliers, wooden display cases and large framed mirrors add touches of opulence while classical music and the gentle aroma from scented candles provide an atmosphere in which the client can relax and shop in comfort. The Luxe Room carries a hand-picked selection of international designer wear
For a luxury Marble City shopping experience, look no further than Luxe Room Fashion & Accessories
with labels including Clara Couture, Rebel, Sonia K, Rinascimento, Goat and Patrizia Pepe. Expect to find unique pieces in their small collections such as the one-off fur capes for brides made of mink, rabbit and French lace. Complete your outfit with their range of luxury leather bags, shoes and elaborate jewellery. At all times the emphasis is on offering style, quality and individuality to the discerning individual. Superb service is part of their success and they include a styling service as part of their customer care. At Luxe Room Kilkenny, the shopping experience is to be enjoyed and remembered. Opening hours are from Monday to Saturday, 10am-6pm.
Pure Kids Kieran Street 056 7794699 www.purekids.ie For kid’s toys, Pure Kids on Kieran Street has everything you could need and more. Here you can find traditional wooden toys like trains from Bigjigs, puppet theatres and ethnic families reflecting 21st century Ireland from Branching Out and ring toss games from Pin Toys. Other popular brands include Budkins, Letoyvan, Micro Scooters, Musicboxworld, Phister and Philina, Pin Furniture, Radio Flyer and Tidlo. There is also a range of toys specifically for toddlers as well as developmental toys to hone your child’s fine motor skills. You can also browse a range of scooters. Pure Kids range of musical toys will help bring out the maestro in your budding Mozart. Xylophones, harmonicas, drums and guitars are all brightly coloured and sized specifically
Pure Kids for small hands. A range of kid size furniture is also available for purchase. Brightly decorated these will fit in to any playroom. Best Of Ireland Series
You can browse the range of toys on offer in Pure Kids on their website. There is free delivery on all purchases over €50.
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Kilkenny Shopping
Frank Wall Mans Shop 97 High Street 056-7721066 Frank Wall Mans Shop is a name that is synonymous with quality, personal service and value in fashion clothes for men. Wall’s has been an institution on the High Street for many decades and stocks mens' suits, leathers, sports coats, slacks, shirts and knitwear. The large range of stock includes such prestigious names as Magee, Baumler, Bugatti, Casa Moda, Meyer, Club of Comfort and many more brands. A visit to this friendly and attractive family-run store will convince you of the old local saying: "Yes - Frank Wall Mans Shop Suits You Best.''
A visit to this friendly and attractive family-run store will convince you of the old local saying: "Yes Frank Wall Mans Shop Suits You Best.''
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Frank Wall Mans Shop
DID YOU KNOW?
WORTH A VISIT!
Beautiful Kilkenny
Nature at its best
In 1985, Kilkenny became the only city ever to win the Irish Tidy Towns Competition. The result was after a highly successful campaign by the committee of ‘Keep Kilkenny Beautiful’, which had been formed only three years previously. Kilkenny’s county villages and towns also have been awarded many medals.
Jenkinstown Park, 10km north of Kilkenny City, is a favourite spot for photographers in the spring. The beech wood there is renowned for its carpet of bluebells, which flower in mid to late April. The park has a selection of flora and fauna and boasts forest walks, a deer park, picnic sites, a craft centre and a commemorative garden.
In 2008, the city was named the Academy of Urbanism’s European Great Town for that year beating off stiff competition from St. Andrew’s in Scotland and Winchester in England. Academy Chairman, John Thompson, commented that it was "great to have an Irish town coming through… especially Kilkenny which is coming to terms with economic growth without losing its wonderful character and humour".
The unique Fiddown Island Nature Reserve is located in south Kilkenny. The nearly 63 hectare site is state-owned and was established in 1988. Near the picturesque village of Fiddown on the River Suir, the long narrow island is a mix of marsh and woodland, covered in willow scrub and bordered by reed swamps. It is the only known site of its particular type in Ireland.
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Kilkenny Shopping
A GUIDE TO
Craft Shopping in Kilkenny From crafts to furniture; quirky accessories to jewellery and everything in between, Kilkenny has an abundance of great shops. If you’ve been searching high and low for a special gift of any type, there is a good chance you will find it here. Kilkenny is home to many artists and craftspeople - partly because of the training courses run by the Design & Craft Council of Ireland, which draw many apprentices to the city year on year. From The Kilkenny Shop in the Kilkenny Design Centre to real workshops where craftspeople sell goods directly, there are many outlets showcasing Irish craft. One of the most unique craft disciplines is jewellery making, an ancient art handed down through the ages. On the following pages are a selection of jewellers, which are true hidden gems of retail. The rise in popularity in fashion accessories is such that some of the gift and homeware stores included also stock distinctive adornments to complete any look.
Get Crafty in Kilkenny Rudolf Heltzel 10 Patrick Street 056-7721497 www.facebook.com/rudolfheltzel Kilkenny hurling may be famous for all its silverware but Rudolf Heltzel, one of the major figures in Irish jewellery, also has his workshop in the Marble City. The German-born craftsman has worked in Kilkenny since 1966 turning gold, silver, platinum and precious stones into spectacular jewellery creations. He was one of the first craftspeople to base himself in the acclaimed Kilkenny Design Workshops (KDW) and is often described as a trailblazer, in both design and skill. He has won international praise, not just for his own work but also in encouraging and advising others. He has long
championed Irish craftsmanship and feels it is a vital part of our heritage. His son, Christopher, has also joined the business. Heltzel jewellery specialises in wedding/engagement rings, dress rings and necklaces. The distinctive style marks pieces out but the sheer variety and design combinations will dazzle as surely as the glint of the high quality materials used. The shop itself always has interesting window displays and they are happy to explain their jewellery-making process. The service is quite personal and customers can browse and try on pieces. The price range starts lower than you would imagine and there is a generous range to choose from. You can also commission an individual piece. For more information, see www.rudolfheltzel.com.
“Home is where the heart is” so furniture and other decorative items are important. Kilkenny has some fine purveyors of homeware, which will ensure that you can put your own individual stamp on your space or give the gift of an item to make someone else’s house a home. Rudolf Heltzel
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Kilkenny Shopping
GL Ryan Watchmaker & Jeweller 71 High Street 056-7721725 www.ryanjewellers.ie The staff at GL Ryan’s has been assisting customers to find the most flattering quality jewellery for all occasions for 70 years. Located directly across from the Market Cross Shopping Centre, GL Ryan’s is so much more than a store with services such as engraving, jewellery and watch repair, battery replacement, valuations, jewellery cleaning and of course the priceless advice from some of Kilkenny’s most experienced jewellers. The neat store is welcoming and warm with all jewellery housed in elegant wooden cabinets, the glass crystal clear for you to get a good look at the jewels on offer. Of course, should you wish to try a piece on, all you have to do is ask.
GL Ryan Watchmaker & Jeweller GL Ryan’s stocks platinum, yellow and white gold in a range of stunning styles. Celtic jewellery is quite popular and GL Ryan’s stocks a range of Claddagh rings, Celtic crosses and charms. All the diamonds are carefully selected
pigments across many forms.
From Me To You MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre Opposite MacDonagh Train Station 086-2385457 www.facebook.com/FromMetoYouFo rever Born of a creative spirit, the colourful pieces housed in this collectibles store and art gallery call to something within you and urge you to take them home. From Me To You showcases the wonderfully decorative work of Darlene Garr, an abstract expressionist painter whose paintbrush sweeps explosions of
for their excellent quality and attractive price. Popular watch brands include Tissot, Rotary, Seiko, Citizen, Swatch, Kenneth Cole, Police and Karen Millen. The store is open Monday to Saturday from 9am-6pm.
Internationally known, US-born Darlene has been painting professionally for over 35 years and has received wide recognition for her talent, with private and corporate collectors around the world. At her shop, From Me To You, you can acquire some of her artwork or pick up special and unique gifts for all occasions. Fashion items include one-of-a-kind hand-painted silk scarves, shawls & tunics and hand-painted glass jewellery includes adorable glass heart pendants. Other hand-painted glass pieces include
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Showcases the wonderfully decorative work of Darlene Garr
vases, carafes, jugs, Champagne flutes, sundae and wine glasses and more. If you are more in the market for a collectible artwork, her original oil paintings as well as art prints and rolled canvas are available to view, and Darlene also accepts commissions. From Me To You is open Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-6pm.
From Me To You
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Kilkenny Shopping
The Gift Horse
The Gift Horse 30 Rose Inn Street 056-7786527 www.facebook.com/TheGiftHorseGa llery
Art It. Priory House, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre 086-3085270 www.facebook.com/pages/Art-It-Kil kenny
You’ve often heard the saying ‘Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth’, but if given a gift from The Gift Horse, you will want to know where it came from! The Gift Horse in Kilkenny is an equestrian/country themed shop selling art, clothes, accessories, Irish craft and homeware. It houses plenty of quirky gift ideas and fashion items inspired by Irish
hen parties, team building events, birthdays, school excursions or just to take some time out. From life drawing to action-packed paintballing of canvas, there’s something to suit everyone. Children and parents have a ball here too spending family time together, or children can join in to DiDi’s
country living. You could be riding high in the style stakes after a visit here with items including tweed tailoring, leather satchels, cute clutch bags with animal designs, fur shrugs, hunting jackets and chic-looking wellington boots. Homeware collections feature classic style four seasons plates, rustic China mugs with bird or floral designs as well as the Bridgewater Collection. More unusual items include egg cups in the forms of farm animals. For something decorative they have several equine-inspired items such as the Equus 3D wire frame of a horse’s head to mount on the wall, a lamp with a horse head stand or an antler chandelier for a real statement piece. Classic art is available too in the form of beautiful framed paintings of animals, flowers and country scenes. For a classic gift, choose from hip flasks, statement jewellery and beautiful silk scarves. The shop is open from Monday to Saturday, 10am-6pm and Sundays from the end of March through to September. For country dressing and living with a twist, give The Gift Horse a good look!
art and craft classes on weekends, art camps in summer, and at her popular ‘drop in’ service where you can leave your children to get crafty for an hour or two while you tour Kilkenny or shop. DiDi’s work is on exhibition all year round at her studio and art gallery at Art It.
Many visitors to Kilkenny come to “paint the town red” while others come to experience the thriving arts and culture scene. There’s a place here that helps you do both and that place is called Art It. Art It. is the brainchild of DiDi Dobree – Wilson, an artist who herself has led a colourful life. Born in New York to Irish parents, her stints in Greece and Italy exposed her to a vibrant art scene which inflamed her own talents. DiDi studied art in London and Rome and had a successful career in fashion and interior design before returning to her love of painting, an area in which she excels. DiDi shares her passion for art through The Young Artist Studio’, which she started in 2001 and has now grown to become Art It. The studio has something for all ages with a variety of packages for
Art It.
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Kilkenny Shopping
Craft Shopping in the County
Nicholas Mosse
Nicholas Mosse The Mill, Bennettsbridge 056-7727105 www.nicholasmosse.com
For a unique gift or the perfect piece of pottery to complete your own collection, visit Nicholas Mosse Pottery. Located in a beautiful old mill on the River Nore dating back to 1503, the beauty of the building and stunning countryside of Bennettsbridge inspire the creations of Nicholas Mosse. After periods of training in England and Japan, Nicholas Mosse established the pottery here in 1976 with a mission to produce beautiful, functional pottery in the style of Irish spongeware, the traditional 18th century pottery of Ireland. Each piece is handmade, hand thrown and hand painted, undergoing a 20-step process. All their earthenware pottery is completely Irish, from the mix of different clays to the water, and they even use hydroelectrically generated 64 |
energy to fire the kilns. Visitors to the shop can watch the potters and decorators at work through glass windows and witness all the different steps that go into each individual piece. Tableware and ovenware ranges are available in a large group of shapes, from mugs to plates to bowls, all hand decorated in one of 10 or more patterns and dishwasher and microwave safe to boot!
DID YOU KNOW?
Bewitched Kilkenny In 1324, Kilkenny woman, Petronella de Meath, became one of the first people to be charged with witchcraft in Europe and the first person in Ireland to be burned at the stake for heresy. Petronella was a maid to Dame Alice Kyteler - a noblewoman who was widowed four times. Her children accused her of using sorcery to kill her fourth husband, seemingly to gain control of her fortune. They convinced Bishop of Ossory, Richard de Ledrede, who investigated and alleged that she made potions and sacrificed animals to demons. His efforts to have her arrested backfired because the Chancellor of
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Discounted quality “seconds” items and discontinued lines may be also available so enquire in-store. Their website offers online shopping with low international shipping rates. At Nicholas Mosse Pottery the philosophy is “what is made with love and care emanates love and care”. Why not show someone you care with a gift?
Ireland was Dame Alice’s brother in law. She fled abroad and was never heard from again. But the Bishop still pursued her supporters and Petronella was his most tragic victim.
Kilkenny Shopping
Moth To A Flame Kilkenny Road, Bennettsbridge 056-7727826 www.mothtoaflamecandles.com If you are looking for unique handmade candles then Moth to a Flame is a beacon, as the name suggests, that will draw you to Bennettsbridge. In business since 1999, Moth to a Flame makes distinctive textured candles which have found their way to craft shops, hotels, restaurants, churches and even film sets and television series. Pop into his workshop in Bennettsbridge and you could soon have one sitting on your mantelpiece. There are a variety of candles, to suit all occasions, interiors and even exteriors. For scented candles choose from the "Silkmoth" range. Colourful candles can be found in the “Gloworm” two-tone range while the “Gypsymoth” designs come lacquered. The “Pillar” range offers seasonal colours while the "Rock" and “Heritage” items make for uniquely Irish gift ideas. These beautiful wax
Moth To A Flame creations are available directly from the workshop. Moth to a Flame also specialises in wedding candles and offers colour-themed arrangements, small or large, for any church or reception area.
candle-making at the workshop, where you can also buy newly made candles, often still warm from the mould. The workshop is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and on Sundays in November and December from 12pm to 5pm.
Moth to a Flame is a member of the Kilkenny Craft Trail and MADE in Kilkenny. Witness the craft of
Rosemarie Durr Pottery Shop Castlecomer Discovery Park, Castlecomer 087-6833639 www.rosemariedurr.com What better gift for the home than a piece of hand thrown pottery in gentle shades of blue and jade? Showing her distinctive collection of tableware, Rosemarie Durr’s designs are more reminiscent of china than of heavy cumbersome pottery. All her wares are designed to be functional and because they are made with stoneware clay and fired to 1300 degrees Celsius you can put these items in the dishwasher, oven or microwave. Rosemarie makes all sorts of tableware from mugs, cups and bowls, to jugs, plates, teapots and vases. She also makes other stoneware clay creations in the form of ramekin dishes and wine goblets. Rosemarie’s style is influenced by ancient eastern artists as well as the
Rosemarie Durr Pottery Shop surrounding woodlands, bringing simple lines and full forms to her work. Andrew Ludick, Rosemarie’s husband also has beautiful items for sale here. An accomplished painter and craftsman, Andrew’s work shows influences from the indigenous cultures of Africa and the
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Americas. Many of her items are available to purchase on the website, but a wander about her little shop is definitely worth the while, you never know what may take your fancy.
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Kilkenny Shopping DID YOU KNOW?
DID YOU KNOW?
DID YOU KNOW?
Strongbow
Kilkenny in Numbers
The Real Santa Claus
There were many people who made a huge contribution to Kilkenny’s early history. Richard de Clare - also known as Strongbow - played a leading role in the Norman invasion of Ireland and came to the city around 1172. He built a wooden castle on the high ground beside the River Nore. Two decades later, William Marshal, 1st Earl of Pembroke built the first stone castle on the site in 1195. He was dubbed “the greatest knight that ever lived”, serving four Kings with distinction. His son, the 2nd Earl, established the Black Abbey in 1225, one of the first priories of the Dominican Order in Ireland.
24,423
DID YOU KNOW?
The Butler Dynasty The Butler family - more accurately the third Earl of Ormonde - acquired the castle in 1391. The Butler dynasty ruled the area for centuries and made a significant contribution to the foundation of modern Kilkenny. In 1967, the 24th Earl, Arthur Butler, sold the abandoned castle to a restoration committee for £50 to be preserved for the public.
Population of Kilkenny City and environs
1213 Year Kilkenny’s first castle was completed
95,419 Total population of County Kilkenny
According to legend, the remains of St. Nicholas of Myra - the inspiration for Santa Claus - are interred on the grounds of the church at Newtown Jerpoint, near Thomastown in Kilkenny. The grave slab depicts a cleric with the heads of two knights. Several sources allege that his remains were taken to Ireland and buried here around 1200 by knights (possibly Norman) who took part in the Crusades.
1609 Year Kilkenny was awarded city status by Royal Charter
117 Distance in kilometres from Kilkenny to Dublin
514 Year St. Canice, one of the patron saints of Kilkenny, was born
40,000 Number of bricks in the 23 metre chimney of Kilkenny’s old woolen mills
Carl Parker Jewels
Carl Parker Jewels Castlecomer Discovery Park, Castlecomer 056-444 0876/085-7293014 www.carlparkerjewels.com An award winning jewellery designer and maker, Carl Parker is a local artist known far and wide for his distinctive jewellery. Working with gold, silver, platinum, and palladium set with diamond, sapphire and Tahitian “black” pearl, not only does Carl sell his own designs but he also takes commissions for wedding and engagement rings. You could own a truly bespoke piece of Irish handcrafted jewellery. Carl has been presented with three awards from the Tahitian Pearl Trophy UK, three
You could own a truly bespoke piece of Irish handcrafted jewellery
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first prizes from the Royal Dublin Society as well as a first and second prize from The Company of Goldsmiths in Dublin; quite a remarkable talent indeed. On his website you can view Carl’s rings, Best Of Ireland Series
pendants, earrings and bracelets or alternatively you can go see his wares in person at Castlecomer Craft Yard. His store is open Monday to Friday 10am-6pm and Saturday 11-6pm. Out of hours appointments can also be made.
Kilkenny Shopping
Marble City Barbers 9 John Street 056-7722266 www.marblecitybarbers.ie In the Victorian era, gentlemen had to be perfectly groomed and in this traditional barbershop, all the classic techniques and values from that time are preserved to this day. Great quality and service is the primary aim in the city’s oldest Victorian style barbers. The shop offers cutting, styling and beard trimming by highly trained and experienced staff. Whether going for a trim, a whole new look or even a distinctive effort for ‘Movember’, Marble City Barbers can meet every need.
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The city’s oldest Victorian style barbers
For the ultimate in relaxation, they specialise in hot towel shaves. The heated towels opens up the skin’s pores allowing the closest shave possible with an open razor. Combined with face
Ozzy’s Authentic Turkish Barber Kieran's Street 085-286 4444
Marble City Barbers massage oils and after care treatments, it makes the ideal treat or gift. The sleek black exterior is representative of the modern but the old school interior with its black and white tiles, marble countertops and wooden stations lets you take a step back in time. The walls are adorned with fascinating sports memorabilia. The friendly and relaxed atmosphere
coupled with friendly staff will ensure that you enjoy having a cut or shave in this one-of-a-kind barbers. A variety of products can also be bought in store including styling products, razors and shaving brushes. Marble City Barbers opens from Monday-Thursday 9am-6pm; Fridays from 9am-6.30pm and Saturdays 8.30am-6pm.
Turkish barbers are proving quite popular across Ireland and the world for their skills and Ozzy’s Authentic Turkish Barber’s provides this renowned service for the men of Kilkenny.
towel shave massage, haircuts and men’s personal grooming, this is the place to send your man to get him looking ship-shape again. For those who like to keep their head clean shaven also, Ozzy’s offers this service too.
With over 20 years experience, Ozzy and the team give the closest shave you could ever hope to get. Specialising in hot
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The team give the closest shave you could ever hope to get
Beard trims will help tame any beard into a stylish shape. Children can also have their hair cut with great prices across the board. Ozzy’s sells a range of male grooming products to help keep unruly mops looking snazzy. Keep an eye out for the bright yellow shop front on St Kieran’s Street.
Ozzy’s Authentic Turkish Barber Best Of Ireland Series
Ozzy’s Authentic Turkish Barber is open Monday to Saturday from 9am-6pm and until 7pm Thursday and Friday.
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Kilkenny Shopping
Gourmet Shopping in Kilkenny DID YOU KNOW?
Home-grown Talent Kilkenny has many well-known natives who have excelled in a vast range of pursuits. James Hoban, the architect of the US presidential mansion, The White House, was from Kilkenny as was George Berkeley. Berkeley was a Bishop of Cloyne, an eminent philosopher and the city of Berkeley in California is named after him. His contemporaries at Kilkenny College included the acclaimed author of Gulliver’s Travels, Jonathan Swift and English playwright, William Congreve. There are many other well-known writers from Kilkenny including the poet, Brian Mac Giolla Phádraig; poet, John Locke; classical scholar and poet, Constantia Grierson; author and journalist, Standish James O’Grady; playwright, Thomas Kilroy; novelist and broadcaster, Francis MacManus and writer, John Banim. Famous musicians include Cormac Battle, Jeremy Hickey, Ronan Tynan and Darren Holden. Noted artists from Kilkenny include Christopher Hewetson, Edmund Garvey, Mildred Anne Butler, Gerard Casey and Tony O’Malley. In the sports arena, noted ‘Cats’ include a long list of hurlers, chess player, James Mason and hockey player, Maeve Kyle. High military honour, the Victoria Cross, has been bestowed on several Kilkenny men including John Barry, Frederick Hall, Walter Hamilton and John Ryan. Figures in Irish political life, past and present, hail from Kilkenny including James Stephens, John McGuinness, Liam Aylward, Jim Gibbons and Phil Hogan.
The Wine Centre
The Wine Centre 15 John Street Lower 056-7722907 www.thewinecentre.ie
Located on bustling John Street, is Kilkenny’s oldest wine merchant, the Wine Centre. Here you will find a treasure trove of fantastic quality wines, craft beers from all over the world and the largest selection of Irish whiskies you’ve ever seen! Established in 1965, the Wine Centre has built a stellar reputation as one of the country’s best wine merchants and off licenses - winning multiple awards. The store - with its exposed rafters and an array of orderly wooden shelves – is organised according to country, vintages and variety. Visitors feel very comfortable in here and could spend hours roaming the shelves. The Wine Centre boasts a long list of fine wines, some still in their original wooden boxes and stored in its custom-built cellar. The staff members here are all so passionate about their store, being true wine and beer aficionados they impart much information to the
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customer and are always advising and explaining. Here every customer is greeted with a smile and dealt with so carefully. The Wine Centre also runs a Wine and a Beer Club, hosting tastings every month. The shop holds weekly events too like whiskey tastings and always has a Wine of the Week. If you’re looking for value the Wine Centre displays great promotions each week in all departments. Awards to date include: Best Off Licence in Leinster 2014 and 2013 in the NOffLA Awards; Best CRT 2013; Spirit Specialist of the Year 2012; Best Customer Service 2011; National Off Licence of the Year in 2003; and many recommendations from the Bridgestone Guide. The Wine Centre offers customers a free car park at the back and for news and updates check out their Facebook and Twitter pages - The Wine Centre Kilkenny. This shop is definitely worth a visit during any stay in Kilkenny.
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The store is organised according to country, vintages and variety.
Kilkenny Shopping
The Gourmet Store & Café 56 High Street 056-7771727 www.facebook.com/pages/The-Gour met-Store
sandwiches, bagels, panini and more. It opens from 8am and is popular; on any given day you could come across schoolkids munching outside while regulars chat over lunch inside. Cold sandwich options include chicken (Cajun/smoked/Tikka Masala), ham/turkey, tuna salad and cheese
This combination of continental food store and café has been steadily growing in popularity since it was founded 15 years ago. The food section has a large selection of both product types and brands - local, national and international. The neat shelves are laden down with jams, chutneys, honey, pastas, oils, sauces, spices, teas, biscuits, chocolate and sweets. The shop provides a hampermaking service all year round. That is only the least of the friendly service offered by owners, Pádraig and Irene, and their team. The delicatessen counter offers a range of cheeses, cold meats and salads for take-away and/or to fill sandwiches, rolls etc. Freshly made bread, scones, pastries, quiche, sausage rolls and more are also available daily. The compact café - partitioned off from the store - serves hot drinks, soup,
Le Caveau – Specialist Wine Merchant Market Yard 056-7752166 www.lecaveau.ie
(mozzarella/feta/brie). The hot sandwich menu has a distinctly international flavour with names like ‘Florence’, ‘Indian’, ‘Milano’ and ‘Roma’ but there is also a classic ‘Kilkenny’ or something made to order!
The Gourmet Store & Café
the Sunday Business Post’s ‘Nationwide fine wine merchants of the year’ in 2008 and 2012. Wines are available for purchase on the website or in Le Caveau itself. It is not just wine that is on offer here, you can peruse sherry, port, cider and spirits.
Wine buffs will love a visit to Le Caveau. Specialising in importing artisan wines from small, family-run vineyards there is a world of wine to be explored at Le Caveau. Complimenting this artisan selection is an assortment of wines from world leading estates. The staff at Le Caveau are quite discerning when it comes to choosing the ideal wine, they must reflect their region of origin, have the correct balance of purity and drinkability. All the wines have been personally tasted so you can be assured of only the best quality wine passing your lips. Such is the dedication to quality and service Le Caveau earned a “Best in Ireland 2014” plaque from the McKenna’s Guide. Le Caveau was also recipient of
The knowledgeable staff are also available to help you choose that all important wedding wine to suit your tastes and budget. Le Caveau is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am-6.30pm.
Le Caveau
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Kilkenny Shopping Speltbakers, Danette’s Magic pestos and sauces, locally grown organic vegetables, juices and eggs, and organic and small producer wines from Europe. For the house and home they stock eco cleaning products and beautiful chopping boards made from sustainably-sourced and reclaimed Irish timber from Little Hill Design. As well as Badger and Dodo coffees, Joan and Bob’s Juicy Jams and Nobo dairy-free icecream, the shop stocks The Truffle Fairy chocolates and a range of gluten-free and dairy-free products.
“ The Little Green Grocer
The Little Green Grocer 6 Parliament Street 056-7702007 www.facebook.com/thelittlegreengr ocer The Little Green Grocer is big when it comes to providing healthy and delicious foods for the people of Kilkenny.
Opened in October 2013, the traditional shop frontage harks back to a time when most products were made on a small scale by local producers, which echoes the ideals of the owners. Both passionate about all things foodie, sisters Sarah and Eleanor source their naturally-produced and artisan foods and wines from as close by as possible. At The Little Green Grocer you will find Knockdrinna farmhouse cheeses, delicious baked goodies from
The Little Green Grocer is big when it comes to providing healthy and delicious foods for the people of Kilkenny
The Little Green Grocer is already popular with people looking for beautifully wrapped gifts, from the teeny tiny treat to hampers to brown paper packages tied up with string. The Little Green Grocer is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 6pm.
LOCALLY GROWN GOODNESS Food Producers In Kilkenny Many eateries in Kilkenny use local and artisan produce in their menus. Some of the county’s producers have won national acclaim.
Some food businesses based in Kilkenny include Kilkenny Free Range Poultry, Mosse’s Farm Apple Juice/Blackcurrant Cordial, Goatsbridge Trout Farm, Second Nature Oil, Knockdrinna Cheese, O’Shea Farms, Highbank Organic Farm, Mileeven Fine Foods, Lavistown Sausages and The Truffle Fairy. The baking sector is particularly strong here with business booming for firms including Kells Wholemeal, Tess’s Homestyle Baking, Oldtown Hill Bakehouse, Keogh’s Model Bakery and A Slice of Heaven among others.
Markets There is a weekly Farmers’ Market on Thursdays on The Parade, near Kilkenny Castle. It runs from 9.30 am until 2.30 pm. There are a variety of stalls selling wares from fresh meat, fish and vegetables to prepared foodstuffs, crafts and natural beauty products.
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Kilkenny Shopping From beautiful designer chocolates like Nougat Passion to favourites from your childhood such as Refresher bars, rock candy and Peggy’s Legs, Kitty’s Cabin is full to the brim with treats of all descriptions. With sugar free options, beautifully thick ice-creams for those sunny days and Mega Sours for those brave enough to try them, there really is something for everybody at Kitty’s. They serve teas and coffees to accompany confections, with hot chocolate and milkshakes for a sugar rush in liquid form.
Kitty’s Cabin
Kitty’s Cabin 1 Rose Inn Street 056-7780473 www.facebook.com/pages/Kittys-Ca bin
Stone House Books Kieran’s Street, 056-7790780 www.stonehousebooks.ie Never has there been a better time to ‘hit the books’ than with locally owned, independent bookshops like Stone House Books on the scene. A solid choice by name and by nature, the large shop on Kieran Street has massive windows—showcasing the latest releases, striking displays and vast expanse of shelves and volumes inside. Every title is handpicked by owner, Liz Walsh, “to ensure a diverse and appealing selection of great reads” so whether your interest is in classics or new releases; fiction or non-fiction or Irish or international authors, there is a huge selection neatly arranged in sections. All genres from crime to romance, thriller to fantasy and much more are covered. There is also a large range of children’s books. If a book is not in stock, the helpful staff will be happy to order it in and are as passionate about books as the customers so queries are welcomed. Stone House Books also sells school
If you are looking for treats for your little tots, or simply want to satisfy your own sweet tooth, then Kitty’s Cabin is the place to go for something really special. Locals have dubbed it as Kilkenny’s answer to Willie Wonka’s factory and, with its wide range of treats, it is not an unrealistic comparison.
books, greeting cards, giftwrap and book tokens, as well as supplying libraries and pop up services to local festivals. Regular in house events include book launches and author readings, with a book club once a month. The comprehensive website includes insightful reading tips, book reviews and
Thankfully, the customer can be assured that the service in Kitty’s is as sweet as the treats in stock. You will be warmly welcomed into the shop and given all the help that you could need in making those difficult decisions. Whether you want to indulge in some delicious designer chocolate, treat yourself to some old favourites, or show your kids the treats that made your youth so enjoyable, do not hesitate to call into Kitty’s.
shop news as well as customers’ recommendations. Stone House Books made the top five for the Board Gáis Energy Awards for Best Independent Bookshop for 2011 and was shortlisted for Best Independent Bookshop in UK and Ireland in 2010 and in 2013.
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Kilkenny Shopping
The Book Centre
The Book Centre 10 High Street 056-7762117 www.thebookcentre.ie Behind the monochrome façade of the historic building on High Street lies The Book Centre, the city’s largest bookstore, which has been in business here for over 40 years. A veritable treasure trove for bookworms, the shop has a stunning selection artfully arranged in sections. Whatever your interest - fiction or nonfiction and more specific genres like history, biography, sports, Irish interest, cookery and many more - the neat shelves at The Book Centre are groaning with everything including the latest releases, bestsellers and classics.
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Friendly and knowledgeable staff members, who are always happy to help and make recommendations
It has a special section for carefully chosen children’s books and stocks greeting cards, magazines and gifts too. The atmosphere inside is relaxed and inviting.
DID YOU KNOW?
DID YOU KNOW?
Kilkenny News
Thomas Moore
Some of the most important newspapers in the 18th and 19th century were produced in Kilkenny including Finn's Leinster Journal from 1767 and The Leinster Independent from 1872. The Kilkenny People was first published in 1895 and is still going today. The Kilkenny Reporter is another current, weekly publication.
The Irish poet and singer-songwriter, Thomas Moore (1779-1852) reportedly wrote the lyrics for the well-known song, ‘The Last Rose of Summer’ while staying at Jenkinstown House in Kilkenny in 1805.
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Among his other compositions are ‘The Minstrel Boy’ and ‘Oft in the Stilly Night’. Between 1808 and 1810, he performed annually with local group, the Kilkenny Players.
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The shop prides itself on its friendly and knowledgeable staff members, who are always happy to help and make recommendations. They will endeavour to track down and order any book, which is not in stock. They also arrange books into excellent window displays and themed arrangements in-store. Special offers are a regular occurrence with discounts on books of the week and month - chosen by the manager - as well as ‘3 for 2’ deals in store to choose from. After a long browse among the shelves, you can take a break for coffee and a bite in the Pennefeather Café upstairs. The Book Centre also has branches in Waterford, Wexford and Naas. The opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 9am-6pm and Sunday 1-5pm.
Kilkenny Food & Drink
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With an array of cafes, restaurants, pubs and clubs, Kilkenny has a reputation for being a great place to eat out and enjoy your favourite tipple, night and day.
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Kilkenny Food & Drink
Food & Drink
Don’t Miss:
• Trying a traditional Irish dish, a modern classic or something totally new on the menu at one of Kilkenny’s great eateries. • Tantalising your tastebuds with an exotic dish from Italy, China, India and more. • Watching the world go by with a refreshing beverage and a snack in informal surroundings at a café. • Combining eating and drinking at a city or county gastro-pub. • Enjoying your favourite tipple and some live entertainment at a local bar. • Dancing the night away at a late bar or nightclub.
The Courtyard Bar and Grill
The Courtyard Bar and Grill Unit 3 The Workhouse Square, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre 056-7772559 www.thecourtyardbarandgrill.com This modern bistro offers original dining options in the beautifully renovated surrounds of the old Famine Workhouse building. Award-winning head chef David Rouse is also owner of this wonderful family restaurant. His years of international experience—in the three star Michelin restaurant Les Ambassadeurs in Paris, The Ivy in London, Park Hyatt in Sydney—and passion for his project really shine through in the food. Dishes are freshly-prepared using the best of local produce and all breads and pastries are baked in-house. Breakfast and lunch are served daily while dinner is served from Thursday to Saturday. The menu is ever-changing but one dish which seems to catch most diners’ attention is the beautiful char-grilled Irish organic salmon fillet with salsa verde. For a light bite, try the chicken liver pâté with red onion chutney and dressed leaves. For lunch, options include open sandwiches topped with the likes of char-grilled vegetables with chilli jam and pesto. Meatier options include
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char-grilled steaks, homemade burgers and stuffed chicken. An early bird dinner menu offers three courses for €24, while the wine and dine deal consists of two courses and a bottle of house wine for two people for only €49. The Courtyard has an extensive list of wines to complement its cuisine, with house wine starting at €20. It is also a member of the Restaurants Association of Ireland. There are few places in Kilkenny that offer a beautiful setting and fine food at such reasonable prices and The Courtyard Bar and Grill is among them. Best Of Ireland Series
Kilkenny Food & Drink
La Rivista 22 Parliament Street 056-7771666 www.larivista.ie Fans of good Italian fare are guaranteed a ‘buono notte’ of wining and dining at the intimate, La Rivista. The large windows give a birdseye view onto the hustle and bustle of Parliament Street and by night, the restaurant is a brightly lit beacon. The interior is classic yet modern in light shades and darker furniture with art and mirrors on the walls. Near to the Watergate Theatre, it is a popular stop-off for a pre-performance dinner and is equipped for a large party, family get together or a romantic night out. The team, led by Jennifer Quinn and Therese Maguire, churn out appealing dishes to suit every taste. Good service is a given, even when La Rivista is busy, which is often. The a la carte menu offers food for every pallet. Pizzas range from rocket and garlic to the pescara & pollo arrostito. Pasta dishes range from staples like carbonara or bolognese to the more Mediterranean salciccia picante with spicy sausage or mare e monti with
La Rivista prawns. There are salads, grills and seafood dishes galore. Mains go from €11.50 to €19.95. La Rivista is also known for gluten free options in their pasta, pizzas and grill dishes. There are several good value set menus. The wine and dine deal for two offers a three course meal and bottle of wine for €59 (5-10pm, weekdays). The Early Bird menu offers two courses for €19.95; three for €24.95 (5-10pm, Sunday to Friday). The Saturday Night Set Menu offers two courses for €22.95; three for €26.95 (5-10pm).
The Sunday lunch menu offers two courses for €16.95; three for €19.95 (12.30-5pm). Dishes on this menu include pork fillet roulade, oven roasted supreme of chicken, vegetable lasagna, any gourmet pizza and fish of the day with a wide range of starters and desserts. La Rivista is listed in the Paulo Tullio annual guide and has achieved certificates of excellence from Trip Advisor.
Little Italy 21 John Street, Kilkenny 056-7712765 / 087-2312328 www.littleitaly.ie For a true taste of Italy in the heart of Kilkenny, try Little Italy. This family run restaurant has been serving a wide range of authentic Italian food for over five years, delivering on their promise to provide freshly prepared authentic dishes. Little Italy has a large selection of menus: early bird, special dinner menu, à la carte, lunch special and weekend lunch special, as well as a beer and wine list. Wines come by the glass, half bottle and bottle from a selection of Italian, Spanish and Chilean labels. The early bird includes different offers: two courses for €17.95, or three courses for two people with a bottle of house wine for €50.00. Starters include the classics such as Caesar salad or bruschetta, with mouth-watering mains like Saltimbocca
Little Italy Del Sole—breast of chicken stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, mascarpone and goats cheese, wrapped with Parma ham and baked in the oven. If pasta isn’t for you, try the Porchetta Romana—fillet of pork marinated in garlic butter cooked on a charcoal grill with a creamy red wine sauce, mixed Best Of Ireland Series
vegetables and mash potatoes. Bellissimo! There are of course pizzas on the menu too, with a variety of sides and desserts also available. Little Italy is open Monday to Thurday, 5pm-10pm and Friday to Sunday, 12pm-10.30pm.
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“ City Bar & Grill
City Bar & Grill 1 Ormonde Street 056-7771888 www.kilkennyhibernianhotel.com/cit y-bar-grill Located on the main street in the heart of Kilkenny, the City Bar & Grill comprises part of the Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel and is open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The City Bar & Grill has been one of the most popular Kilkenny restaurants since it opened in 2000 and comes highly recommended by critics Paulio Tullio and
Ripley’s Steak House Butterslip Lane (off Kieran St.) 056-7770699 www.ripleys.ie This versatile steakhouse has many tables overlooking Kieran Street so it’s a brilliant place to dine heartily while watching the world go by. Since it opened in 2005, Ripley’s has built a reputation as an eatery to get a succulent steak but the menu has much more to offer, with service to match. The décor is cosmopolitan with vivid red walls with one animal print section, abstract art and a striking bamboo mirror running the length of one wall. The furniture is a mixture of different colour leather, suede and velvet. Somehow it all works. Ripley’s does lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Small bites such as potato skins, breaded garlic mushrooms, chicken/beef burrito and Caesar salad sit beside baby back ribs, homemade beef burger,
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Lucinda O’Sullivan. The restaurant serves only the finest and freshest in local produce with a full wine list to ensure the perfect accompaniment to your meal. An elegant ambiance does not compromise on comfort; crisp white linen, mood lighting and luxurious cushioned leather seating set the scene. Reasonably priced, it offers several menus with the dine & wine menu representing great value—3 courses with a glass of house wine for €27.50 (Sunday to Friday 6-9pm, Saturday 6-7pm). An extensive lunch menu, a Sunday lunch menu, midweek dinner menu and a la carte menu are also available. The substantial lunch menu offers
blackened chicken carbonara, stirfy and 8oz sirloin steak. Sharing platters of nachos or chicken wings are good value. The early bird menu has some of the items on the lunch menu with changes and additions such as deep fried brie, buffalo chicken wings, chicken burrito, vegetarian fajita, seafood pie and steak hot pot. The early bird runs Monday to Thursday all night and Friday/Saturday from 5-6.30pm. There is also a three course wine and dine for two for €50, available weekdays 5-10pm. The a la carte menu again includes most of the lunch/early bird favourites with extras such as crispy duck spring rolls, chicken/steak/tiger prawn fajita, slow roasted lamb shank, pan fried Atlantic seabass and more steaks—the biggest being a 16oz t-bone. Mains range from €10-30. Desserts include sticky toffee pudding, double chocolate fudge cake, croissant bread and butter pudding, profiteroles and vanilla cheesecake.
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Located on the main street in the heart of Kilkenny
soups, sandwiches, burgers, grills and more. Soup of the day and creamy seafood chowder are available by the cup or bowl, and tasty bites include chicken liver pâté and salmon rillettes. Sandwiches come well-filled with some unusual offerings such as warm pitta filled with shredded duck in a pineapple dressing. Pop in for your Sunday lunch—roast prime of Kilkenny beef or pan-fried sea bream with a selection of starters and delicious desserts. For dinner, the rack of Kilkenny lamb comes recommended. The extensive wine menu features new and old world wines, Champagne and desserts wines, and with such expert service, your entire dining experience will be a treat. Lunch is served Monday to Saturday from 12-3pm and Sunday 12-4pm. Dinner is served from Sunday to Thursday from 6-9pm and on Friday and Saturday until 10pm.
Ripley’s Steak House
Kilkenny Food & Drink Bigger lunch items include a rich seafood chowder, Moroccan lamb or chicken and broccoli crumble. By night, the restaurant atmosphere changes to create Anocht, the Design Centre’s Evening Restaurant. Linen drops hung from the large oak beams making intimate, candlelit spaces.
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Carefully crafted and creative food is the raison d’etre
Restaurant @ Kilkenny Design Centre
Restaurant @ Kilkenny Design Centre Castle Yard 056-7722118 www.kilkennydesign.com/Restaurant Carefully crafted and creative food is the raison d’être in the award-winning restaurant at Kilkenny Design Centre. Far from your regular cafeteria-style fare, chef, Paul Cullen, and his vastly experienced team are making the most of artisan and local ingredients, available
Algarve Grill Hebron Road 083-4033609 The Algarve Grill brings a little piece of sunny Portugal to the Marble City with its one of a kind, charcoal cooking methods.
seven days a week from 10am to 6pm. The large dining space is open and bright, lit by wonderful circular windows, looking out onto the historic Castle Yard and beyond. Its whitewashed walls, exposed beams, wooden floors and watercolours create a relaxing space. The high ceiling allows the pleasant hum of dining and service to carry. Recommended by food critic, Georgina Campbell, the food ranges from hot to cold, sweet to savoury. There are quick bites like scones and cakes or there are salads and savoury tarts – with a glass of wine or craft beer should you wish.
Owner and chef, Hernani (Harry) Sousa prides himself on his secret recipes and family friendly ethos. For a delicious casual meal with friendly service that won’t break the bank, try the Algarve Grill. The décor is rustic with cut stone, wooden beams and pale timber flooring. The terracotta-tiled canopy over the
Algarve Grill
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The evening menu incorporates local artisan ingredients with options like Kilmore Quay potted prawn & crabmeat, pan-fried Duncannon scallops, slow-cooked shoulder of Wexford lamb, Mileeven honey-glazed pork belly and Paddy White’s rib-eye steak. Mains range from €18-24. You can top off the meal with chocolate fondant or fresh lemon tart among other ‘sweets’ and there is a comprehensive wine and cocktail list. The restaurant offers a brilliant value early bird special from 6-6.45pm with two courses for €23.50 or three for €27.50. Anocht opens each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 6pm till late.
counter top allows the mouth-watering smells of barbeque to waft through from the open cooking area. Furniture consists of bright, simple pine tables and chairs while mementos and postcards of Portugal dotted about add to its authenticity. The signature dish is Piri Piri chicken, grilled with a flavoursome marinade; this is available for one or two people and as a combo meal. Other chargrilled dishes include: steak; spare ribs; mixed grill; pork chops; salad burger; seabass and salmon. All these come with chips or vegetable rice and a choice of drink. Meal options don’t stop there. Portuguese style steak; pepper steak; traditional rissole with a choice of fillings like beef or tuna; chicken burgers and chicken nuggets also feature on the menu. The most expensive thing on it is €12. Algarve Grill does breakfast too, with a full Irish for a mere €7.50. All the meat is 100% Irish but even the coffee, beer and wine are Portuguese to ensure an authentic experience. Algarve Grill opens from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am-9pm.
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Cafés
Kilkenny has truly embraced café culture with numerous casual eateries where you can sit and watch the world go by. John Street Tea & Wine Rooms
John Street Tea & Wine Rooms John Street 056-7765133 www.langtons.ie/dining/john-street -tea-wine-rooms A stunning tea room experience awaits you at John Street Tea & Wine Rooms with a fresh brewed cup of tea and a refreshing glass of wine. Nothing tastes better than the first sip of a well-needed or well-deserved cup of tea. With a selection of over 26 teas from around the world, you will have to have a few cups before settling on your favourite. The quaint Victorian interior is offset with modern shades of blue and white, bringing a clean, vintage feel to the place. This is a treat for anyone who recalls the tea rooms of times past. To accompany your afternoon tea you
Stephan’s Pretzels Ground Floor, Market Cross Retail Centre via High Street, James’ Street or Chapel Lane 056-7765333 www.facebook.com/pretzelshop Kilkenny is a thriving city full of cosmopolitan influences and skilled craftspeople and Stephan Patrascanu can certainly count himself among them. The proud owner of Stephan’s Pretzels, he is responsible for bringing the first pretzel store to Kilkenny in 2011 and for making it a popular place with both locals and tourists. A visit to this quirky little café is a must, if only to discover what combination of pretzel and other ingredients make the daily special. Pretzels come in a variety of savoury forms like pretzel burgers, pretzeldogs, ham and cheese rolls or chicken calzone. Regular pretzels can also come in different flavours such as cinnamon, plain
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can try sample some pastries, savouries and light fare. If want something a little more filling try the homemade scones with locally produced jams and cream. Coffee lovers need not feel left out with a choice of international caffeinated
or salted or with poppy or sesame seeds. His sweet creations come in the form of chocolate pretzels, donut pretzels and chocolate donuts. When you have had enough of the pretzel range, other sweet options include big chocolate chip cookies, vanilla muffins, Danish pastries and sometimes even Turkish delight croissants.
beverages. Similarly wine lovers can try any of the myriad worldly wines available. Open from 8am to 8pm, John Street Tea and Wine Rooms is ideal as a treat or as a break from the hectic 21st century.
Teas and coffees of the hot and iced varieties are on the menu and other beverages are also available. Stephan also does fresh soup with pretzel bites instead of croutons. One thing is sure about a visit to Stephan’s Pretzels, you are in for a pleasant surprise!
Stephan’s Pretzels
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Kilkenny Food & Drink cookies and cream cakes to breads and scones. There are several savoury options to choose from too with soups, sandwiches, salads, lasagne, quiche and vol-au-vents to name a few.
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Pennefeather Café 10 High Street 056-7764063 www.facebook.com/pages/Pennefea ther-Cafe
When hunger calls, pop in to Pennefeather for a quick snack or something more substantial. Pennefeather Café is located over the Book Centre on the High Street in the heart of Kilkenny City and is popular with locals and tourists alike thanks to its great variety, quality and service. The café has a large selection of freshly baked goodies on offer, from
The café has a large selection of freshly baked goodies on offer
Specials are available daily and include the likes of warm goat’s cheese salad. If you are in need of a boost, try one of their freshly ground Java Republic coffees, or a healthy boost from their full smoothie menu. The menu also caters for special dietary needs including vegetarian, gluten intolerance and low calorie. Pennefeather Café is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday with the full breakfast menu running from 9am to 12pm. Table service is top class and you can avail of free Wi-Fi while the friendly staff tends to your needs. A take-away menu and outside catering service are also available.
Crotty’s Coffee House Kieran Street 056-7764877 This family-run café is as traditional as they come but with a stellar reputation built up over 20 years in business. It was founded by Martin Crotty—a master baker—and is run by him and his wife, Mary. Behind the quaint crimson shop front, the café is compact and bright with old school décor and has an outdoor seating area with an awning to protect punters from the elements.
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This family-run café is as traditional as they come but with a stellar reputation
There is also a shop counter for the baked goods like homemade jams, breads, buns and made-to-order cakes.
Crotty’s Coffee House Crotty’s apple tart is rather famous locally.
(regular and toasted), rolls, panini, ciabattas and wraps.
The café is not all hot drinks and sweet treats (although the chalkboard advertising apple tart or bread and butter with tea/coffee for very reasonable prices did sound good!)
You can’t miss out with a selection taking in chicken coronation, tuna melt and veggie deluxe. Other savoury items like quiche, sausage rolls and potato wedges are available too, as is free Wi-Fi.
The breakfast menu has several options like a full Irish, scrambled eggs, a breakfast bagel or a hot croissant. It also offers assorted pastries and breads and does fresh soup, filled sandwiches
Everything is available for take-away. Crotty’s Coffee House opens from 9am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday.
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Mug*Shot Café 25 James Street 056-7777798/086-2275695 Located between St. Mary’s Cathedral and Market Cross Shopping Centre on James’s Street, a funky, friendly and vibrant Café awaits you. Mug*Shot Café’s thriving business began in 2007 and they have recently extended their premises to provide additional seating that is comfortable and bright thanks to the big windows and white walls, with splashes of colour from lamps, chairs, artwork and a blue fireplace. Manager Aoghán Courtney and friendly staff provide you with daily specials which include homemade soup & brown bread, quiche and bagels with a wide variety of nutritious salads. Chef Antonia Bottoni also provides hot lunches such as Cape Malay chicken curry, Kilmore Quay fisherman’s pie, Mullins’ beef stroganoff and teriyaki
Mug *Shot Café salmon to name but a few! A new seasonal and healthy menu has been created using the best ingredients from local suppliers and catering for all dietary requirements. There is also a take-out and an outside catering menu. Mug*Shot Café serves freshly ground Italian Lavazza Coffee and Java
Free Wi-Fi, daily newspapers and outdoor seating
Republic herbal teas to accompany many sweet treats, especially for coeliacs. Word on the street is that they have the best scones in Kilkenny. There is free Wi-Fi, daily newspapers, outdoor seating in the courtyard area and a ‘Snug’ room which has a novel toy box to keep kids amused. Opening hours are from 8.30am-5.30pm Monday to Saturday, with Sunday brunch from 11am-4pm. There is also a Mug*Shot Café open at Ayrfield Medical Practice on Granges Road open Monday to Friday from 9am-4.30pm.
Vio’s Coffee and Pizza
Vio’s Coffee and Pizza 34 Kieran Street 056-7795668 www.facebook.com/vioscaffee For a relaxed, fun place to have a coffee or grab a bite with all the family, pop in to Vio’s. Owners Martin and Violeta Zselna have certainly mastered their arts of great coffee and crêpes and, together with the friendly atmosphere here, make this a great place to refresh. They serve an extensive list of teas and freshly brewed coffees that look like something out of a magazine. They also do hot chocolate and a variety of milkshakes so there’s something for everyone. Savoury crêpes come with all the toppings you’d expect in a good pizza parlour—the classic caprese; a 3 formaggi of cheddar, Emmental and gorgonzola; Hawaiian with cheese, ham, pineapple and sweetcorn. For a tasty way to start your day, try the Irish breakfast of bacon, egg, mushroom and tomato, all in a crêpe. A range of sandwiches can also be made to order.
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For a delicious dessert, try one of their sweet crêpes with sugar and lemon, a winter taste of apple and cinnamon, or the luxurious gelato option with three scoops of ice-cream. Go nuts with their yogy or milito options, or for a real treat try the violette special—a crêpe with fresh fruit of the day, vanilla ice-cream and a dash of maple syrup. Extra toppings are also available, as are muffins and scones. Pop in for breakfast, lunch or just a treat.
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For a relaxed, fun place to have a coffee or grab a bite with all the family, pop into Vio’s
Kilkenny Food & Drink
A Slice of Heaven 62 High Street 087-9533870 www.asliceofheaven.ie For award-winning cakes and other sweet treats that are truly divine, A Slice of Heaven is a homegrown bakery with real wow factor. The woman behind it all is Mary McEvoy, who is a former pastry chef with acclaimed restaurant L’Ecrivain and also the Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel.
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Homegrown bakery with real wow factor
A Slice of Heaven will grant you this wish and the friendly staff will craft the ideal cake for you. The outlet is set over two floors with a dedicated consultation area and demonstration space. Delicious cupcakes, or any number of other desserts, can be bought in store or ordered in advance for a celebration or an event. They will amaze with presentation as well as taste and special dietary requirements can be accommodated. Gift vouchers are available and courses/workshops on cake decoration, dessert making and cookery take place regularly—catering for all ages. A Slice of Heaven is a cake shop with that little bit extra, most definitely worth a visit.
DID YOU KNOW?
Bridging Kilkenny The two main bridges in Kilkenny City have a fascinating history. Green's Bridge and John's Bridge were both built around 1200 and their names also date back to the Middle Ages. Both have been rebuilt numerous times, mainly due to flooding in 1487 and 1763. In the ‘Great Flood’ of 1763, Green’s Bridge collapsed. People subsequently gathered on John's Bridge and the whole structure collapsed, killing 16 people. Green’s Bridge was rebuilt in 1766 and it is thought that the bridge was inspired by the Roman Bridge at Rimini, Italy.
Combining locally sourced, good quality natural ingredients with flair and imagination, the tasty wares are extremely popular. Hand crafted wedding and occasion cakes are available for purchase in this shop, based on a ready-made design or your own unique take. Want to have a birthday cake to remember?
The current John's Bridge was built in 1910 and when it was completed, it was apparently the longest single-span reinforced bridge in Ireland or Britain. A third bridge, Ossory Bridge, was added in 1984.
DON’T FORGET!
The Gourmet Store The Gourmet Store (pg 69) on 56 High Street also has a café, as well as selling a selection of fresh and readymade ingredients and foodstuffs.
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Pubs Left Bank The Parade 056-7750016/7771888 www.leftbank.ie Banks don’t generally imply fun but this grand and luxurious bar, in a refurbished former Bank of Ireland on The Parade, truly bucks the trend. Both the exterior and interior of Left Bank scream luxury. The three-storey building dates back to 1870 and has a cut limestone façade with many impressive architectural features. Left Bank opened in its new guise in 2008. Inside the bar—which is regularly packed on busy nights—the décor is as chic as the clientele. It has large windows, high ceilings and red walls complemented by an abundance of polished dark wood panelling and floors. There are nice touches like coving, ornate mirrors, ceiling fans, chandelier-style light fittings and partitions creating more private spaces. The floor area is massive, as is the
Biddy Early’s 6 John Street Lower 056-7722689 www.biddyearlyskilkenny.com Biddy Early’s is named after the reputed Clare witch but the strange and energizing brews it mixes up these days
Kilkenny has a variety of both quaint old style public houses as well as stylish, modern new age pubs to choose from. downstairs bar with its floor to ceiling shelves filled with bottles. There’s more space and great views on the upper levels; live DJs entertain in the first floor bar every Saturday night. These areas are available for private parties too. There is also a spacious heated beer garden/smoking area with a full bar called Louie’s Backyard. Punters can relax with the blazing open fire there and the area can be covered in if
Left Bank
are the cities best cocktails! Young hearts run free at this bar, which makes every effort to make sure customers have a highly entertaining night out, whether it is with a live band or DJ, karaoke or a fun theme night. Don’t let the traditional frontage fool you; the interior is modern with maroon and cream walls, wood panelling and framed posters hanging on the walls.
Biddy Early’s
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necessary. There is also a cocktail menu for the full ‘cosmopolitan’ experience. Left Bank hosts live bands and has multiple plasma screens for showing sports events in all their glory, including a unique 3D set-up so time clashes for matches is never an issue. The bar also serves food daily from noon to 5pm including soup, sandwiches, panini, sweet treats and more.
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There is a heated outdoor patio area with seating, making for a comfortable smoking area. Biddy Early’s is the city’s leading cocktail bar with an extensive menu and a mammoth cocktail happy ‘hour’ from 12pm to 8pm, Monday to Thursday. The bar staff has some nifty Flair Mixology moves and has won international awards to prove it. Their motto is “when it pours it reigns”. The bar offers Kilkenny's premier cocktail making class, ideal for private parties and company get-togethers. Full details can be found at www.thecocktailacademy.com There is something on all the time at Biddy Early’s and the chalkboard outside advertises daily and weekly events. For all those aspiring singers, karaoke night is Thursday from 9pm while every Friday & Saturday night Kilkenny's top DJs spin out all the latest and greatest hits. Other weekly events include live bands and match screenings on the four plasma screens.
Kilkenny Food & Drink and quality, with a simple black and cream colour scheme and wood panelled walls, with old monochrome photos displayed.
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Bridie’s Bar & General Store 72 John Street 056-7765133 www.langtons.ie/bars/bridies Bridie’s Bar and General Store is like stepping into a time machine and arriving in another era but the beautiful recreation is irresistible. The frontage is a vibrant pale blue with an ornate sign and large windows. The first
Marble City Bar & Tea Rooms 66 High Street 056-7761143 www.langtons.ie/bars/marble-city-bar Not many places can boast about being the holders of the Pub Lunch Award and the Black & White Best Newcomer Award like The Marble City Bar & Tea Rooms can. Whether you’re a local or just visiting for the day, their friendly service and great food will have you coming back for more. One of the oldest public meeting houses in Kilkenny, it has a revamped yet timeless interior. The Marble City Bar has a warm and friendly atmosphere that makes it the rperfect backdrop for relaxing lunches, intimate dinners and midday meet-ups alike. Kick back, relax and treat yourself to a hot cup from their range of international coffees and teas. You’ll be spoiled for choice with their selection of cakes and pastries.
section is the general store, with its walls of well-appointed wooden shelves displaying food products like dressings, preserves and all manner of giftware.
Bridie’s Bar and General Store is like stepping into a time machine and arriving in another era but the beautiful recreation is irresistible
It also sells fresh bread, cakes and sweets—which are measured out with scales (old school sweet shops are in vogue in Ireland these days!)
It is dominated by the long wood, pewter and marble bar counter. Customers can sit at this and sip a pint or coffee, or at the many tables.
There is a very high ceiling and more shelves up on the second level. The distinctive tile floor extends through to the bar, accessed through saloon-style doors. It has a timeless style
The beer garden/smoking area outside is pleasant too with several covered in seating areas under Victorian style bus shelters. The place is gleaming by candlelight and it looks very impressive.
It offers the best in fresh Irish produce and individual brunch, lunch and dinner menus where traditional dishes are infused with delicious modern quirks. Why not sample the creamy homemade seafood chowder or the delicious beef and Guinness casserole? The warm chocolate and pecan nut brownie also deserves a special mention here. If you’re just
dropping in for lunch, you won’t want to miss trying the fantastic MCB club sandwich with hearty homemade fries. The bar serves food from 9am-10pm and the tea rooms serve food from 9am9.30pm daily. For award winning food and service, coupled with a buzzing atmosphere, drop into the Marble City Bar & Tea Rooms.
Marble City Bar & Tea Rooms
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Tynan’s Bridge House Bar 2 John's Bridge 056-7721291 Tynan’s Bridge House Bar is one of Kilkenny’s oldest bars, where it has been serving customers from its spot overlooking the River Nore since 1703. The bright blue exterior - wonderfully lit up at night - most often has an old fashioned bicycle outside with flowers planted in its basket.
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Tynan’s Bridge House Bar is one of Kilkenny’s oldest bars
The interior is old world but has an ageless quality with features like wood panelled ceilings, brass lanterns, a marble horse-shoe shaped bar and interesting antiquities such as an old spice chest. Before the early 20th
century, the bar used to be a grocery and pharmacy. Some of the walls are occupied by photos of regulars, guests and good times in the bar (which is the mark of a great pub) as well as signs such as one advertising: ‘Authentic Irishman for hire. Storytelling & singing; dancing & carrying on. Available all hours. Experienced drinking companion.’ Tynan’s can accommodate a large crowd but there are plenty of alcoves to nurse a drink and no television, which is to encourage punters to strike up conversation - with each other or with owner Liam Phelan, if he’s holding court behind the bar! There is live music every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday night (accompanied by late opening) but occasionally on other nights too and other than that, only music from the fifties and sixties is on the stereo. Parties of all types are welcome. Tynan’s Bridge House Bar has the honour of being the first Black & White ‘Pub of the Year’. Tynan’s Bridge House Bar
The Dylan Whisky Bar 5 John Street 056-7722689 www.thedylanwhiskybar.com The Dylan Whisky Bar is named after legendary folk singer, Bob, and, like the man himself, is one of the most distinctive characters on the Kilkenny bar scene. The bright red front leads into a self-styled ‘old Victorian’ type pub with an array of leather seats, brass lamps, cabinets, glass murals and whisky-themed paraphernalia like mirrors and signs. Most of the fixtures and fittings are solid wood, including the impressive bar with its built-in clock. There is also a cosy, open fire as well as a nice snug—winner of the Powers Whiskey Ireland's Best Snug 2011—decorated with Bob Dylan memorabilia. There is a heated outdoor smoking area also. This place is heaven for whisky connoisseurs, so if you know your single malt from your blended grain; your Bourbon from your Rye, this is an ideal spot. The menu samples range from €5-15 and there are over 190 of the
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The Dylan Whisky Bar world’s best whiskies to pick from. No reservations are needed for tastings (five samples of Single Malt Irish Whiskey for €20) and private sessions can be arranged. Aside from whisky, the Dylan has a regular drinks menu, a superior Gin menu and a selection of cocktails and Best Of Ireland Series
craft beers too. It opens daily from 11am serving the finest of teas, coffees and light bar food options. When the candles appear on the tables, the bar has a lively ambience and several weekly events like a cult film night, trad sessions and live music.
Kilkenny Food & Drink
Breathnach’s Steak and Ale House 23 John Street 056-7756737 www.breathnachs.ie With ‘steak and ale’ in the title, Breathnach’s makes it clear that good food and drink are its priorities, along with customers enjoying themselves in this warm establishment. Breathnach’s is enormous; with four bars on various levels with heaps of
alcoves to hide away in for a quiet meal or drink but equally wide open space for bands and dancing. The main bar is modern and stylish without being over the top; it keeps the homely touches like chunky wood furniture and uncovered stone walls. This area is well set up for food service too with plenty of table seating. Sports material like framed jerseys and photographs compete for space on the walls with decorative items like clocks and signs and the eleven big televisions for, you’ve guessed it, watching sports! The sports angle isn’t surprising given
Breathnach’s Steak and Ale House
The Field Bar & Restaurant 2 High Street 056-7702763 www.thefieldkilkenny.com The Field Bar & Restaurant is at the center of Kilkenny’s main throughfare, overlooking The Parade and the landmark Kilkenny Castle. Owners John & Sally Anne McDonald take great pride in running one of the city’s oldest bars. You can see from the massive Kilkenny hurling banner outside that the management is sports mad, making it the place to watch a match or chat at length to John, a former Kilkenny hurler, about the subject. The Field houses the largest hurley in the world, with pride of place over the bar, autographed by many sporting legends. The décor is traditional and rustic with touches like restored barrels and old signs for everything from Wills Woodbine cigarettes to Brasso jockeying for position with framed sports pictures and old newspapers on the walls, with a
wide array of different sporting subjects covered. The Field is spread over two levels and serves food all day from breakfast, going to an all day menu from noon to 9pm. Local produce is prepared in the kitchen to provide hearty, stylish dishes. Starters include seafood chowder, goat’s cheese crustini & buffalo wings. Among the light meals are a club sandwich, char-grilled salmon salad, toasted special and wraps. The mains options won’t disappoint
that one of the friendly barmen is local legend and former Kilkenny hurler, Liam ‘Chunky’ O’Brien, who keeps the clientele entertained with his chatter. The Bodega has an airy café-bar feel to it with leather seating and funky abstract paintings along the walls. There is a large, heated beer garden/patio area. Upstairs, the area has a more contemporary vibe and it is also available for private parties. The entertainment at Breathnach’s attracts the crowds too (hen/stag parties are welcome) with live music every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and DJs at weekends too. Tuesday night is salsa night and late on Saturday is the Latin club. Seeing as how ‘steak’ is in the title, the bar has a diverse food selection—serving in both the main bar and Bodega from noon until 7pm. Aside from succulent steaks, the menus includes tapas, spicy wings, quesadillas, salads, steak ciabatta, burgers, pizza, stir-fry, Thai chicken curry, salads, fish and chicken dishes along a range of sandwiches, wraps, panini and desserts. Bodega’s set menu is based on quality local produce and fresh seafood and offers two courses for €17; three courses for €20 and tapas from €4—great value all round.
with a large selection of homemade burgers, black angus sirloin steaks, traditional lamb stew and fish and chips to name but a few. There are desserts and chef specials daily. Comfortable at any time of the day, the atmosphere gets livelier as the night wears on with live music, whether trad or rock, every night of the week. DJs take over on late opening nights. Special entertainment can be organised for hen or stag parties, and any group or function can be catered for.
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Paris Texas Bar and Smokehouse 92 High Street 056-7761822 www.facebook.com/ParisTexasBar
prefer fish they have salmon and local goatsbridge trout. For a tasty snack or starter try the chicken wings or chilli nachos. Paris Texas is also well known for relaxed atmosphere and generous portions.
The broad drinks list offers a range of world beers, spirits, wines and delicious cocktails so you are bound to find the tipple of your choice. For quality food and service in a beautiful location, call into the Paris Texas Bar and Smokehouse.
This recently renovated bar and smokehouse comes highly recommended for anyone serious about authentic U.S. barbecue and home smoked foods. Located on the busy High Street and boasting a spacious interior that is the envy of all around them, Paris Texas Bar and Smokehouse is a step ahead of the rest when it comes to look and design. Thankfully their level of service and quality of product is of the same high standard. The attentive staff will welcome you warmly and happily advise you on the restaurant’s extensive food menu which includes a wide range of vegetarian and gluten free options. Try their popular pulled pork sandwich with frizzled onions and barbecue sauce, or build your own burger—a delicious Black Angus Irish beef burger flame-grilled to perfection and finished with the toppings and sauce of your choice. Ribs, steak and marinated lamb are other meaty offerings, or if you
Ryan’s Bar 3 Friary Street www.ryanskilkenny.com The tunes of many musical genres can be heard on Friary Street several nights of the week courtesy of Ryan’s Bar, the
Paris Texas Bar and Smokehouse
self-styled “home of good music” in the city. Beneath the red and gold signage, the windows are covered with posters advertising upcoming gigs. Inside, the rough stippled walls in shades of red, cream and green are hung with cool photos and music memorabilia like framed CDs. There are some high
Ryan’s Bar
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shelves with knick knacks like jugs, little lanterns and old radios. The place has character; certain areas are compact but there’s still plenty of room for dancing. Along with a warm ambience, amiable staff and a decent pint of plain, live music is a massive part of the bar’s appeal. Thursday night is always trad night with a lively session of ceol and Fridays to Sundays, it typically has a live band with a great variety of rock, jazz, country, soul and blues. It showcases original and local bands too. Ryan’s has a large, partially covered beer garden/smoking area and that plays host to an open mic night for aspiring performers every other Wednesday and also the ‘Sunday Session’ from 6-8pm. There is a function room available for private parties. Ryan’s opens at 2pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and at 4pm during the week.
Kilkenny Food & Drink
Brewery Corner 29 Parliament Street 086 1575334 www.facebook.com/brewery.corner Craft beer bars are all the rage these days and now Kilkenny can boast one of its own. Brewery Corner is the first craft beer pub to appear in Kilkenny and it is going down a treat with locals and visitors alike.
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stout, Irish pale ale, natural blonde and a cask special of Curim Gold. They also stock Trouble Brewing Deception, Metalman pale ale, Dark Arts porter, Tom Crean lager and Stonewell draught cider. Local brews include Eight Degrees, Galway Hooker and Stonewell.
your drink. Brewery Corner also know how to entertain with open mic nights every Thursday, comedy and music gigs and it comes as no surprise that this little pub won big in the Bar of the Year Awards 2013.
There is free Wi-Fi available in the bar should you wish to tweet about how amazing the drinks and the ambience are. Bar food is also available to compliment
Brewery Corner is open seven days a week from noon until 11pm Sunday to Thursday and until 12.30am Friday and Saturday.
The first craft beer pub to appear in Kilkenny and it is going down a treat with locals and visitors
What is special about this bar is that the craft beer and cider is on draft. They sell a full range of O’Hara’s beers including
Brewery Corner
O’Riada’s Bar 25 Parliament Street 056-7764933 O’Riada’s is a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle where customers can enjoy a creamy pint of Smithwick’s in good company or just in peace. The neat green, red and cream front—with the name in old Irish lettering—marks it out as an honest to goodness, traditional bar. Inside, the wooden partition a ways down the worn wooden counter marks it out as a former grocery/bar. O’Riadas is long but not overly large. It has a cosy feel to it with most of the clientele on high stools along the bar or to the ledge opposite but there is bench seating with tables at the back. The cream walls and red ceiling are covered with layers upon layers of paint. Any decoration is nothing fancy but an interesting mix of things like US car number plates, framed old playbills from the theatre and festivals and the
O Riada’s Bar obligatory collection of sporting memorabilia.
television; the low key atmosphere livens up for Kilkenny GAA matches.
There is no background music playing day or night but you might randomly come across an occasional live acoustic session down the back. The main source of entertainment, aside from yarns by some local character, is sports on the
O’Riada’s has a staunch, regular crowd but fellow drinkers and staff are always friendly. Its location opposite the Watergate Theatre makes it a nice stop off for a pre-theatre drink.
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Kyteler’s Inn DID YOU KNOW?
The Olde Capital Kilkenny was the capital of Ireland in the 17th century. Between 1642 and 1649, there was a period of Irish self-governance when roughly two-thirds of the population were ruled by the Irish Catholic Confederation. This is often referred to as the ‘Confederation of Kilkenny’ because it was based in the city. The confederation was abolished when Oliver Cromwell invaded Ireland and crushed the rebellion.
DID YOU KNOW?
A Disney’s Tale The great-grandfather of legendary film producer and animator, Walt Disney, hailed from Kilkenny. Arundel Elias Disney emigrated to America from Gowran in the county around 1834. The Mickey Mouse creator’s name was descended from the Normans and genealogists say that 512 ancestors of Walt Disney are known to have lived in Ireland.
DID YOU KNOW?
Hurling Kilkenny is the most successful county ever in the sport of hurling. The county team has won the most All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship, winning 34 times as of 2012. The team has won the most Provincial Championships (Leinster) with a record 68 titles. The hurlers in black and amber have also won the most All-Ireland Under 21 titles (11; tied with Cork) and the most All-Ireland Minor titles (20). Kilkenny holds the records for these same categories at provincial level too. In addition, the county team holds the longest unbeaten Hurling Championship run at 21 Games. Player Eddie Keher is the all-time top scorer in the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship with a total of 415 points.
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Kieran Street 056-7721064 www.kytelersinn.com Not many bars can boast that the one-time owner narrowly escaped being burned at the stake after an accusation of witchcraft but the historic Kyteler’s Inn can. It was founded in 1324 by Kilkenny native Dame Alice Kyteler – who was regarded suspiciously because of her wealth and that she married four times. Her enemies cried “witch” but Dame Alice disappeared without trace – believed to have escaped abroad. Unfortunately her maid wasn’t so lucky and was tried, tortured and burned alive. Thanks to owner, Nicky Flynn, Kyteler’s Inn is still a sought after spot for slaking hunger and thirst as well as “merrie making” after nearly 700 years. The Inn is huge – spread over several levels – and very atmospheric with lots of stone walls, worn boards, exposed rafters, medieval style lanterns and architectural features like fireplaces, arches, marble pillars and stairwells. Décor includes suits of armour, plaques, historical displays and is a patchwork of styles reflecting its evolution over the centuries – every wall tells a story. Music, particularly Irish traditional music, plays a huge part within the walls of Kytelers and is provided with no cover charge to those eating and drinking in the venue. Their early evening sessions run from March to November, with late weekend sessions all year long. Every Monday and Tuesday from 6.30pm there’s “Irish Beats”, an interactive bodhrán session; Thursday there’s “Jigs & Reels”, an Irish dancing with trad musician trio. Other early sessions include “Tunes &
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Music, particularly Irish traditional music, plays a huge part within the walls Best Of Ireland Series
Kyteler’s Inn
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Thanks to owner, Nicky Flynn, Kyteler’s Inn is still a sought after spot
Tales” involving music, storytelling (seanachie) and a bit of Kilkenny folklore. Weekends the trad musicians hold court at 6pm. Later each evening popular resident Irish music duo, the Raglan Rogues, have punters clapping, toe-tapping and singing the evening away. The bar food menu runs daily from 12–9pm and includes classic hearty fare such as Irish stew, bangers & mash, bacon & cabbage etc. as well as the locally popular chicken & ham vol-au-vents. Dishes are freshly-prepared using local fare by Head Chef Margaret Kelly and her team.
Kilkenny Food & Drink
Cleere’s Pub & Theatre 28 Parliament Street 056-7762573 www.cleeres.com Cleere’s is a heady mix of tradition and modernity, and has built a good reputation among music fans for legendary gigs and trad sessions. The exterior of the pub is bright red and as quintessentially Irish as they come (except maybe for the posters for upcoming performances in the windows!) That theme—red and posters—continues on the walls inside and is joined by other music memorabilia and quirky pictures. It has some bench seating at the front and a lot of tables stretching back and around the bar. With its well-worn demeanor, soft folk music playing on the stereo and friendly staff and clientele, Cleere’s has an easygoing, comfortable air about it. It does a bustling trade on busier nights. There is also a 100 seat, multi-purpose venue at the back of Cleere’s, which hosts plays, comedy
The Pumphouse 26-28 Parliament Street 056-7763924 www.pumphousekilkenny.ie If you’re looking for a traditional, friendly pub in the heart of Kilkenny City, look no further than The Pumphouse.
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If you’re looking for a traditional, friendly pub in the heart of Kilkenny City, look no further than The Pumphouse
Cleere’s Pub & Theatre nights and bigger bands. The pub boasts the longest running traditional Irish music session in the city on Monday nights from 9pm, and another regular trad night on Wednesdays. All sorts of bands play there regularly too and it does its best to cover interesting bases such as Cajun and bluegrass music too.
With bar food, Cleere’s sticks to soup and sambos with a twist. Sandwiches can be toasted or filling ‘doorstops’ and soups include unusual varieties like Cajun red bean stew and broccoli, pear and blue cheese. It does teas and coffees along with minerals etc. Pizzas are available during the day and in the evenings.
make new friends with such a diverse group of customers eager to chat and “have the craic”. You are guaranteed a great vibe, with music non-stop and the chance to challenge someone to a game of pool. Listen to live bands on various nights and a great DJ every Friday and Saturday night. The resident Sunday night band has a huge following and make for a great way to finish off your weekend in Kilkenny. Fans reckon that once you’ve heard them, you just have to come back.
Traditional music raises the roof during the summer season, as does its acoustic gig every Thursday night year round. The Pumphouse has an upstairs function room for your private parties and a special smoking area. This popular watering hole also serves teas and coffees and, some might say, the “best toasties in Kilkenny”. The Pumphouse crew look forward to seeing you.
The place is popular with both locals and visitors who enjoy its lively and welcoming atmosphere, from its roaring fire to its great music; it makes you feel right at home. The Pumphouse is a great place to
The Pumphouse
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Kilkenny Food & Drink
O’Faoláin’s Pub/Pegasus Nightclub
O’Faoláin’s Pub/Pegasus Nightclub Upper John Street 056-7761018 www.kilfordarms.ie If you happen upon popular superpub, O’Faoláin’s, or nightclub, Pegasus, you’ll be in flying form before long. O’Faoláin’s has three levels and is definitely one of the most spectacular-looking watering holes in the city, if not the country. It is built around a 16th-century stone church, which was brought over from Wales piece by piece and reconstructed.
The décor is cream and brown shades with lots of leather and dark wood; it’s a real fusion of new and old. It opens at 10am so it’s also great for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and has multiple screens to watch sports. The food menu runs until 9pm. Starters include Caesar salad, smoked salmon, chicken liver pate and shrimp salad while mains take in quiche Lorraine, spicy salmon fishcakes, tagliatelle, lasagne, chicken curry, plaice, sirloin steak, a choice of sambos including the toasted special and desserts. There is a lot of seating on all levels in the
Original architectural features include pillars, archways and vaulted windows and these blend with modern features like stairwells, balconies and of course, bars!
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warren-like bar, including by the balconies so you can spot the talent. Service is always polite and quick. When it’s crowded, with DJs playing to set the mood, it’s a great spot to pass a few fun-filled hours. It has late opening (til 2am) every night except Tuesday. Hen/stag parties are welcome, as are other functions. There is a heated beer garden/smoking area at the back. Pegasus is the new kid on the block on the local nightclub scene, open on weekends. It has a state of the art set-up and plenty of space with a large dancefloor and DJs spinning the hottest tunes to get the crowd going.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Marble City Kilkenny is known as ‘The Marble City’. Limestone and marble were available from the ‘The Black Quarry’ on the outskirts. Many of its streets were paved with dark grey limestone flagstones and when wet, the streets shone like marble. Kilkenny marble was used in the construction of many local buildings but also in Cobh Cathedral in Cork and the gravestone of Daniel O’Connell in Dublin’s Glasnevin Cemetery.
It has a state of the art set-up and plenty of space with a large dancefloor and DJs spinning Best Of Ireland Series
Kilkenny Accommodation
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There is an excellent choice of places to stay in Kilkenny and take an extended ‘cat nap’ with hotels, guesthouses, bed & breakfasts and self-catering outlets aplenty.
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Kilkenny Accommodation Kilkenny Castle
Stay and unwind
in comely Kilkenny
ecently voted “one of the world’s most friendly cities” by international travel magazine Conde Nast, Kilkenny has certainly earned its reputation as a fantastic destination for visitors from Ireland and abroad.
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At number nine, The ‘Marble City’ was the only European city to be ranked in the top 10 and a stay in this welcoming city will deliver on all its promises, and more. Small but perfectly formed, you really have to spend at least one day and night here to do it justice and more to immerse yourself completely. Welcoming the news of Kilkenny’s inclusion in the list, Amanda Horan from Fáilte Ireland said: “This is a fabulous achievement for Kilkenny and provides a wonderful platform to increase awareness of Kilkenny and the South East to the many cultured travellers that read Conde Nast. Fáilte Ireland research shows that three quarters of holidaymakers cited the friendliness of the Irish people as a very
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important factor when choosing Ireland as a holiday destination. In addition, more than four out of five visitors are extremely satisfied with friendliness and hospitality of the Irish people.” Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options in Kilkenny with a variety of hotels to suit all budgets and tastes. From three star to luxurious five star, from buzzing city centre accommodation to tranquil country estate sojourns, Kilkenny’s hotels have it all. Whether you are visiting on business, for pleasure or staying to celebrate your all-important wedding day, they offer world class accommodation, dining, leisure and entertainment facilities in this picturesque part of our Emerald Isle. High quality accommodation is dotted about the city but, wherever you choose to stay, you are never far from the many historical attractions that have stood the test of time and continue to make the city so unique.
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Kilkenny even has a ‘Visitor Welcome Ambassador’ programme, where people can train to be an ambassador for Kilkenny in special workshops.
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Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options in Kilkenny with a variety of hotels to suit all budgets and tastes
Kilkenny is an ancient city with a vibrant feel, thanks to the lively artistic community and busy festival season. The array of cafés, restaurants and bars we have here adds to the atmosphere, day and night. Whether you are on a shopping break, sightseeing tour or
Kilkenny Accommodation Kilkenny Tradfest
© Evelyn McNamara
family getaway, Kilkenny city and county has so much to offer.
gems conveniently located in one place, the picturesque and historic Castle Yard.
Visit St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, built by the saint after whom Kilkenny, ‘Cill Chainnigh’, is named. Stroll the grounds of Kilkenny Castle and Park, or the walled garden at Rothe House where you can also trace your own roots in the Family History Centre.
The National Craft Gallery is Ireland’s leading centre for contemporary craft and design while the Design Centre hosts a vast selection of craft and designer products from all over Ireland including pottery, glass and crystal, textiles, knitwear, jewellery, accessories, paintings and more. The workshops at Castle Yard host master craftspeople and you can watch them work or chat to them about their craft here.
If Kilkenny’s thriving cultural scene is the main draw, you are assured a place to stay near the action with a hotel in the city. The Set Theatre on John Street is one of Kilkenny’s newest venues hosting a busy programme of theatre, comedy, music and film as well as conferences. The nearby Watergate Theatre, a converted cinema that opened in 1993 as a 328 seat theatre, hosts drama, music, dance, visual art and more, while its upstairs gallery regularly holds exhibitions of paintings and photographs. If you are joining the Kilkenny ‘cats’ (the natives) and getting crafty then a visit to the Kilkenny Design Centre and National Craft Gallery are two must-see local
The city is a thriving spot for artists, craftspeople and fashion designers and as you meander through the streets you will find unique boutiques, galleries and gift shops are there for your leisurely browsing. Perhaps Kilkenny’s appeal lies in its many superb sporting facilities. The Jack Nicklaus designed golf course on the Mount Juliet Estate has drawn amateurs and professionals the world over to Kilkenny. Horse riding, kayaking, fishing, archery, clay pigeon shooting
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add to the list of activities county-wide and Kilkenny’s solid reputation in the Gaelic sport of hurling is a further draw, with training programmes and tours available. If you have come to Kilkenny for an active weekend on the dance floor rather than the golf course, then the city’s many bars, pubs and clubs have plenty to entertain you. The buzzing nightlife proves popular with stag parties and hen parties, and festivals such as the international Cat Laughs Comedy Festival and the Kilkenny Arts Festival always draw large crowds. No night out is complete without a meal and you can have your fill here for the city is dotted with eateries of all kinds and cuisines. Whatever you do and wherever you stay in Kilkenny, one thing is consistent here and that is the friendly atmosphere. When you’ve been here, you’ll leave as an ambassador for the city too for it is hard to keep its appeal to yourself!
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Kilkenny Accommodation
Lyrath Estate Hotel, Spa & Convention Centre
Lyrath Estate Hotel, Spa & Convention Centre Old Dublin Road, Co. Kilkenny 056-7760088/056-7705814 www.lyrath.com At the heart of Lyrath Estate Hotel is a gorgeous 17th century house, which has been sensitively restored and added to by a series of chic, contemporary spaces to create a luxurious 5 star resort, set in almost 200 acres of lush green parkland and historic gardens, just on the doorstep of vibrant Kilkenny City. With an impressive selection of bars, restaurants, a health club, a state-of-the-art conference centre and an award-winning spa, all of which, allied to the extensive grounds and many activities on-site, means Lyrath Estate Hotel feels like an exclusive and self-contained luxury resort, with so much to explore and enjoy. The comfortable and characterful Tupper’s Bar, part of the original house, with its adjacent conservatory, is perfect for relaxed and informal food, opening on to a sheltered terrace and interesting gardens. The beautiful manicured gardens are also overlooked from La Perla, the stylish restaurant where breakfast and dinner are served, with large picture
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windows running the length of the room and pretty floral wallpapers echoing the original hand-blocked paper in the old house with a bold contemporary print. For a drink with a view, the sophisticated X-Bar probably has the best views over the estate from its soaring panoramic windows, a modern space with laid-back music, great for a pre or post-dinner cocktail. Next door to the X-Bar is Yindees, Lyrath’s popular Pan-Asian restaurant which overlooks the light-filled lobby area, a stylish and subtle nod to all things Asian. There is an exclusive series of 3 period bedrooms in the old house, where country house tradition is married to absolute modern convenience to create a very special retreat. Then the 130 contemporary 5 star bedrooms are separate from the main body of the hotel, down warm-toned, softly lit corridors, to the classically decorated rooms in shades of rich browns and creams, and gentle lilacs and lavenders. At Lyrath’s award-winning Oasis Spa, with its thermal suite and outdoor hydrotherapy pool, the definition of oasis is perfectly captured. A calm, pleasant, peaceful area, ideal to take a break from the hectic pace of life, the emphasis is on indulgence and relaxing while connecting to the changing landscape around you. With glorious panoramic views Best Of Ireland Series
through the club’s floor-to-ceiling glass windows, the Oasis Health Club, Lyrath Estate Hotel’s luxury wellness centre. The Kilkenny Convention Centre at Lyrath Estate Hotel is a first class purpose-built convention centre, with its own entrance, reception and pre-conference area and the capacity to cater for over 1,500 delegates.
Kilkenny Accommodation
Langton House Hotel 67 John Street 056-7765133 www.langtons.ie The Langton House Hotel has grown from a humble boarding house for travelling salesmen in 1938 to a sumptuous four-star hotel with 34 bedrooms today. The hostelry founded by Ned and Bridget is still family owned and run, and sticks to the same principles of impeccable service and hospitality that they offered to weary commercial travellers long ago. The Langton family now runs several hospitality and entertainment outlets in Kilkenny City with the hotel complex, the Marble City Bar, the Set Theatre and Bridie’s Bar & General Store.
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Guests can unwind in any one of six different bar areas
a daytime break with a large selection of teas, coffees and snacks. The award-winning Langton Room restaurant takes fine dining seriously. The lush surroundings are a nod towards the top quality cuisine, which is locally sourced. A sample of what to expect includes appetisers such as salmon & dill
filled mushroom caps, smoked mackerel ate, marinated beef strips and crab claws. Mains include a fine selection of steaks including rib-eye, fillet, t-bone, sirloin and surf ‘n’ turf as well as lamb cutlets, steak burger, fillet of salmon, seabass, supreme of chicken, ½ roast duck, braised lamb shank, pork steak, salads, sandwiches and desserts. There is a set dinner option. Langton’s is an AA approved hotel and has the mark of approval by food critics, Lucinda O’Sullivan and Georgina Campbell. There are special offers like deals on two nights B&B with one evening meal; midweek/overnight breaks; golf/ medieval packages and the ‘style in the city’ break.
The contemporary accommodation includes executive rooms and specially designed suites each more lavish than the next with bespoke furniture and décor
The contemporary accommodation includes executive rooms and specially designed suites - each more lavish than the next with bespoke furniture and décor. All rooms are state of the art but appointed with the maximum comfort in mind. Other facilities include free Wi-Fi all over the hotel and free parking. Corporate amenities include three splendid suites suitable for conferences or any other event. Guests can unwind in any one of six different bar areas or enjoy an event in the Set Theatre - the city’s newest venue. Informal dining goes from delicious bar food to tapas. The tranquil and refined Tea & Wine Rooms are an ideal place for
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Kilkenny Accommodation
Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel
Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel 1 Ormonde Street 056-7771888 www.kilkennyhibernianhotel.com You can truly bank a relaxing stay in the ‘Marble City’ with the lavish four star accommodation at the Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel. The Georgian building—centrally located—was a financial institution for nearly 60 years and was restored to its former glory in 1998, before opening as a hotel in 2000. The entire complex consists of the City Bar & Grill, the Hibernian Bar and Morrison’s Late Bar & Disco. It has 46 bedrooms—including six in the original building and 40 in a newer three floor wing—divided between classic doubles/ twins, deluxe doubles and penthouse suites. The rooms are the height of comfort with modish décor. There is free Wi-Fi as standard throughout the hotel and the hotel offers a complimentary tea/coffee service,
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delivered to your room on request as a thoughtful extra. For corporate meetings/events etc, The Berkeley Room with its wonderful, historical appearance is ideal. The on-site City Bar & Grill is very much in-keeping with the sophisticated air of the hotel itself; the cuisine and service are impeccable. It serves lunch, a midweek dinner menu and a Sunday lunch as well as an evening a la carte menu. Dishes include crispy confit of duck, homemade salmon rillette, sauteed prawns, vegetarian fettucini, rack of Kilkenny lamb, beef burger, steaks, supreme of chicken, grilled rack of pork and breaded scampi. It is a late bar on Friday & Saturday nights. The Hibernian Bar is a great place to wind down with its relaxing music and atmosphere. It also provides an opportunity for casual dining. It won the title of Kilkenny’s best gastropub in 2011. The Hibernian has special offers on midweek breaks, one night getaways, weekend escapes as well as discounts on advance booking and for seasonal holidays/local festivals.
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Kilkenny Accommodation
Kilford Arms Hotel
Kilford Arms Hotel Upper John Street 056-7761018 www.kilfordarms.ie The three star Kilford Arms Hotel is enviously located between Kilkenny’s main public transport hub, MacDonagh Station, and the historic city centre. It boasts 60 clean, comfortable rooms including a variety of doubles, twins, triples and family rooms. The hotel aims to offer guests ‘a home from home’ stay but with a little bit extra! These extras include the White Oak Restaurant, PV’s Bar, O’Faoláin’s Bar and Pegasus Nightclub, plus free Wi-Fi in public areas, a games room and private parking. There are also packages
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The hotel aims to offer guests ‘a home from home’ stay but with a little bit extra
available for corporate meetings and conferences. The White Oak Restaurant is a case of by name and by nature. The unique
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décor incorporates solid wood floors and fixtures including throne-like, woodturned chairs and branches as decoration. The food is of a distinctly Irish flavour with favourites like stew, bacon and cabbage, smoked salmon and sirloin steak made from local ingredients. PV's Bar is relaxed and traditional with live bands three nights a week and big karaoke session on Saturday nights. It has a lunch and snacks menu during the day with a selection of soup, sambos, salads and bigger meals like shepherd’s pie, lasagne, burger or roast beef. O'Faoláins Bar (and late bar) is set over three levels in the shell of a 16th century church. It also serves a range of food from noon to 9pm. Pegasus Nightclub means that you don’t have to go far to find a place to drink and dance into the night.
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Kilkenny Accommodation
Butler House 16 Patrick Street 056-7722828/7765707 www.butler.ie Butler House is a luxury Guesthouse; formally the Dower House of Kilkenny Castle built in 1770. This historical house is situated in the centre of Kilkenny City, adjacent to Kilkenny Castle. An integral part of the Kilkenny Castle Estate, Butler house was home to the Earls of Ormonde, who also built the castle, stables and coach houses at the rear. Sweeping staircases, magnificent plastered ceilings and marble fireplaces are all features of this 18th century house. The house is a combination of contemporary furnishings and period elegance. Butler House boasts 13 special rooms and suites, all with their own individual character. Designed to provide maximum comfort, each has a modern bathroom, and is decorated with soft coordinated fabrics and furnishings. The balance of old and new is prevalent throughout the rooms –
Glendine Inn Guesthouse Castlecomer Road, Co. Kilkenny 056-7721069 www.glendineinn.com For a friendly welcome and a homely feel, the Glendine Inn Guesthouse is an ideal base for exploring Kilkenny and its surrounds. Run by the Phelan family, you are sure to
contemporary furnishings are combined with the magnificent original features, which afford guests an impressive sense of comfort and space. The spacious superior rooms and suites have bow windows, which overlook the secluded gardens and Kilkenny Castle. Rooms have queen-sized beds, HD TV, tea/coffee facilities, Wi-Fi, and all in-room facilities expected of any 4 star property. There is free on-site parking and full
Butler House
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An ideal base for exploring Kilkenny and its surrounds
feel right at home at the Glendine Inn. The guesthouse is located 1km from Kilkenny City Centre, adjacent to Kilkenny Golf Course, Newpark Hotel and only minutes walk from all the amenities that Kilkenny has to offer. It
Glendine Inn Guesthouse
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Irish breakfast is served at the Kilkenny Design Centre, just a short stroll away through the garden. Butler House also has a stellar reputation for hosting events, from conferences and corporate events to civil wedding ceremonies. The house has three magnificent receptions rooms, all with bow windows, overlooking the garden and castle. Butler House offers special rates including romantic breaks and midweek deals. Email res@butler.ie for special offers.
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has 10 well-appointed rooms, a bar and restaurant. Private car parking is also available. Services include all-day breakfast, lunch and dinner options in their fully-licensed public lounge. With a great atmosphere and great food, the Glendine Inn is the place where locals and tourists convene. All major credit cards are accepted so give the Phelans a call and make a booking today.
Kilkenny Accommodation
Accommodation
FEATURED HOTELS Lyrath Estate Hotel (Pg. 94) Dublin Road 056-7760088 www.lyrath.com Langtons House Hotel (Pg. 95) 69 John Street 056-7765133 www.langtons.ie Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel (Pg. 96) 1 Ormonde Street 056-7771888 www.kilkennyhibernianhotel.com Kilford Arms Hotel (Pg. 97) John Street 056-7761018 www.kilfordarms.ie
FEATURED GUESTHOUSES Butler House (Pg. 98) 16 Patrick Street 056-7722828 www.butler.ie Glendine Inn (Pg. 98) Castlecomer Road 056-7721069 www.glendineinn.com
Other Accommodation Hotels Aspect Hotel Ring Road, Springhill 056-7783100 www.aspecthotelkilkenny.com Hotel Kilkenny College Road 056-7762000 www.hotelkilkenny.ie Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel Ormonde Street 056-7750200 www.kilkennyormonde.com Pembroke Hotel 11 Patrick Street 056-7783500 www.kilkennypembrokehotel.com Springhill Court Hotel Waterford Road 056-7721122 087-1312029 www.springhillcourt.com Newpark Hotel Castlecomer Road 056-7760500 www.flynnhotels.com/newpark_hote l_Kilkenny The River Court Hotel The Bridge, John Street Best Of Ireland Series
056-7723388 087-9460881 www.rivercourthotel.com Zuni Boutique Hotel 26 Patrick Street 056-7723999 www.zuni.ie The Club House Hotel Patrick Street 056-7721994 www.clubhousehotel.com Mount Juliet Thomastown 056-7773000 www.mountjuliet.ie Carroll's Hotel Knocktopher 056-7768082 www.carrollsknocktopher.com
Guesthouses Berkeley House 5 Lower Patrick Street 056-07764848 www.berkeleyhousekilkenny.com Laragh House Smithsland North, Waterford Road 056-7764674 www.laraghhouse.com Rosquil House Castlecomer Road 056-7721419/ 087-9818868 www.rosquilhouse.com
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Kilkenny Accommodation San Antonio Guesthouse Castlecomer Road 056-7771834 www.kilkennycitybandb.com The Laurels Guesthouse College Road 056-7761501 www.thelaurelskilkenny.com Bridge Court Greensbridge, Green Street 056-7762998 www.kilkennybridgecourt.com Fanad House Castle Road 056-7764126 www.fanadhouse.com The Inn @ Ballilogue Clochรกn Ballilogue, The Rower, Inistioge 051-423857 www.ballilogueclochan.com Coolmore Agri Farmhouse Coolmore, Knocktopher 056-7768727 www.coolmorefarmhouse.com Carrickmourne House New Ross Road, Thomastown 056-7724124/087-2867935 www.carrickmournehouse.com The Rising Sun Guest House Main Street, Mullinavat 051-898173 www.therisingsun.ie The Waterside Guesthouse Graiguenemanagh 059-9724246 www.watersideguesthouse.com
City B&Bs Ard Alainn Thornback Road, Keatingstown 056-7767680/ 086-1656726 www.ardalainn.ie Auburndale B&B Springmount, Waterford Road 056-7762716/086-8528622 www.auburndale.ie Avila B&B Freshford Road 056-7751072/086-8417370 www.avilakilkenny.com
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Banville's B&B 49 Walkin Street 056-7770182 Blanchville B&B Dunbell, Maddoxtown 056-7727197 www.blanchville.ie Breagagh View B&B 1 Maiden Hill, Kells Road 056-7703111/086-3618046 www.breagaghview.com Carraig Rua Dublin Road 056-7722929/085-1437905 www.bandbcitykilkenny.com Celtic House 18 Michael Street 056-7762249/086-8566676 www.celtic-house-bandb.com Chaplin's B&B Castlecomer Road 056-7752236/ 087-2955793 www.chaplinsbandb.com Church View B&B Cuffesgrange, Callan Road 056-7729170/ 087-7560351 www.churchview.info Dunromin B&B Dublin Road 056-7761387/ 087-6169072 www.dunrominkilkenny.com Hillgrove B&B Warrington, Bennettsbridge Road 056-7751453/ 086-2306095 http://homepage.eircom.net/~hillgr ove Kenmur House 45 Father Murphy Square 056-7722956 www.kenmurhouse.com Killarney House Freshford Road 056-7723118 www.killarneyhouse.ie Launard House 2 Maidenhill Kells Road 056-7751889/085-7825850 www.launardhousekilkenny.com
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Melrose House Circular Road 056-7765289/087-1248377 www.melrosehouse.com Mena House Castlecomer Road 056-7765362/087-2362601 www.menahousebandb.com Newlands Country House Seven Houses, Danesfort 056-7729171 www.newlandscountryhouse.com Park Villa Castlecomer Road 056-7761337/ 087-9081114 www.kilkennybedandbreakfast.com Rodini B&B Waterford Road 056-7721822 www.rodinibandb.com The Rise B&B Dunmore 056-7764534/ 086-0759345 www.therisedunmore.com Twin Oaks B&B Bawnlusk, Kells Road 056-7729082/ 087-7300496 www.twinoakskilkenny.com
County B&Bs Kilbawn Country House Dungarvan Village, Gowran 056-7793883/086-3388405 www.kilbawnhouse.com Aard Oakleigh Ballyreddin West, Bennettsbridge 056-7727388 www.aardoakleigh.com Norely Theyr Barronsland, Bennettsbridge 056-7727496/ 086-0645441 www.norelytheyr.com Damerstown Farmhouse Castlecomer 056-4441337/ 087-2819872 www.damerstownfarmhousebb.com Wandesforde House Dublin Road, Castlecomer 056-4442441 www.wandesfordehouse.com
Kilkenny Accommodation
Castle View B&B Balleen, Freshford 056-8832181 www.castleviewbb.com Cradog B&B Craddockstown, Woodsgift, Freshford 056-8835224 www.cradog.com Pomodora B&B Clinstown Road, Freshford 056-8832256 www.pomadora.com Bungalow Farmhouse B&B Clonmantagh, Woodsgift, Freshford 056-8835215 www.bungalowbb.com Moate Farm B&B Moate, Freshford 056-8832283 www.moatefarm.net Brandon View House Ballyling Lower, Graignamanagh 059-9724625/087-6508649 www.brandonviewhouse.com Grove Farmhouse Ballycocksuit, Inistioge 056-7758467 www.grovefarmhse.net Charlefield Farmhouse The Rower (R700), Inistioge 051-422386 Cullintra House Inistioge 051- 423614 www.cullintrahouse.com
Hillcrest B&B The Rower, New Ross Road, Inistioge 051-423722 Abbey House Jerpoint, Thomastown 056-7724166 www.abbeyhousejerpoint.com Oldtown Farmhouse B&B Oldtown, Stoneyford, Thomastown 056-7728224/086-3992863 www.oldtownfarmhouse.com Tower House B&B Low Street, Thomastown 056-7724500 Ballaghtobin Country House Ballaghtobin, Callan 056-7725227 www.ballaghtobin.com Aisling B&B Polerone, Mooncoin 051-895456 www.aislingbandb.com Glenraha Farmhouse B&B Mullinavat, Co. Waterford 051-898423/085-7769474 www.glenraha.com Reades Farmhouse B&B Lukeswell, Mullinavat, Co. Waterford 051-898430 www.readesbandb.com
Springview Farmhouse B&B Urlingford 056-8831243 www.springviewbb.com
Hostels/Caravan & Camping Kilkenny Tourist Hostel 35 Parliament Street 056-7763541 www.kilkennyhostel.ie Lanigan's Hostel 28/29 Rose Inn Street 056-7721718 www.hostelkilkenny.ie Mac Gabhainn's Backpacker Hostel 24 Vicar Street 056-7770970 www.macgabhainnsbackpackers.com Nore Valley Park Bennettsbridge 056-7727229 www.norevalleypark.com Tree Grove Caravan & Camping Park Danville House, Newross Road 056-7770302 www.treegrovecamping.com
Lawcus Farmhouse Stoneyford 086-6031667/087-2911056 www.lawcusfarmguesthouse.com
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Kilkenny Further Afield
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If after enjoying all Kilkenny’s sights and experiences, why not broaden your horizons and visit some neighbouring counties, or even Ireland’s capital?
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Kilkenny Further Afield
On Kilkenny’s Doorstep There are a variety of sites and experiences in Kilkenny’s neighbouring counties, which are a reasonable drive away. The following are just some of the many places of interest on Kilkenny’s doorstep… Waterford
Wexford
Tipperary
Just east of County Kilkenny, Waterford is home to Ireland’s oldest city and the capital of the sunny south east. A colourful city with a rich history, attractions include the the Viking Quarter with the excellent Waterford Museum of Treasures and Waterford Crystal Visitor’s Centre.
On the east coast, Wexford has plenty to offer including a 13th Century Norman structure that functions as a lighthouse, scenic Johnstown Castle and Irish Agricultural Museum as well as Duncannon Fort and some extreme adventure at Gravity Forest Park.
South Tipperary borders with Kilkenny. Sights there include the famous Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most spectacular archaeological sites where an intact round tower, a 13th century Gothic cathedral, a 12th century Romanesque chapel and more are built on limestone outcrops on a hill.
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Waterford is home to Ireland’s oldest city and the capital of the sunny south east
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Wexford has plenty to offer
There is plenty more to see and do in Wexford from spotting elusive wildlife at Secret Valley Wildlife Park to having your fill at any number of Wexford’s fine eateries.
Other noteworthy sites are the Galtee Mountains, Cahir Castle, South Tipperary County Museum and Nenagh Heritage Centre/Museum.
Outside of the city there are a number of beaches and places like Tramore, Dungarvan, Dunmore East and An Rinn Gaeltacht as well as the Copper Coast Geopark to discover.
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Sights there include the famous Rock of Cashel
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Kilkenny Further Afield Waterford Quay
Rock of Cashel
Carlow Castle
Dublin Spire
© Loais Tourism
Carlow
Laois
Dublin
Carlow is also adjacent to Kilkenny. It may be small but has lots to see including a beautiful garden trail taking in various cultivated creations such as Altamont Gardens, Arboretum Inspirational Gardens and Burtown House & Gardens to name several.
The heart of the midlands, there is more to Laois than meets the eye.
Kilkenny is relatively close to Dublin; the capital is roughly an hour and 20 minutes away and brimming over with things to do. The top tourist destination in the country is here—the Guinness Storehouse, where you can stand in world's largest pint glass, learn how the renowned ‘black stuff’ is brewed and transported and sample the product in the Brewer’s Dining Hall and the Gravity Bar. You can take a stroll in the Phoenix Park, which stretches to 707 hectares and one of the largest walled parks in Europe. Bask in culture in outlets like the National Museum of Ireland collections (Archaeology, Decorative Arts & History and Natural History); the National Gallery and the Irish Museum of Modern Art to name a few. There are umpteen more attractions such as the Spire monument; the historic G.P.O, a primary site of the 1916 Easter Rising; sporting and music venues, areas like Temple Bar and much more. .
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It may be small but has lots to see
There is plenty more to see including Carlow Castle, the Visual Centre for Contemporary Art, Carlow Museum, Cathedral of the Assumption and Dome Family Entertainment Centre.
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The heart of the midlands, there is more to Laois than meets the eye
There is history aplenty at the Rock of Dunamase, Emo Court and Stradbally Steam Museum and sample arts and culture at the Dunamaise Arts Centre. You can take in the picturesque scenery of Laois in any one of seven golf courses, go for a spot of shopping in Portlaoise and visit pretty villages like Mountmellick, Abbeyleix and Durrow.
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Kilkenny Competition Kilkenny Tradfest © Evelyn McNamara
COMPETITION! Share your Kilkenny story to WIN a weekend break for two
The ethos of The Best of Ireland Series is “Every place has a story” and we want readers to share their experiences of Kilkenny with us. The best and most creative entries will be put into a draw to win a weekend break for two people in the ‘Marble City’ to create more great memories! To enter, finish this sentence (in 100 words or less): The thing we loved best about Kilkenny was… Email your response, with your name and contact details, to the address: bestofireland@southern.ie. We will contact the winning entrant in due course. Happy writing!
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Best Of Ireland Series
Kilkenny Feedback
We Value
Your Feedback We hope you enjoyed your visit to Kilkenny. Perhaps you could take a few moments to give us your feedback on this guide.
Visitors Is this an accurate representation of Kilkenny? Would you like to see anything else in this guide? Feel free to send a photo of your visit to be included in the Kilkenny Guide Facebook page. Email your pictures with a description to bestofireland@southern.ie.
People of Kilkenny
Business Owners What do you think of the guide? What improvements can we make to showcase your business and town? If you would like your business to be included in the next edition, please contact us at bestofireland@southern.ie. bestofireland@southern.ie
Have we left something out? We want to represent your Kilkenny so if you think something should be added, be it a business or an image, to the next edition of the Kilkenny guide, please contact us at bestofireland@southern.ie. Best Of Ireland Series
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Kilkenny Useful Information
Useful Information TOURISM: Kilkenny Tourist Office Shee Alms House, Rose Inn Street, Kilkenny City 056-7751500 Websites: www.visitkilkenny.ie www.kilkenny.ie www.discoverireland.ie
EMERGENCY: General Emergency Services (fire, ambulance etc) 999 Kilkenny Garda Station Dominic Street, Kilkenny City 056-7775000 See www.garda.ie for a full list of Garda Stations in Kilkenny. St Luke's General Hospital Freshford Road, Kilkenny City 056-7785000
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See www.hse.ie for a full list of registered General Practitioners in Kilkenny. Caredoc (Out of Hours GP Service) 1850-334999
TRANSPORT: MacDonagh Station (Irish Rail/Bus Éireann) Dublin Road, Kilkenny City 056-7722024 Timetables also on: www.irishrail.ie/www.buseireann.ie JJ Kavanagh Bus Services 0818-333222 www.jjkavanagh.ie Buggy's Coaches Castlecomer 056-4441264 www.buggy.ie
TAXI: Kilkenny Taxi www.kilkennytaxi.com 056-7722224/087-2255333
Best Of Ireland Series
Call a Cab 056-7761300 7 Sevens 056-7777777 Kilkenny Taxi Service 056-7763017
MEDIA: www.kilkennypeople.ie www.advertiser.ie/kilkenny www.kilkennyreporter.ie www.kilkennyjournal.ie
OTHER: Post Office John’s Green, Kilkenny City 056-7722963 5 Irishtown, Kilkenny City 056-7722719 See www.anpost.ie for a full list of post offices/services in Kilkenny
Kilkenny County Map
Clogh N7 8
To Portlaoise
C Crettyard
3 31
Galmoy lmoy moy y
Bally ly yragget agg g
21
N7 7
Fr Freshford rd
N7 8
Johnstown
15 28 22 Castlecomer
To Dublin Carlow
2
N7 7
Urli Urlingford Ur U lingffo
P Paulstown
Kilkenny ny y
M
Tullaroan n
27 2 24
9
9
N10
Gowran ow 14 25 Goresbridge 10 Bennettsbridge sb 19 9 20 18 13 12 Callan llan Stoneyford one ey rd Graiguenamanagh G r 7 Kells 5 4 2 16 26 30 6 6 Th 1 Thomastown Inistioge Knocktoph n kt he err 17 Ballyhale The T eR Rower Windg dgap dg Kilmaganny ny 29 3 233
Kil ilmanag lmanagh g
11
M9
To New Ross Glenmore nm re e
Piltow wn
N25
Mullinavat Fiddown Kilmacow
Slieverue ev e Please Note: This map indicates approximate locations only and does not illustrate all minor roads.
1. Jerpoint Abbey 2. Dunmore Cave 3. Kilmogue Dolmen 4. Kells Priory 5. Duiske Abbey 6. Kilree Round Tower 7. Killamery High Cross 8. Grannagh Castle 9. Foulksrath Castle 10. The James Hoban Memorial
Moonco co oin
8
To Waterford 11. Kilkenny Airsoft 12. Pure Adventure 13. Nore Valley Pet Farm 14. Reptile Village 15. Castlecomer Discovery Park 16. The Watergarden Gardens & CafĂŠ 17. Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum 18. Kilfane Glen & Waterfall 19. Moth to a Flame Candles 20. Nicholas Mosse Pottery Best Of Ireland Series
21. Rosemarie Durr Pottery 22. Carl Parker Jewels 23. Lyrath Estate Hotel, Spa & Convention Centre 24. Glendine Inn 25. Gowran Park Golf & Leisure 26. Mount Juliet 27. Kilkenny Golf Club 28. Castlecomer Golf Club 29. Mountain View Golf Club 30. Callan Golf Club 31.Buggy’s Coaches | 109
Kilkenny City Map
A
B
D
C M8 N77 to Castlecomer/Athy Ballyragget/Portlaoise
New Orchard Road Roundabout J9
J10
1 H CA ST L EC OM ER NE W
BA
ON BR HE
AC KS
T.
. R ST VICA
St. Canice’s Cathedral
R ON BR HE
BAR R
T. AEL S MICH
AN DE
St. Francis Abbey Brewery
. ST
W OL
FE
TO NE
DIN UIL
WB NE
.U
PP ER
Market Yard
T.
ST.
K AC BL
Rothe House
S ’S AN T.
AY
Cathedral Square ST HIGH
. ST
LS T. NE LA ER TH EA YF N N PE
Canal Walk
TH EP AR AD E PATRIC
. ST
K ST.
W
Kilkenny Castle Grounds
Kilkenny Design Centre/ National Craft Gallery
ER W LO
G AO
GE
T.
E ND MO OR
NE
5
ID BR
.
NEL S RY FRIA
T.
L RD.
MAU DLIN ST.
.
PAR
AM LLI WI
S HN JO
.
County Hall
ROS E IN N ST
S T.
The Tholsel
ST
JO HN
IER
.
Market Cross S.C
AM KH KIC
’S QU JOHN
.K
M JA
T ’S S ES
AD
St. John’s Presbytery
MA UD LIN
ST . LO
ST
. ST
WE R
I LL M
St. Mary’s Cathedral
RO
Bus Station & Railway Station
ST
MI CH AE LS
BL IN
N
E AN GL
JO H
Court House and Grace’s Castle
ST.
T MEN LIA PAR
The Black Abbey
BEY
D.
MacDonagh Junction S.C
DU
AB
ad Ro
ST .
Abbey Bridge
3
4
. AY SW OW LL FE
T.
2
Y NN PE
ES IDG
>
RO AD
T..
.
D RO A
SBR EEN GR
ST GREEN
NEW
LL YB OU GH TS
Greens Bridge
St. Lukes Hospital
OR MO ND ER D.
ST .R IO CH
S
ST .
. ST
TH EP AR AD E
CA ST LE R
D.
UPPER PATR ICK ST.
6
J4 Bohernatounish Roundabout J2 To Kells R697 To Callan & Clonmel
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J1
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J3 N10 to M9 Motorway to Waterford Exit 9
J5 R700 to Bennettsbridge, Thomastown New Ross Rosslare Europort
.
Kilkenny City Map
E
F History & Heritage Black Abbey- A3 Courthouse & Grace’s Castle- B3 Famine Heritage of MacDonagh Junction- D3 Kilkenny Castle & Park- C5 Rothe House & Garden- B3 St. Francis Abbey Brewery- B3 St. Mary’s Cathedral- B4 St. Canice’s Cathedral- A2 The Tholsel- B4
To Johnswell Road J8
Arts & Culture J7
M9 N10 to M9 Motorway to Dublin Exit 8
.
Nowlan Park G.A.A
Kilkenny Design Centre- C5 National Craft Gallery- C5 The Blackbird Gallery- C5 The Butler Gallery- C5 The Set Theatre- C4 Watergate Theatre- B3
Activities Castlecomer Discovery Park- C1 (Follow N77) Kilkenny Airsoft- E6 (Follow R700) Nore Valley Pet Farm- E6 (Follow R700) Pure Adventure- F4 (Follow R712) Reptile Village- F4 (Follow R712)
Shopping
J6 R712 to Paulstown, Gowran, Graiguenamanagha & Carlow Canal Wal
k
Art It.- D3 Authentic Turkish Barber- C4 Carl Parker Jewels- C1 (Follow N77) Frank Wall Mans Shop- B4 From me to you Gift Shop, Gallery & Fashions- D3 G.L. Ryan Watchmaker & Jeweller- B4 Kitty's Cabin- C4 Le Caveau-Specialist Wine Merchant- C3 Little Green Grocer- B3 Luxe Room Fashion & Accessories- B4 MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre- D3 Marble City Barbers- C4 Market Cross Shopping Centre- B4 Mimi Boutique- C4 Moore's Fashions- B3 Moth to a Flame Candles- E6 (Follow R700) Nicholas Mosse Pottery- E6 (Follow R700)
Best Of Ireland Series
Pure Kids- C4 Rosemarie Durr Pottery- C1 (Follow N77) Rudolf Heltzel- C5 Stone House Books- C4 The Book Centre- B4 The Gift Horse- C4 The Gourmet Store & Café- B4 The Sweater Shop- B4 The Wine Centre- C4
Food & Drink A Slice of Heaven- B4 Algarve Grill- D2 Biddy Early's- C4 Breathnach's Steak & Ale House- C4 Brewery Corner- B3 Bridie's Bar & General Store- C4 City Bar & Grill- C5 Cleere's Pub & Theatre- B3 Crotty's Coffee House- C4 John Street Tea & Wine Rooms- C4 Kyteler’s Inn- B4 La Rivista- B3 Left Bank- C5 Little Italy- C4 Marble City Bar & Tea Rooms- B4 Mug Shot Café- B4 O'Faolains Pub/Pegasus Nightclub- D3 O'Riada's Bar- B3 Paris-Texas Bar & Restaurant- B4 Pennefeather Café- B4 Restaurant @ Kilkenny Design Centre- C5 Ripley’s Steak House- C4 Ryan’s Bar- C5 Stephan's Pretzels- B4 The Courtyard Bar & Grill- D3 The Dylan Whisky Bar- C4 The Field Bar & Restaurant- B4 The Pump House- B3 Tynan's Bridge House Bar- C4 Vio's Coffee & Pizza- C4
Accommodation Butler House- C5 Glendine Inn- C1 (Follow N77) Kilford Arms Hotel- D3 Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel- C5 Langton House Hotel- C4 Lyrath Estate Hotel, Spa & Convention Centre- F4 (Follow R712) Please Note: This map indicates approximate locations only.
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