Kilkenny

Located in Ireland’s Ancient East, the city of Kilkenny is as charming as it is historic. The city is famous for its remarkable 12th century Castle, its medieval history, vibrant food culture and as one of the centers of Ireland’s creative and artistic culture.

Wild Rover Tours has several day-trip options that include a visit to Kilkenny. Itineraries vary, depending on which tour you book but below are some top attractions that you can visit a day tour to Kilkenny from Dublin.

Kilkenny Castle

The famous 12th century Kilkenny Castle, in the heart of the city on the banks of the River Nore. Kilkenny Castle is the best-preserved example of an Anglo-Norman Castle in the country, and it dominates the centre of this walkable city. Kilkenny Castle has a storied past and was once the Irish stronghold of the legendary Strongbow. Dating back to 1195, Kilkenny has been restored and is fully furnished, allowing visitors to enjoy a guided tour and learn about the castle’s history or to simply stroll around the beautiful grounds for themselves.

Black Abbey

Black Abbey is over 1,000 years old. Located just outside the original walls of Kilkenny City, The Black Abbey was home to a group of Dominican friars when it was founded in the 1220s. Black Abbey is believed to have taken its name from the black cappa that the friars wore over their white habits during the Middle Ages.

Kilkenny Walking Tour

A Kilkenny Walking tour is included with most of our day trips from Dublin to Kilkenny. One of the perks of Kilkenny’s compact size is the ability to explore the city on foot! Enjoy a walking tour of Kilkenny City and explore the winding cobbled streets and under the city’s many medieval arches. Listen to the tales and legends told by your entertaining guide along the way, from kings and sieges to witch trials and murder!

Rothe House

Rothe House is a magnificent example of a wealthy silk merchant’s home built in 1594. Rothe House contains multiple medieval exhibits; including priceless Viking artefacts and a medieval garden, which contains plants of the era including Gortahork cabbage and Blood of the Boyne apples.

Kilkenny Art & Design Centre

Located in the old stable yard of Kilkenny Castle is Kilkenny Art & Design Centre.  The Kilkenny Art & Design Centre has been at the forefront of Irish design for over 50 years. It was originally established by the Irish Government to help develop new Irish craft makers into self-sufficient entrepreneurs. It is now a focal point for some of the top art, design and craftspeople in Ireland.

We know you may wish to get some gifts for your friends or family in Ireland’s capital of craft, we have arranged for a 10% discount at Kilkenny Design Centre

Artisan Food Producers

Kilkenny has a proud food heritage. Some of the finest Irish artisan food is produced in and around the Kilkenny area. There are plenty of cafes and charming gastropubs to choose from. You tour guide will be happy to make some recommendations once you arrive in the city.

Kilkenny Smithwick’s Experience

There is also an optional visit to the Kilkenny Smithwick’s Experience, the oldest brewery in Ireland. It is a beer forged from adversity with a story not to be missed. First brewed in 1710, Smithwick’s has become synonymous with Irish culture. The Smithwick’s Experience offers visitors a unique insight into the brand’s history, the brewing process as well as a complimentary pint of your favourite Smithwick’s Ale, or soft drink for under 18s.

Choose a Day Tour

Have we whetted your appetite? Want to visit Kilkenny on a day trip from Dublin? Check out our tour options below or contact us to arrange a bespoke itinerary on one of our private or small group tours.