Kilkenny, the ‘Medieval County’ is an area of good rich farmland bordered by Laois, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Carlow.

It is dotted with medieval ruins, solid stone walls, charming villages and a host of historic monuments. Pre-historic portal dolmens, Iron Age earth works, early Ogham stones, a plethora of early Christian monastic sites, Anglo-Norman defensive towers, imposing castles, Elizabethan manor houses and Georgian estate houses are to be seen throughout the county.

There are forest parks, natural wonders and some of Ireland’s finest studio workshops clustered in the scenic valley of the River Nore. There are lots of hotels and B&B accommodation in the county.

Kilkenny City
Kilkenny City sometimes known as ‘Marble City’ because of the black limestone used in many of its buildings, has origins dating back more than 1500 years. Kilkenny, from the Gaelic Cill Ceannaigh, derives its name from a 6th century monk called Saint Canice.

Kilkenny City is compact enough to explore on foot, yet full of fascinating historical buildings and contemporary shops, design galleries, cafes, retsaurants, pubs and hotels. Don’t miss a visit to Kilkenny Castle right in the heart of the city and give yourself time to enjoy a walk in the magnificent grounds of the castle.