Located in the heart of Kilkenny City (it’s just a 15-minute walk from McDonagh Railway Station), Kilkenny Castle is a popular destination for tourists who wish to make a day trip from Dublin. Here’s a bit of its history and what you can expect to do and see on a visit today.
History:
Kilkenny Castle was originally built by William Marshal, 4th Earl of Pembroke, during the early 13th century. In the 1390s, it was sold to the Butler family and was home to their descendants for close to 600 years. In the 1930s, this family sold the majority of the castle’s contents before Arthur, 6th Marquess of Ormonde and a member of the Butler family, presented it to the city of Kilkenny for the sum of £50. In 1969, the Office of Public Works took over the care of the historical building. Since its original construction, the Anglo-Norman stone structure has received several additions and numerous alterations, making it what it is today.
The Grounds:
Gardens and green space surround the castle, and many of their features have been recently restored. A formal garden with a central fountain and radiating pathways is located on the west side of the castle. Additionally, guests will see two lead statues near the castle: Diana the Huntress and a version of Hermes that is modeled after the original that is located in the Vatican. The Parade Tower wing of the castle, which is now a modern center dedicated to special events such as conferences, weddings, and dinners features an entrance that is flanked by gates from the 17th century.
What to Do at Kilkenny Castle:
Whether you are attending an event or simply want to take in the history and scenery onsite, Kilkenny allows visitors to step back in time and view architectural details as well as furnishings from the castle’s more than 700 years. From the first of February through the end of October, all visits are self-guided. In the slower winter months, visits are only available by guided tour. Aside from the interior, many visitors note that the grounds alone are worth the trip.
Learn more about Kilkenny Castle and plan your visit at kilkennycastle.ie.
Love ❤️ the pictures. I miss Ireland. I truly believe I left my heart ❤️ in Ireland. Cheers Pat
I loved my trip to Ireland the home of my grand father he was from Kilkenny I got to go inside and just take my time also went to family cemetery. I hope to go again
What a great place..went castle chasing with Rory O’Connor in 1979, great memories
Wonder if there’s any information on small castles now private homes?
I had the pleasure of visiting Ireland May 2017 and Kilkenney was the first tour . I spent two weeks in Ireland and hope to return one day . Ive found the Irish people to be the nicest, down to earth that Ive ever met. Im proud to say my ancestors are from County Cork (Collins). My heart remains in Ireland . ♡
I love your items!
Irish Castles are glorious. It is on my bucket list to visit Ireland to see the castles and the beautiful landscape that is my ancestry. Thank you so very much for sharing.
My family tree is from Kilkenny, with my family name going back to 1554, from a map dated then that had Marnelltown on it. My family farm was near there. I had a relative visit that area in the 1950’s.I would love to visit Ireland and Kilkenny in the near future.The castle looks wonderful.
Was in Kilkenny last week. Lovely town and the castle was awesome. If you have a chance to go to Ireland Kilkenny is a place to visit
Have been there several times, beautiful place that is dear to my heart.
Are there castles in Connemara?
All of Ireland is beautiful. The castles make it even better because you can step back in time with your imagineion
It was a great time we have just wandering through the castle and the gardens I would go back in a heartbeat
My husband and I visited my Mom’s farm in County Cavan in 2003, and got to see gorgeous parts of Ireland….just beautiful, got to see a few castles but unfortunately never made it to Kilkenny. That’s first on our list for the next trip!
We absolutely loved our trip to Kilkenny! The castle was spectacular and the grounds were enchanting! The city on the river is so quaint and downtown was vibrant with street musicians, tourists and shops!! Lots of craic at Kytlers with the locals!! Yearning to return for a lengthy stay…like forever!!
We’ve visited Ireland 6 times and I always love the Kilkenny area — maybe because my relatives came from there. (Husband’s are in Sligo.) The castle, cathedrals, and whole city are amazing. Rothe House is very helpful with family and history research. Great fun watching world cup rugby in the pubs. Kilkenny is well worth your time. Now that we have our citizenships, we look forward to returning to our second country!