Kilfane Glen and Waterfall
Discover Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, a hidden gem in Kilkenny featuring enchanting romantic-era gardens and a serene cascade.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Seasonal opening
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall
Best Time
Seasonal opening
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, a hidden gem in Kilkenny featuring enchanting romantic-era gardens and a serene cascade.
"A hidden gem that feels like stepping back into a romantic, fairytale landscape."
Card Payments Only
Entry fee is €7 per person, payable by card only. Family and student reductions available. :credit_card:
Respect Private Property
This is a private residence; treat the gardens with care and respect as if visiting someone's home. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Romantic Gardens
Kilfane Glen
Wander through 15 acres of lush, romantic-era gardens dating back to the 1790s. A true hidden gem.
Kilfane Waterfall
Glen floor
Discover a stunning 30-foot waterfall cascading into a clear pool, surrounded by mossy stones and wild greenery.
Cottage Orné
Garden area
Admire the picturesque 1800s cottage orné, adding to the fairytale charm of this tranquil escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Access & Ticketing
Embrace the Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Card Payments Only
Entry fee is €7 per person, payable by card only. Family and student reductions available. :credit_card:
Respect Private Property
This is a private residence; treat the gardens with care and respect as if visiting someone's home. :pray:
Allow 90 Minutes
You can explore the entire glen and waterfall in about 90 minutes, but linger longer for a truly relaxing experience. :clock:
Picnic Paradise
There's a spacious picnic area with benches, perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Card Payments Only
Entry fee is €7 per person, payable by card only. Family and student reductions available. :credit_card:
Respect Private Property
This is a private residence; treat the gardens with care and respect as if visiting someone's home. :pray:
Allow 90 Minutes
You can explore the entire glen and waterfall in about 90 minutes, but linger longer for a truly relaxing experience. :clock:
Picnic Paradise
There's a spacious picnic area with benches, perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Buggy Friendly (Mostly)
The paths are mostly buggy-friendly, though some areas can be uneven. :stroller:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is widely praised as a 'hidden gem' offering a magical, fairytale-like experience with its beautifully maintained romantic-era gardens and serene waterfall. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the picturesque scenery, and the reasonable entry fee, making it ideal for a relaxing day trip. Some note that the waterfall's flow can vary, and it's important to remember it's a seasonal attraction on private property.
"This place is a hidden gem! It's perfect for a day trip, with a stunning small waterfall and plenty of scenic walking trails to immerse yourself in nature. The spacious picnic area, complete with numerous benches, is ideal for relaxation. You can easily explore the entire area within 90 minutes, but you'll have plenty of time to unwind, as it stays open until 6 pm. Note that it's only open during July and August, so plan accordingly! The entry fee is reasonable, at 7€ for adults and 20€ for families. We absolutely loved it and highly recommend it!"
Sibeesh Venu
"Beautiful gardens, incredibly well maintained considering the low price of admission. Please remember that it is a private house when visiting, treat it as if you were invited to someone's home. The Glen and waterfall are too amazing for words, just go and visit, you won't be disappointed."
Dylan O'Dwyer
"Kilfane Glen and Waterfall in County Kilkenny is a hidden gem that feels like stepping back into a romantic, fairytale landscape. The 18th-century gardens are lush, peaceful, and beautifully preserved, with winding woodland paths leading to the stunning 30-foot waterfall that cascades into a clear pool below. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet stroll, a picnic, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The place has a timeless charm—rustic bridges, mossy stones, and wild greenery make it feel untouched and magical. Perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a tranquil escape."
Fiona Murphy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is located near Thomastown in County Kilkenny, Ireland. It's a short drive from Thomastown and easily accessible by car. There is a car park available on-site.
While public transport options to Thomastown exist, direct public transport to Kilfane Glen itself might be limited. It's best to check local bus routes or consider a taxi from Thomastown.
The nearest town to Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is Thomastown, County Kilkenny.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is a seasonal attraction, typically open daily from 11 am to 6 pm during July and August. Always check their official opening times before visiting. 
The entry fee is €7 per person. Reductions are available for families, OAPs, and students. Payment is usually by card only.
Tickets are typically purchased at the entrance upon arrival. It's advisable to confirm if advance booking is available or necessary, especially during peak season.
No, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is not open year-round. It operates seasonally, usually only during the months of July and August.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the romantic-era gardens, walk woodland paths, admire the waterfall and cottage orné, and enjoy a picnic in the designated area.
Most visitors spend around 90 minutes exploring the glen and waterfall, but you can easily spend longer if you wish to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Yes, there are toilets available on-site for visitors.
Information regarding pet policies is not widely available. It's best to contact the venue directly to inquire about bringing dogs.
The terrain is mostly suitable for walking, and the paths are generally buggy-friendly, though some areas can be uneven.
🍽️ 🧺 Food & Dining
There are no on-site restaurants or cafes. However, there is a spacious picnic area with benches, so bringing your own food is recommended.
Absolutely! Kilfane Glen has a lovely picnic area with plenty of benches, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
The nearby town of Thomastown offers various dining options, from traditional pubs to cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is incredibly picturesque, with its lush gardens, charming cottage, and serene waterfall, making it a dream for photographers.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating a magical atmosphere. Weekdays also offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
There is no specific information available regarding drone usage. It's best to assume they are not permitted to respect the privacy of the private residence and the tranquility of the gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The spacious picnic area is perfect for a family lunch amidst nature, and the overall exploration time of about 90 minutes is manageable for younger attention spans. 🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
While not a strenuous hike, the terrain provides enough variety to be engaging. The emphasis here is on tranquility and immersion in nature, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and appreciating the lush Irish landscape. 📸 Photographers
+1 The soft, natural light, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, can create a truly magical ambiance. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer fewer crowds, allowing for unobstructed shots and a more peaceful photography experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Romantic Era Gardens
+1The gardens are meticulously maintained, a testament to the care taken by the private owners. This attention to detail, combined with the natural setting, creates an atmosphere that many describe as magical and fairytale-like. The presence of a charming cottage orné further enhances this whimsical feel, adding a touch of historical elegance to the landscape.
+1It's important to remember that Kilfane Glen is part of a private residence. Visitors are encouraged to treat the grounds with the same respect they would show when visiting someone's home, ensuring the preservation of its unique charm for all to enjoy.
The Enchanting Waterfall
The area around the waterfall is characterized by mossy stones, rustic bridges, and dense woodland, creating a scene that feels both ancient and untouched. This natural setting is what draws many visitors, who describe it as a picturesque paradise and a place where they feel a connection to nature.
+1While the waterfall is a key feature, it's part of a larger, cohesive landscape. The entire glen, with its varied terrain and natural elements, offers a delightful exploration for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape from the everyday.
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