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Castle Park and Rose Garden

4.6
·61 reviews·Kilkenny, Ireland

Explore the majestic Kilkenny Castle and its breathtaking Rose Garden, a journey through medieval history and floral beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Beautiful

Castle Park and Rose Garden

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the majestic Kilkenny Castle and its breathtaking Rose Garden, a journey through medieval history and floral beauty.

4.6
(61 reviews)

"A truly spectacular garden with fabulous colours and scents, the view of the castle steps is stunning."

Vertical photo
TIP

Self-Guided Tour Advantage

Take your time exploring the castle interiors at your own pace with multilingual leaflets. :book:

Bag Storage Available

Utilize the convenient lockers to store your belongings before your castle tour. :lock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kilkenny Castle Interiors

Kilkenny Castle Interiors

Castle interior

Step back in time exploring the opulent rooms and rich history of this iconic medieval fortress.

Rose Garden

Rose Garden

Castle grounds

A fairytale setting with thousands of roses, perfect for a stroll and stunning photos.

Medieval Mile

Medieval Mile

Kilkenny City

Walk this historic route connecting Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice's Cathedral, uncovering centuries of stories.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Kilkenny Castle

To avoid the biggest crowds at Kilkenny Castle and its gardens, aim for weekdays outside of peak summer months. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more serene experience, allowing you to truly soak in the history and beauty without feeling rushed. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed exploration.

Exploring Kilkenny's Charm

Kilkenny is a city that rewards exploration beyond the castle walls. Wander through its medieval streets, discover local pubs for traditional music, and seek out unique crafts. Many visitors recommend embracing the city's atmosphere at your own pace, rather than rushing between attractions.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring/early autumn
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Tranquil gardens, city ambiance
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Save this Ireland roadtrip itinerary ⤵️ Total: 10 Days, approx. 1,500 kilometers Day 1: Dublin to Kilkenny 🚐 Pick up your roadsurfer! 📍 Castletown House 📍 Powerscourt Estate 📍 Glendalough Day 2: Kilkenny to Waterford 📍 Kilkenny 📍 Kells Priory 📍 Rock of Cashel 📍 Hook Lighthouse Day 3: Waterford to Killarney 📍 Blarney Castle 📍 Killarney National Park Day 4: Ring of Kerry 📍 Ladies View 📍 Kerry Cliffs...
@roadsurfer_com
86.3K likes • 1.6M views

Self-Guided Tour Advantage

Take your time exploring the castle interiors at your own pace with multilingual leaflets. :book: Reddit

Bag Storage Available

Utilize the convenient lockers to store your belongings before your castle tour. :lock: Reddit

Replying to @on_eagles_wings Here’s the tour of my little 2 up, 2 down Irish cottage in County Kilkenny, Ireland #cokilkenny #ireland #irishholidayhomes #2up2down #vacationhomerentals #kilkenny #rosecottageinistioge #inistioge #internationalrealestate #digitalnomad #expatriatelife
@laurabyrnesintheworld
38K likes • 713.4K views
Coloma Rose Garden 🌹🌹🌹 A nice park with rose garden and castle😍 Have you been there? 📍 Joseph Depauwstraat 25 1600 Sint-Pieters-Leeuw Belgium
kate_and_thecity
513 likes • 15.3K views

Free Garden Access

Enjoy the beautiful gardens and scenery surrounding the castle at no extra cost. :rose: Reddit

Capture Fairytale Moments

The Rose Garden offers a magical backdrop for photos, especially with the castle in view. :camera: Instagram

Rose Garden at Loose Park is one of my favorite places to visit in Kansas City area! I feel like I’m in a fairytale or in the garden of a castle. I absolutely love it, and you definitely need to check it out! - - O jardim de rosas é um dos meus lugares favoritos na área de Kansas City. Eu sinto que estou em um conto de fadas ou em um jardim de um castelo 🏰✨Definitivamente vale a visita! Eu amo e r...
gabryelasichieri
219 likes • 7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Self-Guided Tour Advantage

Take your time exploring the castle interiors at your own pace with multilingual leaflets. :book: Reddit

Bag Storage Available

Utilize the convenient lockers to store your belongings before your castle tour. :lock: Reddit

Free Garden Access

Enjoy the beautiful gardens and scenery surrounding the castle at no extra cost. :rose: Reddit

Capture Fairytale Moments

The Rose Garden offers a magical backdrop for photos, especially with the castle in view. :camera: Instagram

Kilkenny's Charm

Wander the charming medieval streets and discover hidden gems beyond the castle. :cityscape: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(61 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kilkenny Castle for its well-maintained grounds, particularly the stunning Rose Garden, and the opportunity for a flexible, self-guided tour of the castle interiors. The free access to the gardens is a significant plus, offering beautiful scenery and photo opportunities. Some find the interior exhibits a bit brief, but the overall historical ambiance and the charm of the surrounding city are highly appreciated.

"I recently embarked on a self-guided tour, and it turned out to be an excellent decision. Without the constraints of a tour group, I had ample time to fully appreciate the stunning interiors at my own pace. The adult ticket was reasonably priced at 8 Euros, while students could enjoy a reduced rate of 4 Euros.
The tour offered multilingual leaflets, which were incredibly helpful in understanding the rich history of the place. There were also convenient lockers available for storing bags, adding to the ease of the visit. One of the highlights was the beautiful pastry available on-site, making for a delightful treat amidst the exploration.
The facility also included a charming tea room, which was a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the experience. Additionally, the surrounding gardens and scenery, which are free of charge, are definitely worth a visit. The serene and picturesque environment added an extra layer of enjoyment to the trip.
Overall, the self-guided tour provided a wonderful blend of flexibility, history, and beauty. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to explore at their own pace and truly savor the experience."

Wojciech Bialek

"Lovely little garden, got some great family photos sitting in front of the fountain with the castle in the background. This is just one more stunning area in the castle grounds. We enjoyed our day there immensely. Would recommend a visit to the castle to everyone !!! Will be back."

Van Man

"Lovely little garden to visit, mostly well kept apart from a few weeds. Grass is tidy and borders are nice, not many flowers but there is no entrance fee so I didn't expect too much! Plus if you look hard enough you may find some fairies! (you may see a few in my pictures! Hehe)"

Thomas

What People Like

Beautiful Rose Garden
Free garden access
Self-guided tour flexibility

What People Dislike

Interior tour can be brief

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kilkenny Castle is easily accessible within Kilkenny city. If arriving by car, there are several parking options nearby. For those traveling from Dublin, it's about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, and many visitors incorporate it into a larger Ireland road trip itinerary. TikTok Public transport options like buses and trains also connect Kilkenny to major cities.

Absolutely! Kilkenny is a popular stop on many Ireland road trip routes, often visited between Dublin and the Southwest. It offers a rich historical experience and a charming city atmosphere. TikTok+1

Walking is the best way to explore Kilkenny's compact city center and the Medieval Mile. The castle is a central point, and most attractions are within easy walking distance. TikTok

Yes, Kilkenny makes for a feasible day trip from Dublin, taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car. However, to truly appreciate the castle and city, an overnight stay is recommended. TikTok

Yes, guided walking tours are available for Kilkenny city, often focusing on its medieval history. Many visitors find a self-guided approach equally rewarding for flexibility. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Adult tickets for the castle interior tour are typically around 8 Euros, with student and concession rates available (around 4 Euros). The surrounding gardens and grounds are generally free to enter. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, is recommended to secure your preferred entry time and avoid disappointment. TikTok

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Kilkenny Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening times and any special closures. TikTok

The Rose Garden, located within the castle grounds, is typically free to access as part of the castle grounds. Reddit

Information on group rates and family tickets can usually be found on the official castle website. It's worth checking for any special offers or packages. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Inside Kilkenny Castle, you can explore the Long Gallery, the State Apartments, and learn about the Butler family's history. Multilingual leaflets provide detailed information. Reddit

Yes, Kilkenny Castle offers convenient lockers for visitors to store their bags during their visit, making exploration easier. :lock: Reddit

The castle grounds feature beautiful formal gardens, including the popular Rose Garden with thousands of blooms, and scenic parkland perfect for a leisurely stroll. InstagramReddit

Yes, children often enjoy exploring the castle's history and the expansive grounds. The gardens provide space for them to run around. Reddit

Photography policies can vary, but generally, photography without flash is permitted in most areas of the castle. Always check for specific signage. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a charming tea room on-site at Kilkenny Castle, offering pastries and refreshments. Reddit The castle grounds also have a cafe. TikTok

Kilkenny offers a range of dining options, from traditional pubs serving hearty Irish fare to modern restaurants. Some visitors rave about Korean fried chicken wraps! TikTok

Kilkenny city is known for its traditional pubs, many of which offer live music. Exploring the Medieval Mile will lead you to numerous authentic establishments. TikTok

Most restaurants and cafes in Kilkenny are accustomed to dietary requests and offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask your server. TikTok

While specific local delicacies can vary, enjoying a pint of Guinness in a traditional pub is a quintessential Kilkenny experience. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Rose Garden with the castle in the background is a prime photo spot. InstagramReddit The castle exterior from various angles and the fountain area also offer great opportunities. Reddit

Absolutely! The Rose Garden is described as a fairytale setting and offers stunning floral displays, making it ideal for memorable photographs. InstagramReddit

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, often provides the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the gardens offer shade. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and national monuments. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide shots of the grounds and details inside. A prime lens can be useful for portraits in the gardens. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kilkenny Castle and its grounds are a fantastic destination for families. The expansive gardens offer plenty of space for children to run and play, making the visit enjoyable for all ages. Reddit The castle interiors, while historical, can also spark imagination, with stories of knights and royalty. Consider a self-guided tour so kids can explore at their own pace without feeling rushed. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the beautiful parkland, or take advantage of the on-site cafe for snacks. The Rose Garden is particularly enchanting and provides a magical backdrop for family photos. InstagramReddit Exploring the Medieval Mile on foot is also a fun way to discover the city's history, with many interactive elements and interesting sights to keep younger visitors engaged.

💰 Budget Travelers

Kilkenny Castle offers great value for budget-conscious travelers. While there's a fee for the castle interiors, the gardens and grounds are free to explore, providing hours of enjoyment and stunning photo opportunities. Reddit This makes it an excellent option for those looking to experience the beauty of the estate without a significant expense. Reddit

To save on food, consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the castle grounds or exploring the city's numerous pubs for more affordable meal options. TikTok Walking the Medieval Mile is also a free activity that allows you to soak in the city's history and atmosphere. TikTok Look for accommodation slightly outside the immediate city center for potentially lower rates.

couples

Kilkenny Castle provides a romantic setting for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand through the enchanting Rose Garden, especially beautiful when in full bloom, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. InstagramReddit The castle interiors offer a glimpse into history, sparking conversations and shared discovery. Reddit

Consider an evening visit to the gardens for a more tranquil and intimate experience. Afterwards, explore Kilkenny's charming streets and find a cozy pub for a romantic dinner or drinks, perhaps enjoying some live traditional music. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Castle Grounds and Gardens

The grounds of Kilkenny Castle are as much a draw as the castle itself. The Rose Garden is a particular highlight, often described as a fairytale setting with thousands of blooming roses, making it a photographer's dream. InstagramReddit Visitors can wander through these beautifully maintained gardens, enjoying the scents and colors, especially during the summer months. The presence of a central fountain adds to the picturesque scene, providing a lovely spot for family photos with the castle as a backdrop. Reddit

Beyond the formal gardens, the wider castle grounds offer a more natural and serene environment. These areas are perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to appreciate the scale of the estate and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors find these outdoor spaces to be a delightful complement to the historical interiors of the castle, offering a chance to relax and take in the medieval city's surroundings. Reddit

Remember that while the castle interiors have an entrance fee, the gardens and grounds are often accessible for free, making them a wonderful option for a budget-friendly visit or a relaxing break. Reddit The combination of historical architecture and natural beauty makes the castle grounds a must-see part of any visit to Kilkenny.

The Medieval Mile Experience

Kilkenny's Medieval Mile is a designated heritage trail that stretches for one mile, connecting the city's two major landmarks: Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral. This walkable route is designed to immerse visitors in the city's rich medieval past, showcasing its history through a series of significant sites, charming streets, and historical buildings. TikTok

As you walk the Medieval Mile, you'll encounter various points of interest, including the Tholsel (city hall), Rothe House & Garden, and the Kilkenny Design Centre. The trail encourages exploration at your own pace, allowing you to discover hidden courtyards, traditional pubs, and artisan shops along the way. TikTok Many visitors find that simply wandering through the narrow, winding streets offers a glimpse into Kilkenny's enduring medieval character. TikTok

This experience is not just about historical sites; it's about soaking in the atmosphere of a city that has preserved its medieval heart. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a scenic walk, the Medieval Mile provides a comprehensive and engaging way to discover the essence of Kilkenny. TikTok

Culinary Delights in Kilkenny

Kilkenny offers a vibrant food scene that goes beyond the typical tourist fare. While the castle itself has a tea room serving pastries and refreshments, the city center boasts a variety of dining options. Reddit Visitors have praised the quality of food, with some highlighting unique finds like delicious Korean fried chicken wraps, showcasing the city's diverse culinary influences. TikTok

For an authentic Irish experience, exploring Kilkenny's traditional pubs is a must. These establishments often serve hearty, local dishes and are renowned for their welcoming atmosphere and live traditional music sessions. TikTok+1 Whether you're looking for a casual pint and a bite or a more formal dining experience, Kilkenny caters to a range of tastes and preferences. TikTok

When planning your culinary adventures, consider exploring the local markets or seeking out restaurants that emphasize fresh, local ingredients. This approach often leads to the most memorable and authentic dining experiences in Kilkenny. TikTok

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