Kilkenny Castle
A magnificent 800-year-old castle with stunningly restored interiors and expansive gardens, offering a deep dive into Irish history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Kilkenny Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 800-year-old castle with stunningly restored interiors and expansive gardens, offering a deep dive into Irish history.
"A must-see piece of Irish history, just plan ahead for crowds and parking!"
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and skip the queues by booking your tickets in advance online .
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Street parking is limited. Use a car park a short walk away for ample time to explore .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Long Gallery
Interior of Kilkenny Castle
Step back in time in this stunningly restored gallery, a testament to the castle's grand past.
Castle Gardens & Parklands
Exterior of Kilkenny Castle
Wander through expansive, peaceful grounds perfect for a stroll, picnic, or family fun.
Artisan Shops
Across the street from Kilkenny Castle
Discover unique crafts, pottery, and fine metalwork in charming shops near the castle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Parking Pointers
Beyond the Castle Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and skip the queues by booking your tickets in advance online.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Street parking is limited. Use a car park a short walk away for ample time to explore.
🚶 Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the spacious gardens and parklands; they're perfect for a relaxing walk.
🛍️ Shop Local
Check out the artisan shops across the street for unique souvenirs and crafts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and skip the queues by booking your tickets in advance online.
🅿️ Parking Strategy
Street parking is limited. Use a car park a short walk away for ample time to explore.
🚶 Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the spacious gardens and parklands; they're perfect for a relaxing walk.
🛍️ Shop Local
Check out the artisan shops across the street for unique souvenirs and crafts.
🎧 Audio Guide
Enhance your visit with the self-guided audio tour for in-depth historical insights.
📸 Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial perspectives of the castle and city with drone footage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kilkenny Castle for its well-maintained interiors, fascinating history, and beautiful, expansive grounds perfect for walks and photos. The Long Gallery is a particular highlight. However, many note that weekend visits can be very crowded, and the limited one-hour street parking near the castle can be inconvenient, suggesting visitors plan for alternative parking.
"I really enjoyed visiting Kilkenny Castle. The castle is beautiful, well maintained, and full of history. The grounds are spacious and very peaceful, perfect for a walk and photos.
One small issue is the parking. There is street parking right outside, but it only allows a maximum of one hour. I think that’s not sufficient, because the castle and gardens take at least two hours to fully enjoy. It would be great if longer parking options were available nearby."
Subin Joseph
"Impressive Castle, Just Be Prepared for the Crowds!
A fantastic visit to the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. The building itself is beautifully restored, and the self-guided tour through the various rooms, especially the Long Gallery, is fascinating and well worth the price of admission. The sprawling parklands surrounding the castle are an absolute highlight – perfect for a walk, a picnic, or just letting the kids run around. It's a true gem in the heart of the city.
The reason for docking one star comes down to logistics. We went on a weekend, and it was incredibly crowded, and we had to wait in a queue for a while to get in. Be prepared for that if you're not visiting on a weekday. The biggest challenge, however, is parking. Most of the on-street parking nearby is limited to a maximum of 1 hour, which is simply not enough time to explore the castle and grounds without constantly clock-watching. You're better off finding a car park a bit further away and walking.
Overall, it is a must-see piece of Irish history. Just plan ahead for the potential crowds and parking situation to make your visit stress-free!"
Sethuraman Mahadevan
"I really enjoyed my visit to Kilkenny Castle. The rooms are beautifully restored and give you a real sense of the history. The exhibitions are well explained and easy to follow. The gardens and park are peaceful and perfect for a walk, with lovely views of the River Nore. Everything was well organized, and the staff were very friendly. Overall, a real highlight of my stay in Kilkenny and highly recommended."
Eduard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kilkenny Castle is easily accessible from Dublin, about a 1.5-hour drive. You can also take a train, which is a scenic and convenient option.
For a unique city tour, consider the Kilkenny Road Train Tours that start near the castle.
On-street parking directly outside the castle is limited to one hour, which is often insufficient for exploring. It's recommended to use a public car park a short walk away from the castle for longer stays.
Absolutely! Kilkenny is a popular day trip destination from Dublin, offering a rich historical experience within easy reach.
Kilkenny city is very walkable, with most attractions, including the castle, within easy strolling distance. The Kilkenny Road Train Tours offer a fun way to see the city's highlights.
Yes, Kilkenny is well-connected by train from major cities like Dublin, making it accessible without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, seniors, students, and families. It's best to check the official Kilkenny Castle website for the most current admission fees. Booking online can sometimes offer a slight discount or guarantee entry during peak times.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Kilkenny Castle website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
Yes, guided tours are often available and depart regularly. Alternatively, you can opt for a self-guided tour with an audio guide to explore at your own pace.
The gardens and parklands surrounding Kilkenny Castle are generally free to access and explore, offering a beautiful space for a walk or picnic.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully restored rooms, including the impressive Long Gallery, and exhibitions detailing the castle's history and the Butler family who resided there.
Yes, the expansive parklands and gardens are perfect for children to run around and explore safely.
To fully enjoy the castle interior, gardens, and parklands, plan for at least 2-3 hours. Some visitors spend longer if they also explore the nearby artisan shops.
Accessibility can vary within historic sites. It's best to check the official Kilkenny Castle website or contact them directly for specific information regarding wheelchair access to all areas.
Kilkenny is known as the 'Marble City' due to its historical association with black limestone, which was used extensively in its medieval architecture and is still quarried locally.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kilkenny Castle has a tearoom on-site offering refreshments. For a wider variety of dining options, the city of Kilkenny, just across the street, boasts numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
The area around Kilkenny Castle offers a range of dining experiences, from traditional Irish pubs to contemporary eateries. Exploring the medieval lanes will reveal many local favorites.
Yes, the spacious parklands and gardens of Kilkenny Castle are ideal for picnics, offering beautiful surroundings to enjoy your meal.
The Smithwick's Experience is a popular attraction in Kilkenny, offering insight into the history of the famous Irish ale. Whether it's 'worth it' depends on your interest in brewing history and craft beers.
In Kilkenny, you can enjoy traditional Irish fare like stews, seafood, and local cheeses. Don't forget to sample some of the local craft beers and spirits.
📸 📸 Photography
The castle exterior, especially with the gardens in bloom, offers stunning photo opportunities. The Long Gallery inside is also a popular spot for capturing the castle's grandeur.
Photography is generally permitted inside Kilkenny Castle, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions in certain areas or exhibitions.
From the castle grounds, you can get lovely views of the surrounding city. For panoramic shots, consider viewpoints along the River Nore or from higher ground.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be good for capturing details inside the castle.
Beyond the castle itself, the medieval streets, the River Nore, and the nearby artisan shops provide diverse and picturesque subjects for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the castle itself, the city of Kilkenny offers family-friendly activities like the Kilkenny Road Train Tours, which provide a fun and informative way to see the city's sights.
Exploring the medieval streets and discovering local craft shops can also be an enjoyable experience for the whole family.💰 Budget Travelers
To save on dining, pack your own lunch and enjoy it in the castle parklands. For transportation, consider the train from Dublin, which can be more economical than driving and parking. Exploring the city's medieval lanes on foot is also a free and rewarding activity.
❤️ Couples & History Buffs
For those fascinated by history, the castle's exhibitions delve deep into its past, from its Norman origins to its time as the seat of the powerful Butler family.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Kilkenny Castle's History
Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous transformations, evolving from a formidable military structure to a grand aristocratic residence. The Victorian-era restoration, completed in the late 19th century, gave the castle much of its current appearance, including the iconic Long Gallery. Today, managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), Kilkenny Castle stands as a preserved piece of Irish heritage, offering visitors a tangible connection to its storied past.
Visitors can explore the restored rooms, learn about the Butler family's lives through informative exhibitions, and wander through the extensive grounds. The castle's journey from a medieval fortress to a stately home reflects the changing tides of Irish history and the enduring significance of this iconic landmark.
Exploring Kilkenny: The Marble City
Beyond the imposing Kilkenny Castle, the city invites exploration of its charming lanes, filled with colorful shops, traditional pubs, and artisan studios. Visitors can discover the Smithwick's Experience to learn about Ireland's famous ale, or explore other attractions like the Castlecomer Discovery Park for outdoor adventures.
The city's creative pulse is evident in its galleries and craft workshops, making it a delightful place to wander and soak in the atmosphere.Kilkenny offers a perfect blend of historical discovery and modern cultural experiences. Whether you're interested in medieval history, local crafts, or simply enjoying a picturesque Irish city, Kilkenny provides a memorable escape, often cited as a fantastic daycation from Dublin.
Photography Tips for Kilkenny Castle
Inside the castle, the Long Gallery is a highlight for photographers, showcasing its ornate ceiling and historical significance. While photography is generally allowed, be mindful of any specific restrictions in exhibition areas. The castle grounds provide ample space for capturing wider shots, including the River Nore and the city skyline in the distance.
Don't forget to explore the artisan shops across the street from the castle; their unique displays and colorful facades offer excellent opportunities for street photography. For a different perspective, consider drone footage if regulations permit, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the castle and its setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit