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Shee Alms House

5
·3 reviews·Kilkenny, Ireland

Step back in time in Kilkenny, a city brimming with medieval charm, historic castles, and vibrant arts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
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Shee Alms House - Image 1

Shee Alms House

Best Time

Spring & Autumn Mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time in Kilkenny, a city brimming with medieval charm, historic castles, and vibrant arts.

5
(3 reviews)

"Kilkenny is a beautiful city with so much to see and do, a perfect blend of history and culture!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Medieval Mile

Explore Kilkenny's historic heart on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets!

🎟️ Book Arts Festival Tickets

If visiting during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, book tickets for popular events like those at Shee Alms House in advance.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shee Alms House

Shee Alms House

Kilkenny City Centre

A historic 16th-century building offering a glimpse into charitable foundations and medieval architecture.

Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle

The Parade, Kilkenny

A magnificent Norman castle with centuries of history, offering stunning architecture and beautiful grounds.

Medieval Mile

Medieval Mile

Kilkenny City

A historic trail connecting Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice's Cathedral, showcasing the city's rich past.

St. Canice's Cathedral

St. Canice's Cathedral

Kilkenny City

An impressive medieval cathedral with a round tower offering panoramic views of Kilkenny.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Kilkenny's Charm

Kilkenny is a popular spot, especially during summer and festival times. To avoid the biggest crowds and get the most authentic experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays. Booking accommodations and popular tours in advance is highly recommended, particularly if you're planning a trip around a specific event.TikTok

Embrace Kilkenny's Walkable Core

Kilkenny is best explored on foot. Most of the historic sites, including the Shee Alms House, are within easy walking distance of each other. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the medieval streets and cobblestone paths. Parking can be challenging in the city center, so consider public transport or parking slightly outside the core.TikTok

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Kilkenny Arts Festival
Why
Vibrant cultural events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The locals are making my job much easier 😂 #kilkenny #IrishHistory #irelandtiktok #irishtiktok #historybuff
@urbanistariel
102.3K likes • 693.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Medieval Mile

Explore Kilkenny's historic heart on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets! TikTok

🎟️ Book Arts Festival Tickets

If visiting during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, book tickets for popular events like those at Shee Alms House in advance. Instagram

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
We have had a great development week in the beautiful Shee Alms House in Kilkenny, with @alexandeiira @amattsu @jack.t.foster @katepowellmusic @creative_in_nature_ireland With thanks to @artscouncilireland and @kilkennycoco #homesweethome #homebird #home #theatre #dance #story #storytelling #devisedtheatre
trickster_makes
22 likes • 828 views

🏰 Kilkenny Castle Tours

Consider a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle to fully appreciate its history and architecture. TikTok

☕ Local Coffee & Pubs

Discover charming local pubs and cafes like Fennellys of Callan for a true Kilkenny experience. TikTok

It’s an open house today at Shee Almshouse @kilkennyartsfestival (as you can see, we’re wrecking the gaff 🤘🏼) Open house: 9.30am - 1pm Performances: 5.30pm + 6.30pm 🎟️ Free admission For this unique ‘open house’ event, Crash Ensemble invite you to peek behind the scenes as we record Postcards, a series of short compositions by a diverse array of composers whose work explores our relationship...
crashensemble
62 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Medieval Mile

Explore Kilkenny's historic heart on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets! TikTok

🎟️ Book Arts Festival Tickets

If visiting during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, book tickets for popular events like those at Shee Alms House in advance. Instagram

🏰 Kilkenny Castle Tours

Consider a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle to fully appreciate its history and architecture. TikTok

☕ Local Coffee & Pubs

Discover charming local pubs and cafes like Fennellys of Callan for a true Kilkenny experience. TikTok

👻 Haunted History

For a spooky twist, join a Kilkenny haunted tour that often includes tales related to the Shee Alms House area. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

5
(3 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kilkenny for its rich history, charming medieval streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The city is lauded for its well-preserved landmarks like Kilkenny Castle and the Medieval Mile, offering a deep dive into Ireland's past. While generally positive, some find parking challenging and certain attractions can be crowded during peak times.

"Staying at the Butler house our room was “Shee room” they had a little write up about the historical building: Shee Alms House was founded by the Shee family in 1582 'to accommodate twelve poor persons' in the city of Kilkenny, Ireland. During our exploration of Kilkenny we stumbled upon the house."

krazy ISH

"Sir Richard Shee (pronounced 'Shay', not 'Shee') was an estate landowner with a castle in the Kilkenny area. He left a foundation for poor persons in his name, this building that exists to this day. His tomb in back of St Mary's, nearby, in what used to be inside the back of the church, is now restored."

Greg Shay

"The best restaurant in town! Opens every day."

Иван Иванов

What People Like

Rich medieval history
Charming city streets
Kilkenny Castle beauty

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Peak season crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kilkenny is easily accessible from Dublin by car (approx. 1.5 hours) or by train. Public transport is a great option if you want to avoid parking hassles in the city center.TikTok

Yes, Kilkenny is very walkable! Most attractions, including the Shee Alms House, are clustered together in the city center, making it ideal for exploring on foot.TikTok

There are several car parks available in Kilkenny, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider parking slightly outside the city center and walking in.TikTok

Absolutely! Kilkenny makes for an excellent day trip from Dublin, offering a rich historical and cultural experience within a manageable distance.TikTok

Yes, many guided walking tours are available, covering historical sites like the Shee Alms House, Kilkenny Castle, and the darker side of Kilkenny's history.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the Shee Alms House is a historic building, specific entry fees can vary depending on whether it's hosting an exhibition or event. During the Kilkenny Arts Festival, some events like the Crash Ensemble's 'open house' were free.Instagram

Opening hours for the Shee Alms House are typically tied to specific events or exhibitions. It's best to check the Kilkenny Arts Festival schedule or local listings for current information.Instagram+1

It's advisable to book tickets for Kilkenny Castle in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.TikTok

Many of Kilkenny's attractions are free to explore from the outside, including walking the Medieval Mile and admiring the architecture. Some events at the Shee Alms House have also been free.Instagram

The official Kilkenny Arts Festival website is the best source for event schedules, including performances and exhibitions held at venues like the Shee Alms House.Instagram+1

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Founded by the Shee family in 1582, the Shee Alms House was established to accommodate twelve poor persons in Kilkenny, reflecting medieval charitable practices.Reddit

The Shee Alms House is a historic building that often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, offering a glimpse into its past and contemporary artistic expressions.Instagram+2

Interactive events like Ta Tum Tum's Brazilian carnival show at the Shee Alms House are specifically designed to be fun for both children and adults.Instagram

Shee Alms House is centrally located and close to Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral, and other key sites along the Medieval Mile.Instagram

Photography policies may vary depending on any ongoing exhibitions or events. It's always best to check with staff on-site or event organizers.Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Kilkenny has a vibrant food scene. While specific recommendations vary, travelers have praised places for excellent Korean fried chicken wraps and traditional pubs.TikTokReddit

Yes, Kilkenny is known for its lively pub culture. Many historic pubs offer a great atmosphere and local brews.TikTok

Expect traditional Irish fare, hearty pub grub, and increasingly diverse culinary options, including international flavors.TikTok

Most restaurants and cafes in Kilkenny are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan choices on their menus.

Enjoy a pint of local ale or stout in a traditional pub, and don't miss out on any unique local culinary finds mentioned by locals.TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral (especially the round tower view), the Medieval Mile's charming streets, and the historic architecture of buildings like the Shee Alms House are all highly photogenic.TikTok+1

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing Kilkenny Castle and its grounds. Weekdays can also mean fewer people in your shots.TikTok

Depending on exhibitions, the interior of the Shee Alms House can offer unique architectural details and artistic displays for photography.Instagram+1

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for cityscapes and architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of Kilkenny Castle and its grounds.TikTok

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Ireland. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone near historical sites or in urban areas.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kilkenny offers a wealth of family-friendly activities. The Shee Alms House can be a great stop, especially if there's an interactive event like the Ta Tum Tum Brazilian carnival show, which is designed for all ages.Instagram Kilkenny Castle is also a hit with kids, offering plenty of space to explore and imagine knights and princesses.

Beyond these, consider a visit to the Smithwick's Experience for a taste of local brewing history (age-appropriate sections available) or simply enjoy a picnic in the castle grounds. The Medieval Mile is perfect for a historical scavenger hunt, turning sightseeing into an adventure. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for little explorers!

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Kilkenny can be explored on a budget by focusing on its many free attractions. Walking the Medieval Mile, admiring Kilkenny Castle from the outside, and exploring the grounds are all free activities.TikTok Many churches, like St. Canice's Cathedral, are free to enter, though climbing the round tower may have a small fee.

Look for free events during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, as some performances and exhibitions at venues like the Shee Alms House are offered at no cost.Instagram For dining, opt for casual cafes, bakeries, or grab-and-go options rather than sit-down restaurants. Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on expenses.

🏛️ History Buffs

Kilkenny is a dream destination for history enthusiasts. The Shee Alms House itself is a significant historical site, representing 16th-century philanthropy.Reddit Delve deeper into the city's past by exploring Kilkenny Castle, which has been a seat of power for centuries.TikTok

Don't miss the Medieval Mile, a trail that connects key historical landmarks, offering a comprehensive journey through Kilkenny's rich heritage. Sites like Rothe House & Gardens and the infamous Kyteler's Inn provide further insights into medieval life, trade, and even darker tales.Instagram Consider joining a guided historical walking tour to gain deeper context and uncover hidden stories.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Shee Alms House

The Shee Alms House in Kilkenny holds a significant place in the city's charitable history. Founded in 1582 by the Shee family, its primary purpose was to provide accommodation for twelve poor persons within the city. This act of philanthropy reflects the social structures and religious motivations of the Elizabethan era in Ireland.

Sir Richard Shee, a prominent landowner with a castle in the Kilkenny area, established this foundation. His legacy is also marked by his tomb, which is located in St. Mary's Church, a site historically connected to the area. The building itself, though adapted over centuries, stands as a testament to this historical commitment to welfare and community support.Reddit

Today, the Shee Alms House often serves as a venue for cultural events, particularly during the Kilkenny Arts Festival. It has hosted art exhibitions and performances, allowing visitors to experience its historic ambiance while engaging with contemporary arts. This dual role—preserving history while fostering culture—makes it a unique stop in Kilkenny.Instagram+1

Exploring Kilkenny's Medieval Charm

Kilkenny is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval core, often referred to as the Medieval Mile. This historic thoroughfare stretches between the iconic Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral, acting as a living museum of the city's past. Walking this route allows you to step back in time, with ancient abbeys, historic townhouses, and atmospheric lanes at every turn.TikTok

Key landmarks along the Medieval Mile include Rothe House & Gardens, a unique 17th-century merchant's home, and Kyteler's Inn, famously associated with Ireland's first recorded witchcraft trial. The Shee Alms House is also situated within this historically rich area, contributing to the dense tapestry of medieval Kilkenny.Instagram

Beyond the major sites, simply wandering the narrow, winding streets offers a delightful experience. You'll discover hidden courtyards, traditional pubs, and artisan shops. The city's compact nature makes it perfect for exploration on foot, encouraging visitors to soak in the atmosphere and uncover its many historical layers.TikTok

Kilkenny Arts Festival Highlights

The Kilkenny Arts Festival transforms the city into a vibrant hub of creativity, with events often taking place in historic venues like the Shee Alms House. This annual festival showcases a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including music, theatre, visual arts, and literature, attracting both local talent and international performers.Instagram+1

Venues such as the Shee Alms House have hosted unique performances, from immersive sound installations like Jonathan Nangle's 'Blue Haze of Deep Time' to interactive music shows for families, such as Ta Tum Tum's Brazilian carnival experience.Instagram+1 The festival's programming often leverages the city's historic architecture, providing a captivating backdrop for artistic expression.

Attending the Kilkenny Arts Festival offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the city in a dynamic and engaging way. It's a chance to discover new artists, enjoy world-class performances, and immerse yourself in the cultural heartbeat of Kilkenny. Checking the festival schedule in advance is crucial for planning your visit and securing tickets for popular events.Instagram

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