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Things To Do in Kilkenny

Things To Do in Kilkenny

SAVOUR KILKENNY

An annual event on every foodie’s calendar, Savour Kilkenny is one of the top food festivals in Ireland. The city bursts with flavour during the October bank holiday weekend when the festival takes place, featuring top Irish chefs and food experts. With a market of over 100 Irish vendors, free cooking demos and talks, street entertainment and exclusive dining events, sample the very best food and drink on offer across the weekend. Our stomachs are rumbling just thinking about it!

KILKENNY GHOST TOURS

This one of a kind Kilkenny ghost tour takes you trough the medieval capital of Ireland. Kilkenny with its narrow cobbled lanes, remnants of its city walls and with its mystic charm, it should be no surprise that Kilkenny is bursting with tales of the paranormal. Its people have told stories for generations, handed down to become far more than hearsay. Kilkenny’s ghostly tales all have one very important thing in common they are all based around fact and arise from genuine historic tragedies.

AUTUMN WALKS IN KILKENNY

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, Kilkenny transforms into a picturesque haven perfect for outdoor exploration. For those staying at the River Court Hotel, autumn walks along the riverbanks and through Kilkenny’s enchanting woodlands are a must. Immerse yourself in nature as you stroll through historic sites, scenic trails, and charming landscapes, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk through Kilkenny Castle Park, a riverside path along the Nore, or a more adventurous hike in the surrounding countryside, there's something for every walker to enjoy this season.

For a detailed guide on the best walking routes around Kilkenny, you can visit this page: Top Walking Trails in Kilkenny.

KILKENNY CASTLE

Description: Overlooking the Kilkenny River Court Hotel, a 12th Century castle fully remodelled and restored. Take a tour of the Castle itself or simply stroll the magnificent gardens and Castle Park.
Location: Only a 7 minute walk from the hotel.

CASTLE YARD

Description: Situated opposite Kilkenny Castle, these former stables and coach houses include craft studios, workshops and the famous Kilkenny Design Centre.
Location: Across the road from Kilkenny Castle, only a 7 minute walk from the hotel.

ROTHE HOUSE & GARDEN

Description: A historic house in Kilkenny, and the only example of an early 17th century merchant’s townhouse in Ireland.
Location: Only an 8 minute walk from the hotel.

ST CANICE'S CATHEDRAL & ROUND TOWER

Description: This ecclesiastical site was founded in the 6th century and named after St Canice. Cill Channigh is the Gaelic for the Church of Canice, the church that originally stood on the site in the 6th century.
Location: Only a 5 minute drive or 13 minute walk from the hotel.

WOODSTOCK GARDENS, ARBORETUM & TEA ROOMS

Description: Explore diverse trees, including Europe's longest Monkey Puzzle Avenue, a Champion Coast Redwood, Ireland's tallest Silver Fir, and a rare Bentham Cypress. Relax in the new Tea Rooms with stunning views.
Location: Only a 35 minute drive from the hotel.

CASTLECOMER DISCOVERY PARK

Description: Spanning 30 hectares of woodland, Castlecomer Discovery Park offers outdoor adventure and nature exploration 20 km north of Kilkenny City. Enjoy the gift shop and Café Jarrow at the visitor center, perfect for a family or friends' day out.
Location: Only a 25 minute drive from the hotel.

GOWRAN PARK RACECOURSE

Description: A premier racecourse offering thrilling horse racing events. Dine in the rooftop restaurant and enjoy special packages on race days.
Location: Only an 18 minute drive from the hotel.
Seasonal: Race days only.

WATERGATE THEATRE KILKENNY

Description: Located in the heart of Kilkenny City, the Watergate Theatre offers a variety of live productions, including music, dance, and comedy. A short stroll from the hotel, enjoy a pre-theatre meal at the Riverside Restaurant before attending a show.
Location: Only a 9 minute walk from the hotel.

THE HOUSE OF WATERFORD CRYSTAL

Description: Located 40 minutes from Kilkenny, the House of Waterford Crystal offers a factory tour to watch craftsmen shape molten crystal. The retail store showcases exquisite pieces and over 200 years of craftsmanship.
Location: Only a 43 minute drive from the hotel.