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Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny

4.6

#1 of 102 in Things to do in Kilkenny

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Preserving more than eight centuries of history within its walls, Kilkenny Castle rises over the Nore River and marks an intersection of several major medieval routes. Although the castle underwent a series of modifications over the ages, it contains three of its original four stone towers, built in 1192 by a Norman invader known to history as "Strongbow." Once a symbol of Norman occupation and a key part of the region's defenses, the castle now attracts thousands of visitors with its extensive gardens and basement art gallery. Also in the basement, the castle kitchen houses a popular tearoom, complete with a Victorian cooking range and rows of pots and plates. To visit Kilkenny Castle on your trip to Kilkenny, use our Kilkenny trip planner .

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Kilkenny Castle Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

6,113 reviews

Google

4.6

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4.6

15,096 likes

• By ttreb

  A wonderful visit. We took the early morning guided tour which was informative, casually paced, and with the audio headset it was like standing next to the guide even though you could dawdle in some a...  more »

• By Bourkeyd

  This is an absolute must do if you go to Ireland. The history of this place just engulfs you the moment you walk through those huge gates. Picture families on the rolling hills and fox hunts in all of...  more »

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• By Danielle Lemire

  Great castle to see inside. I didn't bother doing a guided tour and thought it was great! The exhibits are well done and you can take pictures of everything. Worth going inside. The castle also doesn't take long to see. I was able to complete it in a half hour but you can always take longer If you want to read all of the information.

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• By Michael Leininger

  This was a great castle to stop by and visit. Much of it has been restored and you have the option to take a guided tour or self guided tour. Very family friendly for all ages. There is a very nice playground in the outside ajoining grounds. Walking through the castle can take 45 minutes or hours depending on how much you desire to stop and read or take pictures. One of my favorite things was the market just outside the walls of the castle. Good food and farmers market items along with some tourist items. Made it feel a little like it might have been in the prime days of the castle. The area surrounding the castle was a joy to walk through as well.

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