The Parade, Kilkenny. (Map southeast - J14)
Phone: +353 (0)56 21450   Fax: +353 (0)56 63488  
Opening Times: Daily Apr - May 10.30 - 17.00 and Jun - Sept 10.00 - 19.00; Oct-Mar Tues - Sun 10.30 - 17.00 closed for lunch, Sun opens at 11.00  

A 12th century castle, the former seat of the Butler family, and now houses the Butler Art Gallery, the Old Castle kitchen which is amazing and several rooms restored to 1830’s decor. The grounds are tranquil and home to many birds. The Guide Tour costs IR£3.50, reductions for groups, children, senior citizens. The Design Centre is just across the street.

Located opposite Kilkenny Castle, the Kilkenny Design Centre is a must-see, a showcase of the most successful Irish design in clothes, ceramics, glass, wood, jewellery. The restaurant upstairs has a view over the courtyard and artists’ studios, and serves really wholesome food: great coffee and fresh baking.

Bennettsbridge is just 4 miles south of Kilkenny town and Nicholas Mosse Mill is a tranquil area on the river Nore. There is the Mill, the Shop offering ceramics, glass and table linen, and the Cafe which serves a mix of traditional Irish dishes and other European influences.

Cashel’s history dates back to the 4th century and has involved Saint Patrick, King Brian Boru and King Cormac. The hill overlooking the town is The Rock of Cashel where an 11th century chapel still stands. Several medieval buildings survive on anoutcrop of rock including a cathedral and a round tower . Admission IR£3.00, concessions for students, children, seniour citizens.

13th century Early Gothic Cathedral, built on an ancient 6th century site of worship, it was badly damaged Cromwell in 1650. There’s also a 9th century Norman Round Tower which may be climbed