For those who love adventure, Kilkenny is a must-visit, its forests, its lakes, its countryside, it has the fishing, it has archery, it has falconry, it has friendly people, and so much more!
We’ve put together some of the best places to visit in Kilkenny for every type of itinerary for when it is safe to travel again. So if you are planning a future staycation and you’ve only got 2 or 3 days, or a long weekend, stick to one area. If you have a week or longer to explore, you could easily do several places on these itineraries or one of them in more depth. However, you plan your future road trip, you’ll have a fabulous time.
Mount Juliet Estate – Fishing & Horse Riding
As you approach the magnificent property of Mount Juliet Estate, you know you are in for a treat. Over 500 acres of magnificent parklands, rivers and pastures as you drive to the main Georgian Manor house, it’s a feast of the senses and the perfect setting for you to get set for your first Kilkenny adventure. Whether you are a beginner rider, or have only ridden a handful of times then deciding to go horse riding at Mount Juliet Estate is a fantastic way to improve your confidence with horses. Here you can explore bridleways, learn the basics or riding, improve on your existing skills or simply blow the cobwebs away on their cross country course.
The wonderful Mount Juliet Equestrian Centre is one of the most impressive centres in the country with two arenas, an American barn, and show jumps. From trekking and trail-riding excursions, to exhilarating cross-country course and miles of bridal-ways sprawl out into the surrounding pastures, parkland and pastures both within and beyond the estate.
Mount Juliet also gives visitors the chance to learn more about the horses themselves by joining their morning rounds at 8am daily or at feeding times at 4.30pm each day, and also offers both group and individual lessons for both beginners and experienced riders.
Fishing at Mount Juliet Estate
While at Mount Juliet, why not combine your equestrian with your fishing skills! Mount Juliet is home to two significant rivers within its walls: the famous River Nore and its tributary, the King’s River. Both rivers have plentiful catches of salmon and wild brown trout, through the years. Fishing at Mount Juliet Estate can be arranged from break of dawn until darkness falls: for a day, an afternoon or a few quiet hours in the evening. They offer lessons and expert help for those who are less familiar with the mysteries of the rod and fly and can even coach complete beginners.
Visit: www.mountjuliet.ie
Lyrath Estate - Falconry & Spa
Located just outside Kilkenny City, Lyrath is set on 170 acres of magnificent emerald woodlands and historic gardens. A visit to Lyrath is not complete without taking a Hawkeye falconry experience. Here you will be taught how to fly a trained raptor. The falconry experience is one of the most hands on experiences in Ireland’s Ancient East. You will have the opportunity to hold and examine these exquisite creatures up close and learn how to beckon the hawk to return to you after it has departed for the trees. You will set off for your Hawk Walk with a Falconer. Here, you will take primary control of the hawk, calling it to your gloved forearm to make it a true nature adventure.
After all that exertion with your new found feathered friend, it’s time to unwind in Lyraths award-winning Oasis Spa. Relax, rejuvenate, and refresh as you enjoy some of the Spa’s extensive range of luxury spa treatments from exclusive signature treatments developed by Kerstin Florian to the popular Elemis skin specific facial. The hotel also has an affinity pool and hot-tub to ensure you benefit from all the luxurious physical therapy you need!
Visit: www.lyrath.com
Kilkenny Rivercourt & Shenanigans
Capture the spirit of Kilkenny and enjoy an overnight in the award winning four star Rivercourt Hotel in the heart of Kilkenny city. Overlooked by the magnificent Kilkenny Castle and situated on the bank of the River Nore, this is the perfect location to soak in the heritage sights and cultural gems of Kilkenny. Home of the award winning Riverside Restaurant and Terrace Kitchen the Hotel is a guest’s culinary dream, or if weather permits, you even dine al fresco by the water’s edge during the warmer months whilst enjoying unrivalled views of the city sights.
After your overnight why not bring some laughter into your day and embark on a humorous guided tour with Shenanigans. This Kilkenny City Walk, is an amusing way to journey across historic Kilkenny City. Fun for all the family, experience a blend of comedy, magic and history and enjoy a jolly jaunt tracing the fascinating medieval mile on this tour.
Meet Nevin Cody, a man of merriment and mischief and your Kilkenny tour guide. Join this professional magician and entertainer who is an expert storyteller and hear insights about this mesmerizing city.
With a city full of cultural heritage as your canvas, discover the secrets and stories of the beautiful Kilkenny Castle, Rothe House and Gardens, St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower and the mysterious Kyteler’s Inn (home of the famous Kilkenny Witch).
Outdoor Kilkenny 2 Night Package Includes:
• 2 nights overnight accommodation in Classic Double Room
* 4 course dinner on one evening for two guests Riverside Restaurant or Riverview Bar
* Full Irish breakfast each morning of stay
* Walking Tour of Kilkenny City with Shenanigans Walking Tours
* Complimentary car parking
* Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel
Price: From €290
Visit: www.rivercourthotel.com
Visit: www.shenaniganwalks.ie
Kilkenny Ormonde & Kilkenny Cycling Tours
The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel is the ideal hub to explore the wonder of Kilkenny and its environs. The Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel has 118 contemporary styled hotel guestrooms including family hotel rooms and suites. The Hoban Bar and Brasserie offers stylish hospitality and serves great drinks and relaxed food in glamorous surroundings and in addition the Savour Restaurant is the perfect spot for breakfast before you kick-start your next outdoor adventure!
After a full breakfast, it’s time to explore the City on bike!! What better way to see all the side-streets and sights while beating the traffic! Visit all of the main tourist attractions with Kilkenny Cycling Tours, as well as some hidden gems. If you’re just visiting Kilkenny for a short time, this cycling tour of medieval Kilkenny is the best way to discover all of the historical attractions in a fun, casual, yet educational way. They use river bank cycle paths along the River Nore and backstreets so there’s no need to worry about traffic. This tour covers about 10km in total. They also offer a ‘Sunset’ Cycling Tour that takes place every evening during the Summer!
Visit: www.Kilkennyormonde.com
Visit: www.kilkennycyclingtours.com
The luxurious 4 star Newpark Hotel has centuries of heritage steeped in its walls and is located at the edge of medieval Kilkenny City. It is situated on over 40 acres of parkland and offers luxuriously appointed guest rooms. Also on offer are mouth-watering dining options, a fully equipped Health Club & luxurious Spa and magnificent gardens. The Newpark Adventure Fen Trail a 2.5-mile nature walk, a go karting track, animal petting farm, playground and more importantly a fairy trail are provided to make that family trip extra special. A relaxed atmosphere has been created and an outstanding experience for all guests. The stylish guest rooms offer unparalleled luxury not to mention astounding views over the luscious, green gardens.
Newpark Fairy Trail takes you on a magical journey of their scenic grounds, visit the fairy cottages & be sure to look out for the fairys in the tress along the way! Send a letter to the fairies via the fairy letterbox, sit on the wishing chair & be filled with childhood dreams.
As one of the top family hotels in Kilkenny, they provide a fully equipped adventure playground. This not only includes swings, slides and a sand pit with diggers, but also a tree top adventure centre with a secure zip line.
The Wildlife Farm on the hotel grounds is a home to a host of friendly furry & feathered farm animals that are sure to delight your little ones. This includes Llamas, Emus, Alapacas, Highland Cattle, Goats, Sheep, Guinea Fowl, Ducks & much more!
Visit: www.newparkhotelkilkenny.com
Springhill Court Hotel Summer Family Staycations
A Kilkenny landmark for over 40 years, the newly refurbished and family friendly Springhill Court Hotel is close to the booming centre of the Historic City of Kilkenny. It boasts family friendly rooms, a superb Leisure Club with Gym, 19m Pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Jacuzzi, Spa and Hair Salon. To help keep the little ones entertained, the Springhill Court Hotel have a Children’s Playground and Lenny the Lions Kids Club which operates during the school holidays. Enjoy a 1, 2, or 3 night family escape from €189 for 2 adults and 2 children (under 12 years) including breakfast daily and a four course meal on one night for two adults. The Springhill Court Hotel which offers spacious guest rooms and fine dining to suit everyone’s needs.
• One Night Family Staycation Offer from €189 (Total stay)
• Two Night Family Staycation Offer from €328 (Total stay)
• Three Night Family Staycation Offer from €497 (Total stay)
All packages include:
- Free onsite access to Children’s playground and 19 metre swimming pool
- 10% Discount with Kilkenny Cycling Tours
- 10% Discount with Reptile Zoo
- 10% Discount with Kilkenny Road Train
- 10% Off one hours bowling at Kbowl
Visit: www.springhillcourt.com
