Kilkenny in 60 Minutes: The Essential Introduction

Discover the essentials of Kilkenny in just 60 minutes with a qualified, Kilkenny-born guide. See the city’s key landmarks and hear the local stories behind them.

Short on time but want to understand Kilkenny? This relaxed one-hour walking tour introduces you to the city’s essential landmarks, stories and history with a qualified guide who was born and raised here.

Starting beside Kilkenny Castle, follow a carefully planned route through the heart of the medieval city. See the hurling statue, enjoy the view from John’s Bridge and walk through the narrow Butterslip. Hear the remarkable story of Alice Kyteler, discover Kilkenny’s former courthouse and prison, and learn about the city’s brewing tradition.

Continue past surviving sections of Kilkenny’s medieval walls before finishing outside St Canice’s Cathedral.

Along the way, discover the people and events that shaped Kilkenny—from medieval merchants and powerful families to local sport and everyday life. The tour is relaxed and conversational, with time to ask questions and receive recommendations for the rest of your visit.

All landmarks are visited from the outside. Admission to attractions is not included.

Please note

Stroller / pram accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Animals or pets allowed
Public transportation nearby

Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure. The tour must begin promptly and finish by 1:30pm, so unfortunately it cannot wait for late arrivals.

This is an outdoor walking tour and will normally proceed in rain, so please check the forecast and dress appropriately.

The tour starts beside Kilkenny Castle and finishes outside St Canice’s Cathedral. All landmarks are viewed from outside, and admission to attractions is not included.