07 Feb Kilkenny
This is the finest medieval city in Ireland.
You should not miss the opportunity to visit Kilkenny on any Ireland tours.
It stands high over the River Nore and its winding passages and lanes are a pleasure to explore.
The Elizabethan architecture make it one of the most attractive towns in Ireland.
The castle was built in the 12th century by William Earl Marshall.
He was the famous Strongbows son in law.
Cromwell’s cannon destroyed one tower and the south range of the castle in 1650.
But the rest of this Gothic-Classical structure still stands.
In some ways it looks awfully like a French Chateau!
The castle is certainly worth spending some time inside on one of the tours.
There is also “Kilkenny College”, founded in 1666, which is worth a look.
Don’t miss “Saint Marys Church”, dating from the 13th century.
Take a look at “Shee Almhouses”, built in 1566 by James Grace, who became constable of the gaol, which the Almhouses were used as in later times.
At Ireland and Scotland Luxury Tours we like to visit “Saint Canices Cathedral”
This dates from 1251 and has a spectacular round tower.
If all this makes you thirsty, then the “Smithwicks Brewery” is just around the corner.
There is so much to see in Kilkenny it is definitely worth thinking about on any Ireland tours.