7 things to do and see in County Kilkenny
Kilkenny people are known as “the Cats” and you might be forgiven for thinking that instead of a simple “hello” that a “miaow” would be a more appropriate greeting. The reason for the feline links comes from an old story, in which two Kilkenny cats fight to the death. This is the story:
There once were two cats of Kilkenny
Each thought there was one cat too many
So they fought and they fit
And they scratched and they bit ‘Til
Instead of two cats there weren’t any!
On top of trying their local red beer, there’s a lot of activities and plenty of things to see in County Kilkenny. Here are 7 suggestions of things to do and see there:
1. Visit the “City” of Kilkenny…
I don’t know if the writers of South Park got their inspiration from Kilkenny when composing the famous sentence “OMG, you killed Kenny!”. To the best of my knowledge no-one famous named Kenny was killed in the town. The origin of its name comes actually from the Irish “Cill Chainnigh” meaning “Church of Canice”. With the River Nore running through the town, its medieval streets and its atmosphere, you will quickly get to know and appreciate the town. At times, it does feel like Galway.
2. Take a tour in Kilkenny Castle…
Kilkenny has got a splendid castle located within a huge park, in the town centre. This 12th century castle was remodelled in the 19th century was the principal seat of the Butler family (also the owner of Cahir Castle, County Tipperary). While visiting the castle you will see the library, the drawing room, bedrooms, as well as a beautiful Long Gallery.
3. Walk by the river…
Once you have visited the castle, you can enjoy a nice stroll in the forest paths running beside the River Nore.
4. Enter Dunmore Cave…
Dunmore Cave turns out to be quite an educational and entertaining site to visit if the bad weather invites itself to your journey (this was my case!). With the help of an experienced guide, you will see a series of chambers formed over millions of years, with its stalactites and its stalagmites. Archaeological finds within the cave confirm Viking activity in the 10th century.
5. Take a break at Bennettsbridge…
10 km from Kilkenny, you can find charming little village, called Bennettsbridge, by the River Nore. The bridge that you can see on the picture is dated from the 18th century. In Bennettsbridge, you will find potteries, as well as many friendly ducks and swans.
6. Visit Jerpoint Abbey…
If you’re interested in ruins of church buildings, you won’t be disappointed in visiting Jerpoint Abbey. The Abbey was founded in the second half of the 12th century. The main interest of the Abbey is the sculptured cloister arcade with unique carvings (pictured).
7. Admire Jerpoint Abbey’s sculptures…
In the transept chapels the visitor can see 13th to 16th century tomb sculpture. When you think that this abbey was exposed to vagaries of the weather for centuries, it is incredible to find its sculptures in such good conditions!
That’s all for Kilkenny for now. We’ll be back soon with examples of what to do and to see in County Clare. Stay tuned.
