- Kilkenny Castle: Built in 1195 by William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke, Kilkenny Castle is a 12th-century Norman fortress on the River Nore in Kilkenny City. Initially a wooden structure, it was rebuilt in stone and later transformed into a grand Victorian residence by the Butler family, who held it for over 500 years. Managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), it’s one of Ireland’s most iconic castles, known for its imposing towers and 50-acre parkland. Open year-round (April–September, 9:15 AM–5:30 PM; October–March, 9:30 AM–4:30 PM or 5 PM, check heritageireland.ie), visitors can explore the castle’s opulent interiors, including the Long Gallery with its painted ceiling, for €8 adults, €6 seniors, €4 children/students, €20 family. Self-guided and guided tours (45–60 minutes) cover Norman history, Butler family artifacts, and the Victorian Picture Gallery. The 50-acre grounds, with rose gardens and a lake, are free to roam. Amenities include a tearoom, gift shop, parking, and partial wheelchair access (ground floor). Expect a 1.5–2 hour visit, ideal for history buffs and families. Nearby, Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile offers additional attractions like St. Canice’s Cathedral. A must-visit for its grandeur, accessibility, and central location in Kilkenny City.
- Foulksrath Castle: Built in the 14th century by the de Frene family, Foulksrath Castle is a well-preserved tower house near Jenkinstown, later held by the Purcell family. This five-story medieval fortress, with its battlements and spiral staircase, was restored in the 20th century and now operates as a hostel, offering a unique blend of historical charm and modern accommodation. Open year-round as part of An Óige (Irish Youth Hostel Association, check anoge.ie), visitors can stay overnight (dorm beds from €20, private rooms €40–€60) or visit for guided tours by arrangement (€5–€10, contact hostel directly). Tours explore the tower’s medieval features, including the great hall and rooftop views. Expect a 30–60 minute visit or longer if staying. Amenities include a communal kitchen, parking, and WiFi, with basic facilities reflecting the hostel setup. The castle’s rural setting, 12 km from Kilkenny City, suits budget travelers and history enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience. Ideal for those wanting to stay in a castle, though tours are secondary to accommodation.
- Shankill Castle: Located near Paulstown, Shankill Castle began as a 13th-century Butler family tower house, rebuilt in 1708 as a Queen Anne-style residence by Peter Aylward. Expanded in the 19th century, it blends medieval, Georgian, and Victorian elements. Still owned by the Cope family, it’s a living estate with organic gardens and an artist’s studio, offering a unique mix of history and contemporary life. Open May–September (Thursday–Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM, check shankillcastle.com), visitors can take guided tours of the castle’s eclectic interiors, including medieval remnants and Georgian decor, for €12 adults, €6 children. The 4-acre gardens, with rare trees and a walled garden, are a highlight (€6 standalone). Expect a 1–2 hour visit, with a tearoom, gift shop, and parking. Events like art exhibitions or garden festivals add vibrancy. The castle’s lived-in feel and rural setting (20 km from Kilkenny City) appeal to those seeking a personal, artistic experience. Partial wheelchair access. Perfect for garden lovers and those wanting a less touristy castle visit.
- Ballybur Castle: Built in the 16th century by the Comerford family near Cuffesgrange, Ballybur Castle is a well-preserved tower house, later owned by the Grace family. Restored in the 20th century, it’s a private residence offering limited public access as a B&B or for tours. Its intact medieval structure, with a spiral staircase and battlements, reflects Kilkenny’s Gaelic heritage. Open by appointment for guided tours or B&B stays (check ballyburcastle.com; tours €10–€15, B&B €100–€150/night), visitors can explore the tower’s interiors, including the great hall and rooftop, with owner-led tours detailing its history. Expect a 45–60 minute visit or overnight stay, with a homely atmosphere. Amenities include parking and WiFi for guests, but no formal facilities for day visitors. The castle’s rural location, 10 km from Kilkenny City, suits those seeking an intimate, authentic experience. Best for those willing to book ahead for a personalized castle encounter.
- Clara Castle: Built in the 15th century by the Shortall family near Clara village, Clara Castle is a remarkably intact tower house, one of Ireland’s best-preserved examples. Its six-story structure, with a vaulted ceiling, spiral staircase, and battlements, remained a residence until the early 20th century. Now privately owned, it offers limited public access for tours. Open by appointment (May–September, contact claracastle.ie, €5–€10), visitors can take guided tours (30–45 minutes) of the tower’s interiors, exploring medieval features like the murder hole and rooftop views. Expect a 45-minute visit in a quiet, rural setting (8 km from Kilkenny City). No facilities like restrooms or a cafe, but parking is available. The castle’s authenticity and minimal tourist presence appeal to history purists. Booking is essential due to private ownership. A hidden gem for those seeking an unspoiled medieval experience.
Kilkenny has minor castle ruins like Grannagh Castle (13th-century, near Waterford border, private, viewable from afar), Burnchurch Castle (15th-century tower house, free but on private land, limited access), and Tullaroan Castle (ruin, minimal remains). These are less prominent due to their state or restricted access. Jerpoint Park near Thomastown includes a lost town and church but no castle, despite some listings.
Kilkenny’s castles are among Ireland’s finest, with Kilkenny Castle as the standout for its scale and accessibility. Others, like Foulksrath, Shankill, Ballybur, and Clara, offer more intimate experiences, reflecting the county’s dense concentration of tower houses.
Castles
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County Kilkenny:
Ireland’s county Kilkenny is a county of medieval charm, with Kilkenny City’s castle and St Canice’s Cathedral showcasing well-preserved architecture and round towers. The Dunmore Cave offers intriguing limestone formations, while the Nore Valley’s walking trails provide scenic beauty. Other attractions include the historic Jerpoint Abbey’s intricate carvings. Kilkenny is Ireland’s 16th largest county by size (2,062 square km) and 21st largest by population (104,160). Population peaked at 202,420 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 60,463 in 1966. In terms of hospitality, Kilkenny is Ireland’s eleventh most visited tourist county with around 207,000 international visitors per year.
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