First of lets start with some history of the castle:
A castle has been standing on that site in Kilkenny since 1172, when Strongbow built a wooden tower over looking the River Nore. The first Norman invasion saw the arrival of Butler family in Kilkenny. Using their wealth and influence they built the castle into the masterpiece that it is today. In 1967, Arthur Butler handed Kilkenny Castle over to the Castle Restoration Committee for the sum of £50. Unfortunately, at this stage the lack of basic maintenance has allowed for structural decay and dilapidation. The first phase of restoration began in 1970. Today, Kilkenny Castle captures the 19th century lifestyle of the Butlers of Ormonde.
Prices:
Adult €8
Child/Student €4
Family €20
Senior €6
Facilities:
Cafe (Indoor&Outdoor)
Bathrooms
Baby Changing
Play Park
Guided Tours (seasonal)
Wheelchairs/Buggies:
Only the ground floor is wheelchair accessible. If you are in a wheelchair you can take a tour of that floor for free and they will with information regarding to the upstairs rooms.
Family Friendly:
I would regard Kilkenny Castle as family friendly. However, with the size of the building and the amount of stairs I, personally, would regard it as being for kids 5+. If the children are old enough to not run off and maybe understand some of the history it will make the trip more enjoyable for all involved.
Family Friendly:
I would regard Kilkenny Castle as family friendly. However, with the size of the building and the amount of stairs I, personally, would regard it as being for kids 5+. If the children are old enough to not run off and maybe understand some of the history it will make the trip more enjoyable for all involved.
Aisling's Advice:
When you enter the magnificent castle grounds, before you enter the main castle door, you can walk down to the tower on your right. In there you will find the Medevil Visual room.You can watch an informative video about the castle and the family who lived in it. I recommend doing this especially if you are not doing a guided tour as it gives you a better understanding of the castle. (This part is wheelchair accessible as they have a lift).
Next stop is the main castle, to get the most out of your time I recommend following the directions on the map provided or following your tour guide. In each room there is a plaque with information regarding that particular room, these are must reads as you can really appreciate what a great refurbishment job has been done.
After your tour of the castle I recommend you to grab a coffee and a cake before you take a stroll around the castle grounds which include the rose gardens equipped with wishing fountain, a play park and a large green area.
Aesthetic Factors 5/5 - stunning inside and out.
Overall Experience 4/5 - great thing to experience but not a full day trip.
Ratings: A must see in the South-East!
Historical Factors 5/5 - packed full of interesting history.Aesthetic Factors 5/5 - stunning inside and out.
Overall Experience 4/5 - great thing to experience but not a full day trip.
Other Things To Do While Your in Kilkenny
Kilkenny Design Centre
See the beautiful architecture
Take a walk along the river at the back of the castle
For more information click this link:
Check out my YouTube video of Kilkenny Castle:
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