Gowran Park is ideally located close to Kilkenny city which is known as the Medieval Capital of Ireland and is a very popular for both Irish and international tourists with a great range of places to stay and eat. As well as the city Kilkenny county also offers many attractions to compliment a visit to Gowran Park.
There are few cities in Ireland that are as accessible on foot as Kilkenny city is. Being outdoors is a big part of being in Kilkenny. From thrill-seekers to those looking for a more leisurely day out, there’s loads of things to do in Kilkenny to make the most of the great outdoors. Just some of the places to visit without the car include
Ireland’s Medieval Mile, which runs from ‘Castle to Cathedral’ in the City, this discovery trail is an ideal way to enjoy the compactness of Kilkenny City on foot.
Linking the 13th Century St Canice’s Cathedral and the Anglo-Normal castle, the Medieval Mile links Kilkenny city’s main historical attractions.
Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland’s most iconic and historic sites, year-round tours are available, and the parkland of the castle has 50 acres to explore. Just a stone’s throw away is the Kilkenny Design Centre filled with beautiful Kilkenny crafts.
From the magnificent Castle to the enchanting Rothe Gardens to St. Canice’s Round Tower which at 30m is one of only three climbable towers in Ireland and the Medieval Mile Museum which was formerly the 13th century St Mary’s Church, and graveyard featuring medieval sculpture & renaissance-era tombs.
The Smithwick’s Experience just a five minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, have guided tours running at regular intervals throughout the day, bringing visitors on a journey from the medieval origins of brewing and include a glass of Ireland’s most popular ale!.
Kilkenny was made for family fun, come rain or shine, we have some great family friendly activities, from thrill seekers and adrenaline hunters to nature lovers, arts and sports fanatics, Kilkenny has plenty to keep every member of your family entertained. Kilkenny was made for family fun, come rain or shine, we have some great family friendly activities, from thrill seekers and adrenaline hunters to nature lovers, arts and sports fanatics, Kilkenny has plenty to keep every member of your family entertained.
For animal lovers, Nore Valley Park offers families an opportunity to bottle feed the baby kids and lambs or handle a small rabbit. For the more adventurous Dunmore Caves is the perfect location to go cave exploring with the kids and is just a 10-minute drive outside the city or for an adrenalin filled day then Castlecomer Discovery Park is the ideal activity park to keep everyone busy. Alternatively, get on your bike and explore Kilkenny’s No.1 Activity on TripAdvisor, that’s Kilkenny Cycling Tours!
Pure Adventure River Activities is based in the heart of the Barrow Valley in the Picturesque Village of Graiguenamanagh. Pure Adventure is a family run business that is built on a passion for the outdoors and for water sports offering a range of Kayaking, Canoeing, Stand Up Paddle Boarding and Hill Walking activities to suit all ages and abilities.
Visit Kilkenny’s illustrious parks and gardens to discover the work of some of Ireland’s most esteemed landscape gardens and parklands. From the cobbled courtyards and historic buildings at Rothe House or Butler House & Gardens, to castles and stretches of unspoiled nature at Kilkenny Castle Parklands.
Explore the countryside with a visit to Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum, overlooking the River Nore Valley and the picturesque village of Inistioge. Features include a walled garden, rose garden, rockery garden, a recreated Turner Conservatory, a collection of rare and exotic trees in the arboretum and much more including many tranquil woodland walks. A relaxing and beautiful environment in which to spend a day with a picnic!
Kilfane Glen & Waterfall is a rugged but beautiful 6-hectare garden that has retained its original character as conceived by the prominent Power family in the 1790s. The idyllic landscape features wild fox-gloves, ferns and other plants. It comprises a 30-foot waterfall, rustic grotto and thatched summerhouse, where visitors may take a short break from strolling the grounds. Kilkenny has a host of parks and gardens just waiting to be explored!
