About Kilkenny Medieval Castle

Located in Leinster is Kilkenny Castle which was the seat of the Butler family or also known as the Fitzwalter family who came to Ireland in 1171 in the first wave of the Norman invasion. It was also the meeting place of the General Assembly of Confederate Ireland in 1640. During the 20th century the castle was then sold to the Irish Government for no less than £50. Since then it has been refurbished and opened to the public to view the wonderful ornamental gardens and extensive lands.

In magnificent condition, visiting the castle is a great experience as visitors are treated to The Long Gallery, which is 45 meters long, is filled with portraits of members of the Butler family and other historical figures also including some fine tapestries, and in the basement The Butler Gallery contains more modern artwork. The original servants quarters have been transformed into a superb restaurant and the surrounding gardens of the castle boast a rose garden, a fountain, a family graveyard and much more.

The main part of the castle includes a library, drawing room and bedrooms which are decorated in 1800’s finery. Two of the original 12th century towers has been tastefully modified to serve the ‘parade room’, which is a conference room, it also accommodates gala dinners, cultural and artistic events and the Parade Room takes up the whole west wing of the castle.

Guided tours are also available and the maximum number of people is 45, so it does cater for large groups the guided tour will last approximately 45 minutes. There is also audiovisual presentation and this takes around 15 minutes and is in English only.

The facilities at Kilkenny Castle include; tearooms, exhibitions, bookshop, a playground in the park (which also has a disabled swing), Gardens, conference center and also public car park and toilets for visitors with disabilities close to site.