Medieval Mile

Ireland is full of many little towns and Kilkenny has got to be one of our favourites. The best way to explore it by foot. On the banks of the River Nore and an hour and a half south-west of Dublin, Kilkenny was the countries capital and is now a buzzing cultural mecca and lively bar and food scene.

Kilkenny is compact so it is perfect for exploring. Caty goes on a tour with a local guide, Pat from Kilkenny Walking Tours. The first stop is Kilkenny Castle, a large structure overlooking the river. After being home to the great Butler family for 600 years, the family lost the castle in 1929 after the Great Depression; everything was sold in 1935 for just 50 pounds.

The city prides itself on its cultural scene and is a hub for musicians and artists, contemporary or traditional. Visible through the narrow streets and alleys is the rich history of Kilkenny, as well as its beautiful historical buildings, which are a site to be seen.

Although Kilkenny is well known for its buzzing entertainment and nightlife scene, even during the day there’s no shortage of places to drop in for a pint. Caty and Pat visit the oldest tavern in the city Kytelers Inn, which dates back to 1324. The history sees the tavern first established by Dame Alice de Kyteler, who was married four times amassing a fortune. Each husband mysteriously died under suspicious circumstances and Alice was accused of witchcraft in what’s understood to be Europe’s first witchcraft trial. She was sentenced to be burned.

Travelling through Kilkenny in Ireland, you’ll soon realise the Irish have a knack for seamlessly blending history into modern life.

For more information, visit the Tourism Ireland website: www.ireland.com