Why have your stag party in Kilkenny city?
Kilkenny city has become a very popular stag party destination in the last couple of years. This month, we are looking into why you should consider the famous hurling county as an ideal location for your big weekend! The reasons for its popularity are the endless amount of stag activities, a wide range of accommodation options as well as lots of pubs and restaurants to avail of. There's no need to have your stag do in Carlingford, or Dublin or Carrick-on-Shannon. Instead try Kilkenny, it is perfect.
A Weekend in Kilkenny
The Medieval city of Kilkenny has long since been one of Ireland’s top visitor destinations. Its renowned nightlife, serene atmosphere, historic architecture and action packed activities make it an automatic consideration for those planning Hen and Stag weekends, family away days, or tranquil spa retreats. With so many things to do in Kilkenny, you won’t disappointed.
Here in Kilkenny we’re extremely proud of our city status, after all, this is the Medieval capital of Ireland! Thankfully as cities go, we’re a small one. Whether you’re seeking great food, unique sightseeing, lively night spots, or a calming stroll down the Medieval Mile, you’ll find everything within reasonable walking distance from the city centre. Perfect!
So if you’re planning a weekend in Kilkenny, here’s some suggestions to get you on your way… Oh what to do with big groups!
What to See
Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile is jam packed with must see landmarks and diverse, comfortable coffee shops PERFECT for a time out if required. Mount Juliet Estate even is amazing or visit the oldest bar of Kytelers Inn.
No visit to The Marble City would be complete without taking in the beautiful Kilkenny Castle. For centuries the castle has stood as an imposing and instantly recognisable monument. A majestic reminder of a rich and diverse history.
The castle grounds provide a calming and spacious sanctuary while tours of the grandiose interior can be undertaken at your leisure.
As you make your way along the Medieval Mile, you may be lucky enough to catch a song or two from one of the city’s many gifted street performers. The historic Tholsel is home to local government nowadays, but its stunning stone arches provide wonderful acoustics, ensuring High Street always has a melodic sound track.
The Tholsel itself dates back to 1761 and has played many a role since its construction, including that of a guildhall and courthouse.
Behind the Tholsel you’ll discover St. Mary’s Lane. A narrow passageway which conjures images of times gone by and candle lit street illumination, combined with spectacular, contemporary street art by artist Dan Leo.
The lane is home to the former St. Mary’s church and graveyard, now the ultra modern Medieval Mile Museum. Here you can join a guided tour or discover Kilkenny’s 800 year old story in your own time.
Conclude your Medieval Mile experience by climbing the famous round tower at St, Canice’s Cathedral. Not for the fainthearted (or vertigo sufferers), the Round Tower is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny City. Tourists can enjoy climbing the Round Tower capturing great views of the city (weather permitting). St Canice’s Round Tower is one of only two Round Towers that people can climb in Ireland and offers stunning photo opportunities. Don’t miss out on the Cat Laugh’s comedy festival.
Where to Eat
Where do we begin? Kilkenny has an abundance of fantastic award winning restaurants, bars, bistros, cafes, coffee shops and takeaways offering a spectacular range of cuisines. So whether you’re after a traditional Irish bite, or a dish with its roots in far away shores, you’ll discover a wealth of flavours within easy reach.
Click here for the tripadvisor guide to Kilkenny’s ten best restaurants!
Where to Drink
There’s certainly no shortage of options in this department! We recommend you explore the many alleyways and slips which play host to snug traditional pubs and bars. If it’s a livelier nocturnal experience you seek, stick to the beaten track and discover live music to suit each and every taste!
Enjoy a traditional pint by the fire, or sample from an ever expanding range of craft beers. Kilkenny’s nightlife caters comfortably to pretty much any age group.
Outdoor Activities
Are you a thrill seeker? Kilkenny’s action packed outdoor pursuits are hugely popular with hen and stag parties, as well as families and corporate groups!
For paintball, splatball, awesome assault course, bubblesoccer, archery darts and LOADS more, look no further than Kilkenny Activity Centre (as seen on TV)!
Kilkenny folk have a far reaching reputation for being welcoming, and as Kilkenny people we can let you in on the secret as to why… It all boils down to the fact that we’re super proud of our Medieval City, and as such we LOVE to show it off!
Here at Kilkenny Concierge we want nothing more than for you to experience the very best of what Kilkenny has to offer. Our experience combined with an unrivaled local knowledge make our premium packages the best way to organise your group visit to the Marble City.
And we’re already certain that once you sample unique Kilkenny, you’ll be just as enchanted as we are.