Things To Do
Smithwick's Experience
Check out the local brewery that has been making pints since 1710! Get your tickets ahead of time by visiting the link
Kilkenny Castle
Explore the beautiful castle and grounds of the 800 year old Kilkenny Castle! They offer self-guided & tour guided options. Weather permitting check out the stunning gardens surrounding the property!
Hurling Experience
At Malzard’s Traditional Irish Pub you can learn the ancient Irish Gaelic sport of Hurling in a relaxed, fun environment that’s fun for all the family. Set in the heart of Stoneyford Village just a few miles from Kilkenny City Malzard’s Bar has developed a hurling skills experience that is suitable for all ages and guarantees participants a unique insight to the fastest field game in the world.
Kilkenny City Kayak Tour
Take an easy paddle with us upriver, in the peace and tranquility of the River Nore, where you'll learn about some of Kilkenny's rich history and wildlife. You'll pass old sites such as the Castle, St Johns Bridge, the Carnegie Library, and the former Smithwicks Brewery, with a view of St Canice's Cathedral at the top of the river. The trip ends with a leisurely float downstream, where you can take photos of Kilkenny from the river
Kilkenny Grand Sauna
Take some time to relax and recover at Kilkenny Grand Sauna! They offer outdoor cold plunge, hot tub, and custom built sauna experiences to help you wind down after all your travels!
Lyrath Estate Hotel
mere five-minute drive from Kilkenny city the multi-award-winning Spa at Lyrath Estate Kilkenny offers the perfect opportunity to relax, rejuvenate, refresh, and take some time out just for you with the ultimate wellness retreat. Blending luxury, elegance, and style, our highly trained therapists will immerse your mind, body, and soul in pure indulgence
Dublin
Since most guests will be flying into Dublin we recommend taking some time to see the sights in the "big" city of Ireland. There are plenty of attractions, tours, art, and history to explore here! Check out the website for more details
Guinness Storehouse
A main attraction in Dublin is the Guiness Storehouse! Tickets start at €22 but vary based on what kind of experience you want! You can do a self guided tour, learn how to pour the perfect pint, or even get your picture ON your pint.
Cliffs of Moher
Only 1 hour and 40 minutes from Dublin is the most famous natural attractions in Ireland!
Road Trip Options
The official Ireland travel website offers "trip ideas" for road trips around Ireland. Make sure you scroll down on their website so not to miss it!
Wild Atlantic Way
One of the most famous routes across Ireland that passes through multiple towns including Dingle, Killarney, Kinsale, Westport, and the Ring of Kerry!
Golfing
Hit the links like Rory McIlroy while you are visiting! Ireland has over 400 golf clubs so check out the link to see the many options
Blarney Castle & Gardens
Kiss the Blarney Stone at the 600 year old castle. Fun fact: The castle was built by a man named Cormac!
Nore Valley Park
Looking for the perfect countryside day out? Nore Valley Pet Farm offers a fun, interactive experience where you can get up close with adorable farm animals, explore exciting outdoor activities, and relax in a beautiful natural setting. Whether you're feeding baby lambs, cuddling rabbits, or racing on pedal go-karts, there’s something for everyone!
Londonderry
For those who don't know, Shannon's father was born in Ireland! He was born in Derry (which is technically part of Northern Ireland, UK) and came to the US when he was 9 years old! Although he is no longer with us, getting married in the place he was born is a small way Shannon & Cormac have chosen to honor his memory. Derry is a walled city full of history, pints, and plenty to see!
Dingle
Dingle is a tiny coastal town with beautiful views & lots to see! The cliffs and scenery are breathtaking, enough so they were the setting for some famous movies including Star Wars! Don't miss one of the best pubs in Ireland (per Instagram), Dick Mack's
Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most spectacular and – deservedly – most visited tourist attractions. Originally the seat of the kings of Munster, according to legend St. Patrick himself came here to convert King Aenghus to Christianity. Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel in 978 and made it his capital. In 1101 the site was granted to the church and Cashel swiftly rose to prominence as one of the most significant centres of ecclesiastical power in the country. One of the surviving buildings is Cormac’s Chapel!
Waterford
Only a 40 minute drive from Kilkenny visit the Viking town of Waterford! It is a city full of culture, history, and fun!