Excursion The wonders of kilkenny tour at Waterford

Departing the pier you will travel to the marble city, Kilkenny. On this excursions you will discover Kilkenny, arguably the pre-eminent medieval city of Ireland. Kilkenny's rich medieval heritage is evident in the city's treasure trove of historical buildings and landmarks, including St Canice's Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle.

Visit Ireland's finest example of a medieval church, the site has been lovingly restored in recent years and is now known as the Medieval Mile Museum. Archaeological excavations unearthed artefacts hidden for centuries that are now on display in world-class exhibitions. Marvel at the museum's treasure trove of objects encompassing the work and lives of Ireland and its people across centuries. The museum contains some of Ireland's finest examples of medieval sculpture and the country's largest collection of Renaissance tombs. Since the 1200s, the site has been a place of burial for rich and poor. In fact, many of Kilkenny's past generations are still at rest here in tombs that can be glimpsed through glass floors.

No visit to Kilkenny is complete without a visit to Kilkenny Castle the location where the Normans arrived in the 12th century and built the castle, which overlooks the River Nore. The vividly painted ceiling of its long gallery has been implicated in a few stiff necks - its beauty is simply fascinating. Three of the castles four original towers survive today. Kilkenny Castle became the home of the Butlers - the Earls and Dukes of Ormonde - in 1391. The family continued to reside there until 1935. You will undergo a self-guided visit and 'meet' a few generations via a plethora of portraits that still adorn the Castle.

Arrive at Butler House & Gardens, the Dower House of Kilkenny Castle. Butler House was built in 1786, home to Lady Eleanor Butler who lived here after the death of her husband Walter in 1783. Lady Eleanor Butler was the mother of John, the 17th Earl of Ormonde and her daughter, also Eleanor, was one of the famous "Ladies of Langollen". When you visit, you will hear more about these interesting ladies, followed by a wonderful Afternoon Tea Experience.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: St. Canice's Cathedral, Kilkenny Castle, Butler House and Gardens, Medieval Mile Museum.

Note

Please note: This tour involves many steps and walking on gravel surface at Kilkenny Castle, and 1 hour of walking and standing at the Medieval Mile Museum. This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility or those using a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and warm, waterproof clothing.