Now that the clocks have changed, spring has finally sprung in Kilkenny! We’re excited for longer days, more time spent on outdoor activities and (hopefully!) an improvement in the weather in the lead-up to the summer months. Whether you’re visiting Kilkenny as a day tripper, for a weekend with friends or as part of a family getaway, there is plenty to see and do here.
From outdoor fun with friends to those last-minute rainy-day activities when the weather doesn’t cooperate with our schedule, Kilkenny has history, culture and fun for everyone. Before you plan your spring trip, book Hoban Hotel as your accommodation in Kilkenny. Our spacious, comfortable hotel on the edge of the city is ideal for group, family and leisure guests in Kilkenny.
Outdoor Activities
With the arrival of warmer weather and longer days, we’re excited to spend more time outside. Kilkenny has the best of both worlds with lots of outdoor things to do but plenty of shelter in case the weather has a change of heart. Explore the grounds of the gorgeous Kilkenny Castle in the city, enjoying the trees, flowers, and local history.
For the brave and adventurous spirits, Castlecomer Discovery Park offers a zipline, tree-top walk, climbing wall, octagon, boats, archery, trails, and group activities. Kilfane Glen and Waterfall located in Thomastown, Kilkenny dates from the 1790s. It is a picturesque paradise with a waterfall leading to a rushing stream and woodland paths to discover. Our team are happy to recommend something to suit you.
Markets in Kilkenny
Local markets return with the warmer days, and we’re excited to see what local vendors have for us this year. Located right in the heart of the city, the Mountain View Market is one of the best-known markets in Ireland. The market opens every Sunday and is more than just a place to shop. It’s a social hub attended by hundreds of browsers every week.
Outside the city, Castleinch Sunday Market is a large event selling everything you can imagine with traders coming from as far as Cork and Mayo. Every Thursday from 9.30am to 2.30pm Kilkenny City also hosts the Kilkenny Farmers Market with 20 stalls selling everything from fish to fowl, bread to broccoli and everything in between.
Indoor Activities in Kilkenny
Sometimes the weather and our plans don’t see eye to eye and it’s always bets to have a backup to save you from getting wet. Kilkenny has an excellent pub scene with music, dancing, fun and companionship every day in our local bars. Attractions and museums in the city to spend a couple of hours include Smithwick’s Experience, St Candices Church, The Medieval Mile Museum, Butler Galleries, Rothe House and more.
You could get lost for a day exploring the inside of Kilkenny Castle, imagining how the other half lived. Shopping in Kilkenny is excellent with a true focus on independent and local boutiques. You’ll also find plenty of high street names and bargains in second-hand shops. There are also indoor activity centres and soft play centres for little ones and IMC Cinema always has something exciting on show.
Day Trips from Kilkenny
Kilkenny City is relatively small and easy to explore on foot. If you’re lucky enough to be spending a couple of days here, you might want to explore more of the county and get to know the local area a bit better. Castlecomer is a pretty country town with lots of character and a very impressive adventure centre and it’s less than a 20-minute drive from Hoban Hotel. Inistioge, 30 30-minute drive from our Kilkenny hotel, is one the most scenic villages in Ireland.
It’s in the prettiest part of the beautiful Nore valley spanned by a stunning ten-arched bridge. Visit the Rock of Cashel in Tipperary, a symbol of royal and religious power for more than 1000 years and just 50 minutes from Kilkenny City. Waterford is another nearby City that’s worth adding to your Ireland bucket list. With Medieval attractions, excellent shopping, and some of the best beaches on the east coast of Ireland, it’s a great place for a day trip from Kilkenny.
Refuel, relax, and plan your spring getaway from your base in Hoban Hotel Kilkenny. Our best available rates are always guaranteed when you book with one of our team or on our website. We look forward to being a small part of your big adventure this Spring in Kilkenny.
