Nature spot · County Kilkenny
Kilkenny Castle Parkland
The Kilkenny Castle Parkland boasts both formal and informal gardens. Set in Kilkenny City, the estate overlooks the Nore River and includes mature trees and shrubs as well as an ornamental lake. All areas are free of charge.
The Castle Park includes all the walled demesne parkland to the south of Kilkenny Castle and the formal terraced gardens to the north comprising a total of 50 acres. Close to the Rose Garden is a central fountain. The estate overlooks the Nore River and features mature trees and shrubs with an ornamental lake numbered among the many items of interest.
There is also a children’s playground located on the grounds. All areas of the castle gardens are free of charge.
Kilkenny Castle was the home and headquarters of the powerful Butler family since 1391. Kilkenny Castle boasts both formal and informal gardens including a long established rose garden to the front of the castle.
Outdoors in County Kilkenny this week
Best day outdoors: Sat, 10 Oct — dry by day, breezy, up to 12°C
- Fri, 9 Oct13° / 8°Light rain
- Sat, 10 Oct12° / 5°Sun with light cloud
- Sun, 11 Oct14° / 13°Sun with light cloud
Make a day of it
The nearest trails, beaches, woods and heritage within 25 km.
Trails & walks
Forests & woodlands
Parks, gardens & islands
Nature spot · 8.1 km awayBallyrafton WoodParkBallyfoyleBallyrafton Wood is a public wood about half way between Kilkenny and Castlecomer, in County Kilkenny. The wood boasts riverside forest walks, picnic tables, seats and a car park.
Nature spot · 13 km awayCoille an Fhaltaigh Millennium ForestParkKilmanaghCoille an Fhaltaigh Millennium Forests is the largest of the 16 Millennium Forests that were planted in Ireland in the late 90's. It is a mixed woodland and is located about 5.8 km south west of Kilkenny Town.
Nature spot · 15 km awayKilfane Glen and WaterfallGardenKilfane Glen and Waterfall is a tranquil oasis found in County Kilkenny, about 6km north east of Thomastown. The Romantic-era garden was developed in the 1790s and includes a woodland paths and contemporary art created specially for the site.