St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower Tours and Tickets

Discover Kilkenny’s rich history, stunning architecture, and hidden gems on a relaxed, flexible walking tour with John – your knowledgeable, qualified guide. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just looking for a memorable stroll, your tours offer something for everyone. Born and raised in Gowran in the heart of County Kilkenny, John has spent years immersing himself in Kilkenny’s unique history and culture. John has always been passionate about storytelling and sharing the hidden tales and well-known landmarks that make Kilkenny truly special. John is happy to offer private or custom tours for groups, families, or individuals. Contact John to find out more!

Explore the medieval charm of Kilkenny on a private walking tour led by a friendly local guide who brings the city’s history and character to life! Wander through winding streets, bustling squares, and hidden corners as you uncover the stories, culture, and everyday life that make this Irish city so special. Whether you choose a short 2-hour stroll or a full 6-hour exploration, your guide will tailor the experience to your interests, sharing local insights, secret spots, and authentic Kilkenny moments along the way. Experience the city like a true local and enjoy a personalized journey at your own pace.

Discover the highlights of Kilkenny on this private guided tour that’s designed for up to 15 people. Walk around the historic area of St. John’s before completing the medieval mile from St. Canice’s Cathedral to Kilkenny Castle. During the tour, pass by landmarks including St. John's Priory, the Butler Gallery, the Black Abbey, and more.

Stroll the Medieval Mile and hear stories of Kilkenny on this guided small-group walking tour. The Medieval Mile is a trail that runs through the center of Kilkenny from the 13th-century St Canice’s Cathedral to the Anglo-Norman castle. Listen to quirky tales of medieval life including witches, merchants, and bishops, and learn why yew trees grow in the graveyards.

We are life time paddlers, sharing our passion, incorporating fun, learning and awareness of river and its surrounds . Our customers get personal attention and feel very safe and love our tours which are adapted to peoples energy and ability. You will paddle double kayaks up and back down through Kilkenny and see historical buildings which dominate the the City skyline. The tour can include white water paddling over a weir, playing in the rapids if that is of interest. If you prefer to stay dry, that's your choice of course and we do provide over-trousers to keep you pretty dry. If you prefer, one of our guides can paddle the double kayak with you for extra stability to ensure that we maximise your enjoyment and safety. Visual highlights include Kilkenny Castle, The Tholsel, St Francis Abbey, the old home of Smithwick's Brewery and St Canice's Cathedral. Hear about the importance of the Nore to Kilkenny and its milling history for centuries.

Discover Kilkenny city's famous medieval mile on this informative, humorous and engaging locally guided walking tour. Uncover history, legends, iconic sites and lively stories with a fun, local guide. Explore this city's enchanting maze of narrow streets, uncovering centuries of history, intriguing tales, and hidden stories that shaped this vibrant city. Learn about iconic landmarks such as Kilkenny Castle, Rothe House, St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower whilst following the footsteps of Normans, monks, knights, merchants and the fabled witch Alice Kyteler. Experience a captivating blend of storytelling, fun facts, Irish sayings and plenty of laughs, brought to life with engaging magic effects! This immersive 90-minute adventure is perfect for all ages, it is an unforgettable and entertaining introduction to Kilkenny's rich heritage, culture, and unique spirit. Lace up and bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to embrace the real 'craic' (Irish word for 'fun'!) of Kilkenny!

We are life time paddlers, sharing your passion, incorporating fun, learning and awareness of river and its surrounds. Your customers get personal attention and feel very safe and love your tours which are adapted to people's energy and ability. You will paddle double kayaks up and back down through Kilkenny and see historical buildings which dominate the City skyline. The tour can include white water paddling over a weir, playing in the rapids if that is of interest. If you prefer to stay dry, that's your choice of course and we do provide over-trousers to keep you pretty dry. If you prefer, one of your guides can paddle the double kayak with you for extra stability to ensure that we maximize your enjoyment and safety. Visual highlights include Kilkenny Castle, The Tholsel, St Francis Abbey, the old home of Smithwick's Brewery and St Canice's Cathedral. Hear about the importance of the Nore to Kilkenny and its milling history for centuries.

Leave behind the generic walking tours and see Kilkenny like the soldiers and settlers of yore—right from the River Nore. Passing just below landmarks like Kilkenny Castle, your guide will fill you up with local knowledge, from Kilkenny's history to the town’s culture to the area’s wildlife (that you just might spot). It’s an adventure, a photo op, and a learning opportunity all in one.

Discover Kilkenny with someone born there. I am John, an Irish guide, born and raised in Kilkenny. For two hours, I will show you my city in French through its stories, its characters, and its anecdotes, but also life in Ireland today. No history lessons: the visit is relaxed, in a small group, with time to discuss and ask all your questions. You will discover the must-see places of the medieval city, but above all, the stories and details that one can easily miss when visiting Kilkenny alone. Qualified national tourist guide, I have been accompanying visitors for ten years. My goal is simple: that at the end of the visit, you didn't just see Kilkenny—you understood it a little better.

This private walking tour reveals Kilkenny’s historic and cultural heritage. Step into a medieval city where centuries of history are older than the United States. Explore magnificent castles, ancient streets, and architectural landmarks shaped by powerful families. What legends still echo through Kilkenny’s historic walls? Discover stories of medieval life, noble traditions, and remarkable transformations that defined this cultural center. Admire classical architecture and feel the atmosphere of a city rich in heritage and craftsmanship. Wander through charming lanes where every corner reflects Ireland’s enduring legacy. Experience an inspiring journey through one of the country's most significant medieval civilizations. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Discover Kilkenny with a certified guide who was born and raised here. This relaxed 2-hour guided city tour combines history with personal stories and insights you won't find in any guidebook. In a small group you will explore the main sights and also hidden places. Guests describe the tour as “informative, entertaining and entertaining” – many say the two hours fly by. You will learn not only what happened, but also why Kilkenny is like this today. Questions are always welcome, and the tour is often experienced as more personal and flexible than classic tours. Ideal as an entry point : Many guests recommend taking this tour right at the beginning of their stay to better understand the city and discover the best places for later.

Céad míle fáilte from the Emerald Isle. Inspired by Ireland’s most authentic treasures, each itinerary is meticulously crafted to elevate your entire journey. Explore iconic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking landscapes along scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way. Visit ancient castles, stone circles, cathedrals, and centuries-old distilleries, and immerse yourself in rich history spanning over 10,000 years. Experience Ireland’s vibrant culture through traditional music, markets, and the genuine warmth of the welcoming locals along the way—craic agus ceol included. Every moment is thoughtfully curated to create a seamless, unforgettable adventure across the heart of Ireland.

THIS IS YOUR PRIVATE TOUR! During your day tour of Kilkenny, you get to choose where to go in Kilkenny and when to go. Enjoy a relaxing and flexible touring experience with your private guide. The medieval city of Kilkenny has so many activities to choose from—to start your day, take a relaxing stroll in the majestic castle park or visit ancient Kilkenny Castle—don't miss the famous picture gallery! At lunchtime, consider enjoying a hearty lunch at the famous Kyteler’s Inn (established in 1324)—an ancient medieval inn steeped in witchcraft history. After lunch, walk the Medieval Mile, visit the new Medieval Mile Museum, climb up Saint Canice’s Round Tower and enjoy spectacular views over the city, or visit the local brewery and taste some local Smithwick’s beer. Before leaving Kilkenny, make sure you stop at the Kilkenny Design Center to stock up on some traditional Irish produce and gifts to take home.

Céad míle fáilte from the Emerald Isle. Inspired by Ireland’s most authentic treasures, each itinerary is meticulously crafted to elevate your entire journey. Explore iconic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking landscapes along scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way. Visit ancient castles, stone circles, cathedrals, and centuries-old distilleries, and immerse yourself in rich history spanning over 10,000 years. Experience Ireland’s vibrant culture through traditional music, markets, and the genuine warmth of the welcoming locals along the way—craic agus ceol included. Every moment is thoughtfully curated to create a seamless, unforgettable adventure across the heart of Ireland.

Céad míle fáilte from the Emerald Isle. Inspired by Ireland’s most authentic treasures, each itinerary is meticulously crafted to elevate your entire journey. Explore iconic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking landscapes along scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way. Visit ancient castles, stone circles, cathedrals, and centuries-old distilleries, and immerse yourself in rich history spanning over 10,000 years. Experience Ireland’s vibrant culture through traditional music, markets, and the genuine warmth of the welcoming locals along the way—craic agus ceol included. Every moment is thoughtfully curated to create a seamless, unforgettable adventure across the heart of Ireland.

Céad míle fáilte from the Emerald Isle. Inspired by Ireland’s most authentic treasures, each itinerary is meticulously crafted to elevate your entire journey. Explore iconic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking landscapes along scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way. Visit ancient castles, stone circles, cathedrals, and centuries-old distilleries, and immerse yourself in rich history spanning over 10,000 years. Experience Ireland’s vibrant culture through traditional music, markets, and the genuine warmth of the welcoming locals along the way—craic agus ceol included. Every moment is thoughtfully curated to create a seamless, unforgettable adventure across the heart of Ireland.

We offer a completely private and intimate experience to travel Ireland. Joe is a lifelong native of Kilsheelan in county Tipperary, but will be happy to accommodate all requests to visit towns and villages that may have a personal connection no matter what part of the country you would like to travel to. The off the beaten track route is something that only a well travelled driver will be aware of also, and the journey is always entertaining.

Dive into Ireland's fight for freedom with Davy Holden, Ireland's most popular historian with over 800,000 followers on social media. This tour begins at Saint Canice's Cathedral and journeys through Kilkenny, where you'll explore pivotal locations connected to Ireland's struggle for independence. Discover how the Irish revolution began and learn about key moments from the Irish-American Fenians, to the 1916 Easter Rising and the Irish War of Independence (the Black and Tan War). Perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors, or those tracing their Irish heritage. - Guided tour led by Davy Holden, renowned historian and TV personality from PBS and RTÉ. Davy has travelled all over the USA, bringing Irish history to the masses - Visit historical sites in Kilkenny linked to Ireland’s fight for freedom - Engaging narrative that connects local stories to broader revolutionary themes - Ideal for visitors of all backgrounds, from history enthusiasts to those exploring their roots

Make the most of limited time in Kilkenny with a carefully planned one-hour introduction led by a qualified guide who was born and raised in the city. Rather than overwhelming you with dates, the tour uses engaging local stories to bring Kilkenny’s people, landmarks and history to life. The compact route connects many of the city’s essential sights, from Kilkenny Castle to St Canice’s Cathedral, while a small group allows for a relaxed, friendly experience and time to ask questions. You will also receive practical local recommendations to help you decide what to visit after the tour.