Direction Ireland

Kilkenny Castle

Southeast Ireland | County Kilkenny

Kilkenny Castle is an Anglo-Norman stronghold which was built at the beginning of the 13th century by William Marshal, 4th Earl of Pembroke, son in law of Richard de Clare (Strongbow). In 1391 the castle passed into the possession of the Butler family and remained in their hands for almost 600 years, until 1967, when it was transferred to the State and since then stays under the care of OPW (Office of Public Work). It is built on the square plan, with rounded towers in the corners but over the centuries of its existence many additions and alterations were made what makes it a complex structure of various architectural styles. The present shape is largely due to 19th century reconstruction. Kilkenny Castle and its parkland (free admission to the park) is open to the public and with no doubt it's one of the most visited tourist attractions in Ireland. There are audio-visual presentations, self guided and guided tours which get you closer to the history of the castle and its most interesting inhabitants.

• OPENING HOURS :
  • Oct – Feb:
    • Daily: 9:30 – 16:30
    • Last admission 15:45
  • March :
    • Daily: 9:30 – 17:00
    • Last admission 16:15
  • Apr – May :
    • Daily: 9:30 – 17:30
    • Last admission 16:45
  • Jun - Aug:
    • Daily: 9:00 – 17:30
    • Last admission 16:45
  • September:
    • Daily: 9:30 – 17:30
    • Last admission 16:45
• TICKET PRICES (self-guided) :
  • Adult: €8
  • Group/Senior: €6
  • Child/Student: €4
  • Family: €20
• TICKET PRICES (guided tours) :
  • Adult: €12
  • Group/Senior: €10
  • Child/Student: €6
  • Family: €30
• CONTACT :
  • Phone: +353 56 770 4100
  • Email: kilkennycastleinfo@opw.ie
  • Website: www.kilkennycastle.ie
• CAR PARK :
  • Town car park