Things to see in Kilkenny while on holiday

Graiguenamanagh, County Kilkenny an ideal base for fishing, walking and golfing holidays in Ireland.

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Mount Brandon Cottages holiday homes are an excellent starting point for those wanting to explore ‘the medieval capital of Ireland’, Kilkenny, as well as Carlow, Enniscorthy, Wexford or Waterford, where you can visit the world-famous Waterford glass factory. 

Ireland’s Ancient East holds many historical attractions in the form of abbeys, castles and cathedrals. The magnificent 13th Century Duiske Abbey is located in the centre of the town, with Jerpoint Abbey, Tintern Abbey, Kilkenny Castle, and Kells Priory all only a short distance away. 

Did you know that the German author Ralf Isau has written a book by the name of MESSIAS? This thriller plays in Graiguenamanagh and strongly features the abbey as well as lots of locals! 

Did you know that Graiguenamanagh has a good few claims to fame? Here are just two: Check out PEG WASHINGTON’S LANE, supposedly the world’s smallest street (we will tell you where to find it). And… 

Did you know that it was a cow from Graiguenamanagh, which started the Great Chicago Fire??? There is a fantastic board walk along the Barrow up into Silaire Wood. Check it out and bring a picnic as well as your binoculars, because we have spotted an otter and several king fishers down there on several occasions!

Heritage Gardens

There are many delightful heritage gardens within easy driving distance of Mount Brandon Cottages. We would suggest to follow the Carlow Garden Trail and visit jewels such as:

  • Woodstock Demesne in Inistioge,
  • Kilfane Gardens and Waterfall in Thomastown,
  • Altamount Gardens, Tullow, Co. Carlow.
  • Kilmokea Manor and Gardens, Great Island, Co. Wexford.
  • Johnstown Castle Museum of Agriculture, Rural life and Gardens, Wexford.
  • The Irish National Heritage Park, Wexford.

Shops, Pubs, Restaurants and Cookery Schools

There is an abundance of traditional pubs in Graiguenamanagh (11 in all!), some also serving food. You will also find two Chinese / Indian restaurants / take aways, a fish and chip shop and if you really want to spoil yourself, why not try “The Waterside” on 059-9724246 or “Barrows Keep”. The latter opened its doors to the public in late 2017 as a new restaurant in Tinnahinch — providing locally sourced, modern Irish cuisine in an elegant setting. Book your table by phone: 059 972 5742 or email info@barrowskeep.com

And if you fancy something completely different, come and check out “The Devils Menu” (http://www.thedevilsmenu.ie/).  John Whelan runs a boutique cookery school, which is just a spit away from us, using local produce, wild flowers as well as foraged spices and herbs. John will bring you on a journey of flavour, colour, aromas and cuisines from around the world and share with you his experience as well as invaluable kitchen tips. To contact John ring 085-1148170.

The second cookery school in town is that of Edward Hayden, http://www.edwardentertains.com/.

For all your shopping needs, take a look at ALDI, which opened its doors in November 2018. There is also a SuperValu in town.

Graiguenamanagh boasts many fine musicians, and traditional music is a regular attraction in many of the local pubs.