Day 5: Medieval Kilkenny or ‘The Marble City’ as it’s affectionately known.

After two big travel days, today it’s time to stay closer to home today and have a more leisurely day, Kilkenny (Irish: Cill Chainnigh, meaning “cell or church of Cainnech”) is a beautiful city with a tremendous sense of character, history and culture. Our first stop will be the focal point of the city, Kilkenny Castle. We will take a tour of this 12th-century castle and explore the magnificent grounds. Guests have the rest of the afternoon to explore cities medieval streets where you are sure to find lots to interest you including shops, pubs and great places to eat.

Directly across the street from Castle is the famous Kilkenny Design Centre. The Kilkenny Design Centre is situated in what was once the stables of Kilkenny Castle and is fittingly located adjacent to the National Craft Gallery one of Ireland’s most exciting artistic venues. The Centre’s unequalled supplier list, drawn from Ireland’s most eminent craftspeople and designers, gives visitors a uniquely special shopping experience. A world-renowned selection of jewellery, knitwear, Celtic gifts, china & crystal, pottery & glass, home & fashion accessories and one-off contemporary design pieces are available. Visitors from outside of the EU can avail of attractive tax-free shopping.

After our day of sightseeing, we will return to the Horse& Jockey to relax and enjoy a scrumptious 4-course evening meal before heading out to the Monks Pub (O’Gorman’s) in Thurles for a traditional Irish music session. Every Wednesday, a group of local musicians gather in O’Gorman’s pub, enjoying the craic (fun) and playing traditional music into the early hours of the morning. Some nights can see up to 14 musicians gather, guaranteeing ‘craic agus ceoil’ (fun and music) to be had by all, not to mention the plentiful creamy pints of Guinness you can enjoy while chatting with the locals.