Shee Alms House
Step back in time in Kilkenny, a city brimming with medieval charm, historic castles, and vibrant arts.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Shee Alms House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Kilkenny, a city brimming with medieval charm, historic castles, and vibrant arts.
"Kilkenny is a beautiful city with so much to see and do, a perfect blend of history and culture!"
🚶♀️ Walk the Medieval Mile
Explore Kilkenny's historic heart on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets!
🎟️ Book Arts Festival Tickets
If visiting during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, book tickets for popular events like those at Shee Alms House in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shee Alms House
Kilkenny City Centre
A historic 16th-century building offering a glimpse into charitable foundations and medieval architecture.
Kilkenny Castle
The Parade, Kilkenny
A magnificent Norman castle with centuries of history, offering stunning architecture and beautiful grounds.
Medieval Mile
Kilkenny City
A historic trail connecting Kilkenny Castle to St. Canice's Cathedral, showcasing the city's rich past.
St. Canice's Cathedral
Kilkenny City
An impressive medieval cathedral with a round tower offering panoramic views of Kilkenny.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Kilkenny's Charm
Embrace Kilkenny's Walkable Core
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Medieval Mile
Explore Kilkenny's historic heart on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets!
🎟️ Book Arts Festival Tickets
If visiting during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, book tickets for popular events like those at Shee Alms House in advance.
🏰 Kilkenny Castle Tours
Consider a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle to fully appreciate its history and architecture.
☕ Local Coffee & Pubs
Discover charming local pubs and cafes like Fennellys of Callan for a true Kilkenny experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Medieval Mile
Explore Kilkenny's historic heart on foot. Comfortable shoes are essential for the cobblestone streets!
🎟️ Book Arts Festival Tickets
If visiting during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, book tickets for popular events like those at Shee Alms House in advance.
🏰 Kilkenny Castle Tours
Consider a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle to fully appreciate its history and architecture.
☕ Local Coffee & Pubs
Discover charming local pubs and cafes like Fennellys of Callan for a true Kilkenny experience.
👻 Haunted History
For a spooky twist, join a Kilkenny haunted tour that often includes tales related to the Shee Alms House area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kilkenny for its rich history, charming medieval streets, and vibrant atmosphere. The city is lauded for its well-preserved landmarks like Kilkenny Castle and the Medieval Mile, offering a deep dive into Ireland's past. While generally positive, some find parking challenging and certain attractions can be crowded during peak times.
"Staying at the Butler house our room was “Shee room” they had a little write up about the historical building: Shee Alms House was founded by the Shee family in 1582 'to accommodate twelve poor persons' in the city of Kilkenny, Ireland. During our exploration of Kilkenny we stumbled upon the house."
krazy ISH
"Sir Richard Shee (pronounced 'Shay', not 'Shee') was an estate landowner with a castle in the Kilkenny area. He left a foundation for poor persons in his name, this building that exists to this day. His tomb in back of St Mary's, nearby, in what used to be inside the back of the church, is now restored."
Greg Shay
"The best restaurant in town! Opens every day."
Иван Иванов
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kilkenny is easily accessible from Dublin by car (approx. 1.5 hours) or by train. Public transport is a great option if you want to avoid parking hassles in the city center.
Yes, Kilkenny is very walkable! Most attractions, including the Shee Alms House, are clustered together in the city center, making it ideal for exploring on foot.
There are several car parks available in Kilkenny, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider parking slightly outside the city center and walking in.
Absolutely! Kilkenny makes for an excellent day trip from Dublin, offering a rich historical and cultural experience within a manageable distance.
Yes, many guided walking tours are available, covering historical sites like the Shee Alms House, Kilkenny Castle, and the darker side of Kilkenny's history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the Shee Alms House is a historic building, specific entry fees can vary depending on whether it's hosting an exhibition or event. During the Kilkenny Arts Festival, some events like the Crash Ensemble's 'open house' were free.
Opening hours for the Shee Alms House are typically tied to specific events or exhibitions. It's best to check the Kilkenny Arts Festival schedule or local listings for current information.
It's advisable to book tickets for Kilkenny Castle in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.
Many of Kilkenny's attractions are free to explore from the outside, including walking the Medieval Mile and admiring the architecture. Some events at the Shee Alms House have also been free.
The official Kilkenny Arts Festival website is the best source for event schedules, including performances and exhibitions held at venues like the Shee Alms House.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Founded by the Shee family in 1582, the Shee Alms House was established to accommodate twelve poor persons in Kilkenny, reflecting medieval charitable practices.
The Shee Alms House is a historic building that often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, offering a glimpse into its past and contemporary artistic expressions.
Interactive events like Ta Tum Tum's Brazilian carnival show at the Shee Alms House are specifically designed to be fun for both children and adults.
Shee Alms House is centrally located and close to Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral, and other key sites along the Medieval Mile.
Photography policies may vary depending on any ongoing exhibitions or events. It's always best to check with staff on-site or event organizers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kilkenny has a vibrant food scene. While specific recommendations vary, travelers have praised places for excellent Korean fried chicken wraps and traditional pubs.
Yes, Kilkenny is known for its lively pub culture. Many historic pubs offer a great atmosphere and local brews.
Expect traditional Irish fare, hearty pub grub, and increasingly diverse culinary options, including international flavors.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kilkenny are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan choices on their menus.
Enjoy a pint of local ale or stout in a traditional pub, and don't miss out on any unique local culinary finds mentioned by locals.
📸 📸 Photography
Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral (especially the round tower view), the Medieval Mile's charming streets, and the historic architecture of buildings like the Shee Alms House are all highly photogenic.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing Kilkenny Castle and its grounds. Weekdays can also mean fewer people in your shots.
Depending on exhibitions, the interior of the Shee Alms House can offer unique architectural details and artistic displays for photography.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for cityscapes and architecture. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of Kilkenny Castle and its grounds.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in Ireland. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone near historical sites or in urban areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond these, consider a visit to the Smithwick's Experience for a taste of local brewing history (age-appropriate sections available) or simply enjoy a picnic in the castle grounds. The Medieval Mile is perfect for a historical scavenger hunt, turning sightseeing into an adventure. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for little explorers!
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Look for free events during the Kilkenny Arts Festival, as some performances and exhibitions at venues like the Shee Alms House are offered at no cost. For dining, opt for casual cafes, bakeries, or grab-and-go options rather than sit-down restaurants. Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on expenses.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss the Medieval Mile, a trail that connects key historical landmarks, offering a comprehensive journey through Kilkenny's rich heritage. Sites like Rothe House & Gardens and the infamous Kyteler's Inn provide further insights into medieval life, trade, and even darker tales. Consider joining a guided historical walking tour to gain deeper context and uncover hidden stories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Shee Alms House
Sir Richard Shee, a prominent landowner with a castle in the Kilkenny area, established this foundation. His legacy is also marked by his tomb, which is located in St. Mary's Church, a site historically connected to the area. The building itself, though adapted over centuries, stands as a testament to this historical commitment to welfare and community support.
Today, the Shee Alms House often serves as a venue for cultural events, particularly during the Kilkenny Arts Festival. It has hosted art exhibitions and performances, allowing visitors to experience its historic ambiance while engaging with contemporary arts. This dual role—preserving history while fostering culture—makes it a unique stop in Kilkenny.
Exploring Kilkenny's Medieval Charm
Key landmarks along the Medieval Mile include Rothe House & Gardens, a unique 17th-century merchant's home, and Kyteler's Inn, famously associated with Ireland's first recorded witchcraft trial. The Shee Alms House is also situated within this historically rich area, contributing to the dense tapestry of medieval Kilkenny.
Beyond the major sites, simply wandering the narrow, winding streets offers a delightful experience. You'll discover hidden courtyards, traditional pubs, and artisan shops. The city's compact nature makes it perfect for exploration on foot, encouraging visitors to soak in the atmosphere and uncover its many historical layers.
Kilkenny Arts Festival Highlights
Venues such as the Shee Alms House have hosted unique performances, from immersive sound installations like Jonathan Nangle's 'Blue Haze of Deep Time' to interactive music shows for families, such as Ta Tum Tum's Brazilian carnival experience. The festival's programming often leverages the city's historic architecture, providing a captivating backdrop for artistic expression.
Attending the Kilkenny Arts Festival offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the city in a dynamic and engaging way. It's a chance to discover new artists, enjoy world-class performances, and immerse yourself in the cultural heartbeat of Kilkenny. Checking the festival schedule in advance is crucial for planning your visit and securing tickets for popular events.
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