
St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower Kilkenny
Explore a 13th-century cathedral and climb a 9th-century round tower for panoramic Kilkenny views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Essential for tower climb views

St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower Kilkenny
Best Time
Essential for tower climb views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 13th-century cathedral and climb a 9th-century round tower for panoramic Kilkenny views.
"The view from the top is great!!! Don't skip it for the castle."

🎯 Tower Climb: Be Prepared!
Steep, narrow steps & ladders! Not for claustrophobic or those with knee/balance issues. :athletic_shoe: :warning:
🎟️ Combo Ticket Recommended
Get the Cathedral & Tower ticket for the full experience. Views from the tower are unforgettable! :ticket:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Round Tower Ascent
Adjacent to the Cathedral
Climb 121 steps up a 9th-century tower for breathtaking 360-degree views of Kilkenny city and beyond.

St. Canice's Cathedral Interior
Cathedral Nave
Explore centuries of history, stunning architecture, stained glass, and ancient tombs within this beautiful medieval church.

Red Book of Ossory Exhibition
Cathedral
Discover the historical significance of this ancient manuscript, a key artifact housed within the cathedral.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb the Tower (If You Dare!)
Combine Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Tower Climb: Be Prepared!
Steep, narrow steps & ladders! Not for claustrophobic or those with knee/balance issues. :athletic_shoe: :warning:
🎟️ Combo Ticket Recommended
Get the Cathedral & Tower ticket for the full experience. Views from the tower are unforgettable! :ticket:
🎧 Audio Tour for History Buffs
The guided audio tour offers incredible historical insights into the Cathedral. :microphone:
👨👩👧👦 Family Treasure Hunt
Engage kids with Milo and Rua's treasure hunt activity. Fun for all ages! :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Tower Climb: Be Prepared!
Steep, narrow steps & ladders! Not for claustrophobic or those with knee/balance issues. :athletic_shoe: :warning:
🎟️ Combo Ticket Recommended
Get the Cathedral & Tower ticket for the full experience. Views from the tower are unforgettable! :ticket:
🎧 Audio Tour for History Buffs
The guided audio tour offers incredible historical insights into the Cathedral. :microphone:
👨👩👧👦 Family Treasure Hunt
Engage kids with Milo and Rua's treasure hunt activity. Fun for all ages! :child:
🛍️ Local Crafts in Gift Shop
Find unique souvenirs from local artists and Irish creators. Perfect mementos! :gift:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower as a must-see in Kilkenny, often highlighting the unforgettable climb up the tower for its breathtaking views. The historical significance and architectural beauty of the Cathedral are also frequently mentioned as major draws.
"Has to be on your list of places to see in Killkenny. We have been up to.tge castle many times and missed St Candice's.
There is a small car park across the road, and a family ticket was around €24. Note you can visit just the Cathedral, or the Cathedral & round tower. I would highly recommend you don't skip the tower, but do not there are ladders and tight areas on the accent!!
The cathedral itself is a a peaceful place to explore. Lots of interesting people buried in tombs, with information displayed as u explore. There are a few bits to keep the kids busy, wooden blocks to build a cathedral and some drawings. The cathedral also contains the red book of ossory. If I'm honest while it has huge historical significance, it's not much to look at 😂
The round tower is located directly adjacent to the cathedral. The enyrave is up a metal ladder. There is an attendant sitting just inside the tower, they will tell you if you if you need to wait based on who is already inside. Once u start climbing you will understand why rate limiting is so important! It's narrow/low and sometimes difficult on places. If u are a large person I'd avoid. The view from the top is great!!!
Good spot to visit, don't skip it for the castle."
Justin Meighan
"Beautiful cathedral in the heart of Kilkenny. I recommend the guided audio tour. An incredible amount of history within the Canice Cathedral.
We opted for the cathedral and tower combination tour. If you are afraid of heights or have any balance/knee issues, the tower is definitely not for you."
Javier Garcia
"A highlight of our first 16-day trip to Ireland & still remaining a highlight after our second 1 week trip to Ireland! The fact you could go up to the top of the tower was awesome! What a view! It blew Kilkenny Castle out of the park for me. I even preferred Cahir Castle to Kilkenny Castle. This cute Cathedral though, with its lovely little round tower, perfection!! Sept 8, 2024."
A J (Lexi)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach St Canice's Cathedral by public transportation from Dublin via bus or train to Kilkenny. From the Kilkenny bus/train station, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the city center where the Cathedral is located. Many visitors find the walk enjoyable to see the city.
Yes, there is a small car park located across the road from St. Canice's Cathedral. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist times. Consider public transport or walking if you're staying in the city center.
Absolutely! St. Canice's Cathedral is centrally located in Kilkenny city, making it easily accessible on foot from most accommodations and attractions. Public transport from Dublin is also a convenient option.
Kilkenny city is very walkable, and St. Canice's Cathedral is a central point. Exploring on foot allows you to discover hidden gems and enjoy the medieval atmosphere. Many recommend walking from Kilkenny Castle to the Cathedral.
While Kilkenny is walkable, local buses operate within the city. Taxis are also readily available for shorter distances or if you prefer not to walk. The Cathedral itself is easily reached by foot from most parts of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Cathedral and Round Tower generally have extended hours, often from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, and 1 pm to 6 pm on Sundays. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours, especially around holidays.
There are different ticket options. You can visit the Cathedral only, or opt for a combined ticket for the Cathedral and Round Tower. A family ticket was noted to be around €24. Prices can vary, so checking their website is recommended.
While not always mandatory, booking your visit, especially for the Round Tower climb, in advance is highly recommended, particularly during peak season or busy periods. This helps manage visitor numbers and ensures your spot.
Yes, you can choose to visit just the Cathedral. However, many visitors strongly recommend the Round Tower experience for its unique views and historical significance, often preferring it to Kilkenny Castle.
Family tickets are available and offer a cost-effective option for visiting. Group discounts may also be available, so it's advisable to inquire directly with the Cathedral's administration if you are planning a group visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Round Tower climb involves 121 steps, with ladders and narrow passages. It's a physically demanding ascent and not suitable for those with fear of heights, balance issues, or mobility problems. An attendant manages entry to ensure safety.
Inside, you'll find beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, ancient tombs with informative displays, and the significant Red Book of Ossory exhibition. There are also activities for children, like building blocks.
Absolutely! The panoramic views from the top of the Round Tower are spectacular and often described as a highlight, even surpassing views from Kilkenny Castle for some visitors. It's a unique historical experience.
Yes, guided and self-guided tours are available six days a week. Guided tours of the Cathedral run at specific times, and special tours for the Red Book of Ossory are also offered.
Yes, St. Canice's offers family-friendly activities like a treasure hunt with Milo and Rua. The Cathedral itself can be engaging for children, and the gift shop offers souvenirs.
🍽️ 🛍️ Food & Dining
While St. Canice's Cathedral doesn't have a full restaurant, they do have a gift shop that offers a selection of local crafts and souvenirs. For dining, numerous cafes and restaurants are available in the surrounding Kilkenny city center.
Kilkenny city boasts a wide array of dining options, from traditional pubs serving hearty Irish fare to contemporary restaurants and cafes. You'll find plenty of choices within a short walking distance of the Cathedral.
Generally, eating is not permitted inside the Cathedral itself to preserve the historical site. However, there might be designated areas nearby or you can enjoy a picnic in one of Kilkenny's public spaces before or after your visit.
Kilkenny has a growing number of restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff when dining out to find suitable choices.
Kilkenny's cuisine often features traditional Irish dishes, including stews, seafood, and locally sourced produce. Many pubs offer a classic pub grub experience, while restaurants provide more diverse culinary offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the Cathedral and the Round Tower offer striking architectural shots. From the top of the Round Tower, you get panoramic views of Kilkenny city, the castle, and the surrounding countryside.
Photography is generally allowed inside the Cathedral, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage or ask staff. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might be disruptive.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for exterior shots, offering softer light and fewer crowds. For views from the tower, clear weather is essential for good photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and urban areas due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume drones are not permitted and check local bylaws if you are unsure.
The summit of the Round Tower provides the most iconic viewpoint. For exterior shots, consider viewpoints from across the road or slightly further afield in the city to capture the Cathedral and tower together.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Round Tower climb is an adventure, parents should carefully assess their children's comfort with heights and confined spaces. If the tower climb isn't suitable, the Cathedral itself, with its tombs and stories, can still be fascinating. The gift shop also offers a chance for kids to pick out a small souvenir.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Kilkenny city itself is very walkable, meaning you can save on local transport costs once you arrive. Pack a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park before or after your visit to further reduce expenses on food.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for clear weather for the best tower views. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the beauty of the Cathedral's exterior. Be mindful of lighting conditions inside the Cathedral and respect any restrictions on flash photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Round Tower
The primary purpose of these towers was often as bell towers and places of refuge during times of attack. The views from the top are consistently praised as spectacular, offering a unique perspective of Kilkenny city, Kilkenny Castle, and the surrounding countryside. It's a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable experience and breathtaking photo opportunities, provided they are comfortable with heights and confined spaces.
Important Considerations: Due to the nature of the climb, it's not recommended for individuals with a fear of heights, balance issues, knee problems, or those who are claustrophobic. An attendant usually manages the flow of visitors to ensure safety and prevent overcrowding within the narrow structure.
Exploring St. Canice's Cathedral
A significant highlight within the Cathedral is the Red Book of Ossory Exhibition. This ancient manuscript holds immense historical and cultural value, offering a glimpse into medieval Ireland. While its historical importance is undeniable, some visitors note that it might not be visually captivating for everyone. The Cathedral also offers a guided audio tour, which is highly recommended by visitors for its in-depth historical context and engaging narrative.
For families, St. Canice's provides a treasure hunt activity featuring characters like Milo and Rua, making the visit more interactive and enjoyable for children. The Cathedral also houses a gift shop featuring local crafts and Irish-made products, providing a perfect opportunity to find a unique souvenir.
The Historical Significance
The Cathedral, established in the 13th century, has been a center of worship and community for centuries. It has witnessed significant historical events and houses important artifacts like the Red Book of Ossory, a collection of documents dating back to the 14th century, offering insights into the ecclesiastical and political landscape of the time.
Visiting St. Canice's is not just about seeing old buildings; it's about connecting with the past. The site provides a tangible link to Ireland's medieval heritage, from religious practices to architectural ingenuity. The blend of ancient structures and ongoing spiritual life makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

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