Tholsel
Historic 1761 toll house and city hall, now civic offices and gateway to the Medieval Mile Museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See cherry blossoms bloom
Tholsel
Best Time
See cherry blossoms bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1761 toll house and city hall, now civic offices and gateway to the Medieval Mile Museum.
"A historic landmark, the Tholsel offers a glimpse into Kilkenny's past and access to its rich museum."
Check Refurbishment Status
The Tholsel is under refurbishment until 2026. Verify access before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Medieval Mile
Use the Tholsel as a gateway to the fascinating Medieval Mile Museum. :map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Tholsel Exterior
Kilkenny City Centre
Admire the 1761 architecture of this former toll house and city hall, a prominent landmark.
Medieval Mile Museum Entrance
Behind the Tholsel
Discover the rich history of Kilkenny through this museum, accessed via the Tholsel.
Cherry Blossom Spot
Medieval Mile Museum grounds
In season, enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms blooming in the museum's graveyard.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Tholsel's Dual Identity
Location and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Refurbishment Status
The Tholsel is under refurbishment until 2026. Verify access before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Medieval Mile
Use the Tholsel as a gateway to the fascinating Medieval Mile Museum. :map:
Admire the Architecture
Even with limited access, the building's exterior is worth appreciating. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Refurbishment Status
The Tholsel is under refurbishment until 2026. Verify access before your visit. :informationdeskperson:
Explore the Medieval Mile
Use the Tholsel as a gateway to the fascinating Medieval Mile Museum. :map:
Admire the Architecture
Even with limited access, the building's exterior is worth appreciating. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors note the Tholsel's historical significance as a former toll house and city hall, now housing civic offices and serving as an entrance to the Medieval Mile Museum. While its exterior is appreciated, current refurbishment until 2026 limits interior access. Some reviews mention the beauty of the cherry blossoms in the adjacent museum grounds during spring.
"IT was erected around 1578 and re-built in 1761; it served as a meeting place, a custom house and now houses the civic offices and you really can't miss it. It looks interesting, but there is not that much to it other than the offices and the entrance to the Medieval Mile Museum."
Flynn On Tour
"No specific details of this place other than it houses some Council offices and an entrance to the Medieval Mile Museum."
Kathryn Foss
"That place was amazing and beautiful. Meals tasted like heaven"
L N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tholsel is located in the heart of Kilkenny city center, making it easily accessible on foot if you're already in town. If arriving by car, there are several parking options nearby, though they can fill up quickly during peak tourist seasons. Public transport options include local bus services that stop close to the city center. +1
Yes, the Tholsel is a prominent building in Kilkenny's city center and is hard to miss. It's often mentioned in walking tours of the city. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Tholsel itself, as a civic building, generally does not require a ticket for exterior viewing. However, it also serves as an entrance to the Medieval Mile Museum, which does have an admission fee.
As the Tholsel houses civic offices, its internal hours would typically align with business hours. However, it is currently under refurbishment until 2026, which may affect any public access or viewing.
The Tholsel is currently undergoing refurbishment and is expected to be closed until 2026. While you can see the exterior, interior access may be restricted.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Tholsel's primary function is as a civic building and an entrance to the Medieval Mile Museum. Visitors can admire its historic architecture from the outside. During spring, the grounds of the Medieval Mile Museum behind the Tholsel are known for their cherry blossoms.
Currently, interior access to the Tholsel is likely limited due to ongoing refurbishment until 2026. It primarily houses civic offices.
The Tholsel was originally built around 1578 and rebuilt in 1761. It served as a meeting place and custom house before becoming the city hall and now housing civic offices.
The Tholsel's historic architecture makes for interesting exterior photographs. If visiting during blossom season, the grounds of the Medieval Mile Museum offer beautiful photo opportunities. 
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kilkenny city center, where the Tholsel is located, offers numerous dining options. You can find everything from traditional Irish pubs to modern cafes and restaurants. Many are within walking distance. +2
Kilkenny boasts a diverse culinary scene. You can enjoy classic Irish fare, international cuisine like Korean fried chicken, and excellent baked goods from Michelin-trained chefs. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs
Make sure to check the refurbishment status, as interior access might be limited until 2026. Even so, appreciating the exterior and understanding its historical context is a rewarding experience. Consider combining your visit with a walk along the Medieval Mile to connect the Tholsel to other significant historical sites in Kilkenny.
Photographers
For a truly special shot, plan your visit during spring to capture the beautiful cherry blossoms in the grounds of the Medieval Mile Museum, located just behind the Tholsel. This offers a stunning juxtaposition of historical architecture and natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tholsel: A Multifaceted Landmark
While its primary role today is administrative, the Tholsel also acts as a key access point to the Medieval Mile Museum. This museum offers a deep dive into Kilkenny's rich past, making the Tholsel a gateway to understanding the city's heritage. Visitors can admire the Tholsel's exterior, appreciating its historical significance and architectural style, even if interior access is limited.
It's important for visitors to note that the Tholsel is currently undergoing refurbishment and is expected to be closed for interior access until 2026. This means that while the building remains a visible landmark, its internal functions and accessibility will be temporarily altered.
Exploring the Medieval Mile Museum
Within the museum's grounds, particularly in the graveyard, visitors can find a serene spot adorned with cherry blossoms during the spring season. This offers a beautiful contrast between historical solemnity and natural beauty, making it a picturesque location for photography.
This museum is an integral part of Kilkenny's Medieval Mile, a trail that connects the city's most important historical sites. Visiting the Medieval Mile Museum provides context and depth to the historical narrative of Kilkenny, complementing the experience of seeing landmarks like the Tholsel.
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