Kilkenny is one of Ireland’s best destinations for a family day out or a short break, with plenty to keep kids of all ages entertained. From medieval castles and ancient priories to farms, caves and splash pools, there’s no shortage of things to do in Kilkenny with kids.
To help you plan your visit, we’ve picked our top 10 things to do in Kilkenny with kids — in no particular order.
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Family-Friendly Things to Do in Kilkenny
#1. Kilkenny Castle
Spend a few hours exploring the grounds of Kilkenny Castle. Families with older children can take a guided tour of the castle itself, though it may not hold the attention of the very youngest visitors as well as the grounds do.
Kilkenny Castle also has an orienteering trail with three route options — short (1.8km), medium (2.4km) and long (3.5km). Maps have traditionally been available to download free from the castle’s website, so it’s worth checking before your visit to confirm the trails are still on offer.
The course is a lovely way to explore the flora and fauna of the castle park, and part of the route takes in the Canal Walk. Outside the castle there’s plenty of space for picnics, ball games and walking, plus a wildlife area where you can spot the ducks and a colourful playground for younger children. Note that bicycles aren’t allowed in the park, and dogs must be kept on a lead.
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#2. Nore Valley Park Farm
Nore Valley Park offers everything you need for a family day out, a celebration, or a proper break away from it all. From up-close encounters with friendly farm animals to camping facilities and activities suited to every age, it’s a spot that works equally well for an afternoon visit or a longer stay.
Run by the Harper family since 1989, Nore Valley Park has built a reputation as a family destination with real character — well worth building a day trip around.
#3. Castlecomer Discovery Park
Spend a day at Castlecomer Discovery Park, where woodland nature trails, lakeside fishing spots, treetop activities and an adventure playground make for a full and varied day out. There’s also a café at the visitor centre if you fancy a break, or you can bring a picnic and make the most of the surroundings.
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#4. Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum
Just outside Inistioge, Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum combines formal and informal gardens with something for every member of the family — an arboretum of specimen trees, a walled garden bursting with flowers and vegetables, the Yew Walk, the Rose Garden, and the Monkey Puzzle and Noble Fir avenues.
There are tea rooms for refreshments, plus picnic tables, a playground and toilet facilities on site. An admission fee applies per car, payable on exit — it’s worth checking the current rate before you travel, as these can change.
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#5. The National Reptile Zoo
Get up close to snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles and more at the National Reptile Zoo in Hebron Business Park, Kilkenny City. With over 50 exhibits, an Animal Encounter Zone, a Nocturnal Realm, education rooms, a coffee shop and a play area, it’s open year-round, seven days a week — it’s a good idea to check the zoo’s current opening hours before you set off.
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#6. Kells Priory
Explore the atmospheric ruins of Kells Priory, dating back to the 12th century. The site is fully enclosed by its original monastic wall, complete with seven towers and a range of defensive features — a fascinating stop for kids curious about medieval history.
#7. Dunmore Cave
Take a guided tour of Dunmore Cave, a striking limestone cave system made up of chambers formed over millions of years. It’s home to some of the finest calcite formations found anywhere in an Irish cave — a genuinely impressive underground adventure for the family.
#8. Kilkenny City Road Train
Hop aboard the Kilkenny City Road Train, which departs from beside the Design Centre on The Parade. It’s a relaxed way to take in the sights and sounds of the city, with a fully narrated tour and plenty of familiar songs and music on board to keep the kids entertained along the way.
#9. The Watershed
Cool off at the Watershed, which has something for the whole family — a 25m lane pool, a 5m learner pool, and a dedicated Fun Pool for the kids. You don’t need to be a member to use the facilities, as pay-as-you-go options are available for both peak and off-peak times.
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#10. Jenkinstown Park
Visit Jenkinstown Park and follow one of the marked walking trails, with plenty of spots along the way for a picnic and some lovely views to enjoy. Keep an eye out for the herd of deer in the walled garden area near the main car park, and don’t miss the unusual round threshing mill building on the green.
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What are your favourite things to do in Kilkenny with kids? Leave a comment below and let us know — we’d love to hear from you!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year to visit Kilkenny with kids?
Kilkenny is a great family destination all year round. The outdoor spots — like Woodstock Gardens, Jenkinstown Park and Castlecomer Discovery Park — are especially lovely in spring and summer, while indoor options like the National Reptile Zoo, Dunmore Cave and the Watershed make good choices for a rainy day or a winter visit.
Is Kilkenny Castle suitable for younger children?
The castle grounds are perfect for younger kids, with space to run around, a playground and ducks to feed. The guided tour of the castle interior tends to appeal more to older children who can engage with the history.
Can you do all of these activities in one day?
It’s ambitious to fit all 10 into a single day, especially with young children in tow. Most families pick two or three nearby activities to combine, depending on where they’re staying — for example, Kilkenny Castle and the Watershed both sit within the city itself, while Nore Valley Park, Castlecomer Discovery Park and Woodstock Gardens are a little further out.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking requirements vary by attraction and can change, so it’s worth checking directly with each venue before you travel, particularly for tours, camping and any activities with limited capacity.
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