Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Most visitors see Kilkenny’s medieval buildings. This tour helps you understand the stories behind them.
In a relaxed small group (max 15), explore Kilkenny with a guide born and raised here. Starting near Kilkenny Castle, you’ll walk through the Medieval Mile to places like St. Canice's Cathedral while hearing the real stories that shaped the city — invasions, merchants, crime, politics, and everyday life.
This is not a theatrical tour or a list of dates. It’s designed to feel conversational, personal, and easy to follow.
Guests regularly say they “learned a lot” while still having fun, and many find the tour helps the rest of Kilkenny make far more sense afterward.
Small groups allow plenty of time for questions, conversation, and local recommendations. Advance booking is recommended, especially on weekends.
Small groups limited to 15 people
Local guide born and raised in Kilkenny
Story-focused, relaxed experience
Starts near Kilkenny Castle
Fun, informative introduction to the city
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for anyone who cannot cover 5km or 3 miles.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Tourist Information Office (Shee Alms House)
Poor house.
St John's Priory
Church of St. John the evangilist.
In person guide.
287 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Rich E,May 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
This is a very nice walking tour of Kilkenny. You walk all over town, about two miles.. The guide tells you about Kilkenny’s history and the major monuments and areas. Well worth it.
lindalgillen,Apr 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
John was our guide. Lucky for us we were the only two booked for this time slot which meant that John was our personal guide. He is so knowledgeable about the city and is happy to stop to answer any of our questions. A very pleasant guy and we would highly recommend taking the time to take this tour.
Julie J,Apr 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
Well worth it. Informative historical stories and our guide John was knowledgeable, courteous and friendly. Merci beaucoup John.
Julie W,Apr 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
John was very informative and a Kilkenny native. We learned and had a lovely tour.
TARCY2,Apr 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great way to start our trip! John was an excellent tour guide. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and enjoy learning all about Kilkenny!
Hilary W,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
John proved to be an excellent, knowledgeable tour guide making our visit to Kilkenny very enjoyable and worthwhile.
shamrad2024,Mar 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
John had a wealth of knowledge that he shared! He was friendly and allowed plenty of time to observe and/or ask questions. We recommend this tour to learn a ton about the town.
Renee C,Mar 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
We enjoyed John’s tour so much the first time that we brought our family back to do it again. Funny, insightful, and engaging. He hits all the major places and a few you would miss with out a local guide.
majo56,Mar 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
This is a really great tour. John knows so much about Kilkenny - past and present -and really brings its history to life with his many different stories and insights. Can’t recommend this tour highly enough.
elenasimonam2026,Mar 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Lovely tour, very nice and knowledgeable tour guide, very friendly 👍would highly recommend. Thank you John Britton 🙌
Operated by Ormonde Language Tours Kilkenny