Experience the best of Kilkenny

Kilkenny grew along a ridge above the River Nore, and the Medieval Mile links its Norman castle at one end with St Canice's Cathedral at the other. The castle, rebuilt many times, was the seat of the Butler family for centuries and now has a picture gallery and rose gardens. St Canice's has a medieval round tower that can be climbed for a view of the roofs.

Narrow lanes called slips run between the main streets, and the Black Abbey, a Dominican church, and Rothe House, a Tudor merchant's house with three courtyards, are close to the centre. Jerpoint Abbey, a Cistercian ruin with carved figures on its cloister, lies south of the city, and Dunmore Cave, the gardens at Woodstock in Inistioge and the town of Thomastown are all a short drive away.

The city is a centre for crafts and design, and a hurling stronghold, with black-and-amber flags everywhere. Pubs hold traditional music sessions, and local menus feature Irish stew, black pudding, brown bread, artisan cheeses and fresh trout. The weather is mild and often wet, and summer evenings stay light late.