“I Came for a Souvenir, Left Wanting to Redecorate My Entire House.” Belleek Pottery is dangerous… in the best way. You walk in thinking, “I’ll just browse,” and suddenly you’re mentally redesigning your kitchen to match that gorgeous teapot. The tour was like watching art come to life — these artisans are so skilled, I started questioning my own ability to even fold a fitted sheet. The attention to detail is unreal, and the history behind the pottery makes each piece feel extra special. The shop at the end? Let’s just say my luggage is now 10 lbs heavier and I have zero regrets. Highly recommend — just bring some self-control (or don’t, it’s worth it).

Fascinating tour! Beautiful products! Lovely café with some of the best scones I've ever had!

Awesome tour. Very interesting and beautiful China. Beautiful grounds as well.

Loved the tour, was a great activity for a rainy day!

Lovely visit to see how the pottery is made. Lovely very fine pottery. Good value and lots of choice in shop. Tearoom is also very nice with homemade scones.

Had a "factory" tour of Belleek pottery today. Fascinating place - everything is hand made, no machines! We weren't allowed to take pictures inside but it was amazing. They have been in business at this location for 168 years and it's the kind of place that generations of families work here. About 70 artisans work here and they have EVERY master mold from every design ever made. They could replicate any pottery they've ever made in their entire history. About 65% of their pottery is sold to North America! I, of course, had to buy... So glad they offer shipping!

From the perspective of a late 30s, hairy, tattooed man, I grew up hearing about grandma’s Belleek collection. I brought my mom to Ireland in May and we did the tour. I was the youngest person on the tour and I could have spent a whole day watching everyone at their craft. The whole process is fascinating and the skill is so impressive. The end product is really something special. This place is really worth a visit and they also have an online store if you can’t get there

Fantastic experience that I'd recommend to everyone. We decided to go here on the way back to Knock airport and it proved to be a great decision. The staff are fantastic and really get their love and passion for the animals across. As it was out of season there were only 6 of us visiting for this 2 hour session so it was a real personal experience. As if having Eagles and Owls flying and landing on your arm wasn't amazing enough there's an array of other animals to get to see and pet from ferrets and rabbits to giant pigs and even a skunk. Absolutely fantastic time had.

Staff were very friendly. Price was very good I thought €54 for 2 adults and 2 kids over 10. Animals very well cared for and very friendly, so obviously well looked after. It was lovely to hear that they nurse injured animals back to health and release those able to be released. Kids loved the place and the 2 hours flew by. A++++

We had a great experience visiting the raptor sanctuary. Great demonstration of the flying birds of prey as well as a fun petting zoo and other rehabilitated animals on the grounds. They're doing great work and it's satisfying to know that you're helping to fund a good cause while enjoying your visit.

Great place went with family and both girls who worked with the birds where great so much info and all the animals have a great life within the grounds

What a place! A wonderful experience, worth every cent! You can feel that the birds and all the other animals are in such good care. The two ladies who showed us the place were amazing, very friendly and helpful. Despite the miserable weather they made sure we had a great time. They even got some umbrellas for us to use during the tour and the show! I learned a lot about the animals and I highly recommend this place!

We came here back in 2017 and loved it. So as we decided to come back and do it again. This time was even better. We were the only ones there. The girls were brilliant, they talked as if the place was full. They clearly love the animals and love what they do. Thanks again for a great day. It cost €20 each, well worth it. 😊

This place is a 'must go to' for animal lovers. To see a mix of rescued animals, for those wanting to learn more about different species of birds, a family day out, a hands on experience, lots of laughs, a warm welcome and all in a professional and relaxed environment... this is definitely the place to go. Thank you so much to all the staff and in particular to the two wonderful handlers.5*

Good spot for a bit of history, architecture and beautiful vista. Great job restoring the tower. For anyone who loves castle-hopping (and generally like to get lost in history), highly recommend the Heritage Card. Well worth if you are in Ireland at least a month.

Well worth the visit. We did the self guided tour but with lots of help interviewing the staff. They love to talk about the history of this glorious island. So get the guided tour if you have time. The castle is expertly restored with replicated original craftsmanship and has realistic wax figures displaying the period daily life of its inhabitants.

Great castle to visit and tour around. Recommend paying the entry fee to go inside and explore. Not busy at all. It’s amazing to see and hear the history. Our tour guide Darragh was fanatic storyteller and we learned a lot.

Well worth my time! Seamus was our tour guide, he was so knowledgeable he made the tour so interesting and informative. Price of admission was 5 euros.

Cute little castle! Right by the water, it was a very peaceful visit. Was not expensive and took maybe 30-45 minutes to explore. Decent size parking. Was not busy midday. Sept 10, 2024.

An incredible place to visit with a rich and inspiring history. Seamus gave us a concise but detailed history while touring us around the castle and it's grounds. Would definitely recommend

Nice place, well presented and a beautiful lake. Definitely worth a quick visit. Just know there is nothing else here and if you're taking the bus, know the schedule.

Gerry was the guide during our visit, & what a guide he was. As a miner in this pit until it closed, he was informative & could tell afew funny stories along the way. He explained about how the equipment worked & how the men would have to position themselves to work safely. He & my dad, who also worked in the pits as a teenager, were able to compare notes, albeit different types of pit. This is probably the most engaging mining experience I've visited. There is an area of photos & old equioment/tools as well as a short video to help explain the mining jobs of the men and a nice clean cafe. I would highly recommend a visit here, worth the money. Added bonus, spectacular views of Lough Allen & the valley, especially when the sun is shining.

If you've got a weekend in Leitrim/Roscommon, this is worth the visit. Our guide was an ex-miner. His accent was tough for me (from Dublin) so I'd be interested to know if foreign tourists think similarly. The mine itself was pretty interesting, a bit chilly so a fleece/jumper would be recommended, and there's a small space for extra reading & a video. The cafe is ok with a small gift shop. There's plenty of parking & there's gorgeous views of Lough Allen. The driving route to Arigna is on some tiny, narrow country roads.

Really great experience, history of the mines was so interesting, our guide Eamon was lovely to chat to and hear his tales of the mines, its great the guides are ex mine workers to hear first hand stories. The cafe was so relaxed and lovely food, the staff were so welcoming and friendly, highly recommend a trip to the mines.

Absolutely fantastic experience, massive thanks to Eamon who was employed as a miner in Arigna mines until it closed, for the fantastic tour. Thanks to all the staff who were very friendly and welcoming. Highly recommend this experience.

Arigna Mining Experience - An amazing tour into the history of Irish coal mining! A tour with former miners reveals 400 years of history at Arigna mines. In 1958, local coal powered the ESB power station, which closed in 1990. The miners had a grueling job: working on their knees in narrow 45cm faces, in dust and darkness. Awesome experience. I definitely recommend visiting!

Maurice an ex-miner did a private tour with us. He provided great explanations but also stories of the time he was digging coal. Great visit.

My wife and I toured the Arigna mine in May 2025. There was just the two of us and of course our guide. I think his name was Ian, but can't remember for sure <sorry>. It was fascinating to hear the stories of the brave people working in the mines. It was hard and dirty work to say the least. Besides the potential inherent danger, we were told the vein of coal they would try to extract was only 22 inches thick. Well worth the time to see how some people had to earn a living. There is a small gift shop and cafe if you're hungry for something quick. There is also a nice view of the surrounding area in the lunch area if you stay for something to eat.

Great place, lovely scenery , only downside is you have to pay for kids playground and boat hire €40 per hour, quite steep. Food in cafe average . If you spend €20 there , you don't need pay parking which cost €6.

Went for Hot air balloon championship. Absolutely disaster. Don't recommend anyone to go. Nowear to leave car and so only air balloon basket with flames. They didn't fly because was too windy. Yesterday was lovely day in this month.

Very interesting place to take your children or to go for a good picturesque countryside walk. However, I took off one star because I feel the place has monetised a lot of the features which elsewhere would be free. Worth a good day to see everything.

Such a nice park with stunning views. You have a lot of routes which you can take and also a couple of activities and a cafe. Worth a visit if you’re around!

If you want to spend a few hours walking the forest trails 👣 and get a nice view 😉 this is the place 👌 and at the end get a coffee ☕️ and cake 🎂 too 😀.

The park itself is quite an interesting place to spend time with friends or family offering some activities for everyone.We were disappointed to drive there for almost 3 hours and don’t see any air balloons despite the good weather.Lots of people came for the same reason.They showed only the basket with the fire to people to take a photo in.

This park os really phenomenal, lots of activities for the whole family, nice trails for walking, good service, the usual food and drinks, great views, we loved it.!

Very interesting tour with an excellent guide. He told us so many stories of ancient Ireland and made it so interesting. It would be great to see the site developed a bit more, show off the importance of the site in relation to the Táin Bó Cúailnge, Queen Medb etc.

This tour was an unexpected gem and the highlight of our holiday. Mike was a world of knowledge and wisdom, he delivered the information so well. Ancient Irish stories and mythology can be difficult to put together for the uninitiated but he did an amazing job guiding the group through the life of Queen Medb and that period in Irish history. Highly recommend

Friendly staff. Tour guide Mike was very knowledgeable and accommodating. We travelled a long way to go on the tour and it was well worth it.

Fantastic tour, highly recommend it. Our tour guide Mike blended Irish mythology, folklore, history and archaeology into an exciting experience. Loved every minute of the tour and the exhibition afterwards back in the centre

Two of us had a great tour of the Rathcroghan area, one of the most important centres in ancient and early medieval Ireland. Elaine, our guide, explained the landscape and history, striking just the right balance of archaeology and mythology. Highly recommended. The cafe ais also a great place to take a break before or after the tour.

I booked the guided tour. Mike, our guide, was friendly and full of information. After driving around to the sights we spent some time in the center watching the video and reading the displays. Finally a nice lunch in the café. Dress appropriately for the weather.

We had a great experience at Rathcroghan. The staff were lovely, from the cafe to the tour. We came for the Samhain tour & my little girl loved it. Our tour guide was full of stories and very patient with my little one, genuinely appreciated it. Would definitley recommend and we will be back.

There are 2 parts of this museum. One is Famine museum and the other is the McMahon house. We did guided tour of the house, which was super interesting and fun. Our guide was excellent with humour and full of information. The museum consists of what McMahon contributed to farmers’ emigration to Canada during the famine. It is horrible to learn what they did to these poor people, walked all the way from Stroketown to Dublin then put on the ship that was used for livestock transport. Not only losing their life but lived in the worst condition ever, and eventually dead from disease or hunger… not achieved better life that they hoped for… Then, when the sole heir of McMahon sold the mansion to the local businessman, he realised how important this estate and the records that they kept is to Irish history, and turned into the museum. The mansion was well kept and shows the wealth that they lived, although it declined eventually. Learning these whole contradictory lives.. was just fascinating. Definitely worth to visit.

The National Famine Museum near Longford is a powerful place to visit. It’s not a flashy, high-tech attraction; it’s a serious, thoughtful deep-dive into the darkest chapter of Irish history. The museum sits on the Strokestown Park estate, where original famine-era documents were discovered, and that gives the experience a real sense of authenticity. Walking through the rooms, you move between personal stories of tenants, eviction accounts, letters, and records that show exactly how the famine unfolded for ordinary families. It’s heavy, emotional material, but presented in a way that’s respectful rather than sensational. Most of the museum is text-based, so you’ll be reading a lot. That can feel slow compared to modern interactive museums, but the content is strong enough to carry it. Some parts are dimly lit, which a few visitors find frustrating, but the atmosphere suits the subject. The audio guide helps bring everything together and adds context you’d miss otherwise. The best part is how it connects national history with individual human lives. You don’t just learn facts; you feel the impact. If you’re visiting Longford or nearby, it’s well worth the trip. You’ll leave quieter, more reflective, and with a deeper understanding of Ireland’s past.

The Famine Museum offers a good insight into history and is worth a visit. However, I found that the walled garden was not well maintained, which was disappointing. Entry is €14 per adult, which feels a bit steep given the experience, but okay overall.

Very enjoyable. Excellent food at restaurant Dog Friendly Walled Garden is excellent, has potential ( could benefit from an investment and some more full time gardeners), better than Kylomore Abbey. Guided tour of the house is good for those interested in Georgian architecture.

We took the guided tour at the National Famine Museum, and it was very well presented. The exhibits are informative and moving, offering a real insight into this important part of history. A deeply impactful and memorable visit — highly recommended.

I love bringing my clients to the National Famine museum in Strokestown. Great exhibits on the History of the Potatoe Famine in Ireland and stories about the people effected at this cruel time in our History. My clients enjoyed the visit but is a sad time in our history so you won't come out feeling full of cheer.

A great museum that makes primary sources the focus while keeping the room drawing interest. The gardens are a beautiful walk and the house tour is well worth it to better understand the history from a more personal point of view.

Top class. Hospitality & hosts couldn't have been better. Wish you continued success and hope the penny farthing investment pays off

Absolute hidden gem. It's unbelievable the amount of things to see and delight in. A trip to the past, but one that doesn't need a Delorean. Cannot recommend this enough for fans of Irish history and Folk history. They don't take card to buy tickets, so bring cash or book online (can do it when you get there)

This is one of Ireland best kept secret if you like looking into history this is the place for you also if you collect we turn up and charlie was amazing he had been making this collection for 50 years his knowledge was excellent the things he told us .when we was there the local school children turn up as there teacher was retiring there were so friendly and welcoming made us feel so good this is one of my favourite stop off if your ever in Ireland go

I would highly recommend a visit to this very special museum. The amount of exhibits and the memories they brought back were worth three times the entry fee. Charlie was our very informed and very interesting host with lots of stories to tell about the items on display. Myself and my friends thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Derryglad

This is a real gem of a place and an absolute delight. Thoroughly enjoyed my visit. I was part of a group who 'oohed' and 'awed' and reminisced and loved their nostalgic trip down memory lane. Highly recommend for those who remember first hand the delights on view to those who are too young but will love the their families reactions to a trip into yesteryear.

We called Charlie and Bridie if we could come and see their museum. They opened the doors for us even though we came along when it was not officially open. The two of them are so lovely and explain to you everything you wanna know about the wonderful objects which have been collected over the years. I felt like I was on a journey back in time. I like nostalgia so I love places where you can dream away in phantasies about how evereything must have been in former times. We liked the fact that it was such a rural area and a lot of stuff which has been typical for rural areas. I really recommend to see that place and meet that lovely couple. Plan at least on hour for your stay. There is so much to see and you can sense how much love they have given into the collecting and the arrangements of the objects....

Lovely museum. You can immediately tell that a lot of love and attention has gone into setting up and maintaining the museum. Beautifully kept and well worth a visit.

Wonderful little museum with very friendly and knowledgeable staff. The information provided by both staff and video is excellent. The trackway is very well displayed and the boardwalk outside across the bog is lovely. Will definitely be back. The museum is free to visit.

Very informative, our guide had lots of information to share. The film before the tour was a great look back into the dig. No tickets required.

Absolutely a Gem! An amazing artefact that deserves protection at all costs. The staff are incredible—dedicated and doing their utmost to preserve the Trackway. The guide was both passionate and highly knowledgeable, making the experience even more memorable. Unfortunately, the site is severely underfunded, and as a result, the Trackway is beginning to dry out. If no action is taken, it may eventually deteriorate beyond repair. I believe it might be necessary to undergo the full preservation process again, possibly in Portsmouth, given their expertise with the Mary Rose—which still looks fantastic. Ideally, the Trackway should be housed under glass to create a more controlled environment. It’s disheartening that, because the site is off the main tourist trail, the OPW seems to show little interest. There’s barely any advertising, and even less effort toward proper preservation—despite the fact that doing so would likely cost less than Dublin’s infamous “bike shed.” Shame.

We went as part of Heritage week for a slug and snail activity. We then went to see the trackway. We had an expert guide that made it so accessible and interesting for children! Thank you.

The museum was very interesting and completely free. The staff were kind and welcoming. A great experience

A hidden gem, after watching Oíche Shamhna: An Ancient Mystery on Sunday in which the Corlea Trackway visitor centre was featured we knew a visit was needed to see this wonderful facility, The staff were all very friendly and welcoming with our guide Noel who was very knowledgeable and passionate, and funny explaining the history in a very understandable way Thank you. After the film show and seeing the Trackway we went for a walk around a very atmospheric bog. I would highly recommend a visit at any age.

Fascinating place to visit. Film first to describe the discovery and preservation of the trackway, then very interesting talk by one of the excellent guides. We did the 2.5km walk around the site to see the bog and vegetation more closely

Great central location. The views from the castle of the city is nice. The price is a few euros and worthy of the material on display. For children it is good as there is alot to see. Well worth a look

With the staff being well informed about both Irish and Scottish history, proved the information centre to be really informative. As a traveler, it’s always good to find recommendations of local places that Google may not tell you about. This tourism centre was easy to find and it’s part of the Adamson Castle. You are greeted warmly by friendly staff and they’ll ask you a little bit about why you’re visiting, they can give you the right information as long as you ask. If you didn’t know, they also have self-guided tours inside the Athlone Tourist Information Centre, if you’re trying to waste a little extra time for your flight, also assuming you’re interested in seeing the remains of the Adamson Castle that was built in the 12th century.

This was nothing like we expected. The castle looked cool from the outside but it was essentially made into a modern “museum”, it was not a castle tour. Of our 10 days in Ireland so far, this is the first thing we did that we felt was a waste of time and money.

Very interesting place, small museum, I set 4 stars, just because of several rooms and attentions have been closed, and also in was not for free as others do in during pandemic, overall I really recommend to visit, it can be also not better then Bunratty castle, but anyway good enough

Went today, very beautiful, definitely recommend this and it’s history. Very great view as well

It looked good from the outside then it was dearer than Kilkenny castle so I didn't go in I don't know how you can price something in Athlone higher than Kilkenny

Nice castle and tourist information. You will have to pay to get in.

This is a beautiful place to visit. The grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, with plenty of historic ruins to explore. The museum was also really interesting, giving great context to the site’s history. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.

This place is gorgeous! The history movie before you enter was a wonderful picture of what’s going on. the grounds are small and should only take you 30minutes. On a sunny day the Greene as gorgeous

Clonmacnoise was founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán who chose this site for its strategic location where the River Shannon meets ancient east–west land routes. From these humble beginnings, it flourished into a major center of religion, learning, craftsmanship, and trade, attracting scholars, pilgrims, and kings from across Ireland and beyond. At its height between the 7th and 12th centuries, Clonmacnoise was home to a thriving monastic community. Here, monks produced illuminated manuscripts, crafted exquisite metalwork, and carved some of Ireland’s finest high crosses. The Cross of the Scriptures, a masterpiece of early medieval stone carving, stands as a testament to the skill and faith of its creators. The site also features two round towers, several churches spanning centuries, and over 700 carved grave slabs—each telling part of Clonmacnoise’s story.

Passionate and lovely people! We arrived a little after the tour started, but the tour guy immediately welcomed us and made a little résumé of what we missed!!! He was very passionate and nice, answered some questions along the way too! We did arrive in the morning, so there weren't a lot of people around, which was perfect to explore the grounds in peace.

Well-preserved structure of a monastic city The story of the place is fascinating and very interesting You can start with a film (It lasts about 25 minutes) with an explanation of the structure and the ruins (from the beginning to the modern time) Then you can visit the exhibition: the original high crosses are in here Now you're ready to see the monastic site. Nun's church is about 500 meters from the modern graveyard. There are not indication to reach it. So you can find the whispering arch at the entrance

This was a stop on our Ireland tour. I am so glad it was! Aiden was an entertaining, energetic, knowledgeable tour guide. He truly brought the place to life. The grounds and surrounding area are stunning and the story is wonderful as it is old. I 100% recommend you go and try to get onto Aiden's tour!

Loved visiting this hidden gem. Great informative guided tour provided (20 min), then youre free to wander the historic site, and take a look at their museum which includes a short film.

The tour was really interesting an it's absolutely worth going here. A really exciting story about the passt that one should know about Ireland. Our guide Mark was a great storyteller and told us many exciting but also tragic stories of the people who worked in this workhouse. The place and the tour are highly recommended. Thank you Mark.

This is a place for learning of the past to better the future. Top man In charge of the tour. His exhaustive knowledge and an obvious deep understanding of the workhouse and its place in world history made me feel compassion for the former workers who lived, died and were interned right here. Very powerful stuff! Then as a beautiful bonus to your visit a rural museum with lots of interesting items and documents from the local area. 5 star gem of history that should continue to be preserved and most importantly respected as it is now by locals and visitors alike.

A little out of the way but very interesting to see. You can see why so many Irish emigrated when the options were either starvation or living in a poor house.

We decided last minute to book a tour at the Irish Workhouse Centre. It was great insight into the workings of the workhouses including the many sad & difficult stories of those people in the workhouses, all part of our Irish history. Fiona gave us a great guided tour. Would highly recommend the tour.

A fantastic day out – – particularly for those of us who have an interest in Irish heritage and history. The restoration work and effort put in by the people behind this destination is unbelievably good. And our tour guide- Padraic- made the day extra special. Take a bow 🙏 I can’t understand why this special place isn’t given more national publicity.

We wanted to take in everything Portumna had to offer the day we were there, and you would be missing out if you passed this stop by. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, the site is well preserved, given the age of the place and how their funding is created. I hope in future it comes under the national trust umbrella so the restoration and tours can be more realized. Very much worth the stop!

Among the castles and natural beauty of Ireland, this is truly an alternative hidden gem that is worth going out of your way to check out. Our visit to the Irish Workhouse Centre made a deep impression on us that lasted well beyond the end of our vacation to Ireland. It offers a unique and authentic side of Irish history that a conventional museum cannot convey. I highly recommend making this a stop if you are in the midlands or are traveling between Dublin and the west coast. Be sure to check the website for tour times, as a guided tour is obligatory.

So much love, time and work is put on this place. Is very saf to se signatures of some idiots on the walls inside. But is worth this. I encourage you to buy a heritage card for all monuments that are under the care of the OPW

Interesting place, with a varied fascinating history. So much hard work has gone into bringing it back to its current condition. The gardens were beautiful and also the Abbey ruins on site too. Lovely cafe on site too. Loved the cheeky ducks who clearly know this is the place for some free food from the visitors and drinking from the dogs bowl tickled us!

The grounds and garden are beautiful. I look forward to see how the site evolves as the restorations and archeological investigations continue. I loved the addition of the tea room and art exhibit. And the gardens were absolutely fabulous. Could have spent another hour in them easily.

Such beautiful gardens and amazing history behind it. What a great place. The restaurant was stunning, and the food looked amazing. Would suggest the Chai Latte. Was perfect. The walking and riding routes are well maintained, and the staff are fantastic. Thank you so much for the hospitality.

It is a beautiful and quiet place where you can see horses and other hoofed animals. Good for walks and wedding photography. This place is definitely worth adding to the list of places to visit in Ireland. Not far from the castle, you can see a lake or another interesting areas.

Nice place to relax with the family. We had a great time. At the same time, it may need some maintenance specifically the kitchen garden and inside the castle.

Really helpful OPW staff will explain the history of this beautifully situated castle. Cafe on site serves great, cakes. salads, lunches and its own lemonade.

Enjoy a royal walk within some of the most beautiful gardens. We visited on a Sunday so we didn’t get to enjoy a tour of the castle but the gardens walk was a lovely experience. The gardens are well kept and offer almost magical views and beauty! The most captivating for us was the peace and quiet during our walk. The property spans across 200 acres of land, so there is more than enough space to enjoy for everyone. The price to enter is also more than affordable and after your walk is complete, you can enjoy a nice tea at the tea room in the heart of the castle.

Tullynally, the Pakenhams’ family home since 1655. Cultural Escapism What a great way to delve into the history of this Westmeath gem of a historical site and yet a family home. Great stories, beautifully told by Joe the history buff from Kerry. Fantastic variety of well maintained garden walks 5*****

A Special Visit to a Truly Special Place Once again, I had the pleasure of visiting Tullynally Castle a truly lovely place that holds personal meaning as it also happens to be the ancestral homestead of my wife’s family, long before the Pakenham family took residence. Back in 2020, while researching the area for a film project, I had the pleasure of meeting Thomas Pakenham himself. Since then, I’ve returned many times, often bringing students from Spain, Italy, and France on guided tours through the gardens, woodlands, and the castle’s rich historical grounds. Today’s visit was something extra special. I returned with my wife, and after spending over three peaceful hours forest bathing in the ancient woodlands, we found ourselves completely recharged. The tranquility of the trees, the birdsong, and the timeless atmosphere truly offer something rare and healing. We rounded off the visit with a quiet moment in the cozy coffee shop, which was as welcoming and charming as ever with warm smiles, good coffee, and the scent of trees still lingering in our breath. Every visit to Tullynally is a reminder of the beauty of Irish heritage, history, and nature at its finest. Whether you're a history lover, a nature seeker, or simply in need of peace, this place never disappoints. Highly recommended.

Tullynally Castle is surrounded by twelve acres of parkland and gardens, including woodland gardens and walled gardens laid out in the early 19th century with a limestone grotto and ornamental lakes. In the former stables a lovely tearoom has been created, that serves delicious food.

Tullynally Castle was a pleasant discovery for us! Immersed in the greenery, surrounded by majestic trees, you will find this little gem still managed and inhabited by the descendants of the Family. We purchased the ticket for the castle tour and gardens. Thomas, our special guide (you'll understand why when you go) didn't hold back in sharing anecdotes and details about the family's history. Once the tour was over, we took a break in the lovely café, also run by polite and helpful staff. The gardens, our last stop of the day, left us breathless as soon as we entered. An endless expanse of greenery. You can choose from various paths to follow, which lead you to lakes, forests, or flowering gardens. We understand that managing such a large park is not easy, especially if done privately.There is the right balance between the hand of man and nature, beautiful and wild as it is. See you soon! 🇮🇹💚🇮🇪

Great day spent in Tullynally Castle..we did the guided tour with Robert, who was very entertaining and informative.. Gardens were fantastic to walk through...

A lovely walk through the woods up to the most beautiful Castle. Café onsite, sadly we were too late, but a must if you enjoy a scenic walk.

A "must see" if you're in Birr. Over 120 acres of buildings, walks, lakes and woods to explore. Entry fee is €12 pp and well worth it if you have a few hours to spare. Science Hall is a highlight as it features historical instruments on display. A really great attraction. Parking nearby.

Love Birr Castle, part of our heritage. It's beautiful gardens and walkways offer peace and serenity along with amazing colours. Fabulous places to sit and meditate and enjoy life and it's surroundings ar it's Best.

Stopped off in Birr today and was not disappointed. A beautiful and historic place. A gardens are wonderful and the telescope, playground and castle itself are impressive. Hard to believe that from 1845-1914 this remained the largest telescope in the world! We didn’t get to sample the cafe but it looked good and the staff on reception were lovely - oh and for August children go free!!

Loved this castle experiences. My dad and I did the castle tour. Highly recommend it! It is awesome and the family still lives in the castle. They were amazing and super friendly!

Its amazing, loads to see and do. Just did a tour of the house, wow. The science centre is a must see and the gardens and history are amazing. The Patterson family have done such an amazing job keeping the place open for visitors. The cafe has beautiful buns and food and all the staff are gorgeous

Incredible landscape beauty, a lovely park, and the grandeur of the castle. You can walk for hours and even have a picnic surrounded by nature.

Very beautiful and big park for relaxation and walking. This is one of those places you should visit in Ireland. Also, this castle and areas are good for photo sessions.

Beautiful place! Even though the house is undergoing renovations so we couldn't visit it (and nobody advised us when we bought the tickets), the gardens are worth the whole visit. Amazing array of plants and flowers and trees, even a fairy garden for the delight of all the visitors ☺️ Super recommendable!

I recently visited Belvedere House Gardens & Park, and had a great time. First of all, staff at the entrance are helpful and attentive. They gave us a guidance map and made sure we do not miss anything. Belvedere itself is a combination of serene walking paths through the forest, and the historic charm. Ideal for relaxing and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're into photography, history, nature, or just looking for a tranquil escape, Belvedere is a must-visit. Highly recommended!

It's a lovely place with beautiful scenery and walks. My favorite was the fairy garden but it's all truly worth the visit. It'll transcend you back in time.

Beautiful setting, sprawling picnic spot, lake walk, children's play area, forest walk, beautiful walled garden, fairy garden, and old architecture. Good food and area to relax. Overall experience is excellent.

Very beautiful location. Nice little outing and feeling as if in a old english series. The ice cream is really good and the staff working in the cafe are friendly and kind with the kiddies. Only drawback was that they busy doing some maintenance at the moment however it is still a lovely outing lots of little things to do at a reasonable price.

Visited Thursday. Clean and well kept Gardens .Good walks with plenty of sign post .Quiet and car park secure .

A huge and beautiful house garden to visit. We have been there on a Saturday morning. The house was closed because of some repairs, but other things were open to visit. So, they had discounted tickets. They also offered us audio guides which was a cool thing. We really enjoyed listening to the historical stories at each place. The lake was sooooo peaceful and from the house trace, you will have a unique view of the lake. If you are going to visit everything, it takes around 3-4 hours. Also, there is a nice coffee shop there that you can have some snacks or meals. The staff were very friendly and the dishes very delicious 😋

5 stars is not enough! We visited the distillery on Easter Sunday, guided tour included us plus 4 other people and amazing Darragh (apologies if I misspelled the name!). We got a tasting glass as a souvenir and the tour started with a drink with ginger ale and Kilbeggan Black. For drivers - ginger ale, made with Irish apples - very tasty 😍 Darragh gave us a great tour, explaining the history, the process and being involved and very attentive to our questions! We have never been to such a historic distillery and Kilbeggan was a great choice! If you’re looking for unique experience, taste nice whiskies, learn about the distillery and its history - this is the best place in Ireland! Small, boutique place making whiskies for the local consumption ❤️ Highly recommended for whiskey lovers!

Great place for whiskey lovers and not only. 1 of the oldest Distillery in Ireland with spirit from the past century. Nice gift shop and surrounding plus whiskey tour with tastings.

Really enjoyed the tour and tasting done at Ireland’s oldest distillery…. Would happily recommend to others

Friendly staff and interesting place to visit. We felt the tour was quite rushed and the tasting was disappointing (only one type of whiskey to taste test), although we visited in a large group towards the end of the day so this may have played a part. The bar was lovely after and we picked up a few trinkets from the gift shop. Worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Interesting tour in an historic whiskey distillery. Nice tasting. Our tour lasted about an hour. Perfect amount of time.

Splendid tour. We had a great explanation and tour of the old distillery that was initially used, as well as the one used for small batches nowdays. The guide had excellent knowledge on the topic. (Added photo but don’t want to give spoilers)

Its a fantastic building and although I never ventured inside the outside had more than enough to catch my interest. The water being released makes for some lovely photos from across the river. It really is lovely on a sunny day. Well worth a visit even to admire from a far, enjoy

One of the most haunted castles in Europe with a dark history. It was nice to be able to walk through and see how the owner Sean has kept it over the last 20+ years. A must see!

This is a drive up castle to get out and take pictures. I do not belive you can go inside the castle. Someone does live there. It is a nice castle.

If your in to true history of castles, this may be a small one but the old guy who owns it lives there! He tells a good history story, hands you a flashlight and allows you to go up the narrow dark stairs to check it out. Must see. €6 to walk through but ring the doorbell first. A lot of artifacts to check out. Not for kids or people with small space anxiety.

A beautiful and authentic Irish castle full of history. Sean, the owner, bought the castle a few years ago and knows everything about its past. He welcomes visitors warmly and encourages you to explore every corner. The €6 entry fee helps with restoration, which is a great cause. Visiting feels personal and real, not commercial. A perfect stop if you want to experience traditional Ireland and support local heritage.

Amazing castle ruin being refurbished by a true Irishman. The host was full of great historical information and even played the whistle for us. One of the best stops on our trip! Make sure you bring cash for the $6 suggested donation.

5 stars expérience. Sean was a great host and sharing is knowledge about the castle history was really interesting to listen to to. Visiting the castle was also impressive since he as done all the restoration by himself. Just make sure you knock at the door of the castle on arrival since the ring bell ain’t working.

My grandaughter wanted to experience 'the most haunted castle in Ireland' . It's in a beautiful location & has an interesting story, as well as some lovely antiques in a partially restored castle

A unique distillery tour that starts with a good basic explanation of the process in a very comfortable setting. You get to walk the production floor and get to get up close the stills and tanks. Was glad to see that they take drinking and driving seriously and provided take a way bottles for the driver so they can do the dew once they get home. The smells of the bonded warehouse were amazing and we unexpectedly got to walk the dog. Shout out to Maeve thank you for the great tour. A must if your touring distillery’s in Ireland.

Our tour guide was absolutely awesome and made the experience so enjoyable to learn about the history. The tastings and overall grounds were well worth it. Although there isn’t much to do in the town, this is a favorite whiskey of mine and would love to return. Getting to make your own blend was super cool!

The Tullamore D.E.W. whiskey distillery tour was one of the best things we did while in Ireland. Starting with a warm drink with Mr. Frankie O’Callahan, the bartender , continuing with our tour guide John , and our bus driver , Jim we had the best afternoon. What started as a 2 hour tour ended up being an all afternoon adventure. Everyone was friendly, knowledgeable, and understood whiskey. From beginning to end a thoroughly enjoyable experience!

We did the first tour of the day so it was nice that it started with a delicious Irish coffee. Our tour guide was a very friendly and engaging young lady who walked us through the process followed by a little tram ride to the warehouse and finished with a tasting of some whiskey. Would highly recommend a stop here

We had a wonderful experience on the distillery tour! Maeve and Jim were fantastic guides — they shared the rich history of Tullamore Whiskey and walked us through every step of the making process with great enthusiasm. They answered all our questions and made the entire visit truly memorable. Highly recommend taking this tour!

It is my second time doing this tour. It is very informative and cool experince. Drinking a sall sample from barrel in the warehouse is a great experince. Brendan was our guide and we had such a great time.

We had such a good time on our tour with Emma as our tour guide and Jim as our mini-tour bus driver! Our favorite tour so far - it's a bit on the pricier side at 45 euro, but it felt worth it for the experience. We got to start off the tour with an Irish coffee and overview of the whisky making process and the history of Tullamore D.E.W. Emma did a great job of keeping it fun/informative while keeping it moving and answering questions along the way. We then got to walk the still house floor, which was super cool! It was a maintenance day when we went, but it was interesting to see where and how the whisky gets distilled. Next, the snug was probably my favorite experience. The snug was hidden behind a wall of whisky barrels in the warehouse, and the "dog" that Emma used to draw whisky out of one of the barrels for a cask tasting was a cool touch. You can't take pictures in here for safety reasons (the alcohol in the air is definitely strong!), but it was definitely a cool space. Finally, the tasting of the original, rum cask, and the 12 year was great, too. The decor and the vibe in the tasting room feels almost like you're in a cozy lab. There were droppers with water to try the whisky with, after trying them neat. For those driving, they also had little bottles and funnels to pour part of the tasters into, so they could still finish enjoying the experience later. As we returned to the gift shop, we got a little demo of how the "Be the Blender" blend-your-own bottle works. Overall, I definitely recommend this tour. The people working here are super sweet and seem to enjoy what they do. Emma at the counter (a different Emma than the one who guided us on our tour) was kind enough to give us some great food recommendations in town as well.

If you enjoy ruins then you must see this. It's an amazing set up on a hill that overlooks the countryside. The remaining ruins are set in three sections each have some hidden gems. Terrific photo opportunities as well and based on the size of the parking area (very small). Not a ton of people go there at one time. I really enjoyed the history behind it. If you enjoy history and can imagine the fortifications it's a terrific place to see.

A phenomenal ruined castle situated in a breathtaking spot high above the valley, once owned by the great medieval statesman and knight William Marshal, this should be top of your list if you're in the vicinity. Free entry and parking.

Rock of Dunamase is a fantastic little stop just off the main road. We were driving from Dublin to Killarney. I was looking for a place to stop and stretch our legs. This was perfect; better than I hoped for. There is a small little parking lot. From there you can see the ruins. It's just a short walk up the hill to the site where you can walk amongst the castle ruins. The views on top are incredible. You can really soak in the beauty that is Ireland. Free. Easy to Access. Stunning.

Very cool castle ruin to stop at just south west of Dublin on your way south to Cashel or Cork, planned it as our first stop in Ireland after the long flight. Arrived around 10:45am and it was quiet. Very few people around. Beautiful views at the top. (Slight incline up but easy enough) no bathrooms tho so find a bush lol. Plenty of parking at the bottom of the trail next to the old church. Tour busses do drop off crowds of people so go early if possible.

Beautiful castle. It has parking just on the access door. It is bigger than it looks and the view it’s just amazing. Definitely will recommend to visit it.

Fabulous views 360, nice place to relax and reset too, great history. Locals very friendly just respect area "Leave No trace" - parking very limited. Well worth a vist

Visited on a Saturday afternoon. Parking was tight, but we were still able to find spots along the road. 5 minute walk up the hill to wonderful views. The kids loved all the nooks and crannies they could explore. Even with a few car loads of people, it didn’t feel crowded. Great stop if you’re driving by.

Bobs Bar is beautifully located directly next to the river with a cozy beer garden for sunny days (if it happens here in Ireland). The Bar has a lot of charm and history and we had the pleasure to meet Bob himself, who was so friendly to show us around. Perfect for a drink and some music.

Discover a charming riverside spot perfect for relaxation, with cozy benches and tables set near the bridge. Enjoy the peaceful scenery — and don’t miss the chance to savor a refreshing pint along the way. Highly recommended!

We had our Day 2 wedding celebrations at Bob’s Bar this September and it was absolutely perfect! The pub has so much character and the outdoor space by the river is gorgeous. Bob and the whole team were all so friendly and welcoming. Thank you for helping us create such special memories, we couldn’t have asked for a better venue or team to help us continue our wedding celebrations, we all had so much fun!

On our travels to Durrow sightseeing the Castle and church in the square, decided to walk to Bob's bar. Strolled in on a Monday night and not a sinner in the place. Had a pint of guinness and a few snacks and walked around the pub to see the different rooms, alot of different artifacts to view, it's a bar and a museum, they do have a few TV's dotted around, nice outdoor area beside the river and located on the main street close to all amenities. My second time to visit this bar, first was in 2018 serving food for a wedding. A nice pub in a quiet town, will return.

The young lads behind the bar need abit more training on their barman skills. A bit more craic they could be. They also need to sort out the lighting, the bulbs over the bar are far too bright and glarey. Takes away from the whole pub atmosphere. Our experience of the place was just ok.

An old school country pub. Nice staff and friendly atmosphere. A must visit if in Durrow.

Very unique bar. Plenty space to sit around and admire old staff. Lovely barbeque area at the back by the river. Conference room upstairs.

Premium store and very nice bags, cheaper than other retail stores

This is super good expensive brand.. I have these two taken in America 1) the big red one is 60$ and here is 99€ 2) the small I have is 70$ and here is 95€.. So compare if you need to buy I’ve review was written to be helpful to you, the consumer and to also bring relevant information to the attention of the business in focus. If you’ve found this review helpful and or relevant for you, please help me by selecting the "thumbs up" icon below.

The last couple of times iv been in this store i was looked after by the same girl , she maybe a Manager ? I didn’t catch her name but she will know herself when i say i was looking for a t-shirt because i sprayed bleach on one that i had. Just want to mention she was very engaging and went out of her way to get some t-shirts for me to try , she had a lovely way with customers. … Thanks again.

Brilliant service there today from an Asian girl, sorry to describe her this way but didn't get her name. she informed me of offers that I was not aware of after talking to another staff member. She was on the door when I returned and recognised me straight away and let me in. Superb staff member 👏👌

Got a shirt went back to get a refund to be put back on my card was no they don't refund money back on your card the give you a gift voucher they take your money but will give it back to you

Great day shopping in Kildare. Michael Kors is a new addition to this development. The staff are really profession, helpful and totally lack that pretension that seems to be part of the job requirement for some brand outlets. Thanks Ladies see you again soon

Very unfriendly staff. The Chinese girl treated us badly at the entrance, shouting to us. Promised to get inside the shop in less than 40min, waiting 1h15 min and didn't get in. I am so disappointed with the staff service. There were more people complaining at the time.

Good location. Plenty of parking. Lots of shade. But very very expensive! We paid over €50 for one adult and two kids. The Japanese gardens are wonderful, but actually very small. We were expecting something bigger considering the high price. The various gardens are lovely to walk around. The grounds are immaculate. Very friendly and very helpful staff.

Great afternoon spent at stud. Beautiful gardens and tour was packed full of information. We saw some legends during tour and mums and foals. In the interactive experience is fun. Tasty food in restaurant too

Absolutely loved this place. I travelled with two 7yr old boys who loved it from start to finish. They loved the race experience, the waterfall in St Fiachras garden, the foals, the fairy garden was a big hit. They spent a long time in the Japanese Gardens, exploring all the nooks and crannies and walking the stepping stones. There was none of the usual "I'm tired" or "I'm hungry". It was all go.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 A Peaceful Hidden Gem in Kildare! The Japanese Gardens at the Irish National Stud are absolutely breathtaking — a perfect blend of nature, artistry, and serenity. From the moment you step through the entrance, you’re transported into a beautifully designed landscape full of winding paths, stone bridges, water features, and symbolic planting. The journey through the gardens is designed to represent the “Life of Man,” and it’s both peaceful and thought-provoking. Everything is so well-maintained, and there’s always something new to notice, whether it’s the koi fish, the vibrant flowers, or the gentle sounds of water flowing. It’s a lovely spot for a reflective solo stroll, a romantic walk, or a family outing. Don’t miss pairing your visit with the National Stud nearby — it makes for a perfect day out. Highly recommend if you’re in the area or even planning a short trip from Dublin. A true hidden gem that captures the spirit of Japanese garden design right here in Ireland!

I throughly enjoyed my few hrs here. The food was nice, no queing and plenty of parking. Priced not too expensive, per person, but for a small family it could be alot, and we didnt do a tour. The Japanese garden was a delight, the sole reason for my visit. Though don't be expecting peace n quiet. Pristine and exceptional maintenance of the gardens. I'll be visiting again.

Fabulous Place to Visit. Beautiful Grounds to walk around, Amazing Trees, Plants & Shrubs, lovely to see and pet the horses. Visit the Fairy Trail, see the ducks and walk around St. Fiachra's Garden, so peaceful. Loved the Irish Racehorse Experience, very interesting and good fun. Lovely Gift Shop & Restaurant.

National is always worth a visit loads to do. Our kids loved. Play of play areas, coffee shops, horses and walks. Japanese Garden is beautiful. Highly recommend a visit.

Must visit for locals! I have lived near Newbridge for 3 years and always wanted to visit but never did until last month. The shop has something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for some jewellery, cutlery, Christmas ornaments or even preloved items! Price range is great, you can get 1 fork for a few euros or you can get a full cutlery set for 60e or something more bespoke too. The silverware factory tour is great, small and you learn a lot about how many they times they adapted and didn’t give up. I would recommend taking ear plugs with you if you’re sensitive to noise. Visitor centre also hosts Museum of Style Icons. It’s free to visit and they have the “revenge dress”. Finally there’s delicious afternoon tea to enjoy in the lovely cafe. Warmly recommend!

Visited here recently, such a beautiful shop,beautiful jewellery and homeware and much more...Christmas Shop all set up in there,gorgeous, well worth a visit....upstairs then is a museum....amazing ....I was mesmerised....bought a beautiful necklace too....and prices were good, theres also a beautiful cafe too....staff extremely helpful and friendly

Had afternoon tea in the cafe, nice selection of food and staff were so friendly. For the price of €67 I did think the sweet tier lacked a little bit. The museum is a must visit so many unique historic pieces and great that its free! Only issue is the toilets were so dirty so I couldn’t use the bathroom before leaving.

Beautiful shop, lovely jewellery where I purchased a new watch. Amazing restaurant unto it where we had lovely breakfast. Whitewater shopping across the road from it so a great day had.

Great sale plenty to choose from! Most stock in the shop was heavily reduced. I'd suggest getting there early as it can get quite busy as the day goes on and I'd imagine parking could be a difficulty. We didn't take a trip up to the museum but it's always worth a visit.

I love this place, beautiful silverware, if you need presents for anyone you will definitely find the here and the exposition is so nice. I had a very good time here. Thanks to the owner!

Wonderful place to visit. Embodies culture and timeless pieces. There is a shop selling gifts, jewelry, books and silverware. Also present is a restaurant to have some food on your visit. There is a beautiful free museum with fashion pieces from style icons. A lovely place to visit and learn plenty.

This medieval church is really beautiful and amazingly old! We also climbed the round tower, which was a one-of-kind experience with great views. Dating from the 9th century, it is hard to believe it’s still standing, let alone that you can climb to the top.

A beautiful piece of history — With a Heart-Pounding Climb" St. Canice’s Cathedral is absolutely stunning, both inside and out. The architecture, stained glass, and centuries of history make it a place you can feel as much as see. We decided to climb the Round Tower — and wow, what an experience. The ladders inside are steep and narrow, and I’ll be honest, it was pretty terrifying on the way up. But when you step out onto the platform at the top, the view takes your breath away (in a much better way!). You can see the castle, the River Nore, and the countryside for miles. If you’re visiting Kilkenny and the weather is dry, don’t miss it — it’s an unforgettable combination of history, beauty, and just the right amount of adrenaline.

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.

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.

Absolutely beautiful cathedral. There's so much history here and they do a wonderful job of walking you through it all.

The pictures don’t do justice to the beauty of the Cathedral. The history is amazing, old tombs included.

Great cathedral in Kilkenny and well worth a visit, as well as the adjoining tower. Can recommend a visit.

This experience is well worth the stop if you are in Kilkenny. Our tour guide was fantastic (i feel terrible i have forgotten her name) and did an amazing job leading us through the history and science that is Smithwick's. The tour is very interactive and has a great production value. It is super engaging and interacting which was great as it was our 3rd brewery tour on our vacation. I highly recommend checking out the cream ale at the end of your tour. Absolutely delicious!!!

You must do this. We walked in and got a spot on a tour at noon. We brought our 5year old with us (kids <6 are free) and even he enjoyed most parts of it. Our tour guide, Simon, was absolutely excellent - full of knowledge and very well spoken on the history and story of Smithwick's. He made the experience really phenomenal. At the end, the barrel room for tasting was really great - comfortable and great service. I HIGHLY recommend this experience - and keep an eye out for the pamphlets with the 10% off QR code! They're all over Kilkenny (and ireland in general).

A solid tour of Smithwick's in Kilkenny - given by Daragh. He was both entertaining and informative! The history was very interesting, and the "picture room" was very cool. Literally moving pictures - and quite well done. The tasting experience, of the ingredients used in making beer, was a nice touch. And the beers afterwards, in the taproom, were well received and poured. Worth the visit, indeed!

We easily booked online. The guide did a good job in presenting the history of the city, brewing and business. The conclusion of the story can be unexpected, if you did not document upfront. Just a museum, not a live brewery anymore. Nice videos and interactions during the tour , it is touchy feely smelly. The price was a bit high in the end for 40 minutes of tour and one beer. The Kilkenny beer might have been the first served on that day, it was mostly foam and quite flat. Also, too cold in the tasting room and with very cold beer , hard to drink.

It’s smaller than it’s bigger brother Guinness and very likeable. Interesting setup and a must if you like beer. Ending the tour with a tasting. Can’t miss

A pleasantly surprising, educational and interactive, entertaining experience. Our young guide was funny and knowledgeable, and the modern sensory elements were delightful. The best part was smelling all the components and then getting to taste the flight of all of Smithwicks' best beers at the end!

We went on a tour with Maggie as our guide, and found her extremely warm and witty. She took time to answer questions and share a lot of information in a way that was fun and inviting. The physical tour was also well designed and we enjoyed the paddle of tasters we had at the end.

Impressive Castle, Just Be Prepared for the Crowds! A fantastic visit to the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. The building itself is beautifully restored, and the self-guided tour through the various rooms, especially the Long Gallery, is fascinating and well worth the price of admission. The sprawling parklands surrounding the castle are an absolute highlight – perfect for a walk, a picnic, or just letting the kids run around. It's a true gem in the heart of the city. The reason for docking one star comes down to logistics. We went on a weekend, and it was incredibly crowded, and we had to wait in a queue for a while to get in. Be prepared for that if you're not visiting on a weekday. The biggest challenge, however, is parking. Most of the on-street parking nearby is limited to a maximum of 1 hour, which is simply not enough time to explore the castle and grounds without constantly clock-watching. You're better off finding a car park a bit further away and walking. Overall, it is a must-see piece of Irish history. Just plan ahead for the potential crowds and parking situation to make your visit stress-free!

Beautiful, well maintained castle with lovely grounds. It was a great way to spend a couple rainy hours. There's a QR coffee at reach room so you can very more information on your phone. There's washrooms and a cafe at the castle as well. Our was about €11 to get in.

Beautiful 13th century castle with a fully restored interior. It's only 8€ to enter and we'll worth it. There are also original artworks and tapestries as well as am especially BEAUTIFUL room called the long gallery which boasts an ornate wooden ceiling and vibrant red walls ordained with artworks.

A Regal Experience - Kilkenny Castle Kilkenny Castle is a stunner! I visited and was blown away by the rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful grounds. This 13th-century castle is a must-visit in Ireland. Highlights: - Impressive Architecture:Majestic castle, great hall, and towers - Beautiful Grounds: Scenic gardens, river views, and walking trails - History and Culture: Learn about the castle's fascinating past Tips: - Wear comfy shoes for exploring the castle and grounds - Check opening hours and plan your visit accordingly - Don't miss the evening tours or seasonal events Kilkenny Castle is a highlight of Ireland! You'll feel like royalty exploring this stunning castle.

Nice castle, there are a lot of original furnitures and paintings, many languages printed guides. Enteance fee is 8 euro. You are to use one of the town parkings in vicinity. Enjoy!

Ireland is overflowing with castles but this one is in much better shape than most and the staff is very accommodating. We thought a quick hour would do the trick... You'll need at least two hours to get through most of the highlights. Walking the pleasant grounds will require another 30 minutes and a good pair of shoes. The town of Kilkenny also offers a nice place to walk, dine and mingle with the very friendly locals. You can easily spend half a day here; plan accordingly.

I really enjoyed my visit to Kilkenny Castle. The rooms are beautifully restored and give you a real sense of the history. The exhibitions are well explained and easy to follow. The gardens and park are peaceful and perfect for a walk, with lovely views of the River Nore. Everything was well organized, and the staff were very friendly. Overall, a real highlight of my stay in Kilkenny and highly recommended.

Just spent 3 nights here. Overall a very enjoyable experience. Great spot for families. Kids really enjoyed it especially the animal petting farm. They loved the play ground and tractor ride. Lots to keep them entertained. Also great entertainment for adults including bingo and music in the evenings. Nice selection of hot food in the shop at a reasonable price. Staff were very friendly and accommodating to our large group. Very relaxed and friendly campsite! Toilets and showers were ok. No toilet paper or soap available which was an inconvenience but other than that we had no complaints! Will definitely be back

So glad ranchos has reopened, had a great weekend. Eoin, oisin and the team have done a great job cleaning and rebuilding it, the new cafe is a great addition and the menu is perfect and delicious. Can't wait to see what else they add. Tractor ride is great not just for kids but and its free and that includes the muddy pool they drive into.

We stayed one night as we were passing through the area. Eoin was very welcoming, the site was well laid out, good lighting to the toilets( which are a bit rustic but kept clean and tidy). The animals were a huge hit with the kids and the play area.

Fantastic place to go camping with young children! You have access to the petting farm with horses, pigs, deer, snakes, lizards, rabbits etc, horse rides, tractor rides, playground, cafe and indoors play zone all included in the price you pay to camp. In the evening there is a frog hunt, fire pits, it is a really good place to visit. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars was because of the water was not reliable for showers etc

Visited in April 2017 with our two kids 7 and 4. Very good value - €6 per child and €3 per adult. No time limit, spend as long as you like. Has lots of attractions all free - playground, petting zoo (bunnies, snakes, lizards), donkey and pony rides, go cart track, sandpits, farm animals to feed, indoor play center and café with hot food and lots of seating with reasonable food prices but also picnic areas if you want to bring your own. Staff were very friendly. When my daughter was upset after spilling a drink the owner spent over 10 mins joking with her to cheer her up and gave both kids a free lollipop. Lots of free parking too. Highly recommended.

Great day out for family's.... All the staff are so friendly. Its great value for money and plenty activities for the kids. Wear wellies and old clothes ;-)

The owner is an absolute gent. As a venue it's a bit rough around the edges but the kids loved it. Loads of animals to interact with and a massive play ground. They even have a tractor ride.

The cafe has some lovely simple meals and free onsite parking is conveniently close to the entrance. The design elements and art displayed are very tasteful and add to the sensory experience of the garden. The water features and waterful are very peaceful spots. After 17 hours of flights and travel the children enjoyed the garden and were noticeably more relaxed after oir time in the garden.

Only €5 entry and it's stunning how so much has been included in the Delta Sensory Garden. It was our second time visiting and it is absolutely recommended to go visit for an hour or so to explore the maze of gardens.

Fabulous hidden gem in Carlow for an afternoon ramble (with or without the kids). Has a lovely cafe and sells locally produced baked goods and crafts.

Loved my visit here to the Delta Sensory Gardens. Plenty to see in these impressive gardens and I had a great coffee and scone in the cafe. Well worth checking out, especially on a fine day like I had. Thanks to Helen for the recommendation 😁

A beautiful place to visit. Suitable for all ages. Fabolous gardens and sensory water features

A superb place for relaxation and calm down. Each of the twenty featured objects and gardens is accurately designed and brought to life.

The Gardens are beautiful, peaceful and also fun, whether you have additional Sensory needs or not they are worth a visit. Nice bright Cafe for a cuppa and a sweet treat after exploring the gardens

Beautiful woodland area with some fantastic trees. Walled garden very colourful. Would imagine other flower beds would be stunning earlier in the year, we visited in September. Also fantastic value at €5 for parking (you tap your card on the way out of the car park) and no entry fee to the gardens themselves. Well worth a visit.

Woodstock Gardens is a great place to visit whether alone or with family and friends. Lovely walks and trails around the gardens and the whole area. There's a lovely looking tea rooms where you can get some refreshments inside and outside but only open in season. Closed when we went on weekday in early September. Open weekends till October it seems. Good car park with a 5 euro fee but they accept cards.lovely playground for children as well. . Lovely way to spend a day.

Delightful place to visit and during Summer, parking (entry) is free on Wednesdays. There is a playground for children, great (well-posted) loop walks through the forest and grounds. The skeletal remains if the house is a sad remainder of a turbulent past. There are several benches where on can sit and enjoy the views from the hillside location. The garden section has many favorites and exotic plants on display. Dont miss the tree that has branches displaying two different types of leaves!

Very well-maintained and beautiful gardens including Victorian-style tea room. Large in scale and perfect for walking, with spectacular views of surrounding landscape around the very scenic Inistioge area. On a recent visit I noticed a sign outside the public toilets indicating that transport is available for disabled visitors to the tea room at set times. Great idea and very welcome. There are a number of large picnic benches adjacent to the car park and a kids play area is close by. On-site toilets are located within the car park. Entry is €5 per car payable on exit. Gardens are really clean and litter-free. During inclement weather it was nice to shelter beneath a heavy-duty marquee covering the picnic area whilst eating. Note: tea room and coffee trucks close at 5pm but gardens remain open until 7pm. However, toilets were shut by 4:30pm on my last visit.

Love this place.. Gardens are pretty magical and lots of places to explore.. Beautiful glass conservatory that serves coffee and snacks... Not to be missed.. Walled garden, playground for kids too... Old original house is just a ruin now but they have kept facade and you can get an idea of what it was like... It's only 5 euro per car and no charge for gardens... Well worth visiting on a sunny day...

Stunning location with so many different trees to discover. There's a lovely tea house and you pay only for the parking (€5). Beautiful location for a photoshoot!

After a tiring week's work and the flight and car journey from Birmingham to Enniscorthy, it was a pure delight to stroll slowly through the gardens and among the majestic trees. Really brought home to me John Muir's belief about the restorative power of nature.