Irish Getaways Blog
Discover Ireland through local insights, travel guides, and cultural stories
Climbing the Round Tower: The Best View in the Southeast
It is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny and offers the best view in the county—if you can handle the 121 steps. Discover the history of St. Canice’s Round Tower, how Cromwell desecrated the cathedral below, and why this climb is the ultimate bucket-list item for active travelers.
Tracing Your Roots in Kilkenny: A Guide to Rothe House & Finding Your Ancestors
For the Irish diaspora, a trip to Kilkenny is often a journey home. Whether your name is Walsh, Brennan, or Butler, this guide explains how to use the Rothe House Genealogy Centre to find your family, how to overcome the '1922 Fire' obstacles, and why a local driver is essential for finding the old family homestead.
Made in Kilkenny: The Ultimate Guide to Authentic Irish Crafts & Shopping
Kilkenny is officially the Craft Capital of Ireland. Avoid the 'Made in China' tourist traps and discover the authentic studios of Nicholas Mosse Pottery, Jerpoint Glass, and Cushendale Wool. This guide takes you out of the city and into the workshops to meet the makers.
Smithwick’s and Kilkenny's Pub Culture: A Guide to the Perfect Pint and Pub Etiquette
The Irish pub is the heartbeat of the community, and in Kilkenny, the local hero is Smithwick's Red Ale. This guide explains the history of Ireland’s oldest brewery, teaches American travelers essential pub etiquette (including buying a 'round'), and reveals how to find the best traditional music session.
What is Hurling? Experience the “Clash of the Ash” in Kilkenny
Discover the fastest field sport in the world! Hurling is the lifeblood of Kilkenny, where the local team, 'The Cats,' are legends. This guide explains the rules, the equipment, and the intense game-day atmosphere that is essential viewing for any cultural trip to Ireland.
Walking the Medieval Mile: A Step-by-Step Itinerary for Kilkenny
The Medieval Mile is the 1.5-mile historic spine of Kilkenny, connecting its grandest sights. Use this step-by-step itinerary to explore the castle, the ancient slips, Rothe House, and the cathedral—and find out why hiring a local guide makes all the difference.
The True Story of Alice Kyteler in Kilkenny (The Dark History Guide)
Long before Salem, the dark drama of the Alice Kyteler witch trials unfolded in Kilkenny in 1324. Discover the true story of Europe’s first witch, the powerful Bishop who persecuted her, and the famous medieval pub that still holds her secrets. This is the history the audio guides don’t tell you.
Kilkenny Castle: 800 Years of Power, Politics, and The Butlers
Discover the dramatic history of the Butler family and the '£50 miracle' that saved Kilkenny Castle from ruin. This comprehensive guide covers the must-see rooms, the politics of the Earls, practical parking tips, and why a local guide is essential for understanding Ireland's most famous fortress.
The American’s Guide to Galway: The City of Tribes & The Wild West
Galway is the bohemian heart of Ireland—a city of festivals, oysters, and traditional music on the edge of the Atlantic. From the Cliffs of Moher to the Latin Quarter, this ultimate guide covers everything an American traveler needs to know to explore the City of Tribes.