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This directory contains a range of trails designed to inspire you to get out and explore the County and countryside of Kilkenny. Whether it’s an activity trail; a scenic walk, a cycle route or a walk along the banks of the River Nore; you’ll find suggested routes and maps for you to follow throughout the directory.
Citation preview
walking, cycling, food and craft trails
free maps for 5 scenic walks | 3 river walks | 4 cycle routes
include
s tr
ail m
aps
FREE
2
ContentsIntroduction 3
Brandon Hill Loop 4
Kilmacoliver Loop 6
O’Gorman’s Lane Loop 8
Freshford Loop 10
Castlemorris Wood Loop 12
The Nore Linear Park – Nore Valley Walk 14
Kilkenny to Bennettsbridge – Nore Valley Walk 16
County Map 18
Thomastown to Inistioge – Nore Valley Walk 20
East Kilkenny Cycle Route 22
North Kilkenny Cycle Loop 24 Jenkinstown – Dunmore
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop Bennettsbridge - Stoneyford - Kells 26
North Kilkenny Cycle Route 28
TASTE of Kilkenny Food Trail 30
MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail 32
Kilkenny Trails Festival 34
Activity Providers and Support Services 35
3
Introduction
This directory contains a range of trails designed to inspire you to get out and explore the County and countryside of Kilkenny.
Whether it’s an activity trail; a scenic walk, a cycle route or a walk along the banks of the River Nore; you’ll find suggested routes and maps for you to follow over the coming pages.
Combine your time in the outdoors with a visit to one of the many food and craft producers that are dotted around the county.
The options are endless… Stroll the leafy lanes of O’Gorman’s Lane Loop and visit a candlemaker or the renowned Nicholas Mosse Pottery Studios in the old flour mill in Bennettsbridge. Start or end your river walk with a stroll through Thomastown with its village cafés; and pottery like Karen Morgan’s Porcelain Studio. If you’re on your bike on the East Kilkenny Cycle route, you’ll pass through Graiguenamanagh – drop in to 13th century Cistercian monastery of Duiske Abbey and take in a visit to Cushendale Woollen Mills; where the Cushen family have been weaving throws for generations.
For foodies, the TASTE of Kilkenny Food Trail suggests visits to organic orchards, a trout farm, and everything from artisan cheesemakers, cute cafés and chocolatiers, to the most cosmopolitan of city restaurants.
Kilkenny has long been associated with creativity and design and its reputation for great craft is encapsulated in the MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail which includes a selection of its most renowned potters, jewellers and craftspeople working in willow, glassblowing, stonecarving and weaving; many of whom you can visit in their own studios.
You’ll find a County map on the centrefold that shows all of the trailheads and location of all of the TASTE and MADE producers.
4
Trailhead Graiguenamanagh, Co. KilkennyServices GraiguenamanaghDist/Time 12km / 5hrsHigh/Ascent 520m / 600mDifficulty HardTerrain Minor roadways, forestry tracks and hillside pathsTo Suit Experienced walkersMinimum Gear Hiking boots, rain gear, fluids, snacks and mobile phoneGrid Ref. OS Sheet 68, S708 436
STARTFINISH
DuiskeAbbeyDuiskeAbbey
GalmoyCastle
GalmoyCastle
South Leinster Way
Barrow Way
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
SouthLeinster Way
BarrowWay
AB
C
F
E
D
Brandon Hill Loop
Trailhead starting point
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
Brandon HillLoop
Graiguenamanagh
Brandon Hill Loop
77
4
5
A-B Starting from the trailhead, follow the purple arrows which guide you around this loop and begin at the exit of the town. You are also following the yellow arrows of the South Leinster Way. Ascend to reach the end of a cul-de-sac at the side of the town bypass. Cross the road to join a minor road. Follow this road for 200m to reach a junction with another minor road on your left. Turn left here.
B-C Follow this road for almost 2km where it merges into a forestry roadway – still following the purple and yellow arrows. After 200m the forestry track turns a right bend and passes through a barrier into Gorlough Wood. 300m later you reach a 3-way junction where the South Leinster Way continues straight, but you turn left.
C-D Continue to follow purple arrows along a forestry track for 3km to reach another 3-way junction where the loop veers right. Ascend along the forestry track as it zig-zags and then skirts around Ballinvarry Hill. After nearly a 2km walk, you reach a crossroads of tracks where the loop turns sharp right onto a ‘green’ roadway and starts the ascent toward Brandon Hill.
D-E After 500m of a climb, you reach a concrete stile and join a track where you turn right along the top of forestry and open hillside on your left. Pay close attention now because less than 200m later you will turn left again and join a path on the hillside which will take you to the top of Brandon Hill.
E-F From the top, look for a waymarker which points you onto a stony path which marks the start of your inward journey. The path zig-zags and descends downhill to reach the edge of forestry where you veer right on to a forestry road.
F-C After nearly 1km you reach a Y-junction where the loop rejoins the South Leinster Way. Veer right and start to descend again into Gorlough Wood – following the purple and yellow arrows. Pass by the site of Reneys Well to rejoin the 3-way junction (at C) where you started the loop. This time, proceed straight and follow the purple (and yellow) arrows back to the town of Graiguenamanagh.
Directions to TrailheadBrandon Hill loop starts in the town of Graiguenamanagh. The trailhead is at the junction on Lower Main Street.
Walks Directions
5
6
Trailhead Tullahought, Co. KilkennyServices Kilmaganny (10km) Dist/Time 6km / 2hrsHigh/Ascent 120m / 110mDifficulty ModerateTerrain Laneways, fields and woodland trailsTo Suit Above average levels of fitnessMinimum Gear Walking boots, rain gear, fluids and mobile phoneGrid Ref. OS Sheet 75 S432 298
STARTFINISH
0.5km0 0.5km
Tullahought
GAA pitch
0 0.5km0 0.5km
Tullahought
GAA pitch
0
Kilmacover HillKilmacover HillMegalithic TombMegalithic Tomb
KilmacoliverLoop B
D
C
E
Kilmacoliver Loop
Trailhead starting point
Church/Abbey
A
Tullahought
Kilmacoliver Loop
32
7
A-B Starting from the car park at the Watering Place follow the tarred road for 400m, past a road on your right, to a laneway on your left. Turn left here.
B-C Following the laneway (which gives way to a sandy lane) you ascend gently for almost 2km to reach a metal gate entrance to an old homestead at Bregaun. Fine views of the Kilkenny countryside begin to open up on your left - and on your right the outline of the trig pillar atop Kilmacoliver Hill becomes visible. Enter the old farm via the metal stile.
C-D Follow the laneway past the old house and farmyard (please do not enter), and shortly afterwards be alert as the loop leaves the laneway to your right and follows a dry ditch on the ascent to the summit of Kilmacoliver Hill.
E-A Turning left, you reach a T-junction where you take a right for the final 400m to the trailhead.
D-E Take time on the summit to enjoy the circular enclosure of stones and (depending on the weather) the views over counties Kilkenny, Tipperary, Waterford, Carlow and Wexford. The substantial hill in front of you is Carrigadoon Hill. Leaving the stone circle behind, descend downhill following the fence on the border of the field – and enters privately developed woodland of broadleaf trees including oak, beech, birch, larch, ash and cherry. The trip through the young woodlands is a pleasant one which ends at a metal gate as you rejoin the laneway on which you traveled outward.
Directions to TrailheadStart from the village of Kilmaganny on the R701 between Knocktopher and Carrick-on-Suir. Follow the R697 in the direction of Carrick-on-Suir for approximately 5km and then take a left turn in the direction of Tullahought Village. Follow this road for 1km and at the crossroads take a right turn and the trail head is 500 metres on the right hand side.
Walks Directions
8
Trailhead Primary School, Bennettsbridge, Co. KilkennyServices BennettsbridgeDist/Time 4km / 1hrHigh/Ascent 60m / 20mDifficulty EasyTerrain Country roads, old laneways, woodland tracks, riverbankTo Suit All levels of fitnessMinimum Gear Walking boots, rain gear, fluids and mobile phoneGrid Ref. OS Sheet 67 S554 493
STARTFINISH
Nicholas Mosse Pottery
Nicholas Mosse Pottery
Moth to a FlameMoth to a Flame
M9
B
C
O’Gorman’sLane Loop
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
A South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
Nore Valley Walk
O’Gorman’s Lane Loop
Trailhead starting point
MADE in KilkennyCrafts People
Bennettsbridge
O’Gorman’s Lane Loop
132
9
A-B With your back to the Primary School turn right and follow the purple arrows along the road to exit the village. Cross the railway bridge and along the road for almost 1km to reach O’Gorman’s Lane (at the side of a house on your left). Turn left here onto the lane.
B-C Follow this old disused laneway as it makes its way across farmland to reach a surfaced road in the townland of Bishopslough West. Turn left and follow the road for 500m to reach a junction where you turn right. After another 500m (and just before you reach the M9 motorway), turn left and cross a stile onto an old roadway which takes you under a tunnel (the railway line) and onto the River Nore. Turn left onto the riverbank.
C-A The final section of the loop follows the river back to Bennettsbridge. Note that the loop now overlaps the Nore Valley Walk. A set of steps takes you into the village at the bridge – turn left and walk 100m back to the trailhead.
Directions to TrailheadFrom the N77 Kilkenny City Ring Road, take the R700 at the Bennettsbridge Road Roundabout (signposted New Ross). After approx 8km you enter the pretty village of Bennettsbridge crossing a bridge over the River Nore. As the R700 swings sharp right – cross straight over onto the road to Gowran. The mapboard is attached to Tynan’s butcher shop at the bridge, car parking is available in the Primary School 100 metres through the village on the right hand side.
Walks Directions
10
Trailhead Village Green, Freshford, Co. KilkennyServices FreshfordDist/Time 8km / 2hr - 2.5hrsHigh/Ascent 160m / 100mDifficulty ModerateTerrain Riverbank, woodland track, lanewaysTo Suit All levels of fitnessMinimum Gear Walking boots, rain gear, fluids and mobile phoneGrid Ref. OS Sheet 60 S407 647
STARTFINISH
North KilkennyCycle RouteNorth KilkennyCycle Route
FreshfordLoop
B
C
North Kilkenny Cycle Route
Freshford Loop
Trailhead starting point
A
Freshford
Freshford Loop
128
11
A-B From the trailhead follow the purple arrows along the road to the end of the village green and continue straight ahead to pass the church (on your left). Continue along the road for 300m to reach a ‘gap’ in the wall on your right where you turn right and cross the stream by footbridge. Now the loop follows the right bank of the stream through a lovely section of broadleaf woodland – this takes you to the entrance roadway to Upper Court Manor. Cross the roadway and join the bank of the stream again for a short section which takes you into Brown’s Wood. After the wooden sign turn right and cross the wooden footbridge.
B-C Continue to follow the forestry roadway as it sweeps uphill. After more than 1km you turn right (leaving the ‘official’ roadway and joining a narrow path through woodland). After 20 metres you leave the woods, cross a stile and enter the top of planted forest. Follow the fence along the boarder of the forest until it descends down hill on an old roadway. Exit the forest area over a gate with a built in stile to join the surfaced roadway.
C-A After a short section of surfaced road, the loop turns left and takes you across a field to reach the banks of the Nuenna River. At the river bank turn right and follow the river through a number of farmers fields. On entering the last field follow the arrows along the boarder of the field and onto a tarred road. On meeting the road take a left and follow the road back to the trailhead.
Directions to TrailheadLeave Kilkenny City on the Freshford Road (R693), pass straight through the roundabout at St. Luke’s Hospital and continue straight along this road for 12km until you reach Freshford village. The green is straight in front of you as you enter the village. The trailhead mapboard is situated on the green.
Walks Directions
12
Trailhead Castlemorris Wood Loop, Co. KilkennyServices Knocktopher. Picnic tables on site Dist/Time 7km / 2hrs - 2.5hrsHigh/Ascent 160m / 90mDifficulty EasyTerrain Forestry roads, grassy path and country roadsTo Suit Above average levels of fitnessMinimum Gear Walking boots, rain gear, fluids and mobile phoneGrid Ref. OS Sheet 68 S489 357
STARTFINISH
A
B
C
D
E
F
CastlemorrisWood Loop
CastlemorrisWood Loop
Trailhead starting point
Church
Aghaviller Church& Round TowerAghaviller Church& Round Tower
Kilmaganny/Knocktopher
Castlemorris Wood Loop
33
13
A-B Starting from the car park opposite the Grand Gates, enter Castlemorris Woods and pass the Gate Lodge to reach a metal stile. Cross the stile to join a forestry road and follow the purple (and green and red) arrows. The green and red arrows are for shorter loops. Follow the forest road for over 1km to reach an archway through which stone outbuildings (which were part of the courtyard of Castlemorris House) are visible. The green loop turns left here – you turn right following the purple and red arrows.
B-C The loop now sets off to further explore the expansive estate of 200 acres and after approximately 1km joins a minor public road where the red turns left. Turn right here.
C-D Now you start a long ascent through the townland of Coalpitparks (passing some large houses on your left) before entering woodland again. After 500m you reach a T-junction where the loop turns left for the return part of the journey.
D-E A downhill trek of approximately 1km takes you to a junction with a surfaced roadway where you turn right. After 300m at a right bend you rejoin the red loop as it emerges from the forestry on the left. Turn right here, staying on the surfaced roadway.
E-F After approximately 200m both loops (red and purple) turn left and enter Castlemorris Wood by way of a metal barrier. At this point you are just short of Aghaviller Church and Round Tower – 200m along the surfaced road. If you decide to visit the site, remember to return to this junction.
F-A. Only 500m along this final section of the loop you rejoin the green loop as it comes in from the left. Another 500m takes you to a crossroads of forest tracks where you turn left onto a narrow winding track to emerge on a forestry road only 200m from the trailhead. Turn right and enjoy the short trek!
Directions to TrailheadStarting in Kilkenny City take the M9 Motorway south in the direction of Waterford. Take Exit 10 and proceed in the direction of Newmarket. After 3km take a right turn onto the R701 and proceed 1km. The trailhead is on the right hand side of the road and the entrance to the wood is on the left hand side. Note: The trailhead is signposted from Knocktopher.
Walks Directions
Sion Road
< to Freshford
Tal
bo
tsin
ch
Gre
en’s
Bri
dge
Can
al W
alk
Canal Walk
Cas
tle
Park Duk
es M
ead
ow
s
Ring Road
Ring Road
Ben
nett
sbri
dge
Ro
und
abo
ut
Oss
ory
Bri
dge
Cal
lan
Ro
und
abo
ut
Lacken Walk
Bleach Rd
Castlecomer Road
Castlecomer Road
New
Road
Dub
lin R
oad
Lib
rary
Kilk
enny
Co
unty
Co
unci
l Offi
ces
Riv
er C
our
t
Kilk
enny
Cas
tle
R6
93
R6
93
N76
N76Kilk
enny
Gre
yho
und
Stad
ium
Dukes Meadows
Ave
P
P
No
re B
ar
Wolfe
Tone S
tM
ichael S
tM
audlin St
Bam
bri
ck’s
Bar
St. L
uke’
s H
osp
ital
To Carlow / Dublin >
To Athy >
N10
to M
9D
ublin
< To C
lonm
el
To Pau
lsto
wn
>
John
’sB
rid
ge
John Street
Castle R
oad
High Street
Ten
nis
Clu
b
Bla
ck Q
uarr
yP
etro
l Sta
tio
n
St. C
anic
e’s
Cat
hed
ral &
Ro
und
To
wer
Bisho ps M eadows Walk
R6
95
Kilk
enny
Bis
hop
s M
ead
ow
s W
alk
(2.6
km)
Pea
ce P
ark
Wal
k (6
00
m)
Can
al W
alk
(1.7
km)
Lack
en W
alk
(1.6
km)
No
re V
alle
y W
alk
(11k
m)
Acc
ess
Po
int
Step
s
Acc
ess
Ro
utes
Bennettsbridge Road
Riverside Drive
Greens Hill
Pea
ce P
ark
Wal
k
Bishops Meadows
Ring R
oad
T
he S
yc
amores
Freshford Road
Castlecomer Road
Out
do
or
Gym
1 cen
tim
etre
= 8
0 m
etre
s (1
:80
)
01
23
45
Scal
e:
Dea
n Str
eet
Freshford Road
J6
J7
J8
J9
J10
J5
J1
R70
0
R71
2
Riv
er N
ore
Dub
lin R
oad
Ro
und
abo
ut
River Nore
Swim
min
gP
oo
l John’s Quay
Rive
r Nor
e
The
Para
de
Gal
low
shill
Orm
ond
eW
oo
llen
Mill
sO
rmo
nde
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olle
n M
ills
Fenn
essy
’sM
illFe
nnes
sy’s
Mill
N77
N77
No
re V
alle
yW
alk
To
uris
t Inf
orm
atio
n
Mill
bui
ldin
g
Cyc
ling
Trai
ls
MA
DE
in K
ilken
nyC
raft
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to C
astl
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mer
D
isco
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Par
k
TAS
TE
of K
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nyFo
od
Tra
il
Scen
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alk
Fres
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op
O’G
orm
an’s
Lane
Loo
p
Sout
h Ki
lken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Sout
h Ki
lken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
The
Nor
e Li
near
Par
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Sion Road
< to Freshford
Tal
bo
tsin
ch
Gre
en’s
Bri
dge
Can
al W
alk
Canal Walk
Cas
tle
Park Duk
es M
ead
ow
s
Ring Road
Ring Road
Ben
nett
sbri
dge
Ro
und
abo
ut
Oss
ory
Bri
dge
Cal
lan
Ro
und
abo
ut
Lacken Walk
Bleach Rd
Castlecomer Road
Castlecomer Road
New
Road
Dub
lin R
oad
Lib
rary
Kilk
enny
Co
unty
Co
unci
l Offi
ces
Riv
er C
our
t
Kilk
enny
Cas
tle
R6
93
R6
93
N76
N76Kilk
enny
Gre
yho
und
Stad
ium
Dukes Meadows
Ave
P
P
No
re B
ar
Wolfe
Tone S
tM
ichael S
tM
audlin St
Bam
bri
ck’s
Bar
St. L
uke’
s H
osp
ital
To Carlow / Dublin >
To Athy >
N10
to M
9D
ublin
< To C
lonm
el
To Pau
lsto
wn
>
John
’sB
rid
ge
John Street
Castle R
oad
High Street
Ten
nis
Clu
b
Bla
ck Q
uarr
yP
etro
l Sta
tio
n
St. C
anic
e’s
Cat
hed
ral &
Ro
und
To
wer
Bisho ps M eadows Walk
R6
95
Kilk
enny
Bis
hop
s M
ead
ow
s W
alk
(2.6
km)
Pea
ce P
ark
Wal
k (6
00
m)
Can
al W
alk
(1.7
km)
Lack
en W
alk
(1.6
km)
No
re V
alle
y W
alk
(11k
m)
Acc
ess
Po
int
Step
s
Acc
ess
Ro
utes
Bennettsbridge Road
Riverside Drive
Greens Hill
Pea
ce P
ark
Wal
k
Bishops Meadows
Ring R
oad
T
he S
yc
amores
Freshford Road
Castlecomer Road
Out
do
or
Gym
1 cen
tim
etre
= 8
0 m
etre
s (1
:80
)
01
23
45
Scal
e:
Dea
n Str
eet
Freshford Road
J6
J7
J8
J9
J10
J5
J1
R70
0
R71
2
Riv
er N
ore
Dub
lin R
oad
Ro
und
abo
ut
River Nore
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min
gP
oo
l John’s Quay
Rive
r Nor
e
The
Para
de
Gal
low
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ond
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oo
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Mill
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rmo
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ills
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nnes
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N77
N77
No
re V
alle
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alk
To
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t Inf
orm
atio
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Mill
bui
ldin
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ling
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ls
MA
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mer
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k
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od
Tra
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ic W
alk
Fres
hfor
d Lo
op
O’G
orm
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Lane
Loo
p
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h Ki
lken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Sout
h Ki
lken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
16
STARTFINISH
STARTFINISH
Nore Valley Walk
PurcellsinchIndustrial EstatePurcellsinchIndustrial Estate
Trailhead: Primary SchoolBennettsbridge Trailhead: Primary SchoolBennettsbridge
Moth to a FlameMoth to a Flame
Inch SawmillsInch Sawmills
Lavistown HouseLavistown House
MillMill
Church ruins & graveyardChurch ruins & graveyard
Mill(s)Mill(s)
Limestone QuarryLimestone Quarry
Ri ve
r No
r e
Sion RoadSion Road
O’Gorman’sLane LoopO’Gorman’sLane Loop
Nicholas Mosse Pottery
Nicholas Mosse Pottery
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
Nore Valley Walk
Trailhead starting point
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
Mill(s)
Limestone Quarry
Church
MADE in KilkennyCrafts People
TASTE of KilkennyFood Trail
Scenic Walk
Kilkenny to BennettsbridgeNore Valley Walk
17
This stretch of the Nore Valley walk takes roughly 2 hours at a relaxed pace. Follow the river as it meanders through meadows, shady glades and past ancient mills; woollen, grain, paper and saw mills from where Kilkenny’s famous ‘black marble’ was honed (Maddockstown). Rich in riverside flora and fauna – spot a swift, a heron or catch a fleeting glimpse of kingfisher or an otter emerging from the riverbank. Described by The Irish Times as ‘a delightful walk’ and by The Irish Independent as ‘one of the most delectable river walks in Ireland, an unfolding tale of kingfishers, otters, Sleeping Beauty castles and wicked young princelings – pure distillation of magic in the floodlands of Kilkenny’.
Directions to TrailheadFrom Kilkenny: The river walk leaves Kilkenny City under Ossory Bridge
From Bennettsbridge: Under the six arch bridge – take the steps down to the riverbank by Tynan’s Butchers shop.
Overview
Difficulty ModerateLength 12kmDuration 2-3 hours
Note: 2km outside Kilkenny City the trail leaves the river bank and heads along a laneway and onto the Sion Road. Follow this road for 1.5km then cross a green stile, through a field and back to the river bank.
18
River No re
R iver No
re
M9
M9
M9
M9
N76
R693
N77
N77
N77
N78
N76
R712
R713R713
R448
R698
R448
R700 To
Wat
erfo
rd
.
Kells
Prio
ry
Dui
ske
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Isla
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Wal
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Trai
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thy
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Trai
lhea
d: Je
nkin
stow
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Jerp
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enda
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Mill
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Bal
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R693
L2623
L2623
R693
Inis
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93
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enny
Cra
ft T
rail
and
the
TAST
E Fo
od T
rail
thro
ugho
ut th
e Co
unty
. T h
ese
sign
s w
ill d
irect
you
to th
em.
Plea
se c
heck
ope
ning
tim
es b
efor
e yo
u tr
avel
.
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kSc
enic
Wal
ksCy
clin
g Tr
ails
Trai
lhea
d: C
ar p
ark
at
Tory
Hill
, Mul
linav
at
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Hill
Wal
k
R698
Mou
ntai
n G
rove
Loo
pTr
ailh
ead:
Mou
ntai
n G
rove
Woo
ds
John Stre
et
Dublin R
oad
The
Para
de
High St.
Will
iam
St.
Kieran St.
Riv
er N
oreH
ebro
n R
oad
CIT
Y C
ENTR
E
2C
uff
esg
ran
ge
The
Brid
ge P
otte
ryan
dCa
rolin
e D
olan
Cera
mic
s
Kilm
agan
ny
Bal
lyh
ale
R697
R697
Kilm
acol
iver
Loo
pTr
ailh
ead:
Tul
laho
ught
Iti
ner
arie
s an
d T
ou
rs
If yo
u w
ould
like
a su
gges
ted
itine
rary
or
to jo
in a
gui
ded
tour
or t
o ha
ve a
bes
poke
to
ur d
esig
ned
for y
our g
roup
, pl
ease
vis
it w
ww
.trai
lkilk
enny
.ie
Kilk
enny
Cas
tle
The
That
ch P
ubG
rann
agh
Cast
le
N24
M8
Jerp
oint
Abbe
y
L4206
R448
R448
R712
R448
Cas
tlec
om
er
Dis
cove
ry P
ark
Esta
te Y
ard
Der
ek B
lanc
he
Carl
Park
er
The
Squa
re
Kilkenny St.
Rose
mar
ie D
urr
Pott
ery
Andr
ew L
udic
kAi
leen
-Ann
e Br
anni
ngan
Cast
leco
mer
Wal
kTr
ailh
ead:
Cas
tleco
mer
Dis
cove
ry P
ark
N78
N78
Mai
n Street
Gow
ran
Road
Kilkenny Rd.
BEN
NET
TSB
RID
GE
TOW
N C
ENTR
EB
ENN
ETTS
BR
IDG
ETO
WN
CEN
TRE
Mot
h to
a F
lam
e
Trai
lhea
d: P
rimar
y Sc
hool
, Be
nnet
tsbr
idge
O’G
orm
an’s
Lan
e Lo
op
Nic
hola
s Mos
se
Pott
ery
M9
Café
Sol
Zuni
Rist
oran
te R
inuc
cini
Kilk
enny
Des
ign
Cast
le A
rch
Pott
ery
Cam
pagn
e
Lang
tons
Food
wor
ks
Mar
ble
City
Bar
&
Tea
Roo
ms
A Sl
ice
of
Hea
ven
Kilk
enny
Free
Ran
gePo
ultr
y
Hig
hban
k O
rgan
ic
Orc
hard
s
Goa
tsbr
idge
Trou
t Far
m
Knoc
kdrin
na
Farm
hous
e Ch
eese
Lavi
stow
nH
ouse
Gla
sraí
& G
oodi
es
Ryel
and
Cook
ery
Scho
ol
Cilli
n H
ill
Mou
nt Ju
liet
Kilk
enny
Far
mer
s Mar
ket
MA
DE
in K
ilken
nyCr
afts
Peo
ple
TAST
E of
Kilk
enny
Food
Tra
il
1 2 3Ja
rrow
Caf
é
7
3
6
21
1518
24
20
22
12
2614
5
25
16
1
4
2
8
18
19
25
22
21
17
15
6
4 5
Rudo
lf H
eltz
el G
olds
mith
Nat
iona
l Cra
ft G
alle
ry
Rebe
kah
Patt
erso
n
Wo
rksh
op
s
Man
y of
the
food
pro
duce
rs a
nd c
raft
m
aker
s ho
ld ‘l
earn
to’ w
orks
hops
–
chee
sem
akin
g, fo
ragi
ng ,
thro
win
g po
tter
y, c
heck
out
ww
w.tr
ailk
iken
ny.ie
for
upco
min
g ev
ents
.
Tra
ils F
esti
val
A m
onth
long
fest
ival
hel
d ev
ery
year
with
an
actio
n pa
cked
pro
gram
me
of g
uide
d w
alki
ng
even
ts; f
amily
wal
k an
d pi
cnic
, bik
e n’
hik
e,
peda
l n’ p
addl
e, w
alke
rs’ w
alks
, wal
ks fo
r na
ture
and
her
itage
love
rs.
Eve
nts
Cr
aft E
vent
s: M
ADE
hold
an
exhi
bitio
n at
the
Arts
Fes
tival
(Aug
ust)
and
open
a C
hris
tmas
po
p up
shop
in th
e Ci
ty (D
ecem
ber)
Food
Eve
nts:
Fro
m ti
me
to ti
me
TAST
E m
embe
rs ru
n sp
ecia
l eve
nts
e.g.
dur
ing
Savo
ur F
estiv
al (O
ctob
er) –
a ri
verb
ank
barb
ecue
, a d
awn
bake
ry to
ur, a
n or
char
d pi
cnic
per
haps
. Vis
it w
ww
.trai
lkilk
enny
.ie
for l
ates
t new
s.
trailK
ilken
ny
mad
e in
Kilk
enny
cra
ft tr
ail
Cafe
L’A
rche
Keog
h’s
Mod
el B
aker
y13
27
Trai
lhea
d: G
rand
Gat
es,
Cast
lem
orris
Woo
d, A
ghav
iller
Cast
lem
orri
s W
ood
Loop
R699
R699
R699
R701Knoc
ktop
her
Clai
re M
ollo
yCe
ram
ics
Kilo
met
ers
50
510
Joh
n’s
B
ridge
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Ben
net
tsb
rid
ge
16Ke
n Fo
ley N10
R700
R448D
anes
fort
R697
Mars
h’s St.
Low
St.
Pipe St.
Logan’s St.
Ch
apel
Lan
e
Market St.
The
Wat
erga
rden
Sol B
istr
o
Coun
try
Mar
ket
< to M
ount Julie
t
THO
MA
STO
WN
CEN
TRE
24
Lady’s Well
St.
Maudlin St.
Kare
n M
orga
n Po
rcel
ain
< to tr
ain st
ation
to In
isti
oge
Gra
igue
nam
anag
h >
Cla
y C
reat
ions
Clay
Cre
atio
nsCl
ay C
reat
ions
23
The Mall
River Nore
R700
The
Tru�
e Fa
iry23
N25
The
Blac
kber
ry
Café11 10
12 Mill St.
N78
Parliament St.
MTW
Je
wel
lery 19
14
13
Patrick St.
Cas
tlec
om
er
20
Su
gg
este
d P
lace
s to
Sta
yLa
ngto
ns a
nd Z
uni i
n th
e Ci
ty, M
ount
Julie
t in
Tho
mas
tow
n; e
stab
lishm
ents
with
a
part
icul
ar p
assi
on fo
r loc
al fo
od.
Gat
taba
un L
oop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
To K
ilmac
ow, F
erry
bank
&
Wat
erfo
rd
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alkN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
k
Pilt
ow
n
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
19
River No re
R iver No
re
M9
M9
M9
M9
N76
R693
N77
N77
N77
N78
N76
R712
R713R713
R448
R698
R448
R700 To
Wat
erfo
rd
.
Kells
Prio
ry
Dui
ske
Abbe
y
The
Isla
nds
Wal
k, U
rlin
gfor
d
Jenk
inst
own
Loop
Fres
hfo
rd
Url
ing
ford
Tulla
roan
Kilk
enn
y C
ity
Cal
lan
Tho
mas
tow
n
Go
wra
n
Gra
igu
enam
anag
h
To A
bbey
leix
To A
bbey
leix
Trai
lhea
d: V
illag
e G
reen
, Fre
shfo
rdFr
eshf
ord
Loop
Trai
lhea
d: G
raig
uena
man
agh
Bran
don
Hill
Loo
p
Sto
ney
ford
To C
arlo
w
To D
ublinK
ilken
ny
Du
blin
To A
thy
To D
ublin
Trai
lhea
d: Je
nkin
stow
n W
alk
Jerp
oint
Gla
ss
Cush
enda
le
Woo
llen
Mill
s
To G
ores
brid
ge
To N
ew R
oss
R702
Bal
lyra
gg
et
R693
L2623
L2623
R693
Inis
tio
ge
R6
93
Usi
ng T
his
Map
Keep
a lo
okou
t for
the
�nge
rpos
t sig
ns fo
r th
e M
AD
E in
Kilk
enny
Cra
ft T
rail
and
the
TAST
E Fo
od T
rail
thro
ugho
ut th
e Co
unty
. T h
ese
sign
s w
ill d
irect
you
to th
em.
Plea
se c
heck
ope
ning
tim
es b
efor
e yo
u tr
avel
.
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kSc
enic
Wal
ksCy
clin
g Tr
ails
Trai
lhea
d: C
ar p
ark
at
Tory
Hill
, Mul
linav
at
Tory
Hill
Wal
k
R698
Mou
ntai
n G
rove
Loo
pTr
ailh
ead:
Mou
ntai
n G
rove
Woo
ds
John Stre
et
Dublin R
oad
The
Para
de
High St.
Will
iam
St.
Kieran St.
Riv
er N
oreH
ebro
n R
oad
CIT
Y C
ENTR
E
2C
uff
esg
ran
ge
The
Brid
ge P
otte
ryan
dCa
rolin
e D
olan
Cera
mic
s
Kilm
agan
ny
Bal
lyh
ale
R697
R697
Kilm
acol
iver
Loo
pTr
ailh
ead:
Tul
laho
ught
Iti
ner
arie
s an
d T
ou
rs
If yo
u w
ould
like
a su
gges
ted
itine
rary
or
to jo
in a
gui
ded
tour
or t
o ha
ve a
bes
poke
to
ur d
esig
ned
for y
our g
roup
, pl
ease
vis
it w
ww
.trai
lkilk
enny
.ie
Kilk
enny
Cas
tle
The
That
ch P
ubG
rann
agh
Cast
le
N24
M8
Jerp
oint
Abbe
y
L4206
R448
R448
R712
R448
Cas
tlec
om
er
Dis
cove
ry P
ark
Esta
te Y
ard
Der
ek B
lanc
he
Carl
Park
er
The
Squa
re
Kilkenny St.
Rose
mar
ie D
urr
Pott
ery
Andr
ew L
udic
kAi
leen
-Ann
e Br
anni
ngan
Cast
leco
mer
Wal
kTr
ailh
ead:
Cas
tleco
mer
Dis
cove
ry P
ark
N78
N78
Mai
n Street
Gow
ran
Road
Kilkenny Rd.
BEN
NET
TSB
RID
GE
TOW
N C
ENTR
EB
ENN
ETTS
BR
IDG
ETO
WN
CEN
TRE
Mot
h to
a F
lam
e
Trai
lhea
d: P
rimar
y Sc
hool
, Be
nnet
tsbr
idge
O’G
orm
an’s
Lan
e Lo
op
Nic
hola
s Mos
se
Pott
ery
M9
Café
Sol
Zuni
Rist
oran
te R
inuc
cini
Kilk
enny
Des
ign
Cast
le A
rch
Pott
ery
Cam
pagn
e
Lang
tons
Food
wor
ks
Mar
ble
City
Bar
&
Tea
Roo
ms
A Sl
ice
of
Hea
ven
Kilk
enny
Free
Ran
gePo
ultr
y
Hig
hban
k O
rgan
ic
Orc
hard
s
Goa
tsbr
idge
Trou
t Far
m
Knoc
kdrin
na
Farm
hous
e Ch
eese
Lavi
stow
nH
ouse
Gla
sraí
& G
oodi
es
Ryel
and
Cook
ery
Scho
ol
Cilli
n H
ill
Mou
nt Ju
liet
Kilk
enny
Far
mer
s Mar
ket
MA
DE
in K
ilken
nyCr
afts
Peo
ple
TAST
E of
Kilk
enny
Food
Tra
il
1 2 3Ja
rrow
Caf
é
7
3
6
21
1518
24
20
22
12
2614
5
25
16
1
4
2
8
18
19
25
22
21
17
15
6
4 5
Rudo
lf H
eltz
el G
olds
mith
Nat
iona
l Cra
ft G
alle
ry
Rebe
kah
Patt
erso
n
Wo
rksh
op
s
Man
y of
the
food
pro
duce
rs a
nd c
raft
m
aker
s ho
ld ‘l
earn
to’ w
orks
hops
–
chee
sem
akin
g, fo
ragi
ng ,
thro
win
g po
tter
y, c
heck
out
ww
w.tr
ailk
iken
ny.ie
for
upco
min
g ev
ents
.
Tra
ils F
esti
val
A m
onth
long
fest
ival
hel
d ev
ery
year
with
an
actio
n pa
cked
pro
gram
me
of g
uide
d w
alki
ng
even
ts; f
amily
wal
k an
d pi
cnic
, bik
e n’
hik
e,
peda
l n’ p
addl
e, w
alke
rs’ w
alks
, wal
ks fo
r na
ture
and
her
itage
love
rs.
Eve
nts
Cr
aft E
vent
s: M
ADE
hold
an
exhi
bitio
n at
the
Arts
Fes
tival
(Aug
ust)
and
open
a C
hris
tmas
po
p up
shop
in th
e Ci
ty (D
ecem
ber)
Food
Eve
nts:
Fro
m ti
me
to ti
me
TAST
E m
embe
rs ru
n sp
ecia
l eve
nts
e.g.
dur
ing
Savo
ur F
estiv
al (O
ctob
er) –
a ri
verb
ank
barb
ecue
, a d
awn
bake
ry to
ur, a
n or
char
d pi
cnic
per
haps
. Vis
it w
ww
.trai
lkilk
enny
.ie
for l
ates
t new
s.
trailK
ilken
ny
mad
e in
Kilk
enny
cra
ft tr
ail
Cafe
L’A
rche
Keog
h’s
Mod
el B
aker
y13
27
Trai
lhea
d: G
rand
Gat
es,
Cast
lem
orris
Woo
d, A
ghav
iller
Cast
lem
orri
s W
ood
Loop
R699
R699
R699
R701Knoc
ktop
her
Clai
re M
ollo
yCe
ram
ics
Kilo
met
ers
50
510
Joh
n’s
B
ridge
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Ben
net
tsb
rid
ge
16Ke
n Fo
ley N10
R700
R448
Dan
esfo
rt
R697
Mars
h’s St.
Low
St.
Pipe St.
Logan’s St.
Ch
apel
Lan
e
Market St.
The
Wat
erga
rden
Sol B
istr
o
Coun
try
Mar
ket
< to M
ount Julie
t
THO
MA
STO
WN
CEN
TRE
24Lady’s W
ell St
.Maudlin St.
Kare
n M
orga
n Po
rcel
ain
< to tr
ain st
ation
to In
isti
oge
Gra
igue
nam
anag
h >
Cla
y C
reat
ions
Clay
Cre
atio
nsCl
ay C
reat
ions
23
The Mall
River Nore
R700
The
Tru�
e Fa
iry23
N25
The
Blac
kber
ry
Café11 10
12 Mill St.
N78
Parliament St.
MTW
Je
wel
lery 19
14
13
Patrick St.
Cas
tlec
om
er
20
Su
gg
este
d P
lace
s to
Sta
yLa
ngto
ns a
nd Z
uni i
n th
e Ci
ty, M
ount
Julie
t in
Tho
mas
tow
n; e
stab
lishm
ents
with
a
part
icul
ar p
assi
on fo
r loc
al fo
od.
Gat
taba
un L
oop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
East
Kilk
enny
Cycl
e Ro
ute
To K
ilmac
ow, F
erry
bank
&
Wat
erfo
rd
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
kN
ore
Valle
y W
alkN
ore
Valle
y W
alk
Nor
e Va
lley
Wal
k
Pilt
ow
n
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
Nor
th K
ilken
nyCy
cle
Loop
20
STARTFINISH
Nore Valley Walk
Ballydu�HouseBallydu�House
The Nore CotThe Nore Cot
Woodstock Gardens
Woodstock Gardens
CastleCastle
Grennan MillGrennan Mill
STARTFINISH
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
Nore Valley Walk
Trailhead starting point
Mill
Historic House
Garden
Country House
The Nore Cot
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
Grennan CastleGrennan Castle
Thomastown to InistiogeNore Valley Walk
21
This stretch of the Nore Valley Walk takes you through diverse countryside, pastoral lands and woodland; rich in flora and fauna. The river is noted for its salmon and also holds crayfish and otters and the arches of its bridges are favoured roosting spots for Daubenton bats. Steeped in history, since the 12th century the Nore was a vital trading route for export of corn, hides and livestock and the importation of exotic goods from other parts of the world such as wine, tobacco, cloth and spices via New Ross and Waterford. There is the ruin of Grennan Castle built by Strongbow’s son-in-law in the 13th century at the start of the walk and through the pretty Dysart Woods, carpeted in springtime with wood anemones, bluebells and primroses. You’ll pass the ruins of Dysart Castle, home to philosopher Bishop George Berkeley who mused ‘are objects there if we do not perceive them’?! The trail leads you on by Ballyduff House; a glorious Georgian country house in its stunning parkland setting, before entering the broadleaf Brownsbarn Wood and along a grassy riverside track where the view of the 10 arch bridge in picturesque Inistioge opens up ahead of you.
Directions to TrailheadFrom Thomastown: Starting in the town of Thomastown go south across the bridge and follow the green arrows to the Thomastown GAA pitch. Walk along the border of the GAA pitch to the river bank.
From Inistioge: Approaching form the village square, arrive at the riverbank and turn left along the river.
Overview
Difficulty ModerateLength 10.9kmDuration 2-3 hours
OverviewThis route is a scenic cycling route linking the most historic and culturally significant towns in east Kilkenny. The towns are perfectly placed along the route to stop for lunch or a cup of coffee. The route uses quiet roads and laneways and provides stunning views of Brandon Hill, the River Barrow and the River Nore.
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East Kilkenny
Cycle Route
Distance 64km
Time 3 to 4.5 hours
Terrain Rolling country roads and laneways
Traffic Mainly on quiet roads, caution advised at one way system in Thomastown
To Suit Experienced, moderately fit self sufficient cyclists
Minimum Gear
Spare tube, pump, liquids, food, mobile phone
Jerpoint Abbey
Jerpoint Abbey
DuiskeAbbeyDuiskeAbbey
East KilkennyCycle Route
St. Mary’s Abbey St. Mary’s Abbey Church
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
Nore Valley Walk
Scenic Walk
Nore Valley Walk
O’Gorman’sLane Loop
Glasraí and GoodiesGlasraí and Goodies
TASTE TASTE MADEMADE
Food and Craft Hub Food and Craft Hub
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
Knockdrinna Farmhouse Cheese
Knockdrinna Farmhouse Cheese
South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
O’Gorman’sLane Loop
BrandonHill Loop
Cushendale Woollen Mills
Cushendale Woollen Mills
KellsPrioryKells
Priory
GoatsbridgeTrout Farm
Jerpoint Glass
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Jerpoint Abbey
Jerpoint Abbey
DuiskeAbbeyDuiskeAbbey
East KilkennyCycle Route
St. Mary’s Abbey St. Mary’s Abbey Church
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
Nore Valley Walk
Scenic Walk
Nore Valley Walk
O’Gorman’sLane Loop
Glasraí and GoodiesGlasraí and Goodies
TASTE TASTE MADEMADE
Food and Craft Hub Food and Craft Hub
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
Knockdrinna Farmhouse Cheese
Knockdrinna Farmhouse Cheese
South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
O’Gorman’sLane Loop
BrandonHill Loop
Cushendale Woollen Mills
Cushendale Woollen Mills
KellsPrioryKells
Priory
GoatsbridgeTrout Farm
Jerpoint Glass
Gowran - Graiguenamanagh - Thomastown - Bennettsbridge
North Kilkenny
Cycle Loop
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South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
North KilkennyCycle Loop
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
Cave
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
North Kilkenny Cycle Loop
North Kilkenny Cycle Route
Nore Valley Walk
Jenkinstown Loop
Scenic Walk
North KilkennyCycle LoopNorth KilkennyCycle Loop
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Trailhead The Parade, Kilkenny
Distance 27km
Time 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Terrain River side roads and rural laneways
Traffic Caution when cycling along N78 and turning onto Dunmore Cave laneway
To Suit Leisure self sufficient cyclists
Minimum Gear
Spare tube, pump, liquids, food, mobile phone
Overview
Starting point: Trail Kilkenny Kiosk on the Parade
Leaving the Trail Kilkenny Kiosk, cycle down the hill and turn right at the traffic lights onto Rose Inn Street and past the Tourist Office. Cross John’s Bridge and continue to the traffic lights. Turn left at the junction and continue past Padmore & Barnes. Follow the road along Greensbridge Street and go straight through the junction with New Street onto Greens Hill. Follow this road and keep left to take the Bleach Road. Follow this route for 6km until the junction at Hennebry’s Cross. Turn right and then take the first exit off the roundabout onto the N78. After 3km turn left at Ballyrafton Wood and continue for 1km until you meet a T junction. Turn right and take an immediate left up a laneway to Jenkinstown Park.
Return back to the main road and turn left, after 1.5km turn right and follow the road until it rejoins the N78. Turn left and after 1km turn right towards Dunmore Caves. Passing the turn for Dunmore Caves continue up hill to a T-junction. Turn right and follow the road for 3km until you come to a T-junction. Turn right at this junction and continue along the road back to Kilkenny City. You pass over the bridge on the Ring Road and turn right at a small roundabout onto the Castlecomer Road. After 200 metres turn right onto Greens Hill and follow this road across the New Road onto Greensbridge Street. Turn right onto Michael Street and at the next cross roads turn right onto John Street. Follow this street across John’s Bridge and the Trail Kilkenny Kiosk is on the Parade on the left.
South Kilkenny
Cycle Loop
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MADEMADE
Food and Craft Hub Food and Craft Hub
South KilkennyCycle Loop
KellsPrioryKells
Priory
Moth to a Flame
Nicholas MossePottery
O’Gorman’sLane Loop
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
North Kilkenny Cycle Loop
Nore Valley Walk
Scenic Walk
Bridge Pottery & Caroline Dolan
Highbank Organic OrchardsHighbank Organic Orchards
Jerpoint Abbey
Jerpoint Abbey
Mount JulietMount Juliet
Jerpoint Glass
GoatsbridgeTrout Farm
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
North KilkennyCycle LoopNorth KilkennyCycle Loop
Ken FoleyLeatherKen FoleyLeather
Knockdrinna Farmhouse Cheese
Bennettsbridge - Stoneyford - Kells
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Trailhead The Parade, Kilkenny
Distance 41km
Time 2 to 3 hours
Terrain Country roads linking the main towns in south Kilkenny
Traffic Mainly country roads crossing N and R roads. Caution advised when entering towns.
To Suit Leisure self sufficient cyclists
Minimum Gear
Spare tube, pump, liquids, food, mobile phone
Minimum Gear
Helmet, bike, mobile phone, fluids, snacks, waterproofs, rucksack
Overview
Starting point: Trail Kilkenny Kiosk on the Parade
Leaving the Trail Kilkenny Kiosk cycle down the hill and turn right at the traffic lights onto Rose Inn Street past the Tourist Office. Cross John’s Bridge and take the first right to Maudlin Street. Follow Maudlin Street uphill till it meets the Dublin Road. Turn right and follow the cycle lane along the Dublin Road. Continue straight through two roundabouts and take the right turn after the Maxol Petrol station onto Sion Road. Follow this road for 6km and take the left turn to Dunbell and continue for 4km until you come to the Dunbell cross roads. Turn right and continue straight for 3km until you meet a T-Junction with the Gowran Road. Turn right and follow the road for 4km to the village of Bennettsbridge.
In Bennettsbridge cross the bridge and take an immediate left past Nicolas Mosses Pottery. Follow this road for 9km to Ennisnag. At the T-junction turn left and cycle 2km to the village of Stoneyford. As you come into the village, take the first right and cycle uphill in the direction of Kells. Passing Kells Priory, turn right at the crossroads in Kells and continue across the bridge. Take an immediate right and travel 2km along until you take a left turn. Cycle for 2km and take a right at the next T-junction. Follow this route for 3km and take a right at the next T-junction. Turn right at the T-junction and continue to the next T-junction and take a right. After 2km you meet the N10 at Danesfort, turn left in the direction of Kilkenny City. Cycle for 8km and straight through two roundabouts, continue into town and at the next roundabout past the petrol station take the first exit. Follow the cycle path for 400 metres and take the second exit off the next roundabout. Continue along Nuncio Road until you come to a T-junction and take a left back to the Trail Kilkenny kiosk. The Kiosk is on The Parade on your right.
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North KilkennyCycle Route
North KilkennyCycle Loop
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
North Kilkenny Cycle Loop
North Kilkenny Cycle Route
Cave
Church
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
Nore Valley Walk
MADEMADECraft Hub Craft Hub
CastlecomerDiscovery Park
Scenic Walk
Freshford Loop
JenkinstownLoop
GattabaunLoop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
North KilkennyCycle Loop
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
North Kilkenny
Cycle Route
OverviewThis route is the most challenging in the Trail Kilkenny portfolio of cycling trails. It winds its way through rural North Kilkenny bringing the cyclist through beautiful villages like Freshford and Castlecomer.
Distance 82km
Time 4.5 to 6 hours
Terrain Quiet country roads and laneways suitable to hybrid type bikes
Traffic Mainly on quiet roads joining N roads in sections. Caution for farming machinery at certain times of the yea
To Suit Experienced, moderately fit self sufficient cyclists
Minimum Gear
Spare tube, pump, liquids, food, mobile phone
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North KilkennyCycle Route
North KilkennyCycle Loop
South Kilkenny Cycle Loop
North Kilkenny Cycle Loop
North Kilkenny Cycle Route
Cave
Church
Nore Valley WalkNore Valley Walk
Nore Valley Walk
MADEMADECraft Hub Craft Hub
CastlecomerDiscovery Park
Scenic Walk
Freshford Loop
JenkinstownLoop
GattabaunLoop
East Kilkenny Cycle Route
North KilkennyCycle Loop
East KilkennyCycle RouteEast KilkennyCycle Route
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
Dunmore Cave
South KilkennyCycle LoopSouth KilkennyCycle Loop
Castlecomer - Freshford - Tullaroan
Chef Maria Raftery, Zuni Margaret & Ger Kirwan, Goatsbridge Trout Farm
Experience the rich and varied food culture of County Kilkenny – from artisan cheesemakers to chocolatiers, chickens to caviar and cute cafés to cosmopolitan city eateries, you’ll find that all the participants in the trail share the same passion for food and the great produce of the Kilkenny countryside (and love to share it!)
Pick up or download a copy of the dedicated food trail guide to discover all things foodie in Kilkenny. Take a look at the map of the County in the middle of this guide and you’ll find the locations of the members of the Trail (detailed on the following page) who open to visitors – please check opening times before you travel.
Siobhan Lawler, Glasraí & Goodies with Chef Ken Harker, Mount Juliet
Anna Stewart, Jarrow Café
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The Blackberry Café, Market Street, Thomastown Mobile: 086 775 5303 www.theblackberrycafe.ie
The Watergarden, Ladywell Street, Thomastown Tel: 056 772 4690 www.camphill.ie
Jarrow Café Castlecomer Discovery Park Tel: 056 444 0019
Café L’Arche, Green Street, Callan Tel: 056 770 6891
CHECK OPENING TIMES BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
Highbank Farm, Cuffesgrange Tel: 056 772 9918 www.highbankorchards.com
Kilkenny Free Range, Callan Road Tel: 056 776 3426 Mobile: 087 643 9979
Goatsbridge Trout Farm, Jerpoint, Thomastown Tel: 056 772 4140 www.goatsbridgetrout.ie
Knockdrinna Cheese & Farm Shop, Stoneyford Tel: 056 772 8446 www.knockdrinna.com
FOOD PRODUCERS
SPECIALITY SHOPS
Keogh’s Model Bakery, Bridge Street, Callan Tel: 056 772 5254 www.keoghsmodelbakery.com
A Slice of Heaven, High Street, Kilkenny Mobile: 087 953 3870 www.sliceofheaven.ie
Glasraí & Goodies, Main Street, Gowran Tel: 056 773 3799 www.glasraiandgoodies.com
The Truffle Fairy, Thomastown Tel: 056 779 3375 www.trufflefairy.com
CAFéS
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TASTE Food Producers (as numbered below) can be found on the map in the middle of this book
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Café Sol, William Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 776 4987 www.restaurantskilkenny.com
Zuni, Patrick Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 772 3999 www.zuni.ie
Campagne, Gashouse Lane, Kilkenny Tel: 056 777 2858 www.campagne.ie
Marble City Bar & Tea Rooms, High Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 776 1143 www.langtons.ie/marble-city-bar
Langtons, John Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 776 5133 www.langtons.ie
Foodworks, Parliament Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 777 7696 www.foodworks.ie
Ristorante Rinuccini, the Parade, Kilkenny Tel: 056 776 1575 www.rinuccini.com
Sol Bistro, Low Street, Thomastown Tel: 056 775 4945 www.restaurantskilkenny.com Cillín Hill Mart, Dublin Road, Kilkenny
Tel: 056 772 1407 www.cillinhill.com
The Thatch Pub, Grannagh Tel: 051 872 876 www.thethatchpub.com
Lavistown House, Sion Road, Kilkenny Tel: 056 776 5145 www.lavistownhouse.ie
Kilkenny Design, Castle Yard, Kilkenny Tel: 056 772 2118 www.kilkennydesign.com
Mount Juliet, Thomastown Tel: 056 777 3000 www.mountjuliet.ie
Ryeland House Cookery School, Cuffesgrange Mobile: 086 276 7656 www.ryelandhousecookery.com
DESTINATIONS & ExPERIENCES
RESTAURANTS
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Rory Leadbetter, Jerpoint Glass Andrew Ludick
Kilkenny is renowned as a creative hub with a vibrant craft industry. Discover authentic craft created by designer makers all over the county; using the most modern techniques as well as preserving and developing age old methods. From the white furnace of the glassblower, to the traditional throwing wheel of the potter and the hammering of precious metal; each creating unique, functional and decorative pieces.
Pick up or download a copy of the dedicated MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail guide to discover Kilkenny’s craft culture for yourself. Use the map of the County in the middle of this guide to find and visit the makers’ studios – you’ll find the locations of the members of MADE who open to visitors – please check opening times before you travel.
Fredrike Grace, Spirit Jewellery Philip Cushen, Cushendale Woollen Mills
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Rosemarie Durr Castelcomer Discovery Park Tel: 056 444 0007 www.rosemariedurr.com
Andrew Ludick Castelcomer Discovery Park Tel: 056 444 0007 www.andrewludick.blogspot.com
Castle Arch Pottery, Castle Yard, Kilkenny Tel: 056 775 1933 www.castlearchpottery.ie
Caroline Dolan, Burnchurch Tel: 056 772 9156 www.carolinedolanceramics.com
Bridge Pottery, Burnchurch Tel: 056 772 9156 www.bridgepottery.com
Nicholas Mosse, Bennettsbridge Tel: 056 772 7505 www.nicholasmosse.com
Clay Creations, Low Street, Thomastown Tel: 056 772 4977 www.bridlyonsceramics.ie
Karen Morgan Porcelain Market Street, Thomastown Mobile: 086 166 3691 www.karenmorganporcelain.com
Claire Molloy, Kilmoganny Mobile: 087 214 6328 www.clairemolloyceramics.com
Millinery by Rebekah Patterson The Parade Kilkenny Tel: 087 254 0181 Facebook-Hats-Rebekah Patterson-Milliner
Ken Foley Leatherwork, Kells Tel: 056 775 2019 www.kfoley.ie Cushendale Woollen Mills, Graiguenamanagh Tel: 059 972 4118 www.cushendale.ie
Aileen Anne Brannigan, Stonecarver, Castelcomer Discovery Park Tel: 087 771 0248 www.aileenannebranniganstonecarver.comJerpoint Glass, Stoneyford Tel: 056 772 4350 www.jerpointglass.com Moth to a Flame, Bennettsbridge Tel: 056 772 7826 www.mothtoaflame.ie
Derek Blanche, Castelcomer Discovery Park Mobile: 086 854 0633
Carl Parker, Castelcomer Discovery Park Tel: 056 444 0876 www.carlparkejewels.comMarie Therese Walker, Market Slip, Kilkenny Tel: 085 758 4907 www.mtwjewellery.comRudolf Heltzel Goldsmith Patrick Street, Kilkenny Tel: 056 772 1497 www.heltzel.ie
POT TERY & CERAMICS JEWELLERS
TExTILES & LEATHER
STONECARVER, GLASS BLOWERS, CANDLEMAKER
crafttrails
MADE Craft Producers (as numbered below) can be found on the map in the middle of this book
The following craft makers’ studios are open to visitors – you should check their opening times before you travel. Many other craft makers’ welcome visitors by appointment and you’ll find their full details in the MADE in Kilkenny Craft Trail Guide or visit www.trailkilkenny.ie
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Kilkenny Trails FestivalJoin in this annual, month long festival of trails, walks and so much more. An action packed events programme with something for everybody – challenging walks for enthusiastic walkers, walk series for those looking to improve their fitness or to start a walking habit and themed walks for those interested in exploring the countryside at a gentle pace. Pack a picnic and bring the family to Forage for Food on the riverbank. Meet the Head Gardener and enjoy a spot of afternoon tea on great country estates. Get on your bike on a Bike’n’Hike, cycle to Bennettsbridge and walk back along the riverbank into Kilkenny City.
Check out www.kilkennytrailfestival.ie for more information.
Summer Saturday BusHop on a bus in Kilkenny City and travel out to Bennettsbridge to enjoy a leisurely 2 hour walk back along the riverbank. This walk described by The Irish Times as ‘a delightful walk’ and by The Independent as ‘one of the most delectable river walks in Ireland’ will give you a memorable perspective on the stunning countryside; rich in wildlife, flora and fauna.
Bus picks up every Saturday at 11.30am from Padmore & Barnes, Wolfe Tone Street, Kilkenny. This service runs from June till September and is operated by Ring-a-Link Tel: 1890 42 41 41.
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activity providers and support services
CYCLING TOURS & BIKE RENTAL
Kilkenny Cycling ToursHire a bike and head off to experience a Bike’n’Hike cycle along scenic country roads to Bennettsbridge. Leave your bike there and walk back along the riverbank into Kilkenny City or Pedal and Paddle; returning by canoe along the river. Guided cycle tours for groups of 10 or more also available.
Waterside Bike & HikeHire your bike from Waterside Bike & Hike and take a cycle along the River Barrow towpath from Graiguenamanagh to the picturesque village of St. Mullins or on quiet country roads to Inistioge. Adult and children’s mountain bikes, as well as electric bikes available.
Contact: Jason Morrissey, Kilkenny Cycling Tours
Tel: 086 895 4961Web: www. kilkennycyclingtours.com Prices: From €15 bike hire per day
Contact: Brian Roberts, Waterside Bike & Hike
Tel: 086 408 4008 Web: www.watersideguesthouse.comPrices: Mountain Bike €15.00 per day Electric Bike €25.00 per day
Discounts for all residents of Waterside Guesthouse
Lavistown House Web: www.lavistownhouse.ie Tel: +353 86 840 7754
Blackstairs EcoTrails Web: www.blackstairsecotrails.ie Tel: +353 87 270 7189
FORAGING IN THE WILD AND RIVERBANK ECO TRAILS
Go on an unhurried adventure to gather wild food and discover all kinds of natural goodies on the river bank or explore the secret natural life of the river to discover who likes nesting where, why butterflies love some spots, see if you can spot an otter or even a kingfisher.
OUTDOOR CLOTHING, FOOT WEAR AND SUPPLIES
Padmore & Barnes Wolfe Tone Street, Kilkenny Web: www.padmore-barnes.com Tel: +353 56 772 1037
Opening Times: Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 6.00pm. Sundays and Public Holidays, 2.00pm to 6.00pm
Trail Kilkenny is a non-profit company established to develop, promote and maintain leisure trails in County Kilkenny. New trails are being developed all the time so, check out our website www.trailkilkenny.ie to view the full range including trail map downloads.
Alternatively to find and navigate Trail Kilkenny walking, cycling, food and craft trails, download our free App. Simply search for Trail Kilkenny in the App Store.
Follow us onFACEBOOK
Follow us onTWITTER
Scan the QR code opposite with your smartphone (iPhone, etc.) to link to the Trail Kilkenny App. Download the app for a free interactive guide to the best walking, cycling, food and craft trails in Kilkenny - free QR reader apps can be downloaded from the app store by searching for “QR reader”.
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Front cover image: Left to right: Sharon, Beatrice and Molly O’Shea
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www.trailkilkenny.ie
If you would like to take a break away and sample a selection of trails during your stay in County Kilkenny, you’ll find a range of breaks and offers on www.discoverireland.ie/Places-To-Go/Kilkenny or www.kilkennytourism.ie