Kilkenny may be one of the smaller cities in Ireland, but it punches well above its weight. Aside from its thousands of years of history, there is culture, fun and lots to explore outdoors. Spring is a great time to visit The Marble City before the city is filled with tourists and visitors from around the world in summer. You can enjoy blooming gardens with lots of new life and there are some great opportunities to dine al fresco. Hoban Hotel offers comfortable, great-value accommodation in Kilkenny suitable for families, groups of friends and couples who want to get to know our beautiful city in the spring sunshine.
St. Patrick’s Day Festival
The highlight of Spring in Ireland, and the beginning of the busy mid-year months in Kilkenny, is St Patricks Day. Kilkenny has a St Patricks Day festival stretching over a couple of days so you can soak up the good vibes for longer. Kilkenny’s St Patricks Festival brings you live music, parades with floats and lots of craic agus ceol. There is usually lots to do for families including outdoor entertainment and face painting. Pubs around the city have their own March 17th celebrations, perfect to get to know our friendly locals. If you’re lucky enough to be in Kilkenny on St Patrick’s Day, it’s sure to be a celebration you won’t forget.
Tradfest
Running alongside the St Patricks Day festivities, Tradfest is another highlight of the Spring season in Kilkenny. It’s a celebration of Irish music in all its forms. You can enjoy performances of the very best Irish music live in venues across Kilkenny from outdoor stages to the back of your favourite snug. Musicians come from all over the country and some from further afield to share their love of traditional Irish music and their talent, fine-tuned over many years. It’s an authentically Irish celebration that you won’t anywhere else. Some shows are ticketed, some are free, some need booking and some you can just follow the tunes. Check their official website for more details.
The Great Outdoors
Take advantage of the warmer weather and the slightly longer days in Kilkenny this Springtime and enjoy the great outdoors. From adventure playgrounds to woodland walks, there are lots of beautiful places to discover while the sun shines. Head to the wonderful Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum to explore the walled garden, rose garden, rockery garden, a recreated Turner Conservatory and the collection of rare and exotic trees in the arboretum before you stop for a bite in the picturesque village of Inistioge. Castlecomer Discovery Park has something for all ages from relaxing walks to adventure playgrounds for the little ones. If you’re travelling with children around Easter, Nore Valley Park Easter Egg Hunt takes place from Saturday 1st to Sunday 9th April 2023 from 10 am to 4pm and promises great fun.
Indoor Activities
While we hope for good weather, this is Ireland and Mother Nature changes her mind quickly. Don’t worry if you’re in Kilkenny on a rainy day, there are plenty of indoor activities to keep you occupied. Visit Irelands National Reptile Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with giant pythons, monitor lizards, snapping turtles, tortoises, alligators, tarantulas and other fascinating beasts. Everyone loves bowling and K-Bowl Kilkenny has state-of-the-art computerised scoring systems, comfy leather sofas and a great selection of refreshments. It’s a great way to pass an afternoon with family or friends. You could also take a quick tour of Kilkenny from the comfort and shelter of a tourist train with live guides giving you plenty of background, history and some stories you’re sure to remember.
Spring Hotel Break in Kilkenny
Spring is when the city starts to become busier and more demand for hotels means higher prices. Luckily Hoban Hotel, located on the edge of town, a short walk from the city, offers comfort, convenience and great value for money, all year round. Our comfortable bedrooms are complemented by our recently refurbished lobby and restaurant, offering freshly prepared, delicious food and drink, all day long. We’re perfect for family stays, business travel and group accommodation in Kilkenny and our friendly team are always happy to offer suggestions of things to do.
Book our lowest available rates and enjoy exclusive access to our Spring hotel offers in Kilkenny, only on our website. We look forward to welcoming you.
