Kilkenny County Hall

Kilkenny County Hall, an elegant neoclassical building nestled on the banks of the River Nore, boasts a history that intertwines with education and the city's development. Completed in 1785, the County Hall replaced an earlier structure that housed Kilkenny College (previously known as Kilkenny Grammar School).

Kilkenny College

• Origins: The school was founded in 1538 by Piers Butler, 8th Earl of Ormond, and his wife Margaret Fitzgerald to replace the older School of the Vicars Choral.
• Early Location: Initially located to the west of St. Canice's Cathedral, the school was later relocated in 1684 beside the River Nore.
• 1785 Relocation: The current County Hall building was constructed in 1785, replacing the existing school building.
• Further Relocation: In 1985, the school moved to its present location on a 50-acre site on the Castlecomer Road, incorporating the historic Celbridge House.
• Modern Kilkenny College: The school continues to thrive as a co-educational boarding and day school, offering a broad curriculum and a range of extracurricular activities.

Kilkenny County Hall

• Architecture: The County Hall is a splendid example of Georgian architecture, characterized by its symmetrical façade, grand portico, and Doric columns.
• Function: The building serves as the headquarters for Kilkenny County Council, the local governing body responsible for the administration of the county.

Landscaped Areas along the River Nore

• Scenic Walks: The banks of the River Nore offer picturesque walking paths, providing stunning views of the County Hall, Kilkenny Castle, and other historic landmarks.
• Green Spaces: The landscaped areas near the County Hall feature well-maintained gardens and green spaces, contributing to the city's charm and providing a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors alike.

Kilkenny City Hall (The Tholsel)

There is also a City Hall in Kilkenny. It is located in a historic building called The Tholsel, situated on High Street in Kilkenny City. The Tholsel served as the meeting place for Kilkenny Borough Council until its abolition in 2014. The Tholsel is a significant landmark in Kilkenny and an example of 18th-century municipal architecture.

Celbridge House

Celbridge House, located on the outskirts of Kilkenny City, is a historic Georgian mansion with a rich history dating back to the 18th century. It is situated on a 50-acre estate that includes extensive gardens, woodlands, and a river walk along the River Nore. The house itself is a two-story over basement structure with a five-bay facade and a central breakfront....