A NEW £5.8million investment is set to drive tourists to Ireland’s smallest city thanks to a host of exciting new attractions.
Back in April, Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority of Ireland, announced a five-year plan to revamp Kilkenny.
Located in County Kilkenny in South-East Ireland, holidaymakers often visit the tiny Irish city on a day trip from Dublin.
However, tourists may soon be planning to stay longer in the city thanks to the multi-million-pound development project.
The revamp will look to the city’s history, pubs and ties to hurling to promote Kilkenny as a major tourist destination in Ireland.
As part of the plan, Medieval Mile, a discovery trail in the city will be reimagined, with £1.2m being used to build the Museum of Medieval Kilkenny.
The Museum of Medieval Kilkenny will become a central point for the redevelopment of Medieval Mile and a key tourist attraction in the city.
Kilkenny’s redevelopment will also make use of the River Barrow, the River Nore, and the River Suir, also known as the Three Sisters Rivers.
The Three Sisters Rivers will become a prime place for urban and rural outdoor activity experiences – although it is not yet known that these experiences will be.
Other attractions are also being considered like a world-class creative animation visitor experience.
This visitor experience will build on Kilkenny’s heritage as a home to creative artists.
The project is being funded by Fáilte Ireland and Kilkenny County Council who will pump £5.9m into the refurb.
Earlier this year, Paul Kelly, the boss of Fáilte Ireland said: “This five-year Destination and Experience Development Plan captures the unique themes that are central to Kilkenny and features key priority projects which will transform the tourism offering across the region.
“The development of the River Barrow Tourism Masterplan, reimagination of the Medieval Mile, and building on Kilkenny’s cultural and creative heritage will strengthen Kilkenny’s position as an internationally compelling destination in Ireland’s Ancient East.
It is not yet known when any of the attractions will open to the public.
Until the revamp is completed in five years’ time, there are still plenty of things to do in Kilkenny.
One of the main tourist attractions is Kilkenny Castle, which was built in the 12th century.
The Irish castle was remodelled in the Victorian Era and was taken over by the Irish State in 1969.
Nowadays, Kilkenny Castle welcomes thousands of visitors each year who want to see the library, drawing room, nursery and bedrooms decorated in 1830s splendour
Other attractions include St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, Rothe House and Garden and the The Black Abbey.
Beer enthusiasts will want to check out Smithwick’s Experience where they can go on a brewery tour and sample some Irish ale.
Evidence of human settlement in the Kilkenny area dates back to prehistoric times.
In the 12th century, the city grew rapidly with the construction of significant buildings such as St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Black Abbey.
Between the 14th and 16th centuries, the Irish city became an important centre for trade.
It also played a significant role during the Confederate Wars (1641-1653).
The Kilkenny Confederation, a governing body of Irish Catholics, was established here in 1642, making the city a temporary capital. Kilkenny Castle was besieged by Oliver Cromwell’s forces in 1650.
Kilkenny experienced economic growth and urban development in the 18th century, with the construction of new buildings and improvements in infrastructure.
In more recent years, the city saw renewed growth and development with a focus on its rich heritage to promote tourism.
Earlier this year, plans were put forward to transform London Waterloo – the third busiest train station in the UK.
The proposals detailed new entrances, increased space on the station’s concourses and new shops and restaurants.
