Kilkenny Castle was built in the 1190's and was occupied right up until 1935 by the powerful Butler family. Because of the enormous upkeep of the castle the Butler's decided to turn the castle over to the state in 1967 and is now open to the public for guided tours.

Several drum towers dominate the castle. While the original gatehouse is no longer in existence, the current entrance was added around the 18th century. The castle has undergone many renovations in its long history, the most recent was the main house, which has been built on the Gothic Revival style and has had the most enduring impact of all the renovations.

Highlights of the guided tour include the library, wood paneled dining room, and the Chinese bedroom. The Long Gallery is by far the most impressive. Just off the lovely Moorish stairwell the Long Gallery features dozens of original Pre-Raphaelite and Pre-Raphaelite inspired painting and tapestries. The roof is a fine 19th century creation with hand painted hammer beams and leaded glass skylights.