5 Reasons Kids Love Visiting St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower During the Summer Holidays
When school is out and families are looking for memorable days out, finding activities that entertain children and adults alike can be a challenge. Fortunately, St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower offers the perfect combination of adventure, history, discovery and fun.
Visitors are often surprised by just how much there is for children to enjoy. From family treasure hunts and fascinating guided tours to climbing one of Ireland’s most remarkable round towers, there is something to capture every child’s imagination.
If you’re searching for things to do in Kilkenny this summer with your family, here are five reasons why St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower should be at the top of your list.
1. The Round Tower Climb is a Real Adventure

What child doesn’t love an adventure?
The iconic Round Tower at St Canice’s is one of only two round towers in Ireland that visitors can still climb. As children make their way up the tower’s internal ladders, excitement builds with every step.
The reward at the top is unforgettable – a breathtaking panoramic view across Kilkenny City and beyond. Children love spotting familiar landmarks while parents enjoy one of the finest viewpoints in the city.
Whether it’s their first tower climb or their tenth family adventure of the summer, reaching the summit is an achievement kids are proud of.
2. Milo and Rua Make History Fun

History becomes much more exciting when children are part of the story.
Families visiting St Canice’s can enjoy the popular treasure hunt featuring Milo and Rua. As children explore the cathedral grounds, they’ll uncover clues, discover hidden details and learn about the site’s fascinating history along the way.
It’s an engaging way to encourage curiosity while keeping younger visitors entertained throughout their visit.
Looking for family activities in Kilkenny? The treasure hunt offers the perfect mix of education and adventure. Book your visit to the cathedral.
3. Guided Tours Spark Young Imaginations

The stories hidden within St Canice’s Cathedral have captivated visitors for centuries.
Older children particularly enjoy the guided tours, where expert guides bring the cathedral’s remarkable history to life. Tales of medieval Kilkenny, ancient traditions and historic figures help children imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago.
Rather than simply reading information panels, families can experience the stories firsthand through engaging storytelling and fascinating historical insights.
Discover guided tours and family experiences at St Canice’s Cathedral.
4. It’s One of the Most Unique Family Attractions in Kilkenny

There are plenty of places to visit in Kilkenny, but few offer such a unique combination of history, architecture and adventure.
Children can explore a medieval cathedral, climb an ancient round tower, take part in a treasure hunt and enjoy open spaces to discover at their own pace.
Located on the famous Medieval Mile, St Canice’s also makes an ideal starting point for a family day out in Kilkenny, with plenty of attractions, cafés and shops nearby.
For families looking for educational and entertaining things to do during the summer holidays, it offers an experience unlike any other.
5. The Memories Last Long After Summer Ends

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The best family days out are the ones children still talk about weeks later.
Whether it’s reaching the top of the Round Tower, solving clues with Milo and Rua, learning something surprising during a guided tour or simply spending quality time together, St Canice’s creates memories that last.
In an age of screens and busy schedules, families value experiences that encourage exploration, conversation and discovery. St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower offers all three.
Plan Your Family Visit This Summer
Visitors are always surprised at the number of activities available for children at St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower. Families can discover the treasure hunt together with Milo and Rua, older children can enjoy fascinating guided tours, and everyone will love the adventure of climbing to the top of the Round Tower for what many consider the best view in Kilkenny.
If you are looking for things to do in Kilkenny this summer with your family, St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower should be number one on your list.
Start planning your summer adventure and discover why so many families make St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower part of their Kilkenny holiday experience. Book your visit now!