Family
Family Visits to St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower
Discover History Through Adventure, Creativity & Climbing
Looking for a family day out in Kilkenny that combines adventure, creativity, and real medieval history?
At St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower, families don’t just walk through history - they explore it, climb it, build it, and create it.
From climbing one of Ireland’s only accessible medieval Round Towers to hands-on creative stations inside the Cathedral, your visit is designed to engage curious minds of all ages.
Perfect for families with children
Ideal visit length: 60–90 minutes
Climb the Iconic Round Tower
One of the highlights of any family visit is climbing our 9th-century Round Tower; one of only a few in Ireland that visitors can still climb.
- 30 metres high
- 121 internal steps
- Panoramic views over Kilkenny
Reaching the top is an achievement children love, and the views across the city make it well worth the climb.
Our team provides clear safety guidance before entry. Children must be supervised at all times, and we’ll advise on suitability for younger visitors on arrival. (Height limits are in place for safety regulations)
A cathedral Full of Discovery
Inside the Cathedral, history becomes interactive.
Rather than simply viewing historic spaces, families are encouraged to explore, observe and engage with our interpretation throughout the building. From medieval architecture and knightly memorials to stained glass and ancient stone carvings, every corner tells a story.
We provide accessible interpretation panels, child-friendly explanations, and interactive elements that bring 800 years of history to life.
We offer dedicated creative and discovery stations in the Cathedral to ensure younger visitors are actively involved in the experience.
Treasure Hunt
Inside the Cathedral, history becomes interactive.
Rather than simply viewing historic spaces, families are encouraged to explore, observe and engage with our interpretation throughout the building. From medieval architecture and knightly memorials to stained glass and ancient stone carvings, every corner tells a story.
We provide accessible interpretation panels, child-friendly explanations, and interactive elements that bring 800 years of history to life.
We offer dedicated creative and discovery stations in the Cathedral to ensure younger visitors are actively involved in the experience.
Build Your Own Cathedral
At our interactive station, children can construct their own cathedral structure. This hands-on activity introduces architectural concepts in a simple, creative way while encouraging imagination and problem-solving.
Design your own stained glass window
Inspired by the Cathedral’s beautiful stained glass, children can design their own window patterns and take inspiration from the colours and stories they see around them.
This creative activity encourages observation and artistic expression while connecting directly to the historic surroundings.
Metal Rubbings Station
Our metal rubbings station allows children to explore historic textures and designs up close. By creating their own rubbings, they gain a tactile understanding of historic craftsmanship and memorial details.
This is always a favourite with younger (and older) visitors (alike)!
Memorial of the Month
Each month we highlight a Memorial of the Month, focusing on a person of historical significance connected to the Cathedral.
Through specially designed information boards, families can discover the stories of fascinating individuals from Kilkenny’s past; from notable local figures, to people connected with national and international history.
Why Families Love Visiting
✔ Climb a real medieval Round Tower
✔ Hands-on creative stations included in your visit
✔ Engaging treasure hunt experience
✔ Educational and curriculum-relevant learning
✔ Manageable visit length
✔ Central Kilkenny location
Many families combine their visit with nearby attractions such as Kilkenny Castle and Rothe House & Gardens; making it part of a full day exploring Kilkenny’s rich medieval heritage.
Practical Information for Parents
✔The Round Tower climb requires a reasonable level of mobility.
✔ Children must be supervised at all times.
✔Allow 60–90 minutes for a relaxed family visit.
✔Photography is welcome.
✔Family ticket options are available.
For specific questions about age suitability or accessibility, please contact our team in advance, we are happy to advise.
Make It a Family Day to Remember
Whether your child loves climbing, building, drawing, discovering hidden clues, or hearing stories from the past, St Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower offers a memorable and meaningful family experience.
Step into 800 years of history and experience it together.
