Thanks to the moderating effect of the Atlantic Gulf Stream, Ireland's climate is relatively mild for its latitude. More good news - the southeast, including County Kilkenny - is the driest region in the country, enjoying a more continental climate. But don't rely on it not raining - Irish weather generally works on the 'four seasons in one day' principle.
From June to August, days are reasonably warm, with average high temperatures 18-20°C, and - most importantly - very long. At the height of summer you won't need to turn on lights until after 22:00.
In winter, temperatures rarely venture below freezing and the average low temperature from December to March is 2°C. It's cold, grey and dark by 17:00, but there's always a pub to escape into when the rain starts sheeting down.
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Built in 1752, this is one of Ireland’s oldest walled estates. Now the original manor and converted stables have achieved their own sense of timelessness as a luxury boutique hotel.
Bus Éireann operates out of McDonagh bus station and provides regular services to and from Dublin (2hr). There are also regular buses to and from Cork city (3hr). Bus Éireann picks up and drops off passengers at the very central C@Fé Net on St Patrick's St.
Buggy's Coaches, based in Castlecomer, runs a service from Kilkenny to Foulksrath Castle (and the An Óige hostel), Ballyragget, Dunmore Cave and Castlecomer.
McDonagh train station is on Dublin Rd, northeast of the town center. Daily trains link Dublin (Heuston Stn) with Waterford via Kilkenny (2hr).
JJ Wall & Son rents out bikes and the circuit round Kells, Inistioge, Jerpoint Abbey and Kilfane makes a fine day's ride. You'll need to present photo identification.
For a cab, call Danny's Taxis.
Practical information to assist you before and during your trip.
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