The Final Draft > Ghost County: Kilkenny’s Haunted Places and Pubs
Ghost County: Kilkenny’s Haunted Places and Pubs
With a rich blend of folklore, history, and intrigue, Kilkenny is awash with tales of reported hauntings. Venture into the local pubs of Kilkenny to uncover the eerie stories behind the sightings and legends that have captivated both locals and visitors alike. Step inside these sites and establishments to explore Kilkenny’s storied past, where every pint may come with a side of ghostly history and spectral encounters.
One of the best places to immerse yourself in Kilkenny’s haunted history is Kyteler’s Inn. Popular with both locals and visitors, this establishment attracts the paranormally minded with its dark and intriguing past. Established in 1324 by Dame Alice Kyteler, Kyteler’s Inn is the oldest inn in the county and a permanent fixture of Kilkenny city. Alice, once a well-known and powerful woman in 14th-century Ireland, is now notorious for being at the center of Ireland’s first witch trial. A mere whisper of witchcraft ignited a firestorm that led to accusations of murder and sorcery against her. While Alice managed to escape her captors and vanish into the pages of history, her maid, Patronella, was not so lucky. Subjected to public torture and a confession made under duress, Patronella was tragically burned at the stake. Though the inn has changed hands multiple times over the centuries, Kyteler’s Inn remains a place where visitors can discover its storied history, and the presence of its founder can still be keenly felt.
Unsurprisingly, Kilkenny Castle is another top contender for the title of the most haunted place in Kilkenny. Built in 1195, this fortress has a dark history. Many visitors report seeing ghostly apparitions in its grand rooms, foremost among them being the 'White Lady,' believed to be Lady Margaret Butler, the grandmother of Anne Boleyn. After her death abroad, it’s thought her spirit returned to the castle to roam its halls. Additionally, figures wandering through the castle long after closing time have been spotted, especially in a room above the dungeon where many souls perished alone in the darkness. Another site where visitors to this haunted county can experience some otherworldly charm is St. John’s Bridge, where an aura of tragedy lingers. In the 18th century, a flood hit Kilkenny, prompting locals to gather on St. John’s Bridge to witness the collapse of Green’s Bridge. Tragically, St. John’s Bridge began to crumble as well, plunging sixteen people to their deaths in the river below. It is said that their spirits can still be seen along the reconstructed bridge, often appearing in the early morning mist—some attempting to swim to safety or gazing wistfully into the water from above.
For those brave enough to venture further afield, Dunmore Cave is worth a visit. Tales tell of a Viking massacre that took place within the depths of the cave, leaving nothing but rumors of hauntings in its wake…
While it may not be haunted, a visit to Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is another worthy addition to your itinerary this autumn and winter. Delve into the tale of the Smithwick’s family and their lasting impact on Irish ales, discovering how the daring founder skirted the harsh laws of the day to brew a locally renowned ale. Whether you opt for the standard experience or the premium Masters of Ale tour, you’re guaranteed a frightfully good time.