GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GARDENS

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Graiguenamanagh, often called "Graig" by locals, is a beautifully preserved market town nestled in the steep, wooded valley of the River Barrow. Its name, meaning "Village of the Monks," hints at its ancient origins, but today it feels like a vibrant secret shared between County Kilkenny and County Carlow.

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Duiske Abbey

At the heart of the town stands Duiske Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian monastery that remains one of the finest medieval buildings in Ireland. Its sheer scale is awe-inspiring, with a simple, imposing exterior that belies the intricate history within.

Original Floor Tiles
A glass section in the floor reveals the original 13th-century tiling, allowing you to literally walk over history.

The "Knight of Duiske"
Look for the detailed effigy of a 13th-century knight at the entrance, depicting a Norman warrior reaching for his sword.

High Clerestory Windows
The restored nave features soaring windows that flood the stone interior with a distinct, serene light.

Cushendale Woollen Mills

Just a short walk from the abbey, the town's industrial heritage is alive at Cushendale Woollen Mills. This is one of the few surviving family-operated woollen mills in Ireland, where the rhythmic clack of looms has been heard for generations.

Traditional Weaving
The mill uses water from the Duiske River to power processes that create vibrant, high-quality Irish yarn and blankets.

Historic Architecture
The mill building itself is a piece of living history, seamlessly integrated into the town's streetscape.

Graig Garden

When I was passing through last summer, I was wowed by the exterior of this place as I drove along the main street and just had to stop. It’s a takeaway restaurant inside, but outside (in summer) it is an astounding wall of colourful blooms.

Silaire Wood

Just south of Graiguenamanagh, Silaire Wood offers a serene counterpoint to the town's stone quays. It is a lush, deciduous woodland that clings to the steep banks of the River Barrow, creating a green tunnel where the dappled light plays on the water. The wood feels intimate and enclosed, a place where the noise of the outside world is dampened by a canopy of native oak, ash, and beech.

Brandon Hill

For the best panoramic views, take the hike up Brandon Hill. It is the highest peak in County Kilkenny and offers sweeping vistas over the Barrow Valley.

Town of Books

If you visit during the annual "Town of Books" festival (August), you will find the town transformed, with every available space - from empty storefronts to cafes - turned into a pop-up bookstore as well as amateur artists with their easels sat out everywhere around the town painting delightful scenes.