Where to go in Ireland: Fabulous 11th c. ruins of Kells Priory, Co. Kilkenny

The 11^th century ruins of the Augustinian Kells Priory in Co Kilkenny are one of the largest sets of ruins in Ireland, but are not really well known—this can be a good thing, as it means you’ll likely miss being overrun by crowds & can wander about at a leisurely pace, soaking in the fabulous atmosphere. 

  Each time we’ve gone we’ve pretty much been on our own except for a dog walker or two. We brought some friends from Dublin and they were amazed. I really recommend it! It was a grey October day when I took these photos, but it only added to the charm.

 Here's a slideshow of some more photos taken on the day.

Located about 10 miles from Kilkenny City, Kells Priory is well worth an excursion! If you are interested in a very thorough history & information on what you are seeing when you are there, definitely click to this site: http://www.kells.frantzen.de/index.htm  After  our walk around, we had quite an appetite, so we headed a few miles down the road to Stoneyford, to the Knockdrinna artisan cafe & food shop for a bite to eat.

They were having a celebration day as they had just won the top award- Supreme Champion- in the British & Irish cheese awards for one of their own cheeses- the Kilree. They won several awards this year- Best Semi soft Cheese; Best Irish Cheese;  Gold medal for Kilree Goats Cheese;  Gold Medal for Knockdrinna Meadow Sheeps Cheese;  Silver medal for Lavistown Cow’s milk cheese. Knockdrinna really does make delicious cheeses- and you can buy online as well as at their shop & at farmer’s markets. A small farm located in the village of Stoneyford,  Knockdrinna makes their cheeses on site, and you can go around the farm & see some of the farm animals. Click here to find out more about Knockdrinna.

A great afternoon out for all the family! Have you been? Share your photos and thoughts with us!
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