Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny is a place to chill out, with or without the kids

Despite growing up in the neighbouring county of Waterford, my trips to Kilkenny have been fairly infrequent, basically comprising a school tour and a hen weekend.

There’s been a lot of water under the bridge since both of those visits, and having heard many favourable reports of the great buzz and numerous attractions in the city, I was looking forward to reacquainting myself with all it had to offer on a more leisurely footing.

Lyrath Estate is 2km outside the town and the ideal base to explore the sights of medieval Kilkenny, while offering plenty to occupy the visitor who wants to stay put and make the most of the extensive facilities.