Shenanigans Walks – Guided Walking Tour in Kilkenny

Kilkenny’s Shenanigans Walks offers an engaging guided walking tour that combines history, storytelling, and a touch of magic. Priced at $32.44 per person, this 1 hour 30 minutes tour departs from The Parade and is perfect for those eager to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks at a relaxed pace. With small groups capped at 15, the experience promises a personal touch, making it easy to get close to the sights while enjoying lively tales from a knowledgeable local guide.

This tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5-star rating based on over 413 reviews. It’s a walk that appeals to a wide audience, from families to history buffs, thanks to its blend of fun stories, historical insights, and some light-hearted magic tricks. The tour is available in both morning and afternoon slots, making it flexible for different schedules. Travelers tend to book about 38 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

While the tour offers many highlights, it’s important to note that a reasonable level of fitness is needed to walk comfortably for about 90 minutes, and the tour involves exploring narrow, cobbled streets. Still, the engaging storytelling and rich visual cues make this experience a lively and memorable way to discover Kilkenny.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-loved: Priced at $32.44 with a 5-star rating from hundreds of reviews.
• Duration and groups: Lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, with small groups capped at 15 for a more intimate experience.
• Start point and route: Begins at The Parade and ends at Kyteler’s Inn, covering main landmarks on foot.
• Guide’s storytelling style: Nevin combines history, humor, and magic tricks, making the tour both educational and entertaining.
• Highlights include: Kilkenny Castle, Tholsel, Rothe House, medieval markets, and stories about witches, monks, and city protectors.
• Booking tips: Most travelers book about 38 days in advance, and the tour can be tailored for shorter visits if needed.

Kilkenny’s Historic Landmarks from the Start at The Parade

The tour begins at The Parade, a central spot in Kilkenny, from where small groups set out on a walk through the city’s winding, cobbled streets. This starting point makes it easy to access with nearby public transportation, and the walk is designed to keep you close to Kilkenny Castle and the medieval core. The approximate 90-minute journey covers many of the city’s key sights, all featured within a single tour.

Participants can expect to see Kilkenny Castle, a significant site that ties into many stories about the city’s past. The guide offers insights into the castle’s history and its inhabitants, making it a key highlight early in the tour. The narrow streets make for an up-close experience, allowing visitors to appreciate Kilkenny’s medieval architecture and charming alleyways.

Exploring Kilkenny’s Landmark and Hidden Treasures

As the group strolls through medieval markets and city gates, they are introduced to stories about witches, monks, and protectors of the city. The tour highlights the medieval tombs and the city’s historic gates, each with tales of their origins and the people who once guarded or used these locations.

Among the stops is Rothe House, which adds a touch of elegance to the walk and sparks stories about Kilkenny’s merchant history. The Medieval Alms House enlivens tales of health and mystic powers, blending local legends with historical facts. The guide’s storytelling style makes these stops lively and engaging, especially with anecdotes about Kilkenny’s famous witch, which adds a fun, theatrical element to the stroll.

The Storytelling Magic of Nevin

Nevin, the guide, is celebrated for his entertaining storytelling that mixes humor, history, and magic tricks. His ability to remember everyone’s names and engage all ages is frequently praised. The magic tricks, including illusions and props, keep children and adults alike captivated, making the tour a lively experience.

Reviews emphasize Nevin’s fast-paced delivery and enthusiastic approach. His stories about Kilkenny’s witches, medieval life, and city protectors are delivered with warmth and wit, creating a memorable narrative that feels personal and genuine. The tour’s pace and style are perfectly suited to keep everyone engaged, regardless of age.

Unique Stops and Stories about Kilkenny’s Past

Highlights include stories about Kilkenny’s medieval tombs and the city’s gates, which once served as vital defenses. The guide shares tales about the protectors of the gates and the turns of phrase that still influence Irish speech today. The stops are designed to be both visually interesting and historically informative, with a focus on storytelling rather than lengthy explanations.

The tour includes a humorous segment where a member of the group is “tested” as a witch, adding a playful element to the historical storytelling. This lighthearted moment embodies the tour’s blend of education, entertainment, and local legend.

The Final Stop at Kyteler’s Inn and Local Recommendations

The walking tour concludes at Kyteler’s Inn on St Kieran’s Street, a central and historic pub. The ending point offers an opportunity for visitors to enjoy Kilkenny’s vibrant pub scene, often with personalized recommendations from Nevin for food, drinks, or other local attractions. The tour’s exit location makes it easy to continue exploring or to relax after a lively walk.

Practical Details and Accessibility

This guided tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking. It’s accessible to those with service animals, and most travelers can participate, provided they can walk for 90 minutes to 2 hours at an easy pace. The small group size ensures attentive guiding and a more personalized experience, with maximum 15 participants.

The tour is flexible enough to accommodate shorter visits through an abridged version if needed, and the early booking window (around 38 days in advance) speaks to its popularity. It’s a great way to get a solid overview of Kilkenny’s most significant landmarks without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Kilkenny

What makes Shenanigans Walks truly special is the combination of history, humor, and magic, delivered by a local guide with deep knowledge and a lively personality. The stories about witches, medieval markets, and city protectors make the city’s past come alive in a fun and memorable way.

The small-group format enhances interaction and allows visitors to ask questions freely. Most reviews highlight Nevin’s storytelling talent and entertaining tricks, which set this tour apart from more conventional sightseeing options. The cost-effective price point combined with rich storytelling makes it a top choice for those seeking an authentic Kilkenny experience.

Final Thoughts on Shenanigans Walks in Kilkenny

This guided walking tour offers a lively, engaging introduction to Kilkenny’s key sites and stories. It’s perfect for visitors who want to explore on foot, enjoy local legends, and learn about Kilkenny’s medieval past in a relaxed, personal setting. The $32.44 fee provides excellent value given the entertaining storytelling and comprehensive coverage.

While the tour involves walking on cobbled streets and narrow alleys, the pace remains accessible for most. It is particularly well-suited for families, history enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a good story mixed with a bit of Irish humor and magic. With consistent praise from hundreds of satisfied guests, Shenanigans Walks stands as a lively, trustworthy way to explore Kilkenny’s vibrant streets and fascinating past.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Shenanigans Walks tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, covering Kilkenny’s main landmarks on foot.

What is the starting point for the tour?
It begins at The Parade in Kilkenny, a central location easily accessible via public transportation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is well-attended by families and is engaging for all ages, thanks to the lively storytelling and magic tricks.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 15 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with plenty of interaction.

What landmarks are included in the tour?
Stops include Kilkenny Castle, Tholsel, Rothe House, medieval markets, and stories about local legends and city protectors.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be able to walk 90 minutes to 2 hours on cobbled streets at an easy pace.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour stand out?
The storytelling style of Nevin, combined with magic tricks, historic landmarks, and a small-group setting, offers a memorable way to experience Kilkenny.