Graiguenamanagh: River Town, Crafts and History

Graiguenamanagh is a riverside town on the River Barrow, at the foot of Brandon Hill. The town’s attractions range from medieval heritage to textile crafts and activities on the water. Depending on your interests, you can make Duiske Abbey, Cushendale Woollen Mills or the various river-based activities the focus of your travel plans.

Duiske Abbey: Church and Monastic History

Duiske Abbey in Graiguenamanagh is designated a National Monument. It is an early Cistercian church dating from 1204 and is now a Catholic parish church. Visitors can also see the remains of the former 13th-century Cistercian monastery. At Duiske Abbey, visitors can also see finely crafted monuments, altars and medieval floor tiles. This means you can focus your visit on both the church’s use and the traces of the former monastery and its visible works of art.

Textile Crafts at Cushendale Woollen Mills

At Cushendale Woollen Mills, you can see how natural fibres are turned into finished textile products. Visitors can also learn about the craft techniques of spinning yarn and weaving. The history of Cushendale Woollen Mills goes back to a mill built by Cistercian monks in 1204. The Cushen family has woven there since 1778, continuing this craft tradition. Tours are available only by prior appointment and subject to the mill’s capacity. If you plan to take a tour, arrange an appointment in advance.

Walking Route and Boat Trips on the River Barrow

The Brandon Hill Loop starts in Graiguenamanagh at the Barrow Valley Activities Hub on the River Barrow. Before setting out on a walk, check the trail conditions and access. On the water, trips depart from Riverboat Adventures at Graiguenamanagh Quay. They travel to Upper Tinnahinch Lock and Ballykeenan Lock. The tours pass through wooded valleys and offer views of local wildlife as well as lock-keeper’s houses, where lock keepers once lived. This gives you a choice of different options: a walking route with a specified starting point and boat trips to named destinations. Routes and boat-trip operations may change; check the latest information before making plans.

More Activities on the Water

Go With The Flow is one of the providers of canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking in Graiguenamanagh. At Kilkenny Hydrobikes, visitors can try cycling on the water. The activities mentioned range from paddle sports to cycling on the water. Schedules and conditions for Go With The Flow’s activities depend on the operator; hydrobike availability is also subject to the operator. Check the latest information if you plan to take part in a particular activity.

Another kind of experience is The Hot Box Sauna, a Finnish sauna on the banks of the river in Graiguenamanagh. Operating conditions may change, so it is advisable to check the latest information before planning a visit.

Culinary Experiences

In Graiguenamanagh, The Devils Menu Boutique Cookery School offers a culinary experience with local ingredients and gourmet dishes, hosted by Chef John Whelan in his home. The Edward Hayden School of Cookery offers experiences there focused on learning culinary skills with Chef Edward Hayden. Their stated focus differs: The Devils Menu centres on local ingredients and gourmet dishes, while the Edward Hayden School focuses on learning culinary skills. Booking arrangements may change; course schedules at the Edward Hayden School may also change. Check the latest information from the relevant provider if you plan to book one of these experiences.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mooncoin, Bennettsbridge, Mullinvat, Slieveroe, Kilkenny, Freshford, Inistioge, Urlingford

For the broader travel overview: County Kilkenny.