Thomastown

Thomastown (Irish: Baile Mhic Andáin) is a 13th Century medieval walled town in County Kilkenny . It is on the bank of the river Nore and is famous for Jerpoint Abbey, Kilfane Glen gardens, and Mount Juliet Golf Course. Thomastown lies in a valley. If driving please note that the centre of Thomastown operates a one way system due to the narrow nature of the streets in its core. The town has grown substantially over the past decade due to its proxminity to Kilkenny and less expensive housing. The town has all the essential services required for tourists. In the last year a new Super Valu and Lidl supermarket opened on the road towards Gowran on the edge of town. The town's best aforementioned attractions lie a couple of kilometres outside the town all in different directions. Be sure to visit the watergarden in the town just off the main street.

See

• ⊙Jerpoint Abbey (2.5 km west of Thomastown (N9)), ☎ +353 56 7724623. 09:30-17:00 (17:30 Apr-Sept, 16:00 Nov, Dec-Mar by arrangement). Built in the 12th century. It is Ireland's finest Cistercian monastic ruin with a magnificently sculptured cloister arcade. Includes visitor and exhibition centre. €5 adult, €3 child. 
• Kilfane Glen and Waterfall, Kilfane (3.2km north of Thomastown on N9), ☎ +353 56 7747105. 11:00-18:00 Jul-Aug. The gardens of Kilfane House were built in the 1790s. They were restored in the 1970s. They are listed as an Irish Heritage garden. There are woodlands, walks and a waterfall over 15 acres. €6. 
• ⊙Grennan Castle. A 13th century, built by Thomas FitzAnthony, after who Thomastown is named. 
• ⊙Watergarden, Ladywell Street, ☎ +353 56 774690. Peaceful garden hidden in Thomastown with many interesting features – sparkling fountains, water wheel, waterfall, wonderful plants, coffee shop, craft shop and garden centre.