Overview
Graignamanagh (Greg-na-mana) is a sleepy village of 1500 residents on the River Barrow in County Kilkenny. The name means 'village of the monks' after Duiske Abbey, founded in 1204.
Architecture · Day Trips · Festivals · History · Nature
Before you go
Accommodation
Options are limited to a handful of guesthouses and self-catering cottages, all closed out of season. Book ahead for summer weekends and the August book festival.
Activities
Hiking Brandon Hill, kayaking on the Barrow, fishing, and walking the Barrow Way are the main outdoor activities. The August Town of Books Festival is unique to this village.
Connectivity
4G from Vodafone and 5G from Eir and Three cover the village and approach roads, making this one of the better-connected rural Irish villages.
Food
Restaurants are few; the Waterside Restaurant has excellent reviews but limited hours. Pub food is available at Duiske Inn. The nearest major shops are the Aldi north on Upper Main St.
Transport
BK Bus 881 runs twice daily Monday-Saturday from Kilkenny, taking about an hour. You'll need a car to explore the surrounding countryside and reach attractions like Brandon Hill.