Discover medieval history, traditional crafts, expert talks and family adventures during Heritage Week in Kilkenny.
This year’s Heritage Week theme, Heritage at Risk, highlights the importance of protecting our historic buildings, traditional crafts and cultural knowledge so they can be enjoyed by future generations. From 15 to 23 August 2026, the Medieval Mile Museum will host a week-long programme of events celebrating the stories, skills and traditions that have shaped Ireland for centuries.
Throughout the week, visitors can experience inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, exhibitions and family activities that showcase Kilkenny’s rich medieval heritage in engaging and meaningful ways.
Whether you’re passionate about history, fascinated by archaeology, interested in traditional crafts or simply looking for something different to do in Kilkenny this summer, there’s something for everyone.
Explore Kilkenny’s Medieval Heritage in its European Context
Begin Heritage Week with an unforgettable day alongside one of Ireland’s leading medieval historians.
Professor Tadhg O’Keeffe, Professor of Medieval Archaeology and Architectural History at UCD, will lead two unique events exploring Kilkenny’s Medieval Heritage in its European Context.
Start the day with a guided walking tour through Kilkenny’s medieval streets, including visits to St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower, before returning to the Medieval Mile Museum that evening for an illustrated lecture exploring how Kilkenny’s remarkable buildings and archaeology fit into the wider story of medieval Europe.
Attend both events for the complete experience, or enjoy either one independently.
Kilkenny’s Medieval Heritage in its European Context
- Date: Saturday, 15 August
- 11:30 am – Guided Walking Tour with Professor Tadhg O’Keeffe, including St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower. (Only 20 places available) SOLD OUT
- 6 pm – Illustrated Lecture: Medieval Kilkenny and its Relationship with Europe.
- Price: Free (advance booking required)
Funded as part of the Culture Programme for Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union 2026.
Heritage Scavenger Hunt
Looking for something the whole family can enjoy? Sir Richard, the museum’s mischievous cat, has hidden the museum’s special LEGO display pieces, and he needs your help to find them.
As you solve clues throughout the museum, you’ll also discover fascinating stories about heritage crafts and traditions that are at risk of disappearing. It’s a fun way for children and adults alike to explore the museum while learning something new along the way.
- Search for Sir Richard’s missing LEGO pieces.
- Discover heritage crafts and traditions at risk.
- Available throughout museum opening hours.
- Included with normal museum admission.
Heritage Scavenger Hunt
Date: 15th – 23 August
Time: Throughout museum opening hours
Price: Included with normal museum admission
Discover the Beauty of Mountmellick Lace
One of Ireland’s most distinctive embroidery traditions comes to the Medieval Mile Museum during Heritage Week.
This special exhibition showcases beautiful examples of Mountmellick Lace, alongside contemporary recreations produced by the Kilkenny Mountmellick Embroidery Group dedicated to preserving this uniquely Irish craft.
Throughout the week, visitors can watch live demonstrations, meet skilled makers and learn about the techniques that continue to keep this heritage alive.
Mountmellick Lace Exhibition
- Original Mountmellick Lace on display.
- Contemporary recreations by a local community group.
- Live demonstrations on 20th August from 11am to 1pm.
Included with museum admission.
What Did People Really Wear in Tudor Ireland?
Clothing tells remarkable stories about identity, status and everyday life.
Join dress historian Dr Melissa Shiels for an engaging evening exploring the fashions of sixteenth-century Ireland. Through beautifully recreated garments, discover the striking differences between English and Gaelic dress, while learning how clothing reflected wealth, politics and changing society.
“Clean English Appareill” – English and Gaelic Clothing in 16th-Century Ireland
Date: Thursday 20 August
Time: 6 pm
Price: €5 per person | Children under 12 go free.
Funded as part of the After Hours at the Museum Scheme by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.
Learn the Ancient Art of Tablet Weaving
Heritage isn’t only about preserving the past. It’s also about keeping traditional skills alive.
As part of the museum’s popular Six After 6 Summer Cultural Series, visitors can learn the ancient craft of tablet weaving, one of Europe’s oldest textile techniques.
During this hands-on workshop, you’ll discover how beautifully patterned bands were created centuries ago while making your own woven piece to take home.
Date: Friday 21 August
Time: 6 pm
SOLD OUT
Experience Heritage Week in Kilkenny
From fascinating walking tours and expert talks to family adventures, traditional crafts and hands-on workshops, the Medieval Mile Museum offers one of the most varied Heritage Week programmes in Ireland.
Celebrate Heritage Week 2026 by discovering the people, places and traditions that have shaped Kilkenny for centuries, while helping to shine a light on the heritage that deserves to be protected for generations to come.
View the full programme and book your place on the Medieval Mile Museum website.
Discover more about Medieval Kilkenny through our
guided tours, immersive exhibits, and special events.
Click here to book your visit today.
For more info
Visit: www.medievalmilemuseum.ie
Call: 056 781 7022 | Email: info@medievalmilemuseum.ie
Inspired by the upcoming Year of the Norman 2027 and the 1000th anniversary of William the Conqueror’s birth, this workshop explores the famous Bayeux Tapestry and the stories stitched into its remarkable scenes. Grace Rinehart Macrae and Lyn Keane will guide participants through the techniques and storytelling traditions behind the tapestry as they begin creating their own tapestry-inspired scene.
