A truly spectacular group of 12th and 13th century buildings set atop the limestone mound, the Rock of Cashel is unique. With its round tower, Romanesque chapel and 13th century Cathedral, it is a fascinating look at the middle ages and is one of Ireland's top attractions. It was the seat of the Kings of Munster and of the the first High King of Ireland, Brian Boru in 990. St. Patrick is said to have baptised King Aenghus here in the 5th century. Guided tours are available and the views are truly spectacular. Visited by the HRH Queen Elizabeth 11 in 2011.
Hore Abbey sits in the shadow of the Rock of Cashel, in what is now open grazing land, which is accessible to the public. The Abbey dates from the 13th century when the former Benedictine Abbey at Hore was given to the Cistercians by Archbishop David MacCearbhaill (in 1270), who later entered the monastery. He endowed the Abbey generously with land, mills and other benefices previously belonging to the town.
The Cistercians kept the Abbey until the 15th century when it was handed to John Butler, 9th Earl of Ormonde upon the dissolution of the monasteries.
Cashel is a very pretty heritage town with an abundance of local shops and places to visit. An old walled town, some of the walls are still visible hundreds of years later.
The Heritage Centre have the Charters of Cashel, King Charles II & James II 1687 on permanent display.
The Brú Ború Cultural centre have highly rated shows of traditional music, song and dance beginning in mid June until August five nights a week.
The Cashel Folk Village has an impressive display of original artefacts from 1916 Easter Rising/ Irish War of Independence.
Take a stroll around town and enjoy our local, independent shops.
Some of the world’s most famous racehorses and most experienced trainers and jockeys are based close to Cashel. Ballydoyle Stables are out the road at Rosegreen. This was founded by Vincent O Brien, and now run by Mr. Aiden O Brien. It is a sister thoroughbred facility to world famous Coolmore Stud in nearby Fethard owned by Mr. John Magnier. Legendary horses such as Saddlers Wells, Rock of Gibraltar, Giant’s Causeway & Galileo have run in these parts. Keep an eye out as you drive past the fields surrounding us, the young foal you see may be a future legend.
Angling - The river Suir is easily accessible and abundant with salmon & trout. Angling licence's can be purchased locally. Subject to his availability we can put you in contact with a guide/ghilly to enhance your chances.
Athassel Abbey is located near Golden, just 4 miles outside the town. It is the largest medieval priory in Ireland and is on the World Heritage List.
Folklore – One of Ireland’s most famous legends involves the Devil’s Bit, a mountain top feature close by. Legend has it the devil took a bite out of the mountain - leaving and bite shaped hole in the mountaintop - and then broke his tooth, which he spat out and it landed and formed the Rock of Cashel.
Guided Walking Tours - We can arrange a private guided tour of this ancient town and The Rock with a local historian. He charges €20 per hour and is highly recommended. Entry to the Rock is included.
Golf – There are many good grassland courses nearby at Dundrum, Cahir, Tipperary or Thurles.
Greyhound Racing – Racing takes place regularly at Thurles and Clonmel greyhound tracks.
Holy Cross – a fully working Abbey dating from 1169 and resting place of one of the pieces of the original cross, this beatuiful abbey still has regular mass's and is popular for weddings. A destination spot in its own right.
Tipperary food Producers - the Golden Vale is long associated as a leading fertile base for Artisan food producers. Meat, cheese and beverages including Cashel Blue Cheese, Crozier Blue cheese, White Gypsy Ale, James Whelan Butchers and Crossogue Preserves among others.
Walking and hiking - Follow in the footsteps of Fionn Mac Cumhaill and hike to the top of Slievnamon for fabulous views across Tipperary or for an easier climb, the famous Devil’s Bit, which has a strong connection with Cashel in folklore. There are beautiful walks in nearby Dundrum Woods or gentle hiking in Aherlow along the Bianconi old coach road.