Published on Apr, 2025
Hidden away down St Mary’s Lane off Kilkenny’s High Street the Medieval Mile Museum is a treasure trove of early and medieval maps, artefacts and stone masonry that speaks to the historical importance of the city - within Ireland but also Europe. We would count among its major treasures John Halpin, tour guide extraordinaire. After many years in the US he returned to his roots and has made a second career of introducing visitors to his home town’s extraordinary past. Starting off in the museum, we then worked our way along the Medieval Mile, with John regaling us with stories of witches, wars, merchants, disgruntled bishops and famous as well as infamous sons and daughters of this incredibly charming and atmospheric small city. We felt transported back in time and would do it again to hear John’s stories all over again.