Gowran, Kilkenny

Gowran, the seat of the kings of Ossory, is now a village with a fine racecourse - a natural transition, one might argue, given that horse racing is the ‘Sports of Kings’. As early as the 13th century the lands were acquired by the Anglo-Norman Theobald Fitzwalter, ancestor of the Butlers. Gowran Castle was besieged by Cromwellian forces in 1650. Following capitulation, the castle was burnt and its entire garrison, with the exception of one officer, shot. The old Gowran collegiate church dating from 1260 has been incorporated in the 19th century St Mary’s protestant Church which stands in the heart of the village.

What to see and do in Gowran

Gowran is an attractive village which has consistently achieved high marks in the Tidy Towns Competitions, which are organised yearly by the Department of the Environment & Local Government.

In the centre of the village is the richly ornamented St. Mary’s medieval Collegiate Church which features monuments of great beauty from the 14th to 17th centuries.

Teach Mhuire Enterprise Centre, opposite St. Mary’s Church, carries a range of crafts from the locality and surrounding areas as well as providing snacks, lunch and breakfast in the Café centre daily. If you are passing trough, why not stop for a cup of tea and home-made cakes.

Famed for its racecourse, Gowran Park has now developed and exciting 18-hole golf facilities on one of the finest parkland courses in the country. Combining a golf and racing package for a pleasant day out or two at Gowran Park Horse Racing & Golf Course is worth considering.

Amongst the many annual racing highlights at Gowran Park Racecourse, the Thyestes Chase in January, and the October racing festivals are a must for race-goers. Please check our racing Calendar of Events for details.

Gowran Map

<< Return to Kilkenny page