I had always dreamed of traveling across Ireland by train, so when the opportunity to journey from Kilkenny to Limerick arose, I couldn’t resist. The plan was simple – hop on a train, relax, and enjoy the views. What followed, however, was an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking landscapes, charming towns, and a few surprises along the way. If you’re planning a similar trip, here’s a detailed guide to everything you need to know about this scenic train ride.
1. Booking Train Tickets: Where and How?
The first step in any train journey is booking your ticket. There are a few different platforms that I use, but I found Irish Rail to be the most reliable for this particular route. Irish Rail is the national train service, and their website offers a user-friendly interface to book tickets, check schedules, and even view discounts.
For international travelers, it’s also possible to use Trainline or Omio , both of which offer access to Irish Rail trains and provide English language support, easy payment options, and mobile tickets that can be scanned directly from your phone. The prices vary based on the time of booking and seat availability, but it’s always a good idea to book in advance to secure the best prices.
On the day of travel, I picked up my ticket from a self-service kiosk at Kilkenny station. The convenience of not needing to queue made the process seamless, and I was soon ready for my adventure.
2. Getting to Kilkenny Train Station
Kilkenny is a charming town located in the heart of Ireland, famous for its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. I arrived at the Kilkenny train station with plenty of time to spare, excited about the journey ahead. The station is compact and easy to navigate, with clear signs in both English and Irish, so you won’t have trouble finding your way around.
There are a few amenities here, including a small café where you can grab a coffee or snack before boarding your train. The station also offers a waiting area with comfortable seating, which makes it a great place to relax before your trip.
3. Boarding the Train: The Experience
The moment the train pulled into the station, I was struck by its modern yet classic appearance. Trains in Ireland, particularly on this route, tend to be spacious and clean, with large windows offering panoramic views of the countryside. The train to Limerick, as I had booked, was a comfortable intercity service. I had chosen a window seat to ensure I could enjoy the stunning landscapes, and I wasn’t disappointed.
As soon as we left Kilkenny behind, the views started to unfold. The landscape was typical of rural Ireland – rolling green hills, lush fields dotted with sheep, and occasional stone cottages with smoke rising from chimneys. The countryside in Ireland is often described as idyllic, and it certainly lived up to the description during this journey.
4. The Route: From Kilkenny to Limerick
The train route from Kilkenny to Limerick spans about 135 kilometers, and it takes roughly two hours to complete the trip. This stretch of the journey is filled with picturesque sights, as the train travels through quaint villages and lush farmlands, passing over rivers and through woodlands. The rhythm of the train’s wheels on the track was soothing, making it easy to relax and enjoy the journey.
Along the way, the train stopped at several smaller stations, including Portlaoise, where passengers could change trains for other parts of Ireland. I noticed a few locals boarding and disembarking at these stops, and it was interesting to see how the train service connected smaller towns to major cities.
During the ride, I spent some time reading and gazing out the window. The train’s interior was quiet, with a few murmurs from fellow passengers and the occasional announcement over the PA system, letting us know about upcoming stops. I had packed a light lunch, which I enjoyed while taking in the landscape.
5. The Landscape: A Green World Unfolds
What truly struck me was the beauty of Ireland’s natural surroundings. As the train made its way west, the terrain changed gradually, becoming more rugged and hilly. I could see why this country is called the Emerald Isle. From the rolling hills of County Kilkenny to the more dramatic landscapes of County Limerick, every turn of the track offered something new.
One of the highlights of the journey was the stretch between the towns of Portlaoise and Nenagh. This area is particularly scenic, with the Slieve Bloom mountains in the distance. It was a peaceful part of the journey, with not much else but the land stretching out before me.
6. Arrival in Limerick: A Welcoming City
After two hours of comfortable travel, the train finally pulled into Limerick Colbert Station. Located in the heart of the city, the station is easy to navigate, and from there, it’s just a short walk to many of Limerick’s key attractions, including the King John’s Castle, the Treaty Stone, and the Milk Market.
Limerick has a rich history, and stepping off the train, I could already feel the city’s charm. I decided to take a leisurely stroll from the station to the city center, and along the way, I passed by several beautiful Georgian buildings and small pubs where locals were enjoying a pint.
7. Exploring Limerick: What to Do After Your Train Ride
Limerick is a city full of character and offers a mix of historical sites, modern attractions, and vibrant culture. I spent my first afternoon exploring the King John’s Castle, which offers a fascinating look at medieval life in Ireland. The castle is well-preserved, and the views from its towers are stunning. From here, you can see the River Shannon and the rolling countryside beyond the city.
Afterward, I made my way to the Milk Market, a lively spot filled with food stalls, local crafts, and a wonderful atmosphere. It was the perfect place to sample some local produce, from artisan cheeses to fresh baked goods.
Limerick is also known for its strong literary tradition. If you’re a fan of literature, be sure to check out the Limerick Writers’ Centre, where you can learn about the city’s literary history and even attend a poetry reading or writer’s workshop.
8. Final Thoughts on the Journey
The train ride from Kilkenny to Limerick was more than just a mode of transport; it was an experience in itself. From the ease of booking the ticket to the relaxing atmosphere on the train, every part of the journey was enjoyable. Ireland’s train network, though not the fastest in Europe, provides a charming and scenic way to travel. And for me, this journey was the perfect introduction to the landscapes, people, and history of the country.
