Freshford

The river Nuenna runs through the village, which is an important tributary of the river Nore. The Slieveardagh Hills are to the southeast.
There was a monastery built here in the 7th century.

Freshford is 14km north of Kilkenny on the R693.

By Bus

Buses stop in front of the community Hall.

• To Kilkenny: 08:05 & 14:20, except Sundays. €3.50
• To Johnstown, Urlingford: These buses leave Kilkenny(Parade) at 12:00 & 17:30. They drive to Freshford, then Johnstown and Urlingford.

You are advised to ask the driver if the bus is going to Freshford as the buses don't have destinations marked on them.
Two bus companies offer these services:

• JJ Kavanagh

  phone: +353 56 883-1106

• Bernard Kavanagh bus company

  phone: +353 56 883-1189

Freshford is very small and easy to walk around.

• St. Lachtain's Churchn the centre of Freshford sits St. Lachtain's Church. The present church dates from 1731, but there are remains of older churches incorporated in it. The first church on this site was built after 622AD, the year St. Lachtain dies. It was burnt by the Vikings in the 9th century after they robbed it. It was rebuilt in the 1100's. The sandstone Romanesque portal, at the main entrances, dates from this time. It is a national monument, and one of only two in Ireland.

• Uppercourt ManorIn 1225, a bishop's palace was built on the site of Uppercourt Manor. But in 1553, the bishop fled after five of his servants were murdered. The present building dates from 1790.

• Freshford CrossThe remains of a cross stands in the village green. It was made of sandstone and has been worn away by the weather. It was originally erected behind Uppercourt Manor in 1622, in memory of Lucas Shee. In 1790, it was moved to its present location.

• Ballylarkin AbbeyBuilt in 1350. The abbey is small in size but contains a wealth of splendid Gothic carvings and architectural features. There is also a perfect sedilia.

• Millennium ParkA news park in Freshford.

• The Irish Conker Championships

  phone: +353 56 883-2507
  address: The Village Green
  Every year, the Irish Conker Championships take place in Freshford. The next computation will be held on the 24th Oct 2010. Fresh conkers are provided. There is also fresh food, crafts, art and events to keep the kids busy.

• Nuenna Farm Equestrian Centre

  phone: +353 56 883-2614
  address: Kilkenny Rd
  Family run equestrian centre.

• Brown's Wood

  address: Tullaroan Rd
  A 2 km walk through a woodland.

• Moate Farm B&B

  phone: +353 56 883-2283
  address: Moate
  Moate Farm offers all guests a special Irish farm experience where home baking, a friendly, farm family atmosphere and peaceful stay are guaranteed. Open: 1 Mar-30 Oct.

• Pomadora House

  phone: +353 56 883-2256
  address: Clinstown Rd
  A B&B on a small stud.

• Cradóg Bed & Breakfast

  phone: +353 56 883-5224
  A B&B on a beef farm.

• Freshford Garda Station

  phone: +353 56 883-2122

• Post Office

  phone: +353 56 883-2231
  address: Kilkenny St.

• Health Centre

  phone: +353 56 883-2261

• Kilkenny - The capital of County Kilkenny is only 14km away. It's famous for it medieval history.
• Urlingford, Johnstown and Thurles in the north west of the County.
• Ballyragget - a small town near Freshford, really off the tourist trail.
• Castlecomer - The main town in north Kilkenny. Coal was mined here for over 300 years. Visit Castlecomer Discover Park and Footprints in Coal Experience to learn more.