Adventure Collective
Hurling Experience at Kavanaghs Bar in Freshford - Kilkenny

Hurling Experience at Kavanaghs Bar in Freshford

Freshfordmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic mobility and be comfortable standing for some time.

Overview

Step into Ireland’s vibrant sporting culture with a hands-on hurling session at Kavanaghs Bar. Learn, practice, and then unwind with local music and food—an all-around Irish adventure awaits.

Food Tour
History Tour
Sports
Freshford, County Kilkenny

Hurling Experience at Kavanaghs Bar, Freshford

For all ages! • 1.5 Hours • Learn about and play the ancient sport of Hurling

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Experience the thrill of Hurling in a captivating 1.5-hour tour in rural Kilkenny. Learn the sport's rich history, practice essential skills on the pitch, and enjoy traditional Irish culture at Kavanagh's Pub. Conclude with delicious finger food and live music, immersing yourself in an unforgettable Irish experience.

Duration: 1.5 Hours

This 1 and a half hour Hurling Tour involves giving guests a presentation informing them about the sport. We delve into the history of Hurling and how it has evolved into the fastest field game in the world, that we see today. The Hurling presentation is held in a traditional Irish pub in the heart of rural Kilkenny.

Once visitors are up-to-date on the basics of Hurling, we bring them out onto the pitch to try the sport for themselves. Our coaches teach visitors the ground-stroke, hand-pass, solo-run and hand strike. This is the part that has proved most popular, with guests eager to get immersed in the Irish culture.

A fun, educational experience is guaranteed.

Location: Freshford is a beautiful village located in North Kilkenny, 10 minutes outside Kilkenny City, or 30 minutes from the Rock of Cashel, making it an ideal location to visit before heading into Kilkenny.

In Freshford, We offer guests the chance to partake in the ultimate traditional Irish experience at Kavanagh's Pub, a traditional Irish-style bar in the heart of the community that is brimming with Irish tradition and culture.

An optional extra for groups of 30+ includes a hurley making presentation from a professional hurley maker. Visitors get a unique look at how the famous ash stick is crafted. Visitors will gain an insight into what makes a hurley special to players and the different preferences by players. We end the tour with finger food and a traditional Irish musician keeping a positive upbeat note that only the Irish can manage. Nothing says 'Ireland' like a visit to a small country pub listening to some traditional Irish 'ceol', in a truely Irish cultural experience. This is available at an extra cost.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable clothing and grip gloves

These will help you handle the hurley and sliotar more effectively during practice.

Allocate enough time for the session and post-activity socializing

Plan for at least 2 hours to fully enjoy the experience, including food and music at the pub.

Arrive early to get fitted with equipment and receive instructions

Early arrival ensures you maximize your time on the pitch and connect with your guide.

Respect local customs and traditions

Engage with the community aspect of the event, including enjoying Irish pub culture afterward.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Common kingfisher
  • European hare

History

Hurling is considered one of Ireland’s oldest sports, dating back over a millennium, deeply rooted in Irish identity and culture.

Conservation

Efforts are made to maintain the natural beauty of Kilkenny’s rural areas while supporting sustainable tourism.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Kilkenny

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable clothes

Essential

Flexible clothing suitable for light physical activity and varying weather conditions.

Sports shoes or trainers

Essential

Good grip and support for quick movements on the pitch.

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Protect yourself during sunny summer practice sessions.

summer specific

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during your active session.