New bike hire centres for six Kilkenny towns and villages

Kilkenny is trying to lure cycle enthusiasts and families this summer with a new countywide network of bike hire hubs.

The cycle hubs will open up Kilkenny’s most historic and scenic areas for visitors to explore at their own pace on two wheels.

Located at Inistioge, Thomastown, Windgap, Callan, Castlecomer and Graiguenamanagh, each hub will offer a choice of standard and electric bikes for full or half-day hire.

These six hubs will supply all necessary equipment, including helmets and high-vis vests, and recommend loop routes which begin and end at their locations, taking in Kilkenny’s most beautiful countryside and attractions.

Kilkenny Tourism  chairperson Ciaran Conroy said: “The lockdown brought a new found enthusiasm for cycling in Ireland, exploring our cities and countryside on two wheels is a great way to discover new towns and villages and meet local people.

“The new cycling centres are a great amenity to have, particularly for tourists over the coming season, the geographical spread in their locations means people can discover different towns and cycle tracks on their staycations this summer,” Mr Conroy added.