Disabled Travellers

Both Kilkenny and Ireland as a whole, is committed to making all public buildings, transport and facilities accessible to all visitors and residents.

Airports

If you are disabled or have reduced mobility you are entitled to receive assistance when you fly to and from Ireland. To ensure all facilities are in place to cater for your individual needs, it is advisable that you request assistance at least 48 hours in advance of travelling. Airports must provide special assistance to get you to and from your flight, free of charge, including check-in and security.

Ferries

If you are disabled or have reduced mobility you are entitled to receive assistance when travelling by ferry. Ferry ports and companies must provide assistance at ports or harbours and on-board ships; carry recognised assistance dogs (subject to national regulations); carry mobility equipment (such as wheelchairs) free of charge and provide information in accessible formats. All ferry companies operating to and from Ireland use ships which are accessible to people with mobility difficulties. If you need help with boarding and disembarking you should give the ferry company as much notice as possible so that they can make arrangements.

Public Transport

All public transport in Ireland is obliged to provide services to people with disabilities. All new buses and coaches bought by both companies are wheelchair-accessible or designed for easier access. Mainline and suburban trains require a ramp to permit boarding from the platform to the carriages. A special portable ramp is used for this purpose. These are currently available at all terminal points and major junctions and are being made available at other smaller stations. There is a dedicated space provided in the dining car of each train specifically designated for the mobility impaired. Assistance and Guide Dogs are permitted on all Irish Rail services.

Taxis

The National Transport Authority has created a register of all Wheelchair Accessible Taxis throughout the country. This is to enable improved access to this specialised service for people with disabilities. You can call the Information Line on 0761 064000 and request contact information for a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle service that operates within your area. If you are calling from outside Ireland please phone + 353 761 064000. You can also e-mail the Authority at [email protected]. A guide dog or assistance dog may accompany their owner free of charge in the vehicle.

Accommodation and attractions

Kilkenny is committed to providing accessibility to all visitors regardless of their needs. However, due to the historic nature of some buildings and attractions in Kilkenny it may not always be possible to provide complete accessibility. To find more information on attractions and accommodation that is accessible in Kilkenny and throughout Ireland visit https://www.accessibleireland.com