Saturday 13th August 2011 - To Knocktopher Abbey



They show their individuality by painting their houses different colours




The church at Gowran where Edward Bruce once visited




One of the Templar Knights

Another Irish breakfast and we packed up to head to Knocktopher where we have a studio apartment for a week in a 13^th century abbey. On the way we stopped at Gowran where we saw an amazing church ruins.  We went in to see a guide there who then began to share with us the story and history of this area.  Among the artefacts there were the tombstones of two of the Knights of Templar.  Also, record of Edward Bruce (brother of Robert Bruce) and his journey there in 1316 where he was on a search for the 4^th relic that would join England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.  St Patrick’s staff. A fascinating place. So much history.  Knocktopher is situated in County Kilkenny in the countryside, it is a lovely place to catch up on a bit of R & R before the new term starts.  We are on the top floor and with only one window that is fairly high we have got a nice garden view if we stand on tippy toes.  Room has small kitchen and ensuite bathroom so will be suitable for us for the week.  We went off to find food in the local village and once we had what we needed we went back to settle in.  A stroll around the extensive grounds sees what was once a grand establishment sadly neglected and now a new try at bringing it back to its former glory. We had a home cooked dinner for the first time in a while and really enjoyed it.  Early night tonight, let the holiday begin. 

Henry who greets us in the foyer. Scary eyes.
Somebody pinched his helmet



Humble abode