Quiet discoveries, layered history and warm places to linger.

When winter wraps its arms around Kilkenny, there’s a quiet kind of magic that settles across the city. The streets glisten with soft rain, shopfronts glow with warmth, and the rhythm of life slows just enough for you to savour it truly. This is a time for lingering conversations, for immersing yourself in heritage and history, for steaming mugs and soul-stirring stories. And in the heart of it all, Butler House becomes a calm and cosy haven for your stay.

From the comfort of our historic Lady Eleanor Room, guests sip tea and indulge in sweet treats while gazing out at the walled garden and Kilkenny Castle beyond. It's a little oasis of stillness in a city full of colour and character.  Whether you're visiting for the day or staying a while, here’s how to enjoy the best indoor experiences Kilkenny has to offer.

Historic & Cultural Sites

Discover centuries of Irish history as you explore Kilkenny’s top heritage attractions, all within walking distance of Butler House.

Kilkenny Castle

Just across the garden gates from Butler House, the jewel in the city’s crown, Kilkenny Castle has stood since the 12th century and has shaped the city for over 800 years. Wander through its beautifully restored rooms, take in the Long Gallery with its stunning ceiling and portraits, and intimate family spaces, telling the story of the Butler family and their place in Irish history. Guided tours last about 45 minutes to an hour, while self-guided visits allow you to explore at your own pace.

Our Kilkenny Castle Experience includes tickets and a stay just steps away. Book here.

Medieval Mile Museum

Housed within the beautifully restored 13th-century St. Mary’s Church, the Medieval Mile Museum brings Kilkenny’s past to life through interactive displays and original artefacts. Civic charters, merchant records and personal objects reveal how the city was shaped by wealthy traders, craftsmen and community life over 800 years. You can explore at your own pace with a self-guided visit or join a guided tour for deeper insight. It is immersive without being heavy, and wonderfully atmospheric on a quieter day. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours

Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny

Housed in the former brewery on St. Francis Abbey, the Smithwick’s Experience tells the story of Ireland’s oldest beer brand, brewed in Kilkenny for over 300 years. A guided, multi-sensory tour brings you through the sights, sounds and stories of the brewery, finishing with a complimentary pint in a warm, atmospheric tasting room. It is engaging without being overwhelming, and a lovely way to spend an afternoon indoors.  Allow 1 to 1.5 hours

Butler House offers a Smithwick’s Experience Break, including tickets and an overnight stay. Book here.

St. Canice’s Cathedral & Round Tower

One of Ireland’s finest medieval cathedrals, this 13th-century Gothic cathedral is one of Kilkenny’s most recognisable landmarks. Inside, the stonework, memorials, stained glass and light-filled space invite reflection. For those who wish, the adjacent 9th-century round tower can be climbed, one of only two in Ireland still accessible, offering panoramic views across the city. Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Rothe House & Garden

Rothe House is Ireland’s finest surviving example of a Tudor merchant’s townhouse. The indoor museum traces family life, trade and politics in 16th-century Kilkenny, while the reconstructed garden beyond reflects early 17th-century planting. It is intimate, detailed and quietly fascinating. Allow 1 hour.

The Black Abbey

Founded in 1225, this peaceful Dominican church is still active today and is known for its soaring stained-glass windows and ancient stone carvings. The interior feels calm and contemplative.  A quiet, reflective stop on your historic walk. Allow 30 to 45 minutes

Shopping & Unique Experiences

Take your time to explore and discover unique Irish crafts and gifts.

National Design & Craft Galler

Located in the former castle stables, this free gallery celebrates contemporary Irish and international craft. Ceramics, textiles, glass and jewellery are beautifully displayed, and visitors often see craftspeople at work.

Don't miss 'The Ties that Tie and the Links that Link', an exhibition celebrating 60 years of the Kilkenny Design Workshops and runs until 28th February 2026. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours but if you plan to explore nearby studios, please allow an additional 30 to 45 minutes.

Castle Yard & Kilkenny Design Centre

Step straight from Butler House through the garden gate into this vibrant craft hub where makers craft jewellery, textiles, and ceramics. Visit artisan studios and shops offering jewellery, textiles, ceramics and more. The perfect place to pick up unique, Irish-made gifts. Allow 45 minutes to 1 hour.

And if you are willing to go a bit further, then you won't be disappointed.

Nicholas Mosse Pottery

Located just 9.5km outside the city, the Nicholas Mosse workshops allow visitors to watch hand-crafted pottery being made before browsing the finished pieces. Their shop and café make it worth the short drive. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours

Jerpoint Glass Studio

About a 20-minute drive from Kilkenny, this family-run studio offers a fascinating look at glassblowing in action. Their handmade glassware. Their pieces are functional, artistic, and perfect for thoughtful gifts.  Allow for 45–60 minutes.

Theatres & Galleries

Watergate Theatre & Set Theatre

Catch a play, music performance, or stand-up show in one of Kilkenny’s vibrant venues. Check local listings for current events.

Butler Gallery

Located on the banks of the River Nore, this contemporary art gallery hosts contemporary exhibitions and creative workshops for all ages. The current exhibition ‘For Smart Living’ by Brian Harte runs until February 8, 2026. Plan for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the exhibitions.

Dine, Pause & Indulge at Butler House

After a morning of culture or an afternoon browsing shops, Butler House offers the perfect place to unwind. Take a seat in our Lady Eleanor Room and enjoy Cream Tea or a light lunch, as you gaze over the wintry Walled Garden and the silhouette of Kilkenny Castle. With open fires, Georgian elegance, and views that calm the mind, it’s the kind of comfort that feels personal, a gentle pause in a vibrant city.

Our dining spaces overlook the garden and castle and offer a relaxed and refined experience from morning to evening:

• Breakfast served daily in the Lady Eleanor Restaurant
• Cream Tea served in the Lady Eleanor Room (from 12 noon to 3 pm)
• Lunch Menu (12 noon – 3 pm) with hearty favourites and seasonal Irish dishes. 
• Evening Menu and full bar available in the Garden View Room
• Festive Afternoon Tea served on selected winter dates. View here.

Plan Your Stay

Whether you are visiting Kilkenny for history, culture or simply a slower pace, Butler House offers a peaceful base from which to explore it all. With curated packages including Kilkenny Castle and Smithwick’s Experience, along with dining and afternoon tea on site, everything flows easily from one moment to the next.

Butler House offers carefully curated packages for every kind of escape:

• Bed, Breakfast & Bubbles – A little luxury with a bottle of chilled prosecco on arrival. Click to book here.
• Cosy Retreat – Your invitation to slow down, relax, and savour the season on this two-night stay. Click to book here.
• Signature Retreats – For those who want a curated experience with thoughtful extras. Click to book here.
• Dog-Friendly Breaks – Bring your furry friend along for the adventure. Contact us.
• Supper & slumber - Overnight stay & Supper from our Evening Menu in the Garden View Room Click to book here.

Stay with us, linger a little longer, and let Kilkenny reveal itself gently.

Book your winter escape at Butler House and experience Kilkenny at your own pace. Let your story unfold in the warmth of our historic Georgian guesthouse.

For more info, contact us on +353 56 7722828 or email res@butler.ie