Beyond the bustle of Kilkenny’s streets lies a quieter side of the city, where hidden pathways, historic surroundings and gentle greenery invite you to slow the pace. At Butler House & Garden, evenings unfold a little differently, offering space to linger, listen and enjoy moments that feel relaxed, welcoming and memorable. Set within the original Kilkenny Castle estate in the heart of Kilkenny, Butler House has long been loved for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful surroundings and warm hospitality.
As part of the Six After 6 – Summer Cultural Series, Butler House invites visitors to enjoy a series of Evening Garden Tour & Cream Tea Experiences, bringing together local history, horticulture and relaxed hospitality in one of Kilkenny’s most distinctive historic settings.
Taking place on Thursday 4th June, Thursday 18th June and Thursday 2nd, July 2026, these early evening experiences offer a wonderful opportunity to discover one of Kilkenny’s hidden treasures while enjoying a different side of the city.
Whether you have an interest in local history, heritage landscapes or are simply looking for things to do in Kilkenny this summer, this experience offers a lovely way to spend time in a tranquil and special setting.
Discover the Story of Butler House & Garden
The experience begins at 6 pm with a guided walk through the restored Georgian Walled Garden at Butler House, led by Head Gardener Tommy Falsey.
Guests will enjoy a relaxed walk and talk through the grounds of the former Dower House of Kilkenny Castle, discovering the history of the house, the evolution of the landscape and the ongoing work taking place to preserve and enhance these historic surroundings.
Restored to their former glory in 1999, the gardens continue to evolve through an extensive rejuvenation project that introduces native plantings and year-round seasonal interest, ensuring the landscape remains vibrant in every season.
Tommy’s knowledge and passion for the estate bring another layer to the experience, sharing stories and insights that connect visitors with the heritage, character and history of Butler House.
Cream Tea in the Garden View Room
Following the tour, guests are invited to continue the evening with Cream Tea in the Garden View Room from 6.45 pm to 7.45 pm.
Served in the elegant surroundings of Butler House, Cream Tea includes:
• two homemade scones, one plain and one fruit
• homemade jam and fresh cream
• beautifully presented on three-tiered stands
• your choice of tea or coffee
It is a relaxed and welcoming way to conclude the evening and to enjoy one of Butler House’s most-loved experiences.
Guests often speak about the comfort of Butler House, from its friendly atmosphere and historic charm to its location beside Kilkenny Castle and beautifully maintained surroundings. This evening experience brings those elements together in a gentle balance of heritage, hospitality and local discovery.
Event Dates
Thursday 4th & 18th June and 2nd July 2026
• 6 pm Garden Tour
• 6.45 pm–7.45 pm Cream Tea
Tickets: €20 per person
This is a ticketed event and places are limited. Pre-booking is essential.
To book or for more information, contact Butler House directly on 056 772 2828 or email res@butler.ie. Please note: This experience is not suitable for children under 12 years.
A Summer Evening at Butler House
Located within the historic Kilkenny Castle demesne and just moments from the city centre, Butler House offers visitors a chance to experience a calmer side of Kilkenny through stories, heritage and shared experiences.
As part of the Six After 6 Summer Cultural Series, Butler House invites visitors and locals alike to slow the pace a little and enjoy one of Kilkenny’s most distinctive cultural experiences as day gently moves into evening.
Plan Your Stay at Butler House
To stay at Butler House is to take part in something larger than a visit.
Every overnight stay, every lunch in the Garden View Room, and every Afternoon Tea contribute directly to preserving the house, its gardens and the wider heritage work of the Kilkenny Civic Trust across the city. Whether you are exploring Kilkenny’s medieval streets, walking through the Castle Yard craft studios or pausing beside the garden pond beneath the castle walls, Butler House offers a rare opportunity to experience a living heritage house that continues to serve its community just as it has done for more than two centuries.
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Purchase a Butler House Gift Voucher or use your Blue Book Voucher today!
Plan your stay at Butler House & Garden, where you don’t just visit history, you stay within it, while helping preserve Kilkenny’s heritage for future generations.
For more information, call us on +353 56 7722828, email res@butler.ie
or visit www.butler.ie
This event forms part of the Six After 6 Summer Cultural Series with support from: Kilkenny County Council, Ireland’s Ancient East, and Kilkenny Night Time Economy.
Butler House & Garden and the adjacent Kilkenny Castle Yard are owned and managed by the Kilkenny Civic Trust, a not-for-profit organisation with the mission of protecting, enhancing and promoting heritage in Kilkenny. Butler House & Garden Celebrating 240 years. A member of Ireland's Blue Book.