Outdoor Dining in the Heart of Kilkenny
Some of the most enjoyable moments of summer are often the simplest. A morning coffee in the sunshine, a leisurely lunch with friends, a glass of wine as evening approaches, or a quiet hour spent watching the colours of the garden change with the light.
Tucked within the original Kilkenny Castle estate, The Terrace at Butler House offers a tranquil corner of the city where visitors and locals alike can enjoy exactly that. Surrounded by the beauty of the Georgian Walled Garden and just moments from Kilkenny's medieval streets, it is a place where summer unfolds at a gentler pace.
Many visitors arrive after exploring Kilkenny Castle, wandering through the Castle Yard Craft Studios or discovering the city's rich heritage. What they often find is an unexpected sense of calm. Beyond the garden walls, the city continues its daily rhythm, but here, among the flowers, lawns and mature trees, there is space to pause and savour the moment.
A Garden Setting Beside Kilkenny Castle
One of the pleasures of dining at Butler House is the feeling of being tucked away from the bustle of the city while remaining right at its centre. From The Terrace, guests can enjoy views towards Kilkenny Castle framed by seasonal planting and mature trees. Many describe Butler House as a hidden gem, offering beautiful surroundings just steps from the city's main attractions.
During the summer months, The Terrace becomes one of the loveliest places in Kilkenny to spend an afternoon or early evening, where conversations linger and time seems to slow naturally.
Morning Coffee and Cream Tea on the Terrace
Summer mornings begin gently on The Terrace. A visit might start with a barista coffee and homemade shortbread in the sunshine while the garden comes to life for the day. Others choose Butler House's much-loved Cream Tea, a tradition enjoyed by both visitors and locals.
Whether meeting a friend, taking a break from sightseeing or simply treating yourself, it is a wonderfully relaxed way to spend an hour in the garden.
Lunch in the Summer Sunshine
From midday, The Terrace becomes a welcoming spot for those looking to enjoy a leisurely lunch outdoors.
The lunch menu combines comforting classics with seasonal favourites, from fresh salads and sandwiches to homemade soup and brown bread, traditional fish and chips and other freshly prepared dishes.
Lunch at Butler House is less about rushing and more about taking time. Time to catch up with friends, enjoy a quiet moment alone or simply sit back and admire the surroundings. For visitors spending the day in Kilkenny, The Terrace offers a welcome alternative to busier cafés and restaurants, where food, hospitality and setting come together effortlessly.
Summer Evenings at Butler House
As the afternoon drifts towards evening, The Terrace takes on a different character.
The gardens grow quieter and guests settle in to enjoy drinks, light bites and relaxed dining before an evening in the city or after a day of exploring.
The evening menu features a selection of seasonal dishes and sharing plates, including Beef and Guinness Hot Pot, Irish Cheese Plates, Butler's Dips and freshly prepared soup and toasties. Paired with a glass of wine, a local beer or a favourite cocktail from the Garden View Bar, they provide the perfect accompaniment to a summer evening outdoors.
For many guests, these unhurried evenings are what make The Terrace so memorable. There is no need for a special occasion. A casual dinner, a drink with friends or simply enjoying the last of the daylight is often enough.
Drinks, Nibbles and Long Summer Evenings
The House Bar serves drinks daily until 11 pm, allowing guests to linger a little longer and enjoy the beauty of the gardens after dinner.
A full selection of wines, beers and spirits is available alongside light nibbles, olives and sharing plates, making The Terrace an ideal place to meet friends, unwind after work or enjoy longer summer evenings.
It is this combination of warm hospitality, comfortable surroundings and beautiful views that continues to make Butler House a favourite destination for visitors and locals alike.
Private Summer Gatherings on the Terrace
The Terrace has also become a popular setting for private celebrations, client entertaining, and small-group gatherings. Overlooking the gardens and framed by the character of the former Dower House of Kilkenny Castle, it offers a setting that feels both relaxed and memorable.
Options include:
• Drinks and Bites from €22 per person
• Sit-Down Menus and BBQ Evenings from €49 per person
Whether planning a family celebration, team gathering or informal summer event, the Butler House team can help create an occasion tailored to your needs.
Discover Summer at Butler House
Few places combine history, gardens, food and hospitality quite so naturally. Located within the original Kilkenny Castle demesne, The Terrace at Butler House offers a relaxed outdoor dining experience where visitors can enjoy good food, refreshing drinks and beautiful surroundings throughout the summer season.
Whether you are joining us for Cream Tea, lunch in the sunshine, evening drinks with friends or a special celebration, The Terrace provides a welcoming place to pause and enjoy the very best of summer in Kilkenny.
Explore our menus, gather with friends and discover why so many guests describe Butler House as one of Kilkenny's most welcoming and memorable places to visit
For bookings and enquiries, contact the Butler House Events Team: Tess Kavanagh, call 086 145 2928 or email events@butler.ie
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For more information, call us on +353 56 7722828, email res@butler.ie or visit www.butler.ie