The House

The History of Butler House

Butler House is the historic Dower House of Kilkenny Castle and has long been associated with the Butler family, Dukes and Earls of Ormonde, who resided at the Castle for over 500 years. This elegant Georgian townhouse has stood witness to centuries of Irish heritage, aristocratic life, and cultural transformation.

18th Century

Following the death of her husband Walter in 1783, Lady Eleanor Butler took residence at Butler House. She was the mother of John, the 17th Earl of Ormonde, and her daughter, also named Eleanor, became one of the renowned "Ladies of Llangollen" — a pair of women celebrated for their independent lifestyle and lifelong partnership in Wales, often regarded as early LGBTQ+ icons.

19th Century

In 1831, James, Earl of Ormonde lived at Butler House while Kilkenny Castle underwent reconstruction. During the cholera epidemic of 1832, the house served a humanitarian role as the site of a soup kitchen aiding the local community.

By 1870, Butler House became a hub of academic and cultural exchange, hosting meetings of the Royal Historical and Archaeological Association of Ireland.

20th Century

In 1972, Kilkenny Design, a pioneering state design agency, undertook a restoration of the house. The interiors reflected a tasteful 1970s Art Deco influence, using muted colours and natural fabrics that complemented the building’s original features.

In 1989, Kilkenny Civic Trust acquired both Butler House and the adjacent Castle Stables. Since then, the house has been open to the public as a boutique guesthouse, conference centre, and one of Kilkenny’s leading wedding venues — offering a unique blend of elegance, history, and modern Irish hospitality.