Kilkenny has so much to offer, from historical sites to traditional Irish pubs and golf courses. Here are some fabulous hotels to stay in when visiting the area.
Kilkenny is a destination that appeals to everyone from the history buff to the golfer since it has a wide range of exciting things to see and do all over the county.
Kilkenny boasts one of the most famous castles in the country, as well as a variety of traditional Irish pubs, eateries, and nightlife options.
When venturing further into the countryside, you will experience stunning scenery, lots of nature, and some quaint countryside villages to stroll through.
With all that in mind, here are the ten best hotels in Kilkenny, which are ideal places to base yourself for exploring.
The rundown – our top picks for the best boutique hotels in Kilkenny
The best hotels in Kilkenny – IB4UD’s top tips and advice
- Booking.com is the best site to use to secure your hotel in Kilkenny.
- Book as far in advance as possible to ensure the best deals.
- Look at online reviews from previous hotel guests before committing to your booking.
- Ensure your chosen hotel is conveniently located to the tourist attractions you wish to visit and activities you want to do.
Where to stay – the best areas
Kilkenny city: This has to be the most popular place to stay when visiting County Kilkenny since the city centre is where you’ll find many of the top attractions, nightlife, and live entertainment. From here, you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities too.
Thomastown: For a quintessential Irish experience, a stay in Thomastown must be considered. This town boasts a staggering number of pubs, a welcoming vibe, fun nightlife, and is close to some excellent golfing opportunities.
Graignamanagh: This is a small village ideal for families and those wanting to experience rural Kilkenny, perhaps with some fishing, cycling, and historical sightseeing. Many of the local pubs hire out equipment to visitors passing through.
Castlecomer: Home to Castlecomer Golf Club, this rural town is an excellent place for a quiet golfing holiday or for those looking for peace and tranquillity. Here you can enjoy historical attractions, culinary delights, and outdoor activities.
1. Mount Juliet Estate – for an ultra-luxurious stay in Kilkenny
Overview: Mount Juliet Estate is not only one of the best luxury spa and golf resorts in Kilkenny but also one of the country’s most popular.
If you want an outstanding experience with fantastic hotel amenities and excellent service, you must book a stay at this stunning hotel in the countryside.
The hotel is close to: Thomastown
IN HIGH DEMAND: This is one of the most popular and best hotels in Kilkenny, so book well in advance to secure your room.
The hotel is perfect for: Luxurious spa and golf getaways
Key features include:
- Dating back to 1757 and encompassing 500 acres of private land
- Lady Helen is a Michelin-star restaurant offering fine dining; The Hound Restaurant serves excellent food in a relaxed setting
- An 18-hole championship golf course which has hosted countless tournaments
- A fitness centre, tennis courts, indoor swimming pool, bike hire, and fishing opportunities
- A luxury spa offering treatments, a sauna, a steam room, and much more
Address: Walton’s Grove, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland
2. Lyrath Estate – an ideal place for a luxury spa break
Overview: Lyrath Estate is a well-known hotel in Ireland for its high standards, incredible facilities, and idyllic location set on 170 acres of stunning grounds.
It is ideal for those keen to visit Kilkenny city to enjoy a spa getaway or celebrate a special occasion. It suits anyone wanting a special treat.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
IN HIGH DEMAND: This stunning hotel has a great location near Kilkenny city and is one of the most booked hotels in the region, so always book your stay at Lyrath Hotel in advance.
The hotel is perfect for: A spa weekend
Key features include:
- Oasis Spa has an infinity pool, a range of spa treatments, and relaxation areas
- Use of the gym, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, and children’s splash pool
- Two award-winning restaurants serving delicious dishes made with locally sourced produce
- Tupper’s Irish Bar is ideal for casual drinks and bar food
- Each luxury room is soundproof and complete with blackout curtains to ensure a restful night
Address: Paulstown Road, Lyrath, Kilkenny, R95 F685, Ireland
READ MORE: Ireland Before You Die’s guide to the best luxury spa hotels in Kilkenny.
3. Newpark Hotel Kilkenny – the hotel that suits any occasion
Overview: This beautiful four-star hotel is one of the best in Kilkenny, ideally located between Kilkenny city and Kilkenny Golf Club.
If you want a hotel that ticks all the boxes, this has to be the one. With a gorgeous spa, bright rooms with a view, and live piano entertainment, they have it covered.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city, Kilkenny Golf Club
The hotel is perfect for: A luxury city break
Key features include:
- 40 acres of parkland surrounding the property
- Each room is bright and spacious and overlooks the manicured gardens
- Escape Spa which provides professional Aveda spa treatments
- Outdoor infinity pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, modern gym, and indoor pool
- Gulliver’s Restaurant and Scott Dove Bar & Bistro for all your food needs
Address: Castlecomer Rd, Newpark Lower, Kilkenny, R95 KP63, Ireland
4. Kilkenny River Court Hotel – a hotel with a view
Overview: One of the best hotels in Kilkenny is Kilkenny River Court Hotel, which sits beautifully on the riverside while overlooking the iconic Kilkenny Castle.
Here is where you will capture the city’s true essence while staying in a hotel that does its best to make you feel at home.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
The hotel is perfect for: A weekend away
Key features include:
- A quiet location just steps from the city centre, the castle, and the riverside
- Most rooms overlook the 12th-century castle and the River Nore
- AA Rosette-awarded Riverside Restaurant and Terrace Kitchen for al fresco dining
- An ideal hotel for meetings, events, weddings, or family gatherings
- A casual onsite bar featuring a riverside terrace, afternoon tea, and live music with a view
Address: The Bridge, John Street Upper, College Park, Kilkenny, R95 Y104, Ireland
5. Langtons Hotel Kilkenny – an award-winning and lively Kilkenny hotel
Overview: This family-run hotel is one of the best-located hotels in Kilkenny, just steps away from Kilkenny Castle, the theatre, bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
As well as having an award-winning bar, the hotel has won numerous awards and offers excellent fine dining options to suit all tastes.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
The hotel is perfect for: A lively city stay
Key features include:
- The Langton Room is a fine dining eatery which serves local and international dishes
- Edward Langtons pub is the place to have an award-winning pint and meet the locals
- All rooms feature views across the medieval city
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and free parking close by
- Traditional Irish music daily during the summer, and DJs and musicians on the weekend all year long
Address: 67-69 John Street Lower, Kilkenny, R95 XN44, Ireland
6. Hotel Kilkenny – a fantastic choice for an active city break
Overview: If you plan to take a trip to Kilkenny with the family, you should consider staying at one of the most family-friendly hotels in Kilkenny.
Hotel Kilkenny is just a fifteen-minute walk from the city centre and close to many fun family activities like the National Reptile Zoo and Castlecomer Discovery Park.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
The hotel is perfect for: An active adventure
Key features include:
- A leisure club with a gym, 20 m pool, and kids’ pool
- Orchard Day Spa offers a variety of face, body, and wellness treatments
- An all-day dining menu featuring indoor and outdoor seating areas
- A 24-hour room service menu, free Wi-Fi, and free parking on site
- Pure Bar is an excellent spot for a relaxing drink on the heated outdoor patio
Address: College Rd, Sugarloaf Hill, Kilkenny, Ireland
MORE: Our guide to the best family-friendly hotels in Kilkenny.
7. Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel – a great place to stay in Kilkenny
Overview: With live music on Saturday nights, an extensive spa and leisure centre to enjoy, and delicious food to eat, there is no reason not to stay at the famous Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
The hotel is perfect for: A romantic city escape
Key features include:
- The Ormonde Leisure Club features a 21 m indoor heated pool, gym, kids’ pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room
- KO Spa & Beauty provide Voya spa treatments and beauty services
- HOBAN is the place to be for drinks, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere
- The Castle Lounge is where you can indulge in freshly baked goods, coffee, and all-day dining options
- Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and nearby discounted parking
Address: Ormonde St, Gardens, Kilkenny, Ireland
TOP LUXURY: We include Kilkenny Ormonde in the best spa hotels in Ireland.
8. Annamult Country House Estate – for a group countryside holiday
Overview: Located in the gorgeous Kilkenny countryside close to Mount Juliet Estate and the bustling town of Thomastown, Annamult Country House Estate is an excellent option for those who want a tranquil escape – and it’s very pet friendly!
The hotel is close to: Mount Juliet Estate, Thomastown
The hotel is perfect for: A special family gathering
Key features include:
- Just a short drive from Mount Juliet Golf Club
- An excellent location for hiking opportunities and enjoying scenic mountain views
- Free parking, free Wi-Fi, and pets allowed
- A seven-bedroom house with six bathrooms, ideal for groups
- A spacious property that can accommodate up to 30 people
Address: Annamult House, Annamult, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland
9. Zuni Boutique Hotel – an exciting experience in a chic surrounding
Overview: Zuni Boutique Hotel is a contemporary hotel situated in a building which dates back to 1902, which means it has the perfect mix of unique character and traditional heritage.
Here you can enjoy drinks in the Box Office cocktail bar and fine dining before cosying up in one of the most stylish rooms in the city.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
The hotel is perfect for: A unique experience
Key features include:
- Free onsite parking, free Wi-Fi, and a superb breakfast included
- Their fine dining restaurant serves gourmet and contemporary Irish cuisine
- Their iconic and quirky cocktail bar is the place to indulge in all-day bites and tailor-made cocktails
- Just a ten-minute walk from Kilkenny Station and five minutes from Kilkenny Castle
- Courtesy car service on request for train station pick up or drop off
Address: 26 Patrick St, Kilkenny, R95 A897, Ireland
10. Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel – one of the best luxury hotels in Kilkenny
Overview: One of the best value hotels in Kilkenny has to be Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel, which not only offers luxury award-winning accommodation but is located in the heart of medieval Kilkenny in the old Hibernian Bank building.
From here, you can explore all the local attractions and be close to many golf courses.
The hotel is close to: Kilkenny city
The hotel is perfect for: A luxury stay in medieval Kilkenny
Key features include:
- A superb breakfast is included
- The Brasserie serves excellent gourmet Irish cuisine with a French twist
- The Hibernian Bar is on hand for a cosy pint or a casual bite to eat
- Live entertainment Friday–Sunday from 8:30 pm
- Bottomless brunch can be booked on select Saturdays and Sundays for €35 per person
Address: 1 Ormonde St, Gardens, Kilkenny, R95 WTK3, Ireland
Notable mentions
Your questions answered about the best hotels in Kilkenny
If you’ve still got questions, read on! In this section, we answer some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions on the best hotels in Kilkenny.
How many hotels in Kilkenny County are listed on Booking.com?
There are at least 36 hotels listed in County Kilkenny.
How much does it cost to stay at a hotel in Kilkenny city?
You can expect to budget between €75–€200 per night.
What are some popular places to stay in and around Kilkenny County?
Of course, Kilkenny city is a top spot to stay, while Thomastown is ideal for Irish culture and golfing, and Castlecomer has many family-friendly activities.
So, now you know what fantastic accommodation options are around Kilkenny, why not make this your next city break?
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