My wife and I will be spending 2 nights in Kilkenny this May. I would appreciate B&B suggestions. We'd need a twin or dbl with bathroom en suite.
Thanks.
Posted by
Gig Harbor, Washington, USA
1819 posts
We enjoyed staying at Butler House---they upgraded us to a huge suite facing the gardens. However, this was in 2002; things may have changed since then. There isn't a lot to do in Kilkenny---if you arrive there early afternoon or can leave late morning you would have plenty of time with only one night. It bills itself as "Ireland's medieval city," but compared to York, IMHO it's like comparing a hot fudge sundae to a diet cookie. Save more of your time for the west coast. The Ring of Beara is lovely and not crowded. It's also fun to do the Gap of Dunloe jogging cart--return by boat tour, even if it is touristy. Kenmare makes an excellent base. You can do Dingle as a very long day trip from there, although if you cut Kilkenny to one day, you would have a night for Dingle. What's your preferred travel pace? While it seems to be heresy to say it, if it's "enjoy then move along," as opposed to "linger and savor," you can see a lot of western Ireland in a week or so. While the roads are slow, keep in mind that the entire country is about the size of Ohio. A good website is irelandexpert.com. Tons of information there.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10249 posts
We spent our first night in Kilkenny as we traveled from Dublin to the West coast. One night was plenty. I strongly encourage you to spend at least one night in Dingle as opposed to doing it as a day trip. It was my favorite place in Ireland!
Posted by
CA, USA
333 posts
We stayed at the Butler House last April. Nice place and the owners were very helpful. We didn't know it was on Rick Steeve's recommended list until we checked out. It was one of the more expensive B&Bs that we stayed in (I think 75 euro/nite for both of us) and didn't provide a full Irish fry up for breakfast but had plenty of scones, toast, tea and coffee in the room. Free Wi-fi as well.
Great town for pubs and music. Friday/Saturday nites are big for Trad bands. The castle is a nice with a self-guided tour and the town center is interesting. Huge GAA town as well
Posted by
cincinnati, ohio, usa
129 posts
butler court...i think rick recommends this place in his books...great locale...kilkenny castle is just down the street and looms outside the rooms...the owners were great...
Posted by
Chicago
2876 posts
Just to give you an alternative: Blanchville Country House is a beautiful B&B just outside Kilkenny. We stayed there a few years ago and loved it.