Embrace the Medieval City with a Couples Weekend Away

Afternoon Tea in Butler House

There is something decadent about Afternoon Tea, when somewhere between lunch and dinner you ‘squeeze in’ some ‘miniature’ fine dining. Located in the walled garden of the 18th century Butler House, ‘The Orangerie’ offers magnificent vistas in a tranquil botanical setting in the centre of the city. Here, you can ‘kick start’ your visit with a selection of tea, coffee and sweet and savoury treats while soaking in the breath-taking autumn garden views.

Walk Ireland’s Medieval Mile 

It’s hard to find a city in Ireland that lends itself more to an afternoon stroll than Kilkenny, and The Medieval Mile is the perfect route to discover the medieval magic that fills this place.  

Historic buildings, secret slipways, a Dominican abbey blooming with stained glass, and the only example of an early 17th century merchant’s house in Ireland are just some of the medieval sites to behold along Ireland’s Medieval Mile. On your way you will also discover a recreated medieval garden, climb St. Canice’s Round Tower (the oldest standing structure in the city), and take a glimpse inside the lives of the Butler family and their servants at Kilkenny Castle, until you reach the traditional home of witches in the 14th century Kyteler’s Inn.

Refuel at one of Kilkenny’s Traditional Pubs

By now it’s time to refuel with a pint at one of Kilkenny’s finest traditional pubs.  Matt the Millers or The Rafter’s Gastro Pub are both lively city pubs that offer old world charm and a warm welcome, both have outdoor areas so you can enjoy the autumn sunset under the city lights.

Best steaks in Kilkenny

Wind down after a busy day with one of Kilkenny’s best (locally sourced!) steaks at The Butcher Restaurant. As the name suggests, meat and steak in particular is the speciality here, although there are other options and the desserts are to die for. Also, a great spot for a couple’s night and with an excellent selection of cocktails!

Cakes and Coffee in Cake Face Patisserie

Capture a Parisienne ambiance, with a visit to Cakeface.  This is the ultimate French style Patisserie and is home to delicious iced lattes and super colourful and mouth-watering sweet treats. The cafe has now been extended with a huge garden area and converted barn – an impressively large area for a small cake shop and the perfect place to chill in the Autumn sun with a coffee, cake and watch the world go by!

Retail Therapy in the Kilkenny Design Centre

Next stop is a shopper’s paradise. Kilkenny Design Centre is home to many of Ireland’s homegrown designers. The shops are located in historic buildings directly opposite Kilkenny Castle and this is where you will find beautiful souvenirs, gifts, artwork, glass, pottery and more – all of it made here in Ireland.

Tour of Kilkenny Castle

While so close to the iconic Kilkenny Castle it would be a shame not to take a self-guided tour inside the castle and transport yourself back to medieval grandeur and splendour. The castles decor and furniture has been restored and replaced to its original glory. Gaze in awe at the grand drawing room, the impressive dining rooms, portrait galleries and huge bedrooms with accompanying fireplaces and large windows to enjoy views of the River Nore below.

Lunch in the Muse Coffee & Food followed by a Visit to Butler Gallery

Kick back in a sun-soaked glass pod with lunch a glass of prosecco at Muse Coffee. Each pod has their own speaker docks so you can personalise the experience, setting the mood to enjoy a memorable lunch against a background of your favourite tunes.

Culture vultures will revel in a visit to Butler Gallery, situated right next door to Muse, the gallery is home to some of the country’s finest art exhibitions, not to mention the buildings 800 year history…. Not to be missed!

Cycle along the banks of the River Nore with Kilkenny Cycling Tours

Time to get physical and explore the city on two wheels with Kilkenny Cycling Tours. Choose from a guided or self-guided tour that will take you meandering along river banks and cycle tracks, avoiding the traffic as you go. The tours are given in a fun and casual way so it is suitable for all types of visitors and levels. 

Finish your day with Pizza & Beers in Sullivan’s Taproom

Sullivans Tap Room and Brewery has an enormous outdoor beer garden and serves up some brilliant pizza and beer deals (pizza and a pint for 15 euro!). Sit back in their colourfully painted huts, enjoy the 90’s background music and contemplate all that you discovered about Kilkenny in your day.