
Butler Gallery
A free-entry gallery in Kilkenny showcasing dynamic Irish & international contemporary art, with beautiful gardens and a charming cafe.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant market atmosphere

Butler Gallery
Best Time
Vibrant market atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free-entry gallery in Kilkenny showcasing dynamic Irish & international contemporary art, with beautiful gardens and a charming cafe.
"A Kilkenny gem and a must visit, with a beautiful exhibition and a really well-curated display."

🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy incredible art without spending a euro! The Butler Gallery is free for everyone. :moneywithwings:
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a coffee and cake at the Wild Flower Cafe. Their outdoor garden seating is a lovely bonus. :coffee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Constantly Changing Exhibitions
Main Gallery Spaces
Discover fresh perspectives with diverse modern art from Irish and international artists. Always something new to see!

Tranquil Gardens
Rear of the Gallery
Escape to a peaceful oasis with natural landscapes and serene views. A perfect spot for reflection.

Wild Flower Cafe
Gallery Premises
Savor delicious coffee, cakes, and savory treats in a charming setting with outdoor seating.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Priceless Art
Beyond the Canvas: Gardens & Cafe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy incredible art without spending a euro! The Butler Gallery is free for everyone. :moneywithwings:
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a coffee and cake at the Wild Flower Cafe. Their outdoor garden seating is a lovely bonus. :coffee:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and river views behind the gallery. Perfect for a relaxing stroll. :park:
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibitions change regularly. Visit their website to see what's on before you go! :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Gem
Enjoy incredible art without spending a euro! The Butler Gallery is free for everyone. :moneywithwings:
☕ Cafe Delights
Grab a coffee and cake at the Wild Flower Cafe. Their outdoor garden seating is a lovely bonus. :coffee:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the beautiful gardens and river views behind the gallery. Perfect for a relaxing stroll. :park:
📅 Check Exhibition Schedule
Exhibitions change regularly. Visit their website to see what's on before you go! :calendar:
🚗 Affordable Parking
Park at the Ormonde Street Car Park or Danes Store for easy access. Butler Gallery parking is very affordable. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Butler Gallery for its free admission, offering access to high-quality modern art exhibitions. The beautiful gardens and the charming Wild Flower Cafe are frequently highlighted as delightful additions, providing a peaceful escape and tasty refreshments. The gallery's central location and the friendly staff also contribute to a positive overall experience.
"Constantly changing exhibitions of the best of modern art, both Irish and International. There’s also a beautiful garden around the back and a great cafe.
And it’s totally free entry for everyone.
The Museum is in a perfectly restored heritage building right in the city centre of Kilkenny."
Lamber De Bie
"Wild Flower Cafe is part of Butler Gallery in Kilkenny, lovely spot for a coffee and cake, savory food also looked great, had a delicious coffee and coconut energy ball. Very nice staff and the cafe has a lovely out door garden, have been to events in the garden during the summer as part if the gallery and its a lovely space to sit take in the art and music."
Niamh Dalton
"Beautiful experience, the grounds are next to the river and some ruins and the collection is very peaceful with several natural landscapes. Moreover, it's free. The best price!"
Ines Pereira
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Butler Gallery is located in the heart of Kilkenny city centre, making it easily accessible on foot from most accommodations. If driving, the Ormonde Street Car Park or Danes Store car park are recommended for affordable parking within walking distance.
Yes, there are several parking options. The Ormonde Street Car Park and Danes Store car park are popular choices, offering affordable rates for the day.
Kilkenny city is well-served by bus routes. If arriving by bus, the gallery is a short walk from the main bus station in the city centre.
The gallery is housed in a restored heritage building. While efforts are made for accessibility, it's advisable to contact the gallery directly for specific details regarding wheelchair access to all areas.
Kilkenny is a very walkable city. Many attractions, including the Butler Gallery and Kilkenny Castle, are within easy walking distance of each other.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Butler Gallery offers free admission to all visitors, making it a fantastic cultural experience that won't cost you a thing.
Opening hours can vary depending on the season and special events. It's best to check the official Butler Gallery website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
As entry is free, advance booking is generally not required. However, for special events or performances, it's advisable to check if booking is necessary.
The gallery hosts a constantly changing program of exhibitions featuring both Irish and international artists. Check their website for current and upcoming shows.
While the gallery primarily showcases fine art, its free entry and the surrounding gardens can be enjoyable for families. Some exhibitions may be more engaging for older children.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
The Butler Gallery showcases a diverse range of modern and contemporary art, with a focus on both Irish and international artists. You can expect paintings, sculptures, and various other mediums.
Information on guided tours is not widely available, but the well-curated displays and clear pathways make self-guided exploration easy and enjoyable.
The gallery is located in Kilkenny city centre, close to Kilkenny Castle, the Medieval Mile, and various shops and restaurants. The gallery itself also features beautiful gardens.
Photography policies can vary per exhibition. It's best to look for signage within the gallery or ask a staff member if photography is permitted.
Information on Wi-Fi availability is not readily provided. It's recommended to have your own mobile data plan for connectivity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Wild Flower Cafe is part of the Butler Gallery. It's a popular spot for coffee, cake, and light savory meals, with lovely outdoor garden seating.
The cafe offers a selection of coffees, teas, cakes, and savory items. They are known for their delicious coffee and energy balls.
The Wild Flower Cafe has outdoor garden seating, making it a pleasant place to enjoy your food and drinks amidst the greenery.
Being in Kilkenny city centre, there are numerous restaurants, pubs, and cafes within a short walking distance of the gallery.
It's ideal for a quick snack, coffee, or cake, but also offers savory food options that can serve as a light meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The tranquil gardens offer beautiful natural light and serene backdrops. The art installations themselves often provide unique photographic subjects.
Photography rules can vary for each exhibition. Always check for signage or ask gallery staff before taking pictures of the artwork.
The surrounding Kilkenny city, with its medieval architecture and the River Nore, offers many picturesque locations for photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography in the gardens, creating a softer, more atmospheric feel.
Yes, the gallery has hosted photography-based initiatives and exhibitions, such as 'I Am Me – Not Just a Refugee'.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit with nearby attractions like Kilkenny Castle or exploring the Medieval Mile can create a more engaging experience for younger visitors. Look out for any family-friendly events or workshops the gallery might host, as these can offer interactive art activities.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the free-to-wander gardens and enjoying an affordable coffee or snack at the Wild Flower Cafe. For parking, the Danes Store or Ormonde Street Car Park offer budget-friendly options.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Take your time to absorb the nuances of each piece and consider attending any artist talks or lectures that might be scheduled. The gallery's commitment to modern and international art ensures a stimulating and thought-provoking experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of the Butler Gallery
Beyond its exhibition spaces, the gallery is committed to arts education and community engagement. They frequently host talks, workshops, and performances, enriching the visitor experience and fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts. This dedication to making art accessible and interactive is a key reason for its popularity among locals and tourists alike.
The Wild Flower Cafe within the gallery offers a delightful extension to the artistic experience. With its charming outdoor garden seating, it’s the perfect spot to relax and reflect on the art, enjoy a coffee, or savor a light meal. The cafe's ambiance complements the gallery's serene atmosphere, making the entire visit a holistic cultural immersion.
Exploring Kilkenny's Medieval Charm
Beyond the castle, Kilkenny boasts the Medieval Mile, a heritage trail that connects many of the city's most significant historical sites. This walkable route allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's rich past, discovering ancient churches, historic townhouses, and charming laneways. The city's compact nature makes it perfect for leisurely exploration on foot.
For those interested in even older history, the surrounding County Kilkenny is dotted with Neolithic sites like the Knockroe passage tomb, offering a journey back to prehistoric Ireland. This blend of medieval grandeur and ancient mysteries makes Kilkenny a destination that appeals to a wide range of history enthusiasts.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit