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Butler House and Gardens

4.6
·700 reviews·Kilkenny, Ireland

Historic dower house offering charming rooms, beautiful gardens, and delightful afternoon tea with Kilkenny Castle views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer evenings

Garden barbecues & live music

CrowdMedium
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Butler House & Gardens - Image 1

Butler House and Gardens

Best Time

Summer evenings

Garden barbecues & live music

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic dower house offering charming rooms, beautiful gardens, and delightful afternoon tea with Kilkenny Castle views.

4.6
(700 reviews)

"Possibly my favorite hotel stay ever. Our room was very large, afternoon tea was delightful, and the location was great."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Garden to Castle Path

Use the garden's back gate for a scenic, direct walk to Kilkenny Castle.

☕ Book Afternoon Tea

A must-do! Reserve your spot for the delightful afternoon tea experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Butler House Gardens

Butler House Gardens

Rear of Butler House

A beautiful walled garden offering a peaceful retreat and direct access to Kilkenny Castle.

Afternoon Tea Experience

Afternoon Tea Experience

Former stables of Kilkenny Castle

Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea in a historic setting, a romantic and memorable treat.

Kilkenny Castle Views

Kilkenny Castle Views

From Butler House rooms and gardens

Enjoy stunning views of Kilkenny Castle, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern comfort.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Gardens

Butler House Gardens offer a tranquil escape, perfect for a leisurely stroll or enjoying afternoon tea. Many visitors highlight the direct access from the gardens to Kilkenny Castle, making it a convenient and scenic route. InstagramReddit

Book Ahead for Tea

Afternoon tea at Butler House is a popular experience, often described as delightful and a highlight of visits. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your spot for this charming treat. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer evenings
Why
Garden barbecues & live music
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter garden strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Perfect for afternoon tea
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our June Chamber Chat with @carlowweather as part of our Sustainability Series, had a perfect forecast. Held in Butler House Gardens, a variety of Chamber members gathered to hear Alan speak on all things sustainability, weather, and gardening. #CarlowWeather #KilkennyChamber #ButlerGardens
kilkenny_chamber
54 likes • 2.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Garden to Castle Path

Use the garden's back gate for a scenic, direct walk to Kilkenny Castle. Reddit

☕ Book Afternoon Tea

A must-do! Reserve your spot for the delightful afternoon tea experience. Reddit

Saturday in Kilkenny 😺 @thelittlegreengrocer @kilkennycastleopw @officialkilkennydesign @ndcgallery @butlerhousekk @kilkennyartgallery @aroi_restaurants_1 @tynansbar @noininkilkenny #kilkennycity #kilkennyireland #kilkennycastle #butlerhouse #butlerhouseandgardens #kilkennyartgallery #nationaldesignandcraftgallery #kilkennydesign #tynansbridgehousebar #thelittlegreengrocer #aroikilkenny
orla_galligan_art
8 likes • 119 views
Please call 01953 423006 for details of Butler Gardens Wymondham. Immaculate two bedroom semi detached house with driveway parking and landscaped rear garden close to all the town’s amenities including supermarkets shops schools regular bus and rail services to Norwich & Cambridge easy access to the main A11 for those commuting to work by car #wymondham #norfolk #propertyforsale #moneyproperties ...
moneyproperties
11 likes • 1K views

🏰 Castle Views from Rooms

Request a room with a view of Kilkenny Castle for a truly special stay. Reddit

🎶 Summer Garden BBQs

Enjoy Friday evening barbecues with live music in the summer. Reddit

reddit.com

Best things for an American tourist coming here for two weeks who is not interested in the pub life or drink?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Garden to Castle Path

Use the garden's back gate for a scenic, direct walk to Kilkenny Castle. Reddit

☕ Book Afternoon Tea

A must-do! Reserve your spot for the delightful afternoon tea experience. Reddit

🏰 Castle Views from Rooms

Request a room with a view of Kilkenny Castle for a truly special stay. Reddit

🎶 Summer Garden BBQs

Enjoy Friday evening barbecues with live music in the summer. Reddit

🌟 Friendly Staff

Expect warm and helpful service from the reception and dining staff. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(700 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Butler House and Gardens is consistently praised as a gem in Kilkenny, lauded for its historic charm, beautiful gardens, and exceptional staff. Visitors rave about the comfortable rooms with castle views and the delightful afternoon tea experience. While most reviews are glowing, some might find the pricing for certain experiences to be on the higher side.

"We had a truly wonderful stay at the historic Butler House in Kilkenny.

Our room was beautifully decorated, incredibly comfortable, and offered a stunning view of Kilkenny Castle. It felt like the perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort.

The grounds were absolutely lovely, providing a peaceful setting and a picturesque walk that led straight to the entrance of the castle—making our visit there even more special.

A highlight of our stay was the warm and welcoming service. The lovely Nicola, who cheerfully served us drinks in the evening, was the same friendly face who greeted us at breakfast in the cozy dining room. Her kindness made our experience feel even more personal and memorable.

We would also love to highlight the wonderful service we received from Conor. We left a few things behind at the hotel he was able to locate them and send them off to our last destination in Dublin. THANK YOU CONOR!!

We wholeheartedly recommend staying at Butler House for anyone visiting Kilkenny. It’s a place full of beauty, history, and great service."

Virginia Huffman

"I never stayed at Butler House Hotel, it is a charming Dower House built in 1786, this is a four star hotel. It is a member of Ireland’s Blue Book. On Fridays, they have Summer in the Garden Barbecue, with live music. This looks like a great place to stay. They have a lovely walled garden in the back of this hotel. The receptionist was very kind at showing me around the hotel and I walked freely about their beautiful walled garden. They have a great outdoor seating area in their garden for eating and relaxing. If you’re at Kilkenny Castle and you walk directly across the street, you come to Kilkenny Castle Yard Craft and Design Experience. There is lots to see here, there are several craft studios and shops here and this used to be the stables for Kilkenny Castle. If you walk through this, you will come to the walled gardens at the back of Butler house. Walk through these gardens and you can enter the back of Butler house. It’s all in a straight line direct from Kilkenny Castle. If you walk in the back of Butler house and through it you find the front entrance of this fine hotel. If I was looking for a great hotel to stay at, I would stay here. The staff were very friendly and freely gave me information about their establishment. Please check it out."

Don B Leask

"Beautiful place. We stayed in one of the suites overlooking the garden and it was clean, cosy and warm. The staff couldn’t possibly do any more for you. The ladies at reception are so helpful and friendly. The breakfast was delicious and we couldn’t fit in anymore food if we tried. Location is great, everything is on the doorstep. Have already recommended to friends and family and will definitely be back again."

Ciara Price

What People Like

Historic charm
Beautiful gardens
Exceptional staff

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

It's incredibly convenient! From Kilkenny Castle, walk directly across the street to the Kilkenny Castle Yard Craft and Design Experience. Walk through the yard, and you'll find the walled gardens of Butler House. You can then enter Butler House from the back. Reddit

While specific parking details for Butler House itself aren't extensively mentioned, the proximity to Kilkenny Castle and the town center suggests public parking options are likely available nearby. Instagram

Yes, Butler House is centrally located. Its brilliant location means everything is on your doorstep, making it easily accessible on foot from the town center. Reddit

Kilkenny is well-connected by bus and rail services, making it accessible for day trips or longer stays. Instagram

The gardens offer a picturesque walk, and the house is accessible. Specific accessibility details for all areas should be confirmed directly with the venue. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While Butler House is a hotel, the gardens are often accessible for guests and visitors. It's recommended to check if a separate garden entry fee applies or if access is included with other experiences like afternoon tea. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for specific events like garden barbecues. It's best to check the official Butler House website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on garden access and hotel hours. Reddit

Pricing for afternoon tea can vary. Visitors have described it as delightful and a highlight, suggesting it's a worthwhile experience. It's advisable to check their website or call for current pricing. Reddit

Yes, you can visit Butler House for experiences like afternoon tea or to explore the gardens. The staff are also known to be friendly and may offer tours or information about the establishment. Reddit

Butler House hosts events like 'Summer in the Garden Barbecue' on Fridays, often with live music, making it a great place to visit during the summer months. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy a peaceful walk through the beautiful walled gardens, experience a delightful afternoon tea, or simply relax in the outdoor seating area. The gardens also provide a direct link to Kilkenny Castle. Reddit

Guests consistently praise the rooms for being beautifully decorated, incredibly comfortable, clean, cozy, and warm, often with stunning views. Some rooms are described as huge, with comfortable four-poster beds. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as historic, charming, romantic, and peaceful. It offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, with a warm and welcoming service. Reddit

Absolutely! The romantic setting, beautiful gardens, and delightful afternoon tea make it a perfect choice for couples. Reddit

The staff are frequently highlighted for their warm, friendly, helpful, and cheerful service. They go above and beyond, making guests feel welcome and their experiences personal. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Butler House offers breakfast in a cozy dining room and is renowned for its delightful afternoon tea, served in the former stables. They also host summer garden barbecues with live music on Fridays. Reddit

Breakfast is a highlight for many guests, described as delicious and plentiful. It's typically included for overnight stays. Reddit

Yes, guests mention being served drinks in the evening, and there's an outdoor seating area in the garden perfect for relaxing with a beverage. Reddit

Dietary options for afternoon tea should be confirmed directly with Butler House when booking. They are known for accommodating guests and providing a delightful experience. Reddit

The summer garden barbecues offer a lively atmosphere with live music and food, though specific menu details are best confirmed with the venue. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The walled gardens themselves are incredibly picturesque, especially with the ivy-covered mansion. Views of Kilkenny Castle from the gardens and certain rooms also make for stunning shots. InstagramReddit

The romantic ambiance, beautiful gardens, and historic architecture of Butler House and its proximity to Kilkenny Castle make it a very appealing location for romantic photoshoots. Instagram

Visitors are welcome to explore the hotel and gardens. While interior photos of guest rooms are personal, common areas and the gardens are generally great for photography. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset will offer the most flattering light for the gardens and the historic architecture. Midday can be bright, but the gardens offer shade. Instagram

For personal photography, there are generally no issues. For commercial or professional shoots, it's always best to contact Butler House directly to inquire about any specific policies or fees. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Butler House and Gardens can be a lovely stop for families, especially with its direct access to Kilkenny Castle. The gardens offer a safe and pleasant space for children to explore and burn off energy. Reddit The proximity to the castle means you can easily combine a visit to the gardens with exploring the historic fortress, providing a full day of engaging activities. Reddit

While afternoon tea might be more suited for older children or as a special treat, the general atmosphere of Butler House is welcoming. Consider a visit to the gardens as a peaceful interlude during a busy day of sightseeing in Kilkenny. The friendly staff are also a bonus, making any family feel at ease. Reddit

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Butler House is an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape. The historic charm of the dower house, combined with the beautiful walled gardens, creates an inherently romantic ambiance. Reddit Many rooms offer stunning views of Kilkenny Castle, adding to the picturesque setting. Reddit

The highlight for many couples is the delightful afternoon tea, served in the unique setting of the castle's former stables. Reddit Enjoying a leisurely afternoon tea together, followed by a stroll through the tranquil gardens, makes for a perfect romantic experience. The warm and attentive service further enhances the feeling of being pampered and special. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Solo travelers will find Butler House and Gardens to be a welcoming and safe haven. The peaceful gardens offer a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or enjoying a good book. Reddit The friendly and helpful staff ensure you feel comfortable and well-looked after, even when traveling alone. Reddit

Enjoying afternoon tea can be a lovely solo indulgence, and the convenient location means you can easily explore Kilkenny city and its attractions at your own pace. The direct access to Kilkenny Castle from the gardens is a significant advantage for solo exploration. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Butler House Gardens

Butler House Gardens are a significant draw, offering a serene escape from the bustle of Kilkenny city. Described as a beautiful walled garden, it provides a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll or simply to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Reddit The gardens are not just aesthetically pleasing; they serve a practical purpose for many visitors by offering a direct and scenic pathway to Kilkenny Castle. This seamless connection makes exploring both attractions incredibly convenient and enjoyable. Reddit

During the summer months, the gardens transform further with 'Summer in the Garden Barbecue' events held on Fridays, often accompanied by live music. Reddit This adds a vibrant, social dimension to the tranquil space, making it a perfect spot to enjoy an evening. The outdoor seating area in the garden is also highlighted as a great place for eating and relaxing, further enhancing its appeal as a destination in itself. Instagram

An Unforgettable Afternoon Tea

The afternoon tea experience at Butler House is consistently lauded as a highlight by visitors. Served in the historic setting of the former stables of Kilkenny Castle, it offers a delightful and romantic treat. Reddit Guests describe it as a truly wonderful experience, blending the charm of the historic venue with the pleasure of a well-prepared tea. Reddit

While specific details about the tea's contents are not always elaborated upon, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it as a must-do activity. Reddit It's advisable to book this popular experience in advance to ensure you can partake in this quintessential part of a visit to Butler House. The combination of the charming location and the delightful fare makes it a memorable occasion for couples and individuals alike. Reddit

The Heart of Hospitality: Butler House Staff

A recurring theme in reviews of Butler House is the exceptional quality of the staff. Visitors consistently praise the team for their warm, friendly, helpful, and cheerful service, noting that they 'couldn’t possibly do any more for you.' Reddit This dedication to guest satisfaction creates a personal and memorable experience. Reddit

Specific mentions include Nicola, who cheerfully served drinks and greeted guests at breakfast, and Conor, who went above and beyond to locate and send left-behind items. Reddit This level of attentiveness and kindness is what elevates a stay from good to outstanding. The staff's willingness to share information freely about the establishment also contributes to a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel valued and well-cared for throughout their visit. Reddit

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