Rothe House & Garden
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Rothe House and Garden

4.6
·505 reviews·Kilkenny, Ireland

A beautifully restored 16th-century merchant's house and its enchanting walled garden, offering a peaceful escape in Kilkenny.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Rothe House & Garden

Rothe House and Garden

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully restored 16th-century merchant's house and its enchanting walled garden, offering a peaceful escape in Kilkenny.

4.6
(505 reviews)

"Rothe House & Garden is truly a secret garden in the middle of the city of Kilkenny, Ireland."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Explore the Garden First

Many visitors find the garden a highlight; start here to soak in the tranquility before the house tour. :seedling:

🎧 Use the Audio Tour

QR codes in each room offer an informative audio tour, great for self-paced exploration. :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Walled Garden

The Walled Garden

Rear of the house

A secret urban oasis with diverse plants, herbs, and fruit trees. A peaceful escape perfect for a picnic.

Reddit
Restored 16th-Century Merchant House

Restored 16th-Century Merchant House

Main building

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved home, showcasing merchant life from centuries ago.

Instagram
Herb and Vegetable Gardens

Herb and Vegetable Gardens

Within the walled garden

Discover historical planting methods and a vibrant array of seasonal produce and medicinal herbs.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

Beat the crowds by visiting during weekdays, especially in the morning or late afternoon. Weekends and holidays can get busier, so plan accordingly to fully enjoy the tranquility of this historic gem. Instagram

Embrace the Self-Guided Experience

While guided tours are fantastic, Rothe House offers QR codes for audio tours in each room, allowing you to explore at your own pace. This flexibility is perfect for those who prefer a more independent exploration of the house and its fascinating history. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Enjoy the garden's light
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Special events and music
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Thanks so much for your hospitality this evening Valerie - Rothe House & Garden is looking super. A great gathering of @visitkilkenny members and wonderful speakers @oconnellmarketing
medievalmilemuseum
19 likes • 722 views

🎯 Explore the Garden First

Many visitors find the garden a highlight; start here to soak in the tranquility before the house tour. Reddit :seedling:

🎧 Use the Audio Tour

QR codes in each room offer an informative audio tour, great for self-paced exploration. Reddit :iphone:

Another gorgeous day in #Kilkenny! And if you're looking for something to do, why not stop by Rothe House and Garden? From history to handbags, nature to necklaces, we've got what you're looking for! 🚶‍➡️Open today for tours until 4pm, with shop open until 6pm. 🛍 #visitkilkenny #thingstodoinkilkenny #supportlocal @visitkilkenny
rothe_house_garden
36 likes • 752 views
CULINARY TREASURE HUNT 🔎 CHILDREN'S FOOD AND HISTORICAL ART WORKSHOP 🎨🍽️ Saturday 26th October    11am 🕚 Rothe House, 16 Parliament St, R95 P89C 🏛️ €12 (+bk fee) 💶 Book Now! 📲 Using a culinary treasure map 🗺️, sleuth your way through Rothe House’s hidden garden 🌿 to uncover an ancient recipe for delicious sweet treats 🍬 ready to be gobbled up! Suitable for 8 to 14 year olds. 🎉 #savourkilk...
savourkilkenny
17 likes • 1.2K views

🧺 Picnic Potential

The garden is an ideal spot for a picnic lunch on a sunny day. Reddit :sandwich:

📅 Check for Events

Rothe House hosts workshops, music sessions, and festivals – check their schedule! Instagram+2 :calendar:

BTS here in @rothe_house_garden with @deric_tv and @irelandamvmtv !☘️ We are back on National TV this morning on Ireland AM with Deric Ó h’Artagáin from 8am to 9:30am in Rothe House & Garden!🇮🇪☘️Picture attached is from 2023 Ireland AM!☘️ For more information, visit www.kilkennytradest.com and www.stpatricksfestivalkilkenny.com #kilkennytradfest #bulmersmusictrail #tradfest #tradfest2024 #SPF2...
stpatricksfestivalkk
110 likes • 5.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore the Garden First

Many visitors find the garden a highlight; start here to soak in the tranquility before the house tour. Reddit :seedling:

🎧 Use the Audio Tour

QR codes in each room offer an informative audio tour, great for self-paced exploration. Reddit :iphone:

🧺 Picnic Potential

The garden is an ideal spot for a picnic lunch on a sunny day. Reddit :sandwich:

📅 Check for Events

Rothe House hosts workshops, music sessions, and festivals – check their schedule! Instagram+2 :calendar:

🛍️ Support Local Artisans

The gift shop features unique crafts from local designers and makers. Instagram+1 :gift:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(505 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Rothe House and Garden as a hidden gem in Kilkenny, particularly highlighting the beauty and tranquility of its walled garden. The restored house offers a fascinating glimpse into history, and the staff are noted for their warmth and helpfulness. While some may prefer a guided tour, the audio option is well-received. InstagramReddit

"Rothe house and garden is well worth a visit. The young woman welcoming guests in the shop was a delight and we received a warm welcome and helpful information. The garden is beautiful in all seasons but we particularly enjoyed all the fall colors and textures, the herbs especially, the yellow pippins, the dried artichokes, and the many beautiful dahlias."

Beth Newman

"Roth House and garden is truly a secret garden in the middle of the city of Kilkenny, Ireland. It’s a very old walled garden, but you’d never know it was there unless you looked for it. It is behind a wonderful old house. This man accumulated the land and built this wonderful garden years ago, in the back of his home. Now it is open for the public to see for a small fee. First, you must go for a self-guided tour through the house then you come to this amazing walled garden. It’s not like a huge estate garden where everything is trimmed and perfect. This is more like a wild garden where plants can be natural and grow as they would like to and fall over and get entangled. There’s mixtures of so many different kinds of plants. There are some beautiful, trimmed trees and hedges and vegetable gardens and fruit trees, apple trees, a grape Arbor. It’s perfect place for birds and insects to do their thing. I was lucky to discover it on a nice sunny day and there were a few other people around, but it’s a perfect place to go and have a picnic. Here are some pictures of the house,that lead you to the garden and several videos of walking through the garden. The garden is only as wide as the house 70 feet maybe but it goes back forever several hundred feet. There is a small gift shop at the front and I believe you can buy plants there as well. A peaceful and tranquil place to visit. 🌞🦋🌻"

Don B Leask

"The gardens are beautiful. Unfortunately we were not able to take a guided tour but there are QR codes in each room for an audio tour which tell the history of the house and lots of good signage so we were still able to enjoy it. The gardens are beautiful, and the signage there is great as well, telling you about what was planted and how it was used. The whole family enjoyed this stop."

Rebecca Howell

What People Like

Beautiful walled garden
Restored historic house
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Can be busy on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Rothe House and Garden is centrally located at 16 Parliament St, Kilkenny City. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already in the city center. For those arriving by car, there are several public car parks nearby, though they can be busy. Public transport options to Kilkenny are also available, with the house being a short walk from the bus and train stations. Instagram

Absolutely! Rothe House is right in the heart of Kilkenny city, making it very walkable from most accommodations and attractions. If you're visiting from further afield, the train and bus stations are within easy walking distance. Instagram

There are several car parks in Kilkenny city, including the Market Yard Car Park and Rose Inn Street Car Park, which are a short walk from Rothe House. Be aware that parking can be paid and may be limited during peak times. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Typically, the house and garden are open for tours until late afternoon, with the shop often staying open a bit longer. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit. Instagram

There is a small fee for entry, which grants you access to both the house and the garden. Prices are generally very reasonable, offering excellent value for the historical experience. Reddit

While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or for special events. This ensures you secure your spot and can often streamline your entry. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted for personal use in the house and garden, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or in certain exhibition areas. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended by visitors for their insightful commentary on the history of the house and its inhabitants. Alternatively, QR codes provide an audio tour for a self-guided experience. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Rothe House offers a glimpse into 16th-century merchant life with its restored house featuring original timber ceilings and period furnishings. The highlight for many is the extensive walled garden, a tranquil urban oasis with diverse plantings, herbs, and fruit trees. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The walled garden is frequently praised as a 'secret garden' and a beautiful escape within the city. It's meticulously maintained with a variety of plants, making it a delight for nature lovers and photographers alike. InstagramReddit

Rothe House is the only surviving example of an urban merchant's house from the 16th century in Ireland. It provides invaluable insight into the domestic and commercial life of the period. Instagram

Yes, Rothe House frequently hosts a variety of events, including traditional music sessions, craft workshops (like embroidery), and culinary workshops, especially during festival times. Instagram+2

Yes, there is a gift shop located at the front of the house. It offers a selection of unique crafts from local Irish designers and makers, making it a great place to find souvenirs. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Rothe House itself does not have a restaurant, but it is located in the heart of Kilkenny city, which offers a wide array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants just a short walk away. Instagram

The garden is a perfect spot for a picnic. Visitors often bring their own food to enjoy amidst the beautiful surroundings, making it a lovely, relaxed experience. Reddit

Given its central location, you'll find numerous options nearby. From traditional Irish pubs serving hearty meals to charming cafes offering lighter fare, Kilkenny city has something to suit every taste. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The walled garden offers numerous picturesque corners, especially with its diverse flora and charming pathways. The historic architecture of the house, including its timber ceilings, also provides excellent photographic opportunities. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is generally encouraged in the garden to capture its beauty. It's a popular spot for photographers looking for serene and historic backdrops. Instagram

While personal photography is usually allowed, it's advisable to check with staff regarding the use of tripods, especially during busy periods or for professional shoots, to ensure it doesn't obstruct other visitors. Instagram

The garden benefits from soft, natural light, making mornings and late afternoons ideal for capturing its charm. The interior of the house has a more subdued light, so consider using a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Rothe House and Garden offers a delightful experience for families. The garden is a wonderful place for children to explore and discover nature, and the 'Culinary Treasure Hunt' workshop is specifically designed to engage younger visitors with history and food in a fun, interactive way. Instagram

While the house provides historical context, the garden's open space and varied plants can capture a child's imagination. The audio tour via QR codes allows families to move at their own pace, ensuring everyone stays engaged. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the garden for a relaxed family outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

For solo travelers, Rothe House and Garden offers a peaceful and enriching experience. The self-guided audio tour allows you to immerse yourself in history at your own pace, without feeling rushed. Reddit

The tranquil garden is a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or enjoying a book. The central location in Kilkenny also makes it easy to combine with other city explorations, and the friendly staff at the gift shop are always happy to offer local tips. Instagram

🎨 Art and Craft Enthusiasts

Rothe House often showcases the work of local artists and makers in its gift shop, providing a curated selection of unique Irish crafts. Instagram+1 Keep an eye out for special exhibitions or craft fairs held on the premises. Instagram

Furthermore, the venue itself is a beautiful backdrop for artists. Photographers will find the garden and historic architecture incredibly inspiring, while those interested in textiles might enjoy embroidery workshops. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into 16th-Century Life

Rothe House is a remarkable survivor from the late 16th century, offering a unique window into the life of a prosperous merchant family in Kilkenny. Built in 1594, it's the only example of an urban merchant's house from this period still standing in Ireland. The house itself has been meticulously restored, allowing visitors to explore its rooms and appreciate the original timber ceilings and period details. Instagram

Walking through the house, you can almost imagine the daily routines of the Rothe family. The restoration efforts have focused on authenticity, providing a tangible connection to the past. This historical significance makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in Irish history and architecture. Reddit

The Enchanting Walled Garden

Often described as a 'secret garden,' the walled garden at Rothe House is a true urban sanctuary. It's not a formal, manicured estate garden, but rather a more naturalistic space where plants are encouraged to grow and intertwine. This creates a wonderfully organic and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. Reddit

The garden features a diverse array of plants, including a variety of herbs, fruit trees, and seasonal flowers. Visitors can learn about historical planting practices and the uses of different plants. It's a vibrant ecosystem that attracts birds and insects, adding to its charm. Many visitors find the garden to be the highlight of their visit, making it an ideal spot for a picnic. InstagramReddit

Community and Events at Rothe House

Rothe House is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant community hub. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of events, from traditional music sessions to art workshops and culinary classes. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the house and garden in a lively setting and connect with local culture. Instagram+2

For instance, the garden has been a venue for intimate music performances during festivals, offering a unique ambiance. Craft workshops, such as embroidery sessions, provide hands-on creative experiences for visitors. Checking their schedule is highly recommended to see what's happening during your visit, as these events often add an extra layer of enjoyment to the experience. Instagram

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