Kate Kearney's Cottage Killarney
A cozy, family-run pub and restaurant at the gateway to the Gap of Dunloe, offering traditional music, hearty food, and a warm welcome.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Kate Kearney's Cottage Killarney
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A cozy, family-run pub and restaurant at the gateway to the Gap of Dunloe, offering traditional music, hearty food, and a warm welcome.
"More than just a stop, it's the crackle of the fire, stories shared over pints, and music that makes you feel right at home."
🎯 Rent a Pony Trap
Consider a pony trap ride from Kate Kearney's for a classic Gap of Dunloe experience. It's worth the splurge!
🚶♀️ Walk the Gap
Enjoy a scenic walk from Kate Kearney's to the head of the Gap and back for great views and exercise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gap of Dunloe
Entrance at Kate Kearney's Cottage
A breathtaking glacial valley offering stunning mountain views and a memorable cycling or walking route.
Traditional Irish Music
Kate Kearney's Cottage Pub
Experience lively traditional music sessions that bring the cozy pub to life with authentic Irish charm.
Pony Trap Ride
Kate Kearney's Cottage
A classic way to experience the Gap of Dunloe, offering a unique and charming perspective of the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Gap of Dunloe Adventure
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rent a Pony Trap
Consider a pony trap ride from Kate Kearney's for a classic Gap of Dunloe experience. It's worth the splurge!
🚶♀️ Walk the Gap
Enjoy a scenic walk from Kate Kearney's to the head of the Gap and back for great views and exercise.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Don't miss the traditional Irish music sessions at the cottage for an authentic atmosphere.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Welcome
Bring your furry friends! Kate Kearney's is very welcoming to pets, making it a great family spot. [^review]
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rent a Pony Trap
Consider a pony trap ride from Kate Kearney's for a classic Gap of Dunloe experience. It's worth the splurge!
🚶♀️ Walk the Gap
Enjoy a scenic walk from Kate Kearney's to the head of the Gap and back for great views and exercise.
🎶 Enjoy Live Music
Don't miss the traditional Irish music sessions at the cottage for an authentic atmosphere.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Welcome
Bring your furry friends! Kate Kearney's is very welcoming to pets, making it a great family spot. [^review]
🚗 Avoid Driving Through
Driving in the Gap can be busy; consider walking, cycling, or pony traps instead.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Kate Kearney's Cottage, highlighting its authentic Irish charm, lively traditional music, and delicious food. The pet-friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff create a truly memorable experience, making it a must-visit spot at the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe. Some find the pony trap rides a bit pricey but ultimately worthwhile for the unique experience.
"We had an absolutely fantastic experience at Kate Kearney's Cottage! From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and vibrant.
One of the big highlights for us was how pet-friendly the establishment is. It's so refreshing to find a place that embraces our furry friends, making it a truly inclusive experience for the whole family.
The live music was incredible and really added to the authentic Irish charm of the cottage. It created a lively and enjoyable ambiance that made our evening truly memorable.
And let's talk about the food! I thoroughly enjoyed my meal; the lamb shank was cooked to perfection, tender and full of flavour, and the prawns were absolutely delicious, fresh and expertly prepared. The menu offered a great selection, and it was clear that quality, locally sourced ingredients were a priority.
Beyond the specific dishes, the staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, ensuring we had everything we needed. The location itself, nestled in the stunning scenery, is also a huge plus.
Kate Kearney's Cottage is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience. We can't recommend it enough for anyone looking for great food, fantastic live entertainment, and a genuinely warm, pet-friendly welcome in a beautiful setting. 100% recommended!"
Héctor Martín
"Authentic pub with a nice menu. Service is friendly and food came out quite quickly.
We enjoyed the lamb roast and the chipken and mushroom vor du volt. The sauce was perfect and the chicken tender.
There is nice outdoor seating as well as inside."
Virginia Huffman
"Great location just at thr end of a 7mile walk from Lord Brandon's Cottage to the Gap of Dunloe. Helpful staff, great selection of meals, toilets and other amenities. The staff are knowledgeable about the area and very helpful."
John Opabola
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kate Kearney's Cottage is located at the entrance to the Gap of Dunloe, about a 30-minute drive from Killarney town. You can drive, take a taxi, or join a guided tour that often includes transport.
While you can drive part of the way, the narrow, winding roads of the Gap of Dunloe are best experienced by walking, cycling, or taking a pony trap. Driving can be challenging and is not recommended for the full experience.
There is parking available at Kate Kearney's Cottage, which serves as a starting point for many visitors exploring the Gap of Dunloe. Arriving early is advisable, especially during peak season.
Yes, cycling is a very popular way to reach Kate Kearney's Cottage and explore the Gap of Dunloe. Many visitors rent bikes in Killarney or cycle as part of a larger loop.
While direct public buses to the very entrance of the Gap are limited, many tours from Killarney include transportation. Taxis are also readily available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to walk or cycle through the Gap of Dunloe itself. However, pony trap rides and boat tours have separate costs.
Kate Kearney's Cottage typically operates as a pub and restaurant, with hours varying seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times.
The cost of pony trap rides can vary, but it's generally recommended to 'suck it up and do it' for the experience. It's advisable to inquire directly at Kate Kearney's Cottage for current pricing.
Pony traps are usually available on a first-come, first-served basis at Kate Kearney's Cottage. There are typically many waiting, so booking in advance might not be necessary.
Killarney National Park is free to enter. You can explore its vast landscapes, including the Gap of Dunloe, without any admission charges.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kate Kearney's Cottage offers a cozy pub with traditional music, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and is the starting point for exploring the Gap of Dunloe via walking, cycling, or pony trap.
Many visitors recommend cycling or walking through the Gap of Dunloe for the best experience. Pony traps are also a popular and traditional option.
Yes, the Gap of Dunloe is family-friendly. While the full cycle loop can be long, walking a portion of the Gap or taking a pony trap is enjoyable for all ages. Kate Kearney's also has a kids' play area. [^review]
Expect dramatic glacial valleys, rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and winding roads. It's a truly picturesque and wild landscape.
Yes, Kate Kearney's Cottage provides amenities such as restrooms, which are very helpful for visitors before or after their adventures in the Gap of Dunloe. [^review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kate Kearney's Cottage serves traditional Irish pub fare with a focus on quality, locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include lamb shank and seafood. [^review]
Absolutely! It's the perfect spot to refuel after a walk or cycle through the Gap of Dunloe, offering hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere. [^review]
While specific vegetarian options aren't always detailed, traditional pubs often have a few choices. It's best to inquire with the staff upon arrival. [^review]
Yes, you can expect to enjoy a perfectly poured pint of Guinness at Kate Kearney's Cottage, a staple of any authentic Irish pub experience. [^review]
Yes, Kate Kearney's Cottage offers outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy your meal or drink with views of the surrounding stunning scenery. [^review]
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Gap of Dunloe is incredibly photogenic. Key spots include the winding roads, mountain vistas, lakes, and the iconic Wishing Bridge.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography in the Gap of Dunloe.
Yes, you can take photos from a pony trap, but it might be a bit more challenging to get steady shots. Consider asking your driver to pause briefly at scenic points.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for mountain details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. It's essential to check the latest regulations for Killarney National Park before flying a drone to avoid penalties.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers & Walkers
🚴 Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Gap of Dunloe: Beyond the Cottage
The walk from Kate Kearney's to the head of the Gap and back is approximately 7 miles, a rewarding journey for those seeking exercise and immersion in nature. Cyclists can tackle the entire loop, which often includes Moll's Gap and the scenic lakes of Killarney, making for a full day's adventure. For a truly classic experience, the pony trap provides a charming and relaxed way to absorb the scenery, with drivers often sharing local lore.
Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the scenery is the star. Expect dramatic vistas, the tranquil waters of the lakes, and the imposing presence of the surrounding mountains. It's a place where you can truly feel the wild heart of Ireland. Remember to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
The Heart of Hospitality: Kate Kearney's Cottage
The cottage serves as a vital hub for both locals and tourists. Whether you're a neighbor popping in for a meal or a traveler ending a long walk through the Gap of Dunloe, you're made to feel right at home. The friendly and attentive staff are knowledgeable about the area and eager to ensure you have a pleasant visit. [^review]
Beyond the welcoming ambiance, Kate Kearney's is also celebrated for its delicious food. The menu features hearty, traditional dishes made with quality ingredients, with highlights like perfectly cooked lamb shank and fresh seafood. It's the ideal place to relax, refuel, and soak in the genuine spirit of Irish culture after a day of exploring. [^review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit