24 Hours in Kilkenny

8:00 AM: Breakfast at Statham’s

Start your morning with Statham's award-winning breakfast, featuring freshly baked pastries, a hearty full Irish breakfast, and rich coffee. The warm atmosphere makes it ideal for both busy mornings and leisurely starts. Dive into the comforting flavors of scrambled eggs, Irish pork sausages, and waffles, or customize your plate to suit your preferences. Our family-friendly restaurant ensures that every guest is taken care of with the flexibility to modify dishes.

9:00 AM: Kilkenny Castle

Start your day with a visit to Kilkenny Castle, a symbol of Norman occupation and a remarkable example of medieval architecture. This stunning castle has stood majestically over the Nore River for over eight centuries, offering lush parklands and a detailed art collection inside. A guided tour will reveal the castle's fascinating history and magnificent restoration efforts. Just a 5-minute walk from Pembroke Kilkenny hotel, it’s an iconic start to your Kilkenny adventure. A must-see!

10:30 AM: Butler Gallery

Explore the Butler Gallery, one of Ireland's most vibrant contemporary art galleries. Located in the newly restored Evans’ Home, the gallery hosts an impressive collection of Irish and international visual arts. Take in the temporary exhibitions and the permanent collection, showcasing works that span both traditional and modern styles, providing insight into Ireland's rich artistic heritage.

12:00 PM: Lunch at Statham’s.

Statham’s – the in-house restaurant for Pembroke Kilkenny, is known for its modern Irish cuisine and laid-back vibe, offering a menu packed with local flavors. It's family-friendly too, and they're happy to tweak dishes to cater to different preferences, ensuring everyone gets something they'll love. With its warm atmosphere and top-quality food, it's the perfect place to enjoy a memorable meal while chatting and laughing with friends.

1:30 PM: St. Canice's Cathedral

After lunch, visit St. Canice's Cathedral. The site dates back to the 6th century and offers panoramic views of Kilkenny from its 30 metre high round tower—the oldest standing structure in the city. This is one of two cathedrals in Ireland with climbable towers and provides a unique experience. The cathedral's stained glass and architectural details are as spiritually uplifting as they are artistically significant.

2:30 PM: Medieval Mile Museum

Conclude your afternoon at the Medieval Mile Museum, which illustrates the lives of Kilkenny’s powerful patrons and brings to life over 800 years of history through high-tech displays and ancient artefacts. Housed in a 13th-century church, the museum is a short stroll from St. Canice's Cathedral and provides a deep dive into the city's past.

3:30 PM: Smithwick's Experience

Immerse yourself in the history of Ireland’s oldest brewery at the Smithwick's Experience. Located within an easy walk from Pembroke Kilkenny hotel, this interactive tour not only tells the tale of Kilkenny’s famous ale but also lets you taste the legacy—right where it all began.

5:00 PM: Evening Stroll and Local Events

Cap off your day with a leisurely stroll back to Pembroke Kilkenny hotel. On the way, you might catch live traditional Irish music sessions in local pubs, offering a spirited glimpse into Kilkenny’s lively cultural scene. Kilkenny is famous for its vibrant night life, especially during the summer months when the city comes alive with festivals and events.

7:00 PM: Dinner at Statham’s

As evening falls, Statham’s sets the scene for one of the best places to eat in Kilkenny. The chefs create stunning seafood, steak, and vegetarian dishes using the best local ingredients. Select from an extensive wine list to pair perfectly with your meal. Whether you've returned from a long day trip around Kilkenny, or have been hopping around on the various activities in Kilkenny town centre, the warm ambience and top-notch food makes it an unforgettable evening.

As your day concludes, the comfort of Pembroke awaits to provide a restful end to your adventurous exploration of Kilkenny. With its prime location in the heart of Kilkenny City, the Pembroke, is not just one of the best hotels in Kilkenny; it's your gateway to discovering the rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that this charming city has to offer. Enjoy your stay and make the most of everything Kilkenny has in store for you!