Welcome to the heart of Kilkenny City! The Kilkenny Design Centre Store & Restaurant, located across from the historic castle, is your gateway to the very best of Irish artistry. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity as you explore our store, featuring the exceptional work of Kilkenny Makers like Castle Arch Pottery, the exquisite jewellery from K Kajoux Jewellery and the artistic pottery of Nicholas Mosse, to name but a few. After a day of shopping, enjoy a delightful meal upstairs at our restaurant, making your visit a complete experience in the heart of Kilkenny City.

Kilkenny is a richly historic place with a warm welcome and the promise of an unrivalled experience that resonates long after you leave. Stop by Kilkenny’s famous Medieval Mile. As Ireland’s best preserved medieval city, the mile captures 800 years of history and hosts renowned and hidden gems, from the magnificent Castle to the enchanting Rothe Gardens to St. Canice’s round tower which at 30m is one of only three climbable towers in Ireland. This is a city shrouded in tales of superstition and subterfuge. An absolute must is a visit to the award winning Medieval Mile Museum, formerly the 13th century St Mary’s Church, where history is brought to life through multimedia interactive displays to intrigue all ages. Unearth 800 years of history under one roof and hear the stories of powerful patrons and inspired creators.

A 12th century castle, a bustling crafts and design scene, time-honoured traditional pubs, cobbled lanes and secret alleys – the medieval city of Kilkenny mixes small-town charm and big-city buzz to perfection. Set within Ireland’s Ancient East and just 90 minutes from Dublin, the "Marble City" (so known for the many buildings built with local Kilkenny marble) packed with colourful characters, amazing music and an electric atmosphere. By day, you can pile on the culture with medieval showpieces such as Rothe House, Black Abbey, and the Medieval Mile Museum. Sip on Ireland's oldest ale on a guided tour at Smithwicks brewery, or admire the design exhibitions at Kilkenny Design Centre or Kilkenny Art Gallery. After dark Kilkenny amps things up with cracking trad music sessions, historic pubs and some of the best festivals on the island.