The 'Rafter'S Gastropub – A Favorite for Families in Kilkenny
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Key details
About the Hotel
Friary Street,
Kilkenny,
Ireland,
Kilkenny County
-
Close to the city center
Very good
7.8
8.3
/10
3.5
4.0
/5
Loved by The 'Rafter'S Gastropub Hotel guests
Cozy atmosphere
Cute demeanor
Delicious food
Awesome location
"The steak was amazing, served on a hot stone and the breakfast was superb."
Debra from United Kingdom
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"We were given our own area out the back and the food was delicious."
Steve F from Ireland
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"After dinner, we had a drink at the pub and there was live music; it only played until 9:30, so it didn't keep us from sleeping!"
Brian
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Rooms & Amenities
The Rafter's Gastropub offers 16 rooms with en suite shower rooms, TVs, and ironing facilities. Rooms include complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Some units have city views. Complimentary tea and coffee are available on request. Rooms range from doubles and twins to triples and family-sized accommodations.
Dining Options
The onsite restaurant serves traditional Irish breakfasts and an à la carte menu featuring local produce. Dishes include Angus striploin steak with hand-cut chips and smoked bacon with red pepper relish. The bar offers craft beers, stouts, lagers, and cocktails. Live music plays every Saturday.
Leisure & Entertainment
Guests can play billiards and darts, or watch sports on large screens in the rooftop beer garden. The pub hosts private parties, cocktail-making classes, and outdoor activities like go-karting and paintball. A common area includes a TV and barbecue grills.
Location & Transport
The Rafter's Gastropub is a 1-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle and less than 10 minutes from Kilkenny Train Station. Nearby landmarks include Rothe House (300 meters), Black Abbey (500 meters), and St. Canice's Cathedral (1 km). Waterford is 60 km away.
Services & Events
The pub provides luggage storage, laundry facilities, and complimentary newspapers. Private events can be hosted in the function room for up to 100 guests. Services include cocktail training, outdoor catering, and tailored packages for stag and hen parties.
“In my opinion, the 'Rafter'S Gastropub lands as a superb spot for those wanting to dive into Kilkenny's lively atmosphere. Its central location is great for exploring, but the real draw is the blend of traditional Irish pub vibes with a modern twist, especially the rooftop terrace. The pub's commitment to local produce and live music every Saturday, in my opinion, makes it a must-visit for an authentic experience.”
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels
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Choose from a variety of room types
Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included
Family Room
4 persons
175 sq. feet
3 Single beds
Shower
Heating
room details
Double Room
2 persons
1 Double bed
Triple Room
2 persons
2 Single beds
Double or Twin Room
2 persons
1 Single Bed or 1 Double Bed
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Facilities
Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities:
Very good
7.5/10Review score
General
No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Parking
No pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Coffee shop
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access
Sports & Fitness
Cycling
Golf course
Billiard tables
Services
Room service
Housekeeping
Welcome drink
Dining
In-room breakfast
Snack bar
Bar/ Lounge area
Special diet menus
Business
Fax/Photocopying
Children
Cots
Children's menu
Game room
Spa & Leisure
Entertainment
Sun terrace
Garden area
Leisure/ TV room
Room features
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities
Bathroom
Free toiletries
Media
Flat-screen TV
Room decor
Carpeted floor
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The 'Rafter'S Gastropub Hotel Location
Friary Street,
Kilkenny,
Ireland,
Kilkenny County
Map view
Friary Street,
Kilkenny,
Ireland,
Kilkenny County
City landmarks
Church
St Canices Cathedral and Round Tower
4200 ft
Church
Black Abbey
2200 ft
Church
St Marys Cathedral
2200 ft
Landmark
Nowlan Park
1.0
mi
Landmark
Maudlin Castle
2600 ft
Mall
MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre
1.0
mi
Nearby
Museum
Medieval Mile Museum
1000 ft
Museum
Rothe House and Garden
1000 ft
The Tholsel High Street
Town Hall
1000 ft
Church
Saint John's Priory
1500 ft
Gallery
Butler Gallery
1000 ft
31 Rose Inn St
Butter Slip
1000 ft
Public Building
Kilkenny Old Jail and Courthouse
1200 ft
cnr Ormonde Rd & New St
Talbot's Tower
1200 ft
Gallery
The Blackbird Gallery
1300 ft
Church
O'Loughlin Memorial Church of St John the Evangelist
1900 ft
Church
Capuchin Friary Catholic Church
300 ft
Church
St Francis Abbey
1800 ft
Library
Kilkenny City Library
1200 ft
29 Rose Inn St
The Kilkenny Way
700 ft
Collegepark
Kilkenny Castle Rose Garden
800 ft
Gallery
The Kilkenny Art Gallery
700 ft
Gallery
National Design & Craft Gallery
1000 ft
5 John Street Lower
Kilkenny Whiskey Guild
1000 ft
Event hall
The Parade Tower Wing
1100 ft
40 Parliament St
Riverboat Casino & Poker Club
1400 ft
The Black Abbey 12 Abbey Street Near Black Abbey
Black Freren Gate
1500 ft
Church
St. John's Church of Ireland
1500 ft
7-91 Maudlin St
Corner Tower
1700 ft
Public Building
County Council Grounds
1800 ft
Restaurants
Aroi
500 ft
Friary Street
Murphy's Ice Cream
600 ft
16 Rose Inn Street
Supermac's & Papa John's
500 ft
24 High Street
Ladi's Chimney Cakes
500 ft
Unit 34
Kafe Katz
600 ft
3 Ormonde Street
Kilkenny Cafe
500 ft
The Square Market Cross Kilkenny Post Office 73 High Street
Abrakebabra
800 ft
8 Rose Inn Street
The Playwright
1100 ft
Browne's 65 High Street
The House Of Pretzels
1300 ft
Level 2
Explore Kilkenny
Local Highlights
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Medieval Mile Museum
4 minutes' walk
A museum showcasing Kilkenny's rich medieval heritage through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Black Abbey
8 minutes' walk
An iconic 12th-century abbey known for its stunning stained glass windows and tranquil atmosphere.
St Marys Cathedral
8 minutes' walk
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture featuring beautiful stonework and a serene interior.
Rothe House and Garden
4 minutes' walk
A historic house offering guided tours, beautiful gardens, and insights into Kilkenny's history.
Nowlan Park
20 minutes' walk
Home to local sporting events, this park is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic in a natural setting.
Dunmore Cave
5-minute drive
A thrilling adventure awaits at this cave system, featuring guided tours to explore its stunning geological formations.
Aroi
2 minutes' walk
A vibrant eatery serving authentic Asian cuisine with fresh ingredients and a welcoming ambiance.
Murphy's Ice Cream
3 minutes' walk
Locally sourced ice cream in unique flavors, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a day of exploring.
Kafe Katz
3 minutes' walk
A cozy cafe known for its hearty breakfasts and great coffee, ideal for casual dining with friends or family.
The Watergate Theatre
10 minutes' walk
A vibrant venue hosting diverse performances including theater, music, and dance, offering entertainment for all ages.
Kyteler's Inn
10 minutes' walk
A historic pub with live music nights and traditional Irish culture, perfect for a lively evening out.
Tips on navigating the city
City Centre
Kilkenny6 min
·
1700 ft
Airports
Waterford Airport (WAT)85 min
·
34.9
mi
Train
Kilkenny Railway Station10 min
·
2700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:00
Check-out
from 10:00-11:00
Guest Parking
Paid Public parking is possible at a location nearby.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Children & extra beds
Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
14
Family-focused reviews and ratings
Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.
Review score
Based on 428 verified reviews
7.8/10
Very good
81%
Recommend
Breakfast
8.0/10
Cleanliness
7.9/10
Comfort
7.8/10
Facilities
7.5/10
Free Wi-Fi
6.7/10
Location
9.4/10
Paid Wi-Fi
6.4/10
Staff
8.9/10
Value for money
7.6/10
Pros
Central location
Friendly staff
Excellent food
Plentiful breakfast
Rooftop courtyard
Cons
Small room
Poor water pressure
Dirty bathroom
Guest reviews
based on 1051 reviews
7.8/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About The 'Rafter'S Gastropub
What are the check-in and check-out times at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Check-in time is at 15:00 and check-out time is at 11:30.
How far is The 'Rafter'S Gastropub from Kilkenny Castle?
The hotel is located just a 1-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle.
What nearby restaurants can guests find close to The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Nearby restaurants include Aroi, Truffle Fairy, Rafter Dempsey's, Zuni Restaurant & Bar, and Petronella Restaurant & Cafe, all within 0.5 km.
Does The 'Rafter'S Gastropub offer free breakfast?
Guests can enjoy a complimentary full traditional Irish breakfast each morning.
What amenities are available in the rooms at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Rooms feature en suite shower rooms, flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Is Wi-Fi available at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What on-site dining options does The 'Rafter'S Gastropub provide?
The hotel has an on-site restaurant serving an a la carte menu using the finest local produce.
What recreational activities are offered at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Guests can enjoy billiards, darts, and access to a games room.
Which landmarks are within walking distance from The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
The hotel is within walking distance of the National Design & Craft Gallery and Butler Gallery, both less than 1 km away.
What time does live music take place at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Live music featuring local bands occurs every Saturday evening.
Does The 'Rafter'S Gastropub have any special facilities for events?
A private lounge is available for hosting events and gatherings.
What languages are spoken by staff at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?