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The 'Rafter'S Gastropub Hotel Kilkenny Exterior photoThe 'Rafter'S Gastropub Hotel Kilkenny Exterior photoThe 'Rafter'S Gastropub Hotel Kilkenny Exterior photo

The 'Rafter'S Gastropub – A Favorite for Families in Kilkenny

•
7.9|Very good
Check rooms and rates
From$131 /nightOnly on Our Website-10%
Check-in
14Nov
Check-out
15Nov
Guests
2 Guests
Key details

About the Hotel

Friary Street, Kilkenny
-
Close to the city center
Very good
7.9
8.3
/10
3.5
4.0
/5

3-star gastro pub in Kilkenny City Centre, a 1-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle

Dining & Drink

The Rafter's Gastropub serves traditional Irish food that uses the finest local produce, with a lunchtime menu and an a la carte evening menu. The bar offers an extensive range of drinks including a wine list and cocktail menu, plus a daily changing food menu for interactive dining. A full traditional Irish breakfast is included for each overnight guest, served in the pub each morning.

Entertainment & Activities

Live music takes place every Saturday night with local bands performing in the pub. Guests can play billiards and darts, watch live sports on big screens, and enjoy the engaging evening ambiance. The bar also hosts a pool table and dart board for recreation, and a shared lounge/TV area is available for guests.

Rooftop Terrace

The property has a rooftop beer garden that includes a fully covered sunroof, providing outdoor seating for guests. This terrace offers a unique vantage point in the city centre, accessible to both diners and overnight guests. Furniture on the sun terrace and outdoor area allows for casual relaxation above the pub.

Events & Group Bookings

The Rafter's Gastropub provides private events catering with dedicated planning from the staff, including a private lounge for hosting gatherings. Group bookings for stags, hens, and family celebrations are accommodated, with finger food and reserved areas available. The owner Gerry and staff coordinate directly with groups to manage changing numbers and special requests.

Location & Accommodations

The hotel sits in the centre of Kilkenny, a 1-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, with local shops, restaurants, and bars in the immediate vicinity. Kilkenny Train Station is less than a 10-minute walk away, and paid parking is available on nearby streets for about €5 per day. Rooms have en suite shower rooms, TVs, and hairdryers, plus free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Highlights

Location: 1-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle

Dining: Daily changing menu with local produce

Entertainment: Live music every Saturday & billiards

Rooftop: Beer garden with covered sunroof

Events: Private catering and lounge for groups

“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.”
Hotel logo
Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

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
    1 Double bed and 3 Single beds
    Heating
    Shower
  • Double Room
    2 persons
    1 Double bed
  • Triple Room
    2 persons
    1 Double bed and 2 Single beds
Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

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Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones
Facilities: Very good
7.6/10Review 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
Show more

The 'Rafter'S Gastropub Location

Friary Street, Kilkenny
Map view
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
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
Medieval Mile Museum
4 minutes' walk
A museum showcasing Kilkenny's rich medieval heritage through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
Black Abbey
Black Abbey
8 minutes' walk
An iconic 12th-century abbey known for its stunning stained glass windows and tranquil atmosphere.
St Marys Cathedral
St Marys Cathedral
8 minutes' walk
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture featuring beautiful stonework and a serene interior.
Rothe House and Garden
Rothe House and Garden
4 minutes' walk
A historic house offering guided tours, beautiful gardens, and insights into Kilkenny's history.
Nowlan Park
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
Aroi
2 minutes' walk
A vibrant eatery serving authentic Asian cuisine with fresh ingredients and a welcoming ambiance.
Murphy's Ice Cream
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
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
    Kilkenny 6 min  ·  1700 ft
  • Airports
    Waterford (WAT) 85 min  ·  34.9 mi
  • Train
    Kilkenny Railway Station 10 min  ·  2700 ft
Get access to exclusive early booking discounts for your family’s upcoming getaway
Book now and enjoy exclusive rates on your family vacation!
Check Rates
Property information and rules
Check-in
from 15:00-23:00
Check-out
from 10:00-11:00
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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.
Cleanliness
8.1/10
Comfort
8.0/10
Facilities
7.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
8.4/10
Location
9.5/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Central location
Friendly staff
Excellent food
Plentiful breakfast
Rooftop courtyard
Cons
Small room
Poor water pressure
Dirty bathroom
Guest reviews
based on 775 reviews
7.9/10
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.
Open reviews
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 mi.
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 0.5 mi 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?
Staff at the hotel primarily speak English.

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