"We were late down for breakfast but the girl obliged us with possibly the nicest breakfast I've ever received in a hotel/b&b."
ursula L from Ireland
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"Evening walk - within 500 meter there are almost all of the historical quarter."
Vladimir from Israel
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"The location was perfect, only about a five minute walk to Kilkenny Castle."
Brian from United States
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Dining
Rafter's Gastro Pub offers a daily menu from 9:30 am to 10:00 pm featuring local and craft beers, stouts, lagers, and ciders. The pub is renowned for its legendary brunch, highly recommended by Lucinda O'Sullivan, one of the best Gastro Pubs in Ireland. Guests can enjoy meals in a rooftop beer garden that includes a fully covered sunroof during colder months and is open to the skies in summer.
Accommodations
Rafter's Gastro Pub includes 14 ensuite bedrooms styled with attention to detail, providing a relaxing atmosphere. Most rooms are spacious doubles and twins, with some triple and family rooms available. Residents can enjoy late bar service with a night porter on duty.
Entertainment
As a leading sports venue, Rafter's Gastro Pub showcases all major sporting events, providing a thrilling experience on large screens with surround sound. The venue also features a private lounge that can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it suitable for various events. Cocktail-making classes are available, led by expert bar staff.
Location
Rafter's Gastro Pub is located just a 2-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle, placing guests in close proximity to local attractions. This city-centered pub provides easy access to Kilkenny's vibrant area for those seeking entertainment and local culture. The combination of leisure and convenience makes it an attractive choice for visitors.
Event Hosting
Rafter's Gastro Pub specializes in hosting various gatherings, including birthday celebrations, hens and stags, and corporate events. The pub can cater to outdoor pursuits such as golf and horse riding, allowing for customized experience packages. From food to decorations, the staff organizes all elements required for private parties.
Highlights
Location: 2 minutes walk from Kilkenny Castle
Accommodations: 14 Ensuite bedrooms
Dinning: legendary brunch
Entertainment: cocktail-making classes
“The central Kilkenny location makes this gastropub a practical base for exploring the city's historical attractions. I appreciate the blend of a traditional Irish pub atmosphere with modern amenities, particularly the rooftop terrace. Its interactive dining options and lively Saturday night music seem ideal for social gatherings.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Cheaphotels
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Select your room type
The hotel provides a selection of rooms—doubles, family rooms, and suites—with perks like free cancellation, breakfast options, and great value deals
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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Amenities & services
Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking
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
Black Abbey
8 minutes' walk
13th-century Dominican abbey known for stunning stained glass. Ideal for history lovers and photography enthusiasts.
St Marys Cathedral
8 minutes' walk
Beautiful medieval cathedral with remarkable architecture. Notable for its tranquil atmosphere and lovely gardens.
Medieval Mile Museum
4 minutes' walk
Museum showcasing Kilkenny's rich heritage. Features fascinating exhibits on the town's medieval history and culture.
Butler Gallery
5 minutes' walk
Contemporary art gallery featuring local and international artists. Regular exhibitions and events promote creative expression.
Nowlan Park
20 minutes' walk
Home to local sports teams, this park offers spacious grounds. Great for a stroll or picnic, and often hosts events.
Dunmore Cave
10 minutes' drive
Stunning natural cave systems that include fascinating rock formations. Guided tours provide insights into its history and geology.
Aroi
2 minutes' walk
Authentic Thai cuisine in a cozy setting. Signature dishes include Pad Thai and green curry, catering to various dietary needs.
Murphy's Ice Cream
3 minutes' walk
Local favorite for artisanal ice cream made from organic ingredients. Unique flavors include Irish Brown Bread and Dingle Sea Salt.
Supermac's & Papa John's
2 minutes' walk
Casual dining spot known for burgers and pizza. Quick service makes it ideal for families seeking a meal on the go.
Kilkenny Arts Office
4 minutes' walk
Cultural hub featuring art exhibitions and workshops. Hosts various events, perfect for art lovers and families.
Triskell Arts Centre
10 minutes' walk
Live music venue showcasing local talent. Atmosphere is relaxed, with regular events from jazz to traditional Irish music.
Getting around town
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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Check Rates
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
Reviews and Ratings
What past guests shared about their stay
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
Delicious breakfast
Excellent service
Comfortable bed
Central location
Cons
Room ventilation
Dated rooms
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
How far is The 'Rafter'S Gastropub from Kilkenny Castle?
The hotel is just a 1-minute walk from Kilkenny Castle.
What dining options are available at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
The hotel features an on-site restaurant serving traditional Irish cuisine with an a la carte menu using local produce.
What other restaurants are located near The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Nearby restaurants include Aroi, Truffle Fairy, Rafter Dempsey's, Zuni Restaurant & Bar, Petronella Restaurant & Cafe, Kyteler's Inn, and Truffles Restaurant and Wine Bar, all within 0.5 km.
What amenities are provided in the rooms at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Rooms include en suite shower rooms, flat-screen TVs, hair dryers, ironing equipment, and tea/coffee making facilities.
Is there free Wi-Fi at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is by 11:30.
What recreational activities are available at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
Guests can enjoy billiards, darts, and live music every Saturday featuring local bands.
What breakfast options are offered at The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
The hotel serves a complimentary traditional Irish breakfast for guests.
How close is The 'Rafter'S Gastropub to Kilkenny Train Station?
The hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from Kilkenny Train Station.
What unique features does The 'Rafter'S Gastropub offer?
The hotel features a rooftop terrace, an award-winning bar, and a cozy atmosphere with log fires.
What is the closest airport to The 'Rafter'S Gastropub?
The hotel is located approximately 60 km from Waterford Airport.