Kilford Arms Hotel Kilkenny Kitchen photo

Kilford Arms Hotel Kilkenny Exterior photo

Key details

About the Hotel

John Street, Kilkenny, .

Close to all major tourist attractions

Great

8.1

8.3

/10

3.7

4.1

"The pub attached to the hotel, O'Faolain's, is built from the ruins of an old church so an interesting place to stop for a drink."

gmrgill from Ireland

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"This hotel is has the feeling of being in a castle, but is located right along a main street in Kilkenny with easy walking to dining, pubs, and shopping, as well as the Kilkenny Castle."

Katherine from United States

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"Really enjoyed watching the Ireland World Cup Rugby Game in the restaurant/pub."

Hooks from United States

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3-star family-run hotel in Kilkenny City Centre

Location

Kilford Arms Hotel is located in Kilkenny City Centre, adjacent to major tourist attractions. The hotel is a short distance from the main bus and railway station, providing easy access to public transport. Guests can explore the new McDonagh shopping centre located just meters away.

Accommodation

The hotel offers 70 bedrooms, including double, twin, triple, quad, and family room options. Each room is equipped to high standards, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests. Non-smoking policies are in place throughout the property.

Dining

Kilford Arms Hotel features two bars, including O'Faolain's, which serves food from 12am to 21.00 daily. Guests can enjoy a selection of dishes ranging from light snacks to substantial meals in a historic setting. PV's Bar offers lunch and bar snacks for lighter dining options.

Entertainment

The hotel provides entertainment options most nights, offering guests a chance to enjoy various performances. Visitors can relax in a lively atmosphere while dining or enjoying a drink. The prime location makes it easy to access local entertainment venues as well.

Packages

Kilford Arms offers Race and Stay Packages in partnership with Gowran Park starting from 65pp sharing. Guests can enjoy complimentary car parking, bed and breakfast, and entrance to the races at Gowran Park. Additional packages include race cards and complimentary bus services for added convenience.

Highlights

Location: Kilkenny City Centre, adjacent to major tourist attractions

Accommodation: 70 bedrooms, family room options available

Dining: O'Faolain's serves food from 12am to 21.00 daily

Packages: Race and Stay Packages starting from 65pp sharing

Location: Perfect

9.3/10Review score

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingStress-Free Arrival

On-site parking was free and super convenient. It made exploring the city centre so easy.

Brian from United States

Review on

DiningFantastic Food!

The bar food was tasty and very reasonably priced. I especially liked the wide selection of meals!

Mei from China

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Room FeaturesTotally Renovated!

The room was completely renovated and even better than the pictures. Very clean and comfortable.

Alessio from Italy

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Media & EntertainmentTech-Friendly Rooms

The TV had Netflix, Youtube, and Amazon Prime preinstalled. The Wi-Fi connection was also very reliable.

Rajesh from India

Review on

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

Single Room
2 persons
155 sq. feet
1 Single bed
Heating
Shower
room details
Double Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet
1 Double bed
Bathtub
Heating
room details
Twin Room
2 persons
165 sq. feet
2 Single beds
Bathtub
Heating
room details

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Room rates & availability calendar

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Amenities & services

Real traveler stories and honest reviews—no glossy ads, just authentic feedback to guide your booking

Facilities: Great

8.1/10Review score

General

Non-smoking rooms
Wi-Fi
Parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
No pets allowed
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Lift
ATM/Cash machine
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Electric vehicle charging station
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Golf course
Billiard tables
Darts

Services

Room service
Welcome drink

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's menu
Game room

Spa & Leisure

Live entertainment
Night club
Sun terrace

Room features

Heating
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Electric kettle

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

Kilford Arms presents delightful dining experiences that celebrate the warmth of Irish cuisine. From the inviting atmosphere of the White Oak Restaurant to the unique setting of O'Faolain's, guests are treated to a variety of savory dishes crafted from local ingredients, complemented by the vibrant social scene of Kilkenny.

Kilford Arms Hotel Kilkenny Restaurant photo

White Oak Restaurant

Traditional Irish

Ambiance

Charming and cozy setting, perfect for family gatherings or intimate dinners.

Key Offerings

Renowned for its hearty Irish dishes, utilizing fresh local produce, the restaurant welcomes guests for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Reservation

Recommended

Open daily from 07:00 - 22:00.

O'Faolain's

Casual pub fare

Ambiance

Situated within an old ruined church, offering a unique blend of history and dining.

Key Offerings

A diverse menu ranging from light snacks to hearty meals, perfect for a casual dining experience surrounded by architectural charm.

Reservation

Not needed

Hours vary; typical service includes lunch and dinner.

PV's Bar

Quick bites and casual drinks

Ambiance

Relaxed bar setting, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Key Offerings

Daily lunch options and bar snacks that pair beautifully with a range of refreshing beverages, offering a laid-back atmosphere for guests.

Reservation

Not needed

Open from morning until late evening.

Kilford Arms Location

John Street, Kilkenny, .

Map view

City landmarks

Church

St Canices Cathedral and Round Tower

3200 ft

Museum

Rothe House and Garden

2300 ft

Church

Black Abbey

3300 ft

Church

St Marys Cathedral

3000 ft

Landmark

Nowlan Park

2700 ft

Church

O'Loughlin Memorial Church of St John the Evangelist

2300 ft

Landmark

Talbot's Tower

2300 ft

Church

Capuchin Friary Catholic Church

2300 ft

Landmark

Dunmore Cave

5000 ft

Nearby

Museum

Medieval Mile Museum

1600 ft

Church

Saint John's Priory

400 ft

The Tholsel High Street

Town Hall

1900 ft

Gallery

Butler Gallery

1500 ft

31 Rose Inn St

Butter Slip

1700 ft

Public Building

Kilkenny Old Jail and Courthouse

1600 ft

Gallery

The Blackbird Gallery

1600 ft

Church

St Francis Abbey

1500 ft

30 Maudlin Street Highhays

Maudlin Castle

900 ft

Library

Kilkenny City Library

700 ft

Mall

MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre

800 ft

Church

St. John's Church of Ireland

400 ft

7-91 Maudlin St

Corner Tower

500 ft

5 John Street Lower

Kilkenny Whiskey Guild

900 ft

MacDonagh Junction

Kilkenny Famine Experience

800 ft

Public Building

County Council Grounds

900 ft

Restaurants

Apache pizza

100 ft

31 John Street Upper

The Blue Door Takeaway

100 ft

59 John Street Upper

Nore

400 ft

43C John Street

Roma Cafe

300 ft

65 John Street Lower

Algarve Grill

1000 ft

Hebron Road

Stoney Kebabish

1200 ft

Restaurant

Blaa Blaa Blaa Sandwiches

1100 ft

3 Canal Square

The Playwright

2200 ft

Browne's 65 High Street

Gourmet Store

2200 ft

High Street Mall 56 High Street

Aroi

2300 ft

Friary Street

Abrakebabra

1600 ft

8 Rose Inn Street

Face2

2200 ft

76 St Kierans Street

Explore Kilkenny

Explore Kilkenny's Charm

St Canices Cathedral and Round Tower

12 minutes' walk

Stunning medieval architecture and panoramic views from the tower. A significant historical site with great photo opportunities.

Black Abbey

12 minutes' walk

A beautiful 13th-century Dominican abbey known for its intricate stained glass. Regular guided tours available.

Medieval Mile Museum

6 minutes' walk

An immersive historical experience showcasing Kilkenny's rich heritage with engaging exhibits and guided tours.

Rothe House and Garden

9 minutes' walk

A remarkable 17th-century mansion with lovely gardens. Offers insight into Kilkenny's history and culture.

Cycling along the River Nore

10 minutes' walk

Biking along scenic paths with bike rentals available nearby. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Dunmore Cave

5 minutes' drive

Explore stunning limestone caves with guided tours showcasing impressive formations. Ideal for adventure seekers.

Wellness Spa at the Kilkenny River Court

12 minutes' walk

Relax at a local spa offering a range of treatments. Book in advance for a rejuvenating escape from the city.

Nore

2 minutes' walk

A cozy spot offering fresh ingredients and local dishes. Casual dining perfect for every palate and dietary needs.

Algarve Grill

4 minutes' walk

Delicious Mediterranean cuisine with a warm atmosphere. Known for grilled dishes; reservations recommended for dinner.

Roma Cafe

1 minute' walk

Charming cafe offering coffee and light bites. A great spot for a quick breakfast or an afternoon tea break.

Langtons House Hotel

10 minutes' walk

Vibrant atmosphere with live music events and a lively bar scene. Perfect for evening entertainment for all ages.

Kilkenny Castle Park

12 minutes' walk

Great for family-friendly outings with expansive gardens and walking paths. Hosts various seasonal events.

Getting around town

City Centre
Kilkenny 2 min · 400 ft
Airports
Waterford (WAT) 87 min · 36.0 mi
Train
Kilkenny Railway Station 3 min · 700 ft

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 14:00-21:30

Check-out

from 07:00-12:00

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs EUR 12.0 per person.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Number of rooms:

114

Reviews and Ratings

What past guests shared about their stay

Review score

Based on 5 verified reviews

8.0 /10

Great

100%

Recommend

Cleanliness

8.5/10

Comfort

8.6/10

Facilities

8.1/10

Free Wi-Fi

8.5/10

Location

9.3/10

Staff

8.9/10

Value for money

8.0/10

Oliver from United Kingdom

Single

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 20, 2026

8.5/10

Excellent Hotel Stay!

free parking local recommendation great food

The parking was free and convenient upon arrival. Check-in was efficient. The staff offered great recommendations for local attractions. I enjoyed dinner via room service. The food was AMAZING!!! The breakfast buffet had a large selection.

The bathroom was old and needed some updates.

Service

9/10

Check-in staff gave helpful recommendations for local attractions, which enhanced my visit. I found the team attentive and ready to assist with any requests. The hotel staff consistently provided great service.

Dining

8/10

Room service was available and efficient. My dinner arrived promptly and tasted fresh. The hotel offered a breakfast buffet with varied hot and cold options. The buffet included multiple choices of juices and pastries.

0 Helpful

Julie from United Kingdom

Double Room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 28, 2025

6/10

breakfast buffet central location old bathroom clingy shower curtain

I enjoyed the breakfast buffet. It had a good selection of items. The location was also convenient. It was close to many attractions, so I could easily walk to them.

The bathroom was quite old. The shower was also not ideal. I found the shower curtain too clingy. I could not adjust it. The room became quite hot, and the fan provided did not offer sufficient cooling.

0 Helpful

alex from united kingdom

Single

double room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: December 28, 2025

9.6/10

fantastic central stay

friendly staff complimentary drinks lovely breakfast buffet comfortable bed

i arrived during a storm and the staff were so friendly i really appreciated their warm welcome especially the restaurant staff they insisted my drinks were complimentary such a kind gesture i felt valued the breakfast buffet was lovely it added a great deal to my experience i also found the room super clean it had a comfortable bed and a tv plus water which was a nice touch.

the noise from the nearby pub with music late into the night was a slight disturbance to my peace especially since i stayed on a monday.

Rooms

9/10

the room included a comfortable bed and a nice television there was also complimentary water which added a touch of care i think the cleanliness of the room was excellent.

Facilities

9/10

the hotel offers on-site parking and it made my arrival stress-free the parking area was well kept and conveniently located i discovered an authentic bar with a cozy and cute atmosphere.

Dining

10/10

i dined at the hotel restaurant and the food tasted amazing the bar food was simple and tasty the guinness was also great there i really enjoyed the full irish breakfast.

Service

10/10

the receptionist made me feel very welcome the staff were efficient and friendly during my meal at o'faolain's bar i believe the service i received was generally polite and professional.

Location

10/10

the hotel is in a central spot near attractions it made exploring easy the train station and different bars are so close i could easily walk to kilkenny castle in about five minutes.

0 Helpful

Brian from Ireland

Single

double room

3 nights in October 2025

Reviewed: December 23, 2025

7/10

a decent stay

free parking helpful staff room noise poor windows

the hotel has free on-site parking , which i found convenient. check-in was quick , and the staff gave helpful recommendations for local attractions. the hotel also includes a pub and restaurant.

the room was directly above a bar , so it was very noisy. the windows did not block the noise well. i could hear music until late.

0 Helpful

Emerson from United States

Business traveller

Double Room

3 nights in June 2026

Reviewed: July 27, 2025

8.7/10

Great Central Location

central location helpful staff bright room

I stayed here attending a conference. The hotel is in a great location. The proximity to local attractions is great. I found the staff helpful. They provided quick assistance during check-in. The room was bright. I appreciated the fan because the weather was hot.

The bathroom would benefit from an update.

Dining

8/10

Breakfast included standard options. I did not go hungry. The staff served the food. Asking for specific requests was easy and accommodated.

Facilities

9/10

There is parking at the hotel. This made arrival smooth. Several bars are located within the hotel. These offer various atmospheres and entertainment options.

Rooms

9/10

The room was spacious and clean. Beds were solid. I slept well each night. The room had tea making facilities. This was very convenient.

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