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The grand, ivy-covered Mount Juliet was a family home until 1989 and today is one of Ireland’s most impressive country manor hotels. The River Nore weaves through the expansive estate that surrounds the hotel, walking and riding trails meander through woodlands and ornamental gardens showcase traditional planting.
Entering the hotel is like stepping back in time. The building is ornately decorated with patterned wallpaper, original paintings dating to the 1830s, a sweeping staircase and elaborate stuccowork. The traditional Georgian decor carries through to the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant, handsome Tetrarch Lounge and the 32 individually-decorated guest rooms. Although traditional in style, the rooms are all equipped with modern conveniences, such as complimentary Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.
In addition to the amenities within the hotel such as the pool, gym and spa, guests can choose from a wide range of on-site activities. Archery lessons, a falconry experience, salmon fishing in the River Nore or fishing on one of the three private lakes are all possible. Mount Juliet is also known for its Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and state-of-the-art equestrian center.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Ireland specialists
The manor offers 32 bedrooms that elegantly blend classical decor with modern comforts. These characterful rooms, which have all been named after esteemed guests, are individually decorated in a traditional style that’s in keeping with the Georgian design of the property. The custom furnishings allow the property to retain the ambience of an extravagant family home rather than the feel of a typical hotel. Expect large windows and high ceilings, floral wallpaper or fabrics, antique accents and soft lighting. Additionally, all rooms are equipped with the latest technology and offer complimentary Wi-Fi as well as tea and coffee making facilities.
Mount Juliet is set on a huge, protected estate located approximately half an hour outside Kilkenny. The considerable grounds form the second largest working estate in all of Ireland and consist of several ponds, a walled garden, an 18-hole golf course and a stud farm. The River Nore winds through the estate as do several walking and horse-riding trails.
Fine dining is available at the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant, which serves breakfast and an award-winning, internationally-inspired dinner. More casual cuisine can be found at The Hound in Hunter's Yard, one of the restored and handsomely-repurposed outbuildings which has rustic decor featuring exposed stone walls and wooden beams. There are also two bars — Major’s Bar in the manor house and the Saddle Bar at Hunter’s Yard.
Mount Juliet welcomes guests of all ages and the estate caters to young children by offering a baby concierge service for parents with children under the age of three. Other family amenities include the nature trail, junior fishing, junior golf clinic, pony rides, cinema nights and special hours at the swimming pool.
The vast Mount Juliet estate offers a plethora of on-site activities including tennis, croquet, falconry, fishing and archery. The estate is also known for its equestrian center, Jack Nicklaus designed golf course and Paul McGinley Golf Academy. Alternatively, guests can unwind with a dip in the swimming pool or by booking one of the many spa treatments available.
The hotel does not have an elevator, but there is one fully accessible room on the ground floor of the building.
The prestigious Mount Juliet estate is one of our top recommendations for Kilkenny, in particular for the top-notch service and the numerous activities on offer in the extensive grounds.
Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can’t be bettered.
A centrally located manor house originally built by the owners of Kilkenny Castle, Butler House offers warm and attentive service in an elegant setting. The hotel offers instant access to Kilkenny’s main street but also has large and attractive gardens.
Mount Juliet’s stables have been completely transformed to create the sophisticated and contemporary Hunter’s Yard hotel. Guests of the estate have access to wide-range of activities on the extensive grounds including fishing, horse riding and golf.
The Newpark Hotel is a modern property located on the outskirts of Kilkenny. This hotel offers a number of on-site activities ranging from the Escape Health Club & Spa to the outdoor fairy trail, wildlife farm and go-kart track.
The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you’re staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident’s eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area’s inhabitants.
Hands-on hurling experience
Learn the basic skills of the ancient sport of hurling with Kilkenny masters during this hands-on experience that offers private tuition as well as a chance to learn about the history of the game and its sporting legends.
Kennedy homestead, Dunbrody Abbey & Dunbrody Famine Ship tour
Trace your relatives and discover Ireland’s famine history on this full-day tour of Ireland’s southeast. Meandering between Kilkenny and Waterford, it takes in the Dunbrody Famine Ship, explores the Kennedy dynasty’s roots and visits 13th-century Dunbrody Abbey.
Medieval Mile walking tour
Explore medieval Kilkenny on a guided tour that offers an insight into the city’s long history, creative residents and significant buildings. Visit Kilkenny Castle and Black Abbey as well as the meandering medieval streets as you learn about life here over the centuries.
