Ballyfin Demesne

History meets contemporary design at this elegant hotel just outside of Kilkenny Centre. The carefully-restored 17th-century house makes a striking companion to the modern additions.

The hotel offers 139 rooms and suites with stunning views out over the estate or gardens, and many of them boast their own balconies or terraces. The rooms offer guests a private haven, situated away from the main body of the hotel. The design is luxurious, combining contemporary features with bold patterns and bright pops of colour.

Seasonal Irish cuisine, inspired by international trends, awaits at the inviting Yew Restaurant. An extensive wine list and beautiful views out into the gardens complete the unique dining experience. On the mezzanine level, you’ll find the Grill & Bar which boasts an open kitchen, cocktail bar and an eclectic menu. If you fancy a drink, make yourself comfortable at the stylish Tupper’s Bar in the manor house, and if the idea of a sumptuous afternoon tea with friends sounds appealing, head to sunlight-flooded Atrium.

Spread across 170 acres of mature parkland, the estate is home to a variety of native wildlife. Take a stroll along the signposted walking trails beneath ancient trees, and keep a lookout for ducks, rabbits, hares and squirrels. Make your way down to the dam, the ideal spot for a picnic, or explore a little further and discover many other picturesque places to make the most of the fresh country air. There are also several other outdoor activities to fill the time, including falconry and archery.

Finally, the multi-award winning Oasis Spa is a sanctuary of tranquillity offering various rejuvenating treatments.

A family home until just a few decades ago, Mount Juliet is still one of the finest country houses in Ireland, retaining the traditions and standards that have contributed to its reputation as an acclaimed estate.

There are 32 rooms to choose from in the stately manor house. Among the hotel’s previous guests are The King of Ossory, The Black Earl, Lady Juliana and Fitzwilliam Le Gros, for whom some of the rooms are named. Having been designed during the Georgian era, the rooms are spacious, bright and luxuriously appointed. Each is individually decorated, boasting rich fabrics and carefully chosen antique furniture and decor.

Dine at the Michelin-starred Lady Helen Restaurant, named after the previous owner of Mount Juliet, who oversaw the gardens and kitchens. Enjoy views out over the pastures towards the River Nore, while you enjoy dishes created using local ingredients, some of which come from the estate’s own kitchen garden and farm. Named after Major-General Sir Hugh McCalmont and Major Dermot McCalmont, both previous residents, the Major’s Bar is the perfect place to raise a glass to a wonderful day in the countryside, or enjoy pre-dinner drinks surrounded by memorabilia from the estate’s racing glory days.

Indulge in therapeutic treatments at the onsite spa. Head out into the grounds for fishing, horse riding, archery and falconry, or make time for a round of golf.