Kilkenny is one of my favourite cities to visit in Ireland. It’s compact with a fascinating history and plenty of gorgeous eateries and delightful shopping. One of the most charming places to stay in the city center is Butler House and it has recently opened a dog-friendly room for guests. So when my friend Jackie arrived from New York with her adorable Pomeranian Shih Tzu, Coco Chanel, it was an ideal choice for a cheeky night away.
As we drove over St John’s Bridge and caught our first glimpse of Kilkenny Castle to our left we saw not one but two dog friendly cafés – making Coco feel quite welcome. Situated on Patrick Street, Butler House is the old dower house of Kilkenny Castle and tucked in behind the lush green gardens is the original Kilkenny Design Centre. With direct access from Butler House we took time to explore the workshops and studios of local Potters, jewellers and artists.
On exhibition during our visit was an eclectic collection of Orla Kiely’s fabrics, handbags and garments. As Coco spends most of her time in her mum’s handbag she was very impressed with the display.
Enjoying the distinguished privilege of being the first canine guest to Butler House, Coco was met with a toy to chew and some tasty treats in her new bed. The Botanical Room is on the lower floor and enjoys patio doors that open directly onto the garden, making it easy for Coco to pop in and out for a toilet break. In the middle of the garden are stones carved with the name of battle sites that once formed part of the famous Nelson’s Pillar. The monument once stood in O’Connell Street in Dublin before it was bombed by the IRA in 1966. Nobody is sure how the remnants from operation Humpty Dumpty made it to Kilkenny, but they make a pleasant stop off while enjoying the lily pond in the centre of the garden.
Location is important on a city break and from Butler House we were able to walk to the mediaeval mile and wander in and out of the charming boutiques and gift shops that fill the centre of the city. Any frequent visitor to Kilkenny knows that the standard of restaurants is so high that if you don’t have an up-to-date menu that will tantalise any pallet you won’t last in this town. We dined in Zunis directly across the road from Butler House and enjoyed a fantastic early bird menu that didn’t break the bank.
By now Coco was so exhausted we decided to head back to base for a drink in the lounge. The walls of Butler House are filled with an impressive range of artists from Louis Le Brocquy to William Scott. But there’s nothing pretentious about this oasis in the city. The fact that it is bustling with locals and visitors enjoying Cream Teas and Afternoon Teas throughout the afternoon is a testament to the service and warm welcome you can expect here.
Needless to say we slept soundly and woke to a fantastic breakfast with an a la carte menu. The Eggs Benedict and Full Irish portions were so big there was more than enough for Coco to enjoy too. Butler House is part of Ireland’s Blue Book Collection and one of an ever growing selection of luxury country houses and properties that are adapting to the demand for dog-friendly stays. I’ve been reliably informed that Coco wants to return here next time she visits.
Factbox
The B&B rate for The Dog Friendly room at Butler House ranges from €175 to €275 with a €40 supplement for the dog. To book go to www.butler.ie or call
Or see Irelands Blue Book
