Kilkenny Design Centre

Overview

Nestled in the medieval heart of Kilkenny, the Kilkenny Design Centre occupies the former stables of the iconic Kilkenny Castle, directly opposite the historic fortress and adjacent to the National Design and Craft Gallery. Housed in a beautifully restored stone building, the centre is a vibrant showcase of contemporary Irish craftsmanship, offering visitors a curated selection of gifts, jewellery, textiles, pottery, glass, and design objects that reflect the country’s rich creative heritage. An award‑winning food hall and restaurant sit on the upper floor, turning a shopping trip into a full‑day cultural experience.

History

The Kilkenny Design Centre’s story is inseparable from the city’s medieval past. The stables that now house the centre were originally part of the Kilkenny Castle complex, serving the castle’s horses for centuries before being repurposed in the early 21st century as a hub for design and craft. The conversion retained many original architectural features – exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings and timber beams – creating a striking backdrop for the contemporary pieces on display. Its proximity to the National Design and Craft Gallery, one of Ireland’s most exciting artistic venues, reinforces the area’s reputation as the creative heart of the region.

What to See & Do

A Curated Shopping Experience

The centre’s unrivalled supplier list draws from Ireland’s most eminent makers. Visitors can wander among stalls featuring Castle Arch Pottery, whose hand‑thrown ceramics blend traditional forms with modern glazes; K Kajoux Jewellery, renowned for intricate gold work that references Celtic motifs; and Nicholas Mosse, whose sculptural pottery pushes the boundaries of form and colour. The selection spans jewellery, knitwear, Celtic gifts, fine china, crystal, home accessories and fashion pieces, ensuring that every shopper can find a unique, high‑quality souvenir.

Emerging Talent

Beyond established brands, the Kilkenny Design Centre is a launchpad for emerging Irish craftspeople. Regularly rotating pop‑up spaces give up‑and‑coming designers a platform to test new ideas, meaning repeat visitors often discover fresh talent they won’t find elsewhere. This commitment to nurturing new voices has earned the centre a reputation as a trend‑setter in Irish design.

Tax‑Free Shopping for Non‑EU Visitors

For visitors from outside the European Union, the centre offers an attractive tax‑free shopping scheme. Purchases can be reclaimed at the airport, making high‑end Irish design even more accessible to international travellers.

Food Hall & Restaurant

After a morning of browsing, the award‑winning food hall provides a perfect pause. The upstairs restaurant serves homemade fare using locally sourced ingredients – think artisan breads, seasonal soups and hearty Irish stews. The menu changes daily, reflecting the region’s agricultural calendar, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for families, couples or solo travellers looking to refuel.

Practical Information

The Kilkenny Design Centre welcomes guests seven days a week. Opening hours are 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM from Monday to Saturday and 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sundays. Admission is free; the only cost is what you choose to bring home. The centre is fully accessible, with level entry from the street and an elevator serving the restaurant level.

The address – The Castle Yard, The Parade, Gardens, Kilkenny, R95 CAA6 – places the centre within easy walking distance of the castle, the River Nore and the city’s main shopping streets. Parking is available in nearby public car parks, and the location is well served by local bus routes.

For any enquiries, the centre can be reached at (056) 772 2118 or via its website at kilkennydesign.com. Whether you’re hunting for a one‑off piece of Irish jewellery, a handcrafted ceramic bowl, or simply a tasty lunch in a historic setting, the Kilkenny Design Centre offers a uniquely Irish experience that blends heritage, creativity and hospitality.