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 & 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 & Craft Gallery 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
The ground‑floor Food Hall opens at 8:30 am and showcases locally sourced breads, pastries, preserves and ready‑made dishes. Upstairs, the Anocht restaurant operates as a self‑service venue from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (extended to 9:30 pm on Thursday, Friday, Saturday and bank‑holiday Sundays). Menu highlights include artisan breads, seasonal soups, Irish stews, seafood chowder with soda bread and a cheese‑laden chicken & broccoli crumble featuring Lavistown cheese. The relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families, couples or solo travellers looking to refuel.
Events & Workshops
The centre frequently hosts artisan demonstrations, craft workshops and short‑term exhibitions. These events give visitors a chance to watch makers at work, learn basic techniques and ask questions about the stories behind each piece. Check the centre’s website or the on‑site information board for the current events calendar.
Practical Information
| Day | Centre Hours | Food Hall | Anocht Restaurant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Thu‑Sat & Bank‑holiday Sun 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM) |
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.
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 – Public car parks are available on the Castle Street and John Street sides of the medieval mile. (Exact car‑park locations should be confirmed.)
Public transport – Local bus routes serve The Parade; most visitors find it easiest to walk from the city centre or Kilkenny Castle.
Contact – Phone: (056) 772 2118 • Website: https://kilkennydesign.com/
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the Castle Yard, consider a short stroll to:
- Kilkenny Castle – the historic fortress that frames the centre.
- Black Abbey – a 13th‑century Dominican abbey with impressive stonework.
- Bennettsbridge – a charming riverside village famous for its pottery studios.
- The National Design & Craft Gallery (just opposite the centre) for contemporary exhibitions.
- The River Nore riverside walk, perfect for a leisurely post‑lunch stroll.
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.