Overview
Housed in the restored medieval stables opposite Kilkenny Castle, the Kilkenny Design Centre is Ireland’s most prestigious showcase for contemporary craft and artisan food. Visitors step into a space where vaulted stone arches and exposed timber beams frame a carefully curated collection of jewellery, pottery, textiles, and home accessories. Beyond shopping, the centre’s upper-floor restaurant and ground-floor food hall make it a natural stopping point for a meal featuring the best of local produce.
A Legacy in Stone: History & Setting
The building’s origins are deeply tied to the city’s medieval past. Originally constructed to service the horses of Kilkenny Castle, the stables stood on The Parade for centuries before being transformed into a design hub in the early 2000s. The renovation deliberately preserved the structure’s rugged character, leaving original stonework and heavy oak beams visible throughout. Its position directly across from the castle and adjacent to the National Design & Craft Gallery cements the Castle Yard as the creative focal point of County Kilkenny.
The Shopping Experience
The centre’s ground floor operates as a carefully edited marketplace rather than a conventional retail space. The buying team selects pieces from Ireland’s most recognised makers, ensuring every item meets strict standards for quality and originality. Shoppers will find the hand-thrown ceramics of Castle Arch Pottery, the intricate goldwork of K Kajoux Jewellery, and the sculptural pieces of Nicholas Mosse. The selection extends to knitwear, Celtic-inspired gifts, fine china, crystal, and fashion accessories.
For visitors from outside the European Union, the centre processes tax-free shopping forms, allowing you to reclaim VAT at the airport. A dedicated section of the floor regularly rotates to feature emerging Irish designers, giving new voices a platform alongside established names. The centre also hosts short-term exhibitions and pop-up stalls, meaning repeat visits often reveal fresh work.
Dining: Food Hall & Anocht Restaurant
The centre’s culinary offerings are divided across two levels. The ground-floor Food Hall opens early in the morning, focusing on locally sourced breads, pastries, preserves, and ready-made dishes. It’s a practical spot for a coffee and a slice of cake while browsing the craft stalls.
Upstairs, the Anocht restaurant occupies a bright, airy space with timber floors and large windows overlooking the courtyard. During the day, it operates as a self-service venue known for wholesome, consistently well-prepared meals. The menu changes seasonally but consistently highlights regional ingredients. Standouts include seafood chowder served with homemade soda bread, beef and pepper casserole, and a chicken and broccoli crumble featuring crumbly Lavistown cheese.
On Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and bank holiday Sundays, the restaurant transitions to full table service in the evening. An early-bird menu offers two or three courses at a fixed price, while the à la carte list expands to include seafood, game, and premium steaks. The wine and cocktail list is updated regularly to match the seasonal menu.
Events & Workshops
Throughout the year, the centre hosts artisan demonstrations, craft workshops, and short-term exhibitions. These sessions allow visitors to watch makers at work, learn foundational techniques, and gain insight into the materials and processes behind the pieces on display. Event schedules change regularly, so checking the centre’s website or the information desk upon arrival is recommended.
Practical Information
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10am – 5.30pm; Sunday 12pm – 6pm
- Accessibility: Level entry from the street and an elevator connecting to the restaurant floor
- Parking: Street parking is limited. The nearest public car parks are the Market Yard Car Park and the Ormonde Street Car Park, both within a short walk of the Castle Yard.
- Contact: (056) 772 2118 | kilkennydesign.com
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The Castle Yard location makes the centre a natural hub for a broader city visit. A short walk across the courtyard leads to Kilkenny Castle, where you can explore the restored interiors and stroll through the extensive parklands. Heading north along the cobblestone lanes brings you to the Medieval Mile, a trail lined with 13th-century architecture, independent boutiques, and historic pubs.
For a quieter finish to the day, follow the River Nore riverside path, which winds past the castle gardens and offers peaceful views of the water and surrounding hills. The trail is well-maintained and easily accessible from The Parade, making it a straightforward way to stretch your legs after a morning of browsing and dining.