Wander a medieval city by day…enjoy the comforts of the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel at night.
Although I only had a short amount of time in Kilkenny, I certainly made the most of it. With only 24 hours in Kilkenny, you can get a great feel for this medieval town. You can walk all over town in just a short amount of time. The size of Kilkenny is deceiving; you can easily explore the city centre in a day.
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To make the most of my time, I stayed at a centrally located accommodation, the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel. It’s a four star boutique hotel where I was continually impressed throughout my one night stay.
THE LOCATION IS PERFECT
I’ve stayed at many hotels that had an excellent location, within a charming neighbourhood or near a main attraction. I’m not sure that the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel could be in a better spot. It’s right across from Kilkenny Castle and the Medieval Mile, putting you in the middle of the action. Walk from the Pembroke to the historic buildlings, as well as lively pubs and restaurants.
And from the hotel, you’ll catch glimpses of one of the best views of the city.
UP TO THE ROOFTOP
Upon our arrival, the friendly and welcoming staff allowed us to settle into our room. Then, we were asked to pop back downstairs when we were ready, as one staff member offered to take us behind the scenes and up to the roof. While this area isn’t accessible for guests to visit on their own, those staying at the Pembroke can request a rooftop tour.
At the top, we were told a bit about the town’s history and some of the surrounding buildings. For instance, we could see the castle grounds, distant towers, and areas where old met new. I learned a few surprising facts. Did you know that the local brewery, Smithwicks, is actually older than Guinness? Well, if you want to take a tour of Smithwicks, it’s just down the road from the hotel. You can walk there, just as you can walk pretty much everywhere.
THE LOBBY AND STAFF
Like I mentioned, the staff at the Pembroke Hotel were inviting and helpful. They’re experts on the city, so you can ask them any questions that you might have. If there’s any way they can make your stay more comfortable, simply ask and you shall receive.
The lobby itself is gorgeous, with colorful art on the walls and fresh flowers on the tables. It’s modern and chic, with a serene and peaceful vibe. Perhaps that’s because Mint by Pembroke Kilkenny is right next door, attached to the hotel. While I didn’t get the chance to experience this medispa, I’d love to return to pamper myself with a massage or facial.
THE ROOM
My travel companion, Ashley and I stayed in a Castle View Room at the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel. And I felt spoiled by being able to marvel at a stunning view of the castle anytime I wanted from my room.
The hotel room had everything that I needed for a cozy and relaxed stay. There was free Wi-Fi and a flatscreen TV, perfect for unwinding in the evening. The rooms typically have king sized beds, although we had ours split into two twins. There’s complimentary water and Nespresso coffee to brew yourself the perfect cup.
Want to get some work done now that you’re caffeinated? The massive desk and workstation has several outlets and enough space for your electronics and belongings.
The Castle View bathroom has upgraded toiletries, slippers, and fluffy bathrobes. The bathroom has a full bathtub and shower, as well as ample shelving space to store your own toiletries. I always bring quite a bit of makeup and hair styling products. With two females sharing the bathroom, I was grateful for the extra counter space that had more than enough room for our belongings.
PARKING
Parking is available on site. There’s a driveway right next to the entrance. You’ll find a few parking spaces beside and behind the hotel. If those parking spaces are all occupied, there’s a satellite lot about a block away. We had no problem finding a parking space right next to the side entrance of the hotel.
BOOK YOUR STAY
Overall, I was so impressed with the Pembroke Hotel in Kilkenny. From our initial warm welcome to the spacious hotel room with a view, we were made to feel at home immediately. The rooftop tour with a brief historical overview of the town was a fabulous introduction to a new place.
You can read even more reviews by trusted travellers here, or book your stay at the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel today.
View all of my Kilkenny travel photos here! You can purchase prints, canvas photos, housewares, and more right from my Smugmug shop.
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Pembroke Hotel
11 Patrick St, Gardens,
Kilkenny, Ireland
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Thank you so much to the Pembroke Hotel for sponsoring my stay. My opinions, as always, are entirely my own. I was so impressed with my stay and I wouldn’t hesitate to return. I recommend it to you, my friends and family!
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What would you like to do first – explore this medieval city or pamper yourself at the spa?
Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.
Megan Jerrard
Wednesday 7th of February 2018
Kilkenny sounds like a wonderful place to explore in Ireland. And thanks for the tip on the Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel.The location is obviously awesome, and it’s so cool that guests can head up to the rooftop. I love how modern and chic the interior of the hotel is, and when we do Ireland we want to road trip, so parking is a big +. Thanks!
Medha
Tuesday 6th of February 2018
The most important thing about a hotel is its location and if this one is in the perfect spot like you say it is, then I am sold on it! I love the rooms too, they look comfortable and clean, cosy! Castle-view is a plus! Thank you for this suggestions.
Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie
Tuesday 6th of February 2018
A castle-view room is definitely cool! Plus, I love a hotel in a pedestrian-friendly location. It just enhances the whole experience because you're really in the heart of a place and can head off to explore without too much assistance. Pembroke's rooftop tour is such a fun hotel feature, too. Glad to know it's available to all guests by requesting it.
Jen Joslin
Tuesday 6th of February 2018
The Kilkenny Pembroke Hotel looks like a fabulous place to stay! I love the views of the castle, and the amenities look really nice. Fluffy bathrobes and slippers are always a plus. It's great that the staff are so friendly and willing to share tips about what to do in the city. Will keep this place in mind for when we visit Ireland!
Jitaditya
Tuesday 6th of February 2018
Beautiful hotel. Love the views of the town from the hotel. The vintage buildings offer such a great view! I like the painting at the lobby. Would like to know a bit more about it!