Best Pubs In Kilkenny
Where to sip, chat, and hear the city’s trad
Our Guide To The Best Pubs in Kilkenny
The best pubs in Kilkenny aren’t just about a late-night pint; they’re part of the city’s rhythm from quiet afternoons to lively trad sessions. In this guide, we highlight the standout spots for atmosphere, Guinness, and music, perfect whether you’re after a relaxed chat or a night of energy.
To help you plan your trip, check out our guides to tourist attractions in Leinster and the best hotels in Leinster, ideal companions when exploring this historic region.
If you’d like to pair Kilkenny’s pub scene with visits to castles, coastlines, and hidden gems, our Escorted Tours in Ireland page is the perfect place to begin planning.
Map of Best Pubs in Kilkenny
Explore our special map to discover the Best Pubs in Kilkenny
Traditional & Historic Pubs
Kyteler’s Inn – Historic Pub in Kilkenny with 14th-Century Charm
St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny
Located in the heart of Kilkenny, Kyteler’s Inn is one of Ireland’s most famous pubs, dating back to 1324. Steeped in history and folklore, it combines medieval character with lively trad sessions and hearty Irish food. A must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the true atmosphere of historic pubs in Kilkenny.
✨ Features
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One of Ireland’s oldest inns, dating back to the 14th century
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Traditional stone interiors with open fires and medieval décor
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Regular live traditional Irish music sessions
Food: The menu features Irish pub classics such as beef and Guinness stew, roast dishes, and hearty pies, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere.
Drink: A well-poured pint of Guinness is the highlight, with a wide choice of Irish whiskeys and local beers.
Music: Live trad sessions bring the pub to life, with musicians often playing nightly in a classic Irish setting.
💡 Tips
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Arrive early in the evening as tables fill quickly with both visitors and locals.
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Take time to explore the medieval décor and stories tied to Dame Alice Kyteler.
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A great starting point for anyone looking to explore the history of pubs in Kilkenny.
Tynan’s Bridge House Bar – A Classic Victorian Pub in Kilkenny
John’s Bridge, Kilkenny
Just beside the River Nore, Tynan’s Bridge House Bar is a Kilkenny institution known for its Victorian charm and warm, intimate atmosphere. With its stained glass, wood panelling, and cosy snugs, it’s one of the most authentic pubs in Kilkenny for a perfectly poured pint.
✨ Features
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Historic Victorian interiors with etched glass and mahogany woodwork
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Cosy snugs for a traditional Irish pub experience
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Central location beside John’s Bridge
Food: While food is not the main focus here, light bar snacks are available, this is the kind of pub where the pint is the priority.
Drink: Tynan’s is renowned for its Guinness, but there’s also a solid selection of Irish whiskeys and bottled beers.
Music: Expect live trad and acoustic sessions on select nights, adding to the old-world charm.
💡 Tips
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Ideal for a quieter pint away from larger venues.
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Grab one of the snugs if you want a more private, traditional experience.
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Best visited in the evening when the pub comes alive with conversation and music.
The Hole in the Wall – An Intimate Historic Tavern in Kilkenny
High Street, Kilkenny
Tucked away on High Street, The Hole in the Wall is one of Kilkenny’s most atmospheric pubs. Set inside a 16th-century tavern, it offers a unique step back in time, with low ceilings, exposed stone, and an intimate layout that makes it feel worlds apart from the busier bars in the city.
✨ Features
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Housed in a 16th-century tavern with original architecture
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Cosy, old-world setting with open fires and snug corners
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Known for its authenticity and historic atmosphere
Food: This is more of a drinking house than a dining spot, though light bites are occasionally available. The focus is firmly on the experience and the pint.
Drink: Expect a well-kept pint of Guinness along with a choice of Irish whiskeys and select beers.
Music: Live music sessions take place regularly, often trad or acoustic, which perfectly suit the pub’s historic setting.
💡 Tips
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A great stop if you want to experience Kilkenny’s history through its pubs.
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Visit earlier in the evening for a quieter pint, or later for the lively trad sessions.
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The snug spaces make it ideal for smaller groups or couples.
Top Pubs in Kilkenny with Music & Craic
Cleere’s Bar & Theatre – One of the Best Pubs in Kilkenny for Trad & Gigs
Parliament Street, Kilkenny
Cleere’s Bar & Theatre is a cornerstone of Kilkenny’s cultural scene. By day it’s a welcoming pub, but by night it transforms into a hub for live music, comedy, and theatre. Known for its intimate gigs and lively trad sessions, it’s one of the best pubs in Kilkenny if you want entertainment with your pint.
✨ Features
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Traditional pub front with an attached theatre space
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Hosts live music, comedy nights, and theatre performances
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Authentic, laid-back atmosphere popular with locals
Food: A classic pub menu with filling options such as toasties, burgers, and hearty mains — perfect for a casual bite before a show.
Drink: Guinness is well-poured here, alongside a strong mix of Irish whiskeys, local craft beers, and ciders.
Music: Live entertainment is Cleere’s signature. Expect trad sessions, singer-songwriters, and regular gigs in the theatre space at the back.
💡 Tips
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Check the schedule in advance if you’re keen on catching a specific performance.
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Even if you don’t book a show, the front bar offers plenty of atmosphere.
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Arrive early for weekend trad sessions — it fills fast.
Biddy Early’s – A Colourful Late-Night Pub in Kilkenny
John Street, Kilkenny
Biddy Early’s is one of Kilkenny’s liveliest late-night pubs, known for its colourful décor, party vibe, and upbeat music. It’s less about tradition and more about energy, making it a go-to spot if you want cocktails, DJs, and a buzzing atmosphere well into the early hours.
✨ Features
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Bright, quirky décor with a fun party atmosphere
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Late-night opening hours, popular with younger crowds
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Regular DJs and themed nights
Food: Food isn’t the focus here, though light bar snacks are available. Most people come for the drinks and music.
Drink: Famous for its cocktail list alongside pints of Guinness and standard beers. Shots and mixers are a big part of the menu on busy nights.
Music: Expect DJs and upbeat playlists rather than trad. It’s one of the few pubs in Kilkenny that leans towards a club-style feel.
💡 Tips
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A good choice if you want to keep the night going after other pubs wind down.
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Come later in the evening when the atmosphere really picks up.
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Best suited to groups looking for a lively, social night out.
Matt The Millers – Among the Best Pubs in Kilkenny for Live Music
John’s Bridge, Kilkenny
Overlooking the River Nore, Matt The Millers is one of the most popular pubs in Kilkenny. Spread across several levels, it blends the atmosphere of a traditional pub with the energy of a late-night venue. With live music every night and a mix of locals and visitors, it’s a top choice if you want to experience the lively side of Kilkenny’s nightlife.
✨ Features
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Multi-level venue with balcony views over the River Nore
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Live music every night of the week
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Popular with both locals and tourists for its lively atmosphere
Food: A full menu is available with hearty pub staples like burgers, fish and chips, and sharing platters — perfect for groups.
Drink: Pints of Guinness are always flowing, alongside cocktails, Irish whiskeys, and a wide choice of beers on tap.
Music: Live sessions are at the heart of Matt The Millers, ranging from traditional Irish music early in the evening to contemporary covers and DJs later at night.
💡 Tips
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Get there early on weekends — it fills quickly with both locals and visitors.
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The balcony level is a great spot for river views and slightly more space.
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Stay late to experience the full shift from trad tunes to modern party vibes.
Best Pubs in Kilkenny for Whiskey, Craft & Modern Vibes
The Dylan Whisky Bar – A Cosy Pub in Kilkenny for Whiskey Lovers
John Street, Kilkenny
The Dylan Whisky Bar is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good whiskey. With its intimate snug-like setting, shelves lined with bottles, and knowledgeable staff, it offers a refined yet welcoming experience. It’s one of the best pubs in Kilkenny if you’re looking to sample Irish whiskey in a traditional yet relaxed atmosphere.
✨ Features
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Specialist whiskey bar with an extensive collection
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Cosy interior with wood furnishings and a relaxed vibe
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Friendly, knowledgeable staff to guide your whiskey choice
Food: The focus here is on drinks, though bar snacks and light bites are available.
Drink: Over 200 whiskeys are on offer, including Irish classics, rare bottles, and international labels. A carefully selected range of beers and wines is also available.
Music: Occasional live music, but the atmosphere here is more about conversation and savouring a drink than nightly gigs.
💡 Tips
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Ask the staff for a whiskey tasting flight to sample a few different styles.
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A great option if you prefer a quieter, more refined pub experience.
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Perfect as a starting point before heading into Kilkenny’s livelier venues.
Brewery Corner – The Craft Beer Pub in Kilkenny
Parliament Street, Kilkenny
Known as the home of O’Hara’s Brewery in Kilkenny, Brewery Corner is the city’s craft beer hub. With 10 taps and an ever-changing bottle list, it’s a haven for beer enthusiasts who want to try something beyond the usual Guinness. Add in a laid-back atmosphere and regular live music, and you’ve got one of the best pubs in Kilkenny for modern tastes.
✨ Features
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Official O’Hara’s Brewery bar with rotating craft taps
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Relaxed, friendly vibe popular with locals and visitors alike
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Regular gigs and DJ nights for added atmosphere
Food: A simple but tasty menu featuring pub favourites, including burgers, pizzas, and sharing plates that go well with the beer selection.
Drink: An impressive range of craft beers — from IPAs and stouts to seasonal specials — alongside ciders and a solid whiskey list.
Music: Brewery Corner often hosts live music and DJ sets, making it a lively choice for evenings out.
💡 Tips
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Great spot to sample O’Hara’s beers, brewed just outside Kilkenny.
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If you’re new to craft beer, ask for a tasting flight to try a few different styles.
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Weeknights are quieter — ideal if you’d like to chat over a pint.
The Pumphouse – A Modern Pub in Kilkenny with Sport & Live Gigs
Parliament Street, Kilkenny
The Pumphouse blends the feel of a contemporary bar with the friendliness of a local pub. Popular with students, locals, and visitors alike, it’s known for its lively atmosphere, televised sport, and regular live gigs. If you’re looking for one of the best pubs in Kilkenny that balances modern energy with traditional Irish pub culture, The Pumphouse is a solid pick.
✨ Features
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Spacious, modern pub with plenty of seating
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Screens showing major sporting events
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Regular live gigs and weekend DJs
Food: A reliable pub menu with hearty mains, pizzas, and sharing platters — great for groups watching sport or enjoying the music.
Drink: A mix of mainstream beers and Irish favourites alongside cocktails, whiskeys, and bottled craft options.
Music: The Pumphouse features local bands, acoustic nights, and DJ sets, creating a versatile music offering depending on the night.
💡 Tips
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Arrive early on big match days — it’s a popular spot for watching sport.
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Check the gig schedule if you’d like to catch live music.
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A good option if you’re with a mixed group, as it caters to different tastes.
Best Pubs in Kilkenny for Sport & Social Atmosphere
Ryan’s Bar – A Classic Pub in Kilkenny for Sport & Conversation
Friary Street, Kilkenny
Ryan’s Bar is one of Kilkenny’s favourite spots for a casual pint and a chat. Known for its friendly atmosphere and strong local following, it’s also a go-to pub on match days with screens showing all the big sporting events. If you’re after one of the best pubs in Kilkenny for a relaxed, social vibe, Ryan’s delivers.
✨ Features
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Popular local pub with a welcoming, social atmosphere
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Screens showing major sporting events
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Comfortable interior with a traditional pub feel
Food: Expect hearty pub fare — sandwiches, toasties, and filling mains — perfect for keeping you going through a long evening.
Drink: A well-poured Guinness is the favourite here, supported by Irish whiskeys, lagers, and bottled beers.
Music: While Ryan’s is more about sport and socialising, there are occasional live music nights to add to the atmosphere.
💡 Tips
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A great choice on match days if you want to soak up the atmosphere with locals.
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Arrive early on weekends if you want a good spot near the screens.
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Ideal for those who prefer a laid-back pint without the late-night party vibe.
Syd Harkin’s Bar – A Traditional Sports Pub in Kilkenny
Lower Patrick Street, Kilkenny
Syd Harkin’s Bar is a long-standing favourite among locals, known for its traditional feel and sport-focused atmosphere. It’s the kind of pub where regulars gather to watch matches, chat over a pint, and enjoy the steady rhythm of a classic Irish bar. If you want one of the best pubs in Kilkenny for an authentic local experience, Syd Harkin’s is a top choice.
✨ Features
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Traditional Irish pub atmosphere with no frills
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Strong local following, especially on match days
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Comfortable, welcoming interior with a laid-back vibe
Food: Simple pub food and snacks are available, but the focus here is more on drinks and sport.
Drink: A well-kept pint of Guinness is the star, with Irish whiskeys and bottled beers rounding out the selection.
Music: Live music isn’t the focus, though you’ll often find background tunes or spontaneous singalongs, especially after big matches.
💡 Tips
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A great choice if you want to experience Kilkenny pubs from a local’s perspective.
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Visit during a major match for the best atmosphere.
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Perfect for a quieter pint during the week, away from the tourist crowds.
Best Pubs in Kilkenny - FAQ
1. What are the most famous pubs in Kilkenny?
Some of the most famous pubs in Kilkenny include Kyteler’s Inn, Matt The Millers, and Cleere’s Bar & Theatre. These spots combine history, music, and atmosphere, making them must-visits for anyone exploring pubs in Kilkenny.
2. Which pubs in Kilkenny are best for live music?
If you’re after live music, Cleere’s Bar & Theatre, Matt The Millers, and Biddy Early’s are among the best pubs in Kilkenny for nightly sessions. You’ll find everything from traditional Irish tunes to modern covers.
3. Where can I find the best Guinness in Kilkenny?
Tynan’s Bridge House Bar and The Hole in the Wall are highly regarded for pouring one of the best pints of Guinness in Kilkenny. Many visitors consider these traditional pubs in Kilkenny the perfect place to enjoy Ireland’s most famous stout.
4. Are there pubs in Kilkenny with craft beer or whiskey?
Yes, Brewery Corner is Kilkenny’s craft beer hub, while The Dylan Whisky Bar specialises in Irish and international whiskeys. Both are great options if you want pubs in Kilkenny with a more modern twist.
Discover More of Ireland
Kilkenny pubs are just the start of what Ireland has to offer. From castles and coastlines to historic cities and hidden gems, explore the best attractions across Ulster, Munster, Leinster, and Connacht.
