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Summary of reviewsThe Kilkenny River Court Hotel receives commendable praise for its prime location and welcoming atmosphere. Situated centrally in Kilkenny, it offers easy access to the city's main attractions, shops, restaurants and nightlife. Its picturesque setting by the river, facing Kilkenny Castle, enhances the experience with stunning views and a serene ambiance, despite its bustling surroundings. The availability of on-site parking further adds to its convenience.
Breakfast at the hotel is a standout feature with guests enjoying a varied and high-quality buffet. Reviews consistently highlight the delicious and extensive range, including full Irish and continental options, as well as fresh and tasty selections. The breakfast room's view of the castle adds a unique charm to the meal. While minor issues with wait times and specific dietary options were noted, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive with many deeming it one of the best hotel breakfasts.
Dinner experiences are similarly well-received, particularly the terrace dining by the river, which guests find particularly enchanting. The menu, offering an array of traditional and modern dishes, receives praise for its quality, although some guests mention it could be more diverse and updated. Service is generally fast and friendly, although there are occasional criticisms of slow service and high prices for certain meals.
The rooms are lauded for their spaciousness, cleanliness and comfort with large, comfortable beds and well-maintained facilities. However, some rooms are mentioned as dated with issues like musty smells, worn carpets and noise disturbances. Despite these drawbacks, the overall feedback on rooms is positive with lovely views of the castle and professional room service highlighted.
Cleanliness is a strong point for the hotel with many guests commending the high standards maintained by the housekeeping staff. Though there are occasional notes about dated furnishings and minor maintenance issues, the general sentiment points to a clean and comfortable environment.
Staff at the Kilkenny River Court Hotel receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests consistently highlight the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the staff, significantly enhancing their overall experience, despite a few mentions of occasional overwhelmed or unprofessional moments.
Wi-Fi connectivity varies with some guests enjoying excellent service while others face issues with weak signals or slow speeds, indicating room for improvement in providing a consistent internet experience.
The hotel caters well to families, offering comfortable family rooms and a friendly atmosphere. Its prime location within walking distance to local amenities and attractions, makes it a convenient choice for family trips. Minor issues with noise from children running in corridors are reported but do not detract significantly from the overall positive family-friendly experience.
For nightlife enthusiasts, the hotel's location offers easy access to lively bars and pubs with Kilkenny's vibrant scene just a short walk away. This convenience also comes with the downside of considerable night-time noise due to the active nightlife in the vicinity.
Guest reviews of the beds are mostly favorable, noting their comfort and spaciousness. However, there are occasional complaints about bed size and firmness, as well as mixed opinions on pillow quality.
Feedback on the hotel's four-star rating is mixed with some guests feeling it meets the expected standards while others believe it aligns more with a three-star establishment due to dated decor and minor maintenance issues. The overall comfort and aesthetic are appreciated, but some aspects need updating to fully meet four-star expectations.
For business travelers, the hotel offers suitable amenities such as work desks in rooms, accessible parking and well-equipped meeting spaces. The atmosphere is conducive to work, although the business lounge could benefit from some improvements.
In summary, the Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers a generally positive experience with standout features like its prime location, high-quality breakfast and friendly staff. While there are areas that could use improvement, such as room updates and menu variety, the hotel remains a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort and convenience in Kilkenny. Show more
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Categories
Hotel near Golf Courses
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Hotel with Swimming Pool
Pool Lap Lanes
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Hotel with Pool Lap Lanes
Room Types
Double RoomOur double / twin rooms are finished to the highest international standards.
Please specify double or twin preferences when booking.
Deluxe Double Room with Castle ViewThis spacious room features fantastic views of Kilkenny Castle and the River Nore. It also includes complimentary bottled water. Some rooms also boast a private balcony.
Superior King RoomOffering free toiletries, this double room includes a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer. This double room offers a tea and coffee maker and a flat-screen TV. The unit has 1 bed.
Guest Reviews
8.5
Very Good
Location
The Kilkenny River Court Hotel boasts an enviable location in the heart of Kilkenny, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city. Rooted centrally, it offers easy walking access to top attractions, shops, restaurants and nightlife venues. Positioned beautifully by the river and directly opposite Kilkenny Castle, guests are treated to stunning views and a picturesque setting. The central location allows visitors to effortlessly explore the historic city on foot with everything from dining to sightseeing at their fingertips. Additionally, the convenience of on-site parking only enhances the appeal, providing a hassle-free stay. The hotel is well-regarded for its serene ambiance despite its central position, promising a peaceful retreat after a day of exploration. Whether for a short city break or an extended stay, the Kilkenny River Court Hotel's location is perfect for making the most of what Kilkenny has to offer.
Breakfast
Guests at the Kilkenny River Court Hotel generally praised the breakfast experience, highlighting it as a standout feature. Many reviews emphasized the great variety and high quality of the breakfast buffet, often describing it as delicious, extensive and well-maintained. The breakfast items ranged from full Irish and continental options to a wide array of cereals, fruits and cooked dishes. In addition, guests appreciated the breakfast room's view of the castle, which added a unique and enjoyable aspect to their morning meal.
Specific mentions of fresh and tasty food, including hot and freshly prepared selections, were common. Reviewers frequently noted the breakfast as substantial and satisfying with several describing it as one of the best hotel breakfasts they've experienced. The helpful and friendly staff also contributed positively to the breakfast experience.
While the majority of feedback was overwhelmingly positive, a few guests mentioned minor issues such as occasional waits, limited options for specific dietary needs and sometimes cold or underwhelming items in the buffet. However, these instances were exceptions rather than the rule.
Overall, guests consistently found the breakfast at the Kilkenny River Court Hotel to be a highlight of their stay, offering a rich start to the day with a picturesque view and a broad selection to cater to various tastes.
Dinner
The Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers a dining experience that largely receives positive feedback from its guests. The hotel's terrace by the river provides a picturesque setting where visitors can enjoy drinks or meals with views of the castle. The restaurant and bar areas are noted for being well-maintained and providing a beautiful ambience, particularly in the outdoor seating area which has received praise for its appearance and quality of offerings.
The food itself is frequently described as great, very tasty and of high quality across breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests have lauded both the traditional Irish meals and modern dishes, indicating a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Specific items like the sticky toffee pudding, despite one incident of being burnt, are mentioned favorably and overall, both drinks and cocktails in the bar are well-liked.
Service adds to the positive dining experience with waitstaff being characterized as fast and friendly. The quality of the food is enhanced by attentive service, contributing to an enjoyable dining atmosphere.
However, some areas do draw mixed feedback. The dinner menu, while generally considered good, has been described as limited, dated and in need of improvement. There's also a mention of slow service during dinner times and bar food that could be improved. Additionally, a lack of awareness regarding food allergies and a need for more gluten and dairy-free options were noted by a few guests. The price for meals, particularly a required two-course meal at €38 per head, was seen as too high by some visitors.
Overall, the Kilkenny River Court Hotel provides a dining experience that is generally well-received for its quality food, beautiful setting and excellent service with some room for improvement in menu variety and service speed.
Rooms
The rooms at Kilkenny River Court Hotel generally receive praise for their spaciousness and comfort. Many guests highlighted the cleanliness of the rooms, describing them as spotless, immaculate and well-maintained. The large, comfortable beds and sizable bathrooms were also appreciated, providing a sense of luxury and relaxation. Most rooms were described as bright, airy and well-furnished with several offering beautiful views of the castle and river.
However, some guests noted that the hotel and certain rooms appear dated and in need of renovation. Issues such as old-fashioned decor, musty smells and dirty or worn carpets were mentioned. Soundproofing seemed to be a problem for some with noise from adjacent rooms or service lifts causing disturbances. Several reviews pointed out that some bathrooms were not as clean as expected with mould and outdated fixtures.
Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment was positive with many guests finding the rooms comfortable and meeting their needs. The lovely views from some rooms and the spacious layouts were often highlighted as standout features. The hotel also received commendations for its excellent room service and the courteousness of the staff.
Beds
Guest reviews of the Kilkenny River Court Hotel provide a generally favorable impression of the beds with numerous mentions of comfort and spaciousness. Many guests highlighted the beds as being very comfortable, super comfortable and even the best they have ever experienced. Phrases like massive bed and king-size bed enhance the perception of generous and comfy sleeping arrangements, leading to recounts of exceptional bedding.
However, not all reviews were glowing; some guests found the beds too small or too soft. Issues such as beds being tiny, small or uncomfortable were noted, alongside mentions of overly firm mattresses and old, sagging beds. Pillows also drew mixed reactions with some guests finding them hard and lumpy.
Despite these inconsistencies, a dominant theme celebrates the beds as comfy and conducive to a good night's sleep. Guests have overwhelmingly complimented the hotel for providing clean, fresh and spacious bedding, making the Kilkenny River Court Hotel's beds a notable highlight for many visitors.
Cleanliness
The Kilkenny River Court Hotel has received high praise for its cleanliness from numerous guests. Many reviewers highlighted that the rooms and facilities were consistently "clean," "spotlessly clean," and "very clean." Guests found their rooms to be "clean and comfortable," with some describing them as "tidy" and "well-kept." Housekeeping staff were frequently commended for their helpfulness and maintaining a high standard of cleanliness throughout the hotel.
However, a few guests noted minor issues related to the hotel's overall condition, such as dated furnishings, stained carpets and instances where the bathrooms could have been cleaner. Some reviews mentioned specific concerns like mold on surfaces, chipped paint and other signs indicating the need for refurbishment. Despite these concerns, the majority of guests found their rooms and the hotel to be clean, comfortable and welcoming.
Overall, guests widely appreciated the cleanliness standards, even with occasional mentions of the hotel's aging decor and minor maintenance issues. The hotel stands out for its clean accommodations, diligent housekeeping and the comfortable atmosphere it provides to its visitors.
Staff
The staff at Kilkenny River Court Hotel receive overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests, consistently described as friendly, helpful and accommodating. Many guests highlight the welcoming atmosphere created by the efficient and courteous team. The reception staff stand out for their warmth and professionalism, often going out of their way to meet specific needs, enhancing the overall guest experience. Waitstaff and housekeeping are frequently praised for their attentiveness and kindness. Though there are occasional mentions of some staff appearing overwhelmed or unprofessional in certain situations, these instances are significantly outnumbered by comments about the staff's exceptional service and genuine friendliness. Overall, guests seem highly pleased with the warm and professional service provided by the hotel's staff, contributing significantly to a positive stay at the Kilkenny River Court Hotel.
Wi-Fi
The Wi-Fi experience at Kilkenny River Court Hotel seems to vary significantly among guests. While some visitors report excellent and reliable Wi-Fi in their rooms, others face issues such as weak signals, slow speeds or a complete lack of connection. There are positive notes about consistent and good Wi-Fi, but many guests pointed out challenges with connectivity, especially in certain rooms. The feedback indicates that while the hotel does offer Wi-Fi, improvements are necessary to ensure a more consistent and robust internet experience for all guests.
Family
The Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers a delightful family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice for those traveling with children. The hotel provides lovely family rooms, even accommodating smaller family units such as a parent and child. Although the number of family rooms is limited, they are well-appointed and comfortable. Guests have noted that it’s easy to book multiple rooms side by side for larger families, providing convenience and closeness.
The hotel's location is fantastic, situated within walking distance to local pubs, shops and offering fabulous views of the nearby castle in a bustling town setting. The surrounding area has all the necessary amenities and the hotel itself provides a wide variety of choices likely to cater to family needs. Free parking is a plus, adding to the convenience for families traveling by car.
While there have been minor issues like children running in the corridors early in the morning, the overall atmosphere is friendly and welcoming for families. The hotel exudes a pleasant and engaging ambiance, making it a suitable choice for a family getaway in Kilkenny.
Nightlife
The Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers convenient access to a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and pubs just a short walk away. The area is lively, making it easy to dive into the local entertainment with popular spots within a five-minute walk. Guests can experience traditional Irish music with a live duo performing at Matt the Miller pub, which is only 10 meters from the hotel. While the nightlife in Kilkenny is energetic and exciting, the proximity to these bustling venues can result in considerable noise at night. However, the hotel's location enables easy access to both shopping and nightlife and the added benefit of free parking ensures guests can explore the area effortlessly. For those seeking nighttime activities, the vicinity around the hotel provides numerous options to enjoy.
4 Star
Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers great value with large, clean rooms and comfortable beds, alongside included breakfast. However, reviews indicate a mixed experience concerning its four-star rating. While some find that its services and facilities align with a four-star standard, others note that the hotel feels more akin to a three-star establishment. The decor throughout the hotel is lovely yet dated with some guests mentioning the need for an update to match contemporary four-star hotels.
The availability of only a few family rooms and older furniture were points of criticism and several reviewers pointed out the lack of soundproofing and certain in-room amenities like irons and boards. Opinions on the breakfast range from satisfactory to disappointing, often described as underwhelming for a four-star hotel.
Guests did appreciate the overall comfort and aesthetic of the hotel, despite areas that could use some tender loving care. Nonetheless, the general sentiment suggests that the hotel does not entirely live up to its four-star classification with maintenance and services noted as areas needing improvement.
Business
Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers a number of features tailored to business travelers. Key highlights include a nice seating area and work desk in rooms, accessible parking and well-accommodated business meetings. The hotel provides good service and facilities for private meetings with workspaces readily available and a functional conference room. The business area is not crowded, making it a conducive environment for work and the overall atmosphere is corporate and modern.
The hotel is praised for its value for money, affordable prices and elegant service. While the business lounge could use a refresh and some facilities might be considered non-existent by stricter standards, the essential needs of business travelers are effectively met. Additionally, breakfast is okay and adds to the overall business-friendly environment, cementing Kilkenny River Court Hotel as a very good option for business travel.
Accessible
The Kilkenny River Court Hotel offers several features that cater to accessibility needs, although there are a few areas for improvement. Guests appreciated the convenient and free parking, which is easily accessible and includes handicap spaces, albeit limited in number. The hotel is easy to navigate and the lifts are generally in good working order, which adds to the overall ease of access.
The hotel’s location is also a strong point, as it is within walking distance of key points of interest, making it ideal for exploration on foot. Additionally, the premises are accessible by public transport. Some rooms are specifically designed to suit guests with disabilities and have been described as excellent, adding to the comfort and convenience for those staying in these accommodations.
However, some guests pointed out that the entryway is narrow and signage is not always obvious, which could be challenging for those with mobility issues. Similarly, pedestrian access off the road was not ideal with narrow roads complicating accessibility. The lift was noted to be out of order at times and older bathrooms lacked modern accessibility features, making them difficult for some guests.
While the hotel strives to be eco-friendly and convenient, there were a few issues such as damaged and stained furniture and showers that were hard to regulate. Overall, while the Kilkenny River Court Hotel has several accessible features, there are some shortcomings that need addressing to fully accommodate guests with disabilities.
Yes, Kilkenny River Court Hotel has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Pool Lap Lanes.
No, a spa isn't available at Kilkenny River Court Hotel.
No, Kilkenny River Court Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Kilkenny River Court Hotel.
No, Kilkenny River Court Hotel doesn't have a gym.