News and Information - Mount Juliet Estate

A St. Patrick’s Day to Remember: Experience Kilkenny’s Festivities Like A Local

Celebrate in the Heart of Ireland’s Ancient East

Kilkenny is a place where St. Patrick’s Day isn’t just celebrated—it’s lived. The medieval streets pulse with the rhythm of tradition, the air filled with the sounds of Irish music, and the warmth of local hospitality creating an atmosphere that’s as genuine as it gets. From the lively St. Patrick’s Day Parade to intimate pub sessions, this city is the perfect setting for an unforgettable Irish experience, wrapped in the beauty of Ireland’s Ancient East. Come discover how the heart of Kilkenny beats for its annual St. Patrick’s Day.

An Occasion Like No Other

The centrepiece of the festivities is, of course, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on 17th March 2025. This year, the parade will be led by Grand Marshal Mia Griffin, Kilkenny’s own Olympian cyclist, and for the first time, a Junior Grand Marshal, Enya Cox Dempsey, the young singing sensation from Castlecomer. The parade promises a dazzling display of colour, creativity, and community spirit, weaving through the medieval streets and showcasing the rich tapestry of Kilkenny’s heritage. Following the parade, the acclaimed Irish band Kíla will take to the festival stage, ensuring the atmosphere remains electric long into the evening.

Kilkenny Tradfest – The Heartbeat of the Festival

Running concurrently from 14th to 17th March 2025, Kilkenny Tradfest is a must for those who appreciate the beauty of Irish music. The festival features an impressive lineup, including a once-in-a-lifetime performance by trad sensation Sharon Shannon under the ‘Museum of the Moon’ installation at St. Canice’s Cathedral on 14th March. Additionally, the festival offers over 120 events, with performances by both renowned artists and emerging talents, ensuring that the city’s vibrant music scene is on full display.

A Feast for the Senses

From 15th to 17th March, the Festival Market on Mayor’s Walk will be bustling with local food and craft vendors. Visitors can indulge in a variety of street food, pick up handcrafted goods, and soak in the festive atmosphere. The market operates from 11 am to 8 pm, offering ample opportunity to explore and enjoy the best of Kilkenny’s artisanal offerings.

Step Back in Time

For history enthusiasts, the Medieval Moments walking tour with Nevin Cody provides a captivating journey through Kilkenny’s storied past. Running from 14th to 16th March, these evening tours offer a unique perspective on the city’s heritage, blending storytelling with the enchanting ambiance of Kilkenny’s medieval architecture.

A Carnival Atmosphere

The Parade Plaza will be transformed with attractions such as the Big Wheel, Helter Skelter, and a vintage carousel, operating daily from 11 am to 8 pm between 14th and 17th March. These classic fairground rides provide fun for all ages and offer a nostalgic charm to the festivities.

A Dazzling Finale

As the celebrations draw to a close, Kilkenny will bid farewell to St. Patrick’s Day with a spectacular fireworks display on 16th March. Families are encouraged to gather in Kilkenny Castle Park to witness the night sky illuminated in a vibrant display, marking the culmination of the festival’s events.

Celebrate in Style at Mount Juliet Estate

For those seeking a luxurious retreat amidst the festivities, Mount Juliet Estate offers an exquisite blend of elegance and comfort. After a day immersed in celebration, guests can return to the tranquillity of the estate, indulge in fine dining experiences, and relax in the serene surroundings. Whether it’s a gourmet meal at the estate’s renowned restaurant or a leisurely stroll through its picturesque grounds, Mount Juliet provides the perfect sanctuary to conclude your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Kilkenny.

This St. Patrick’s Day, embrace the rich traditions, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that Kilkenny has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to relive cherished memories, the city’s celebrations promise an experience that is both magical and memorable. Sláinte!

Spring in Kilkenny: A Luxurious Escape to Nature and Culture

Embrace the Season at Mount Juliet Estate

As the first hints of spring emerge, Kilkenny, Ireland, undergoes a breathtaking transformation. The city’s medieval streets, rolling countryside, and lush gardens burst into life, creating a setting that is both peaceful and invigorating. With blooming flowers, mild weather, and fewer crowds than the summer months, spring is the perfect time to experience Kilkenny’s beauty at its finest. And there is no better place to do so than Mount Juliet Estate—where elegance, relaxation, and adventure combine to create an unforgettable spring hotel break.

Exclusive Spring Hotel Break Offers

At Mount Juliet Estate, we believe that spring should be celebrated in style. Our exclusive spring hotel offers allow guests to indulge in luxury at the best value. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a rejuvenating solo retreat, or a group escape, we have tailored packages designed to make your stay exceptional. Take advantage of early booking offers, enjoy added benefits with our referral programme, or treat a loved one to a luxury experience with our gift vouchers. For those travelling with friends or family, our group discounts ensure that you can share the magic of Mount Juliet at an unbeatable rate.

Experience the Natural Beauty of Kilkenny

Spring in Kilkenny is a season of discovery. The lush greenery of the countryside and the soft warmth of the air make it ideal for outdoor exploration. Mount Juliet Estate offers a perfect base from which to uncover the region’s most stunning landscapes. Wander the historic grounds of Kilkenny Castle, stroll through the serene trails of Jenkinstown Park, or embark on the scenic Nore Valley Walk. For those seeking adventure, Castlecomer Discovery Park offers thrilling treetop walks and outdoor activities. Our concierge team can arrange bespoke excursions to these locations, ensuring you experience Kilkenny’s natural beauty with ease.

Spring Festivals and Cultural Attractions

Kilkenny’s vibrant cultural scene blossoms in spring, offering an array of events that celebrate the arts, music, and Irish heritage. Kilkenny Tradfest in March brings the city to life with traditional music performances in historic venues, while the renowned Kilkenny Roots Festival in May showcases an eclectic mix of folk, blues, and Americana. Guests staying at Mount Juliet can benefit from our insider tips and exclusive booking services, ensuring they experience these beloved festivals in the best possible way.

For art enthusiasts, the Kilkenny Design Centre and Butler Gallery provide an inspiring look into Ireland’s contemporary and traditional craftsmanship. A visit to these cultural hubs, arranged by Mount Juliet, adds an artistic touch to any spring break.

Indulge in Kilkenny’s Finest Food, Drink, and Shopping

A stay at Mount Juliet would not be complete without experiencing Kilkenny’s exceptional culinary and shopping scene. Explore the city’s lively pub culture with a curated pub crawl, sample award-winning ciders at Highbank Orchards, or browse unique handcrafted treasures at Kilkenny Craft Centre. For those in search of high-end retail therapy, McDonagh Junction Shopping Centre offers an array of boutiques and designer stores. Our team at Mount Juliet can create bespoke itineraries tailored to your tastes, ensuring a seamless and indulgent experience.

Five-Star Luxury at Mount Juliet Estate

Step into a world of refinement at Mount Juliet, where timeless elegance meets modern comfort. Our five-star accommodations, featuring beautifully appointed rooms and suites, offer the perfect sanctuary after a day of exploration. The award-winning spa provides a haven of tranquillity, offering rejuvenating treatments designed to soothe the senses. Dining at Mount Juliet is an experience in itself, with Michelin-starred cuisine at Lady Helen promising an unforgettable culinary journey.

Unparalleled Leisure and Outdoor Pursuits

For those who seek activity and adventure, Mount Juliet offers an impressive array of leisure pursuits. Golf enthusiasts can take on our championship course, a masterpiece designed for both challenge and enjoyment. Equestrian lovers will delight in our horse riding experiences, whether a leisurely trek through the estate or expert-led lessons. For a truly unique encounter, try your hand at falconry and witness the majesty of birds of prey up close.

A Spring Break Like No Other

Mount Juliet Estate is more than just a hotel—it is a destination where spring comes to life in the most luxurious way. Whether you are looking to immerse yourself in Kilkenny’s cultural treasures, unwind in opulent surroundings, or embrace the great outdoors, our estate provides the perfect setting. Discover the beauty of spring with an unforgettable escape to Mount Juliet, where every moment is infused with charm, elegance, and the promise of new beginnings.

Lady Helen at Mount Juliet Estate Retains Michelin Star for 12th Consecutive Year

Lady Helen at Mount Juliet Estate has achieved excellence once again, earning a prestigious Michelin Star for the 12th year in a row in what is aremarkable achievement. Anyone who’s ever dined there will understand why; The food is nothing short of exceptional, and the atmosphere of the estate adds a touch of magic that’s hard to find anywhere else.

The exciting news came from the Michelin Guide Ceremony for Great Britain & Ireland 2025, held at the stunning Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum in Glasgow. The night was one of anticipation and celebration, with the best restaurants from across the UK and Ireland vying for recognition. Once again, Lady Helen prevailed, a testament to Chef John Kelly and his team’s vision, passion, and hard work.

There’s something very special about Lady Helen. It’s not just the beautifully presented dishes or the bold, unforgettable flavours. It’s the way each plate tells a story, reflecting the rich heritage of Irish cuisine while giving it a contemporary twist. Much of the magic comes from the ingredients, sourced locally from the lush landscapes of Kilkenny and even from Mount Juliet’s own grounds. There’s a sense of place in every bite, a connection to the land that makes the dining experience truly unique.

Chef John Kelly put it perfectly when he said, “We have custodian responsibility for the Lady Helen and for its Michelin Star. There is a lot of creativity and passion here with the team, and being awarded the Michelin Star for the 12th year is recognition of that dedication to innovation and the talent of the culinary and service teams here.”
It’s not just about maintaining a high standard – it’s about pushing boundaries, staying creative, and making every dining experience memorable.

The night was a special one here at Mount Juliet Estate as the team gathered to watch the live announcement with tangible anticipation. When the news was finally announced, it was a moment of pure joy and pride for everyone. Twelve years at the top is no small achievement; a legacy of excellence that few can match.

If you haven’t experienced Lady Helen as yet, you’re in for a treat when you do. And if you have, you’ll understand exactly why the Michelin Star has been retained for so long. There’s a real sense of place in every bite, from the bold flavours to the artful presentation. You’re not just having a meal; you’re experiencing a story, a tribute to Irish culinary heritage, brought to life with a modern touch.

Here’s to Chef John Kelly and everyone at Lady Helen, congratulations on a wonderful achievement and long may their success continue.

Blue Book

Mount Juliet is a proud member of Ireland’s Blue Book and is one of a select few Blue Book Hotels with a Michelin Star Restaurant on site. Vouchers from Ireland’s Blue Book can be used to experience a Michelin Star dining experience at the Lady Helen restaurant.

The Irish Legends Golf 2025

Here at Mount Juliet Estate, nestled in County Kilkenny, we will play host to the 2025 OFX Irish Legends, set to begin in the week commencing 12th May. This championship golf course just 90 minutes from Dublin, which previously welcomed five Irish Opens and two World Golf Championships, will provide a familiar yet formidable stage for the senior golf tour’s return.

This marks the first time since 1999 that Mount Juliet will welcome the over-50s Legends Tour, a memorable venue where John Morgan clinched the title in the Irish Seniors Open on what was then known as the European Seniors Tour. Now part of the Legends Tour, the event returns to a course steeped in golfing heritage and designed by none other than Jack Nicklaus. Spanning 7,200 yards, Mount Juliet’s 180-acre layout is a blend of natural beauty and tactical challenge, featuring five lakes that come into play on six holes, along with 80 strategically placed bunkers.

After two years at Seapoint Golf Links in County Louth—where Brazilian Adilson Da Silva recently took the 2024 OFX Irish Legends title—the Legends Tour moves south. Da Silva will defend his title in Kilkenny next spring, promising a week of high-stakes play at one of Ireland’s most storied golfing venues.