The Final Draft > Experience The Hole in the Wall Pub: One of Kilkenny’s Rich Historical Treasures
Experience The Hole in the Wall Pub: One of Kilkenny’s Rich Historical Treasures
The term ‘Hole in the Wall’ may be ubiquitous, but it’s true meaning is rarely tested. Nestled in the heart of Kilkenny, one local treasure trove truly lives up to expectations. The Hole in the Wall offers an unrivalled experience full of history, music, and good old-fashioned conversation. We've explored its unique historical roots and modern enhancements, making this spot a must-visit on your next trip to the marble city.
Situated inside one of the oldest surviving Elizabethan townhouses in the county, this small pub was once the haunt of nobility and castle visitors. Now open for business again, it invites patrons on a historical journey through Kilkenny's past. True to its name, you'll find the Hole in the Wall down an alleyway off High Street. Lovingly restored to its former glory, this place is well worth investigating.
Conversation is King
Consisting of just a tavern, snug, and music venue, this tiny pub packs a punch well beyond its modest size. Step inside, and you'll be whisked into a bygone era where conversation takes precedence and storytelling is the order of the day. Its naturally thick timber walls, original to the historical structure, are refreshingly impervious to modern Wi-Fi entrapments. As a result, the ambiance champions a communal feel free from screens and distractions, inviting patrons to converse and make new friends.
A Slice of History
The old-style interior and 16th-century features evoke a past where the townhouse was the place to be for guests of the nearby Kilkenny castle. The Duke of Wellington and other estimable figures once clinked glasses and enjoyed banter with locals within these walls. Vestiges of the location's intriguing past can also be felt in the snug, where conversations about the 1916 rebellion linger in whispers, along with other notable chapters of the country's history.
However, there are a few modern installations that make this pub particularly hospitable. Recently, a tap has been installed, allowing patrons to get draught Guinness. Meanwhile, Smithwick’s is sold in pint-sized bottles, along with other alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Music Venue
Upstairs, a modern sound system and excellent acoustics make this a hotspot for concerts, with over a hundred acts playing the small stage every year. The talented musicians range from local gems to Nashville residents hailing from everywhere in between. The venue hosts a wide range of musical acts, including rock bands, jazz performances, singer/songwriters, and many more throughout the year.
If you're looking for true insight into Kilkenny's rich history and legacy, be sure to stop by the Hole in the Wall. As soon as you step inside, you'll be greeted by a historical treasure in the heart of the city. Uncover stories, local legends, and snippets of the tavern's role in the nation's past.