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The Hole In The Wall
Kilkenny City, Co. Kilkenny
Rainy days
Hidden gem
The Hole in the Wall, Kilkenny City, is one of Ireland’s oldest surviving Elizabethan townhouses, which now houses an intimate tavern and a venue for gigs and events throughout the year.

The Hole in the Wall, Kilkenny City's renowned 18th century tavern, is housed in one of the oldest surviving townhouses in Ireland, the 1582 Archer inner house. Situated up an alleyway off High Street, this Elizabethan building with its tavern, snug and Archer music venue are open to all.

The house is wonderful to explore with its surviving 16th century features. The tavern, now a small and intimate bar, recalls part of the building's illustrious past and evokes the time when the Duke of Wellington and other notables were nightly habitués. The Charitable and Benevolent Snug tells of links to 1916 and other notable events. The Elizabethan Room hosts many gigs year round. The natural acoustics are excellent and there is a built in modern sound system.

The Hole in the Wall plays host to over 100 different musical acts annually, ranging from rock bands, jazz performances, to singer/songwriters and more. The venue supports up and coming talented musicians hailing from all over Ireland and as far away as Nashville, Tennessee.

Details of their opening hours and information on upcoming events happening throughout the year can be checked on their website and Instagram page.

Tips from locals

Visit in the evening, when you're sure to find an ad hoc sing-a-long, storytelling, or more from visiting patrons.

Contact details
Hole in the Wall, 17 High St, Gardens, Kilkenny, R95 TY30, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend spending 1 to 2 hours here.

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