Ireland and the US have long enjoyed a special relationship. Our US relationship started with mass emigration from Ireland to the US during the Great Famine between 1845 and 1852. Irish people flocked to the US and set up families, businesses, and lives there, enriching the American culture and creating one of our own.
Americans have plenty of ancestry in Ireland and flock to visit the Emerald Isle to trace their roots and experience a unique Irish welcome from our locals. Kilkenny is a popular spot on any Irish tour because of its medieval history, its music scene and the fantastic food and drink. Hoban Hotel is the ideal accommodation in Kilkenny to explore the city and enjoy a comfortable base.
James Hoban
Did you know Hoban Hotel in Kilkenny was named after a Kilkenny-born architect, entrepreneur, and civic leader in early Washington DC? James Hoban was born in 1755 and is most famous for designing, building, and rebuilding the mansion that would become America’s White House, as well as providing initial quarters for the U.S. Congress and the principal offices of state in the new Federal Republic.
He learned all he knew about crafting the Desart Estate near Cuffesgrange, completed his professional education in Dublin and emigrated to the US in 1785. He was commissioned by George Washington to design the Executive Mansion in 1792, using references that included Dublin’s Leinster House.
Hoban Hotel
Many Dublin hotels and accommodations in the centre of Kilkenny are restricted for space, which means they offer smaller, European-style guest rooms. Hoban Hotel, situated on the edge of the city offers spacious guest rooms with large beds, without compromising on style or comfort. Our location, a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the centre of the action means you are close enough to explore the best of the city while being far enough from the vibrant nightlife that you can enjoy a great night’s sleep. If you’re on a road trip around Ireland, parking in Kilkenny City is limited and can be expensive. When you choose Hoban Hotel, we offer complimentary parking in a large car park, taking the pressure off fitting into those tiny European spaces!
Explore Kilkenny
From our location on the edge of Kilkenny City, you can explore the very best of the city and its surroundings. We’re situated a 15-minute walk from the centre of Kilkenny where you can enjoy the Medieval surroundings, and explore museums, galleries, gardens and so much more. Walk the Medieval Mile and learn more about Ireland’s most famous witch hunt.
You’ll find bountiful craic agus ceol in Kilkenny with over 150 pubs to choose from, many of which have free Trad music in the evenings. Our pubs double as restaurants, meeting places, nightclubs, and so much more and are at the heart and soul of the city. The shopping in Kilkenny is impressive with a focus on local and independent boutiques, but plenty of brand names and chain stores to browse too. There is plenty to do in Kilkenny City, a short walk from Hoban Hotel.
Local Food & Drink
While our US cousins come to explore the land, trace their ancestors, and have fun in Kilkenny, many are pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food in Ireland. Ireland has some of the best food in Europe, with very high standards for meat, dairy and fresh produce across the board. Kilkenny has a truly impressive food scene with everything from casual takeaways to fine dining available within a short walk of the hotel. Our in-house restaurant, 1801, which has been recently renovated to a high standard, serves a variety of delicious pub grub favourites. Taste quality Irish produce and flavours on our menu which has been especially curated for local taste and guest satisfaction. Specials include a Roast of the Day, Irish beef burgers and fish of the day served with local vegetables.
Above all else, when you book a stay in Hoban Hotel Kilkenny, you’ll enjoy the famous Irish hospitality. We welcome guests from all over the world including thousands of US guests and we’re happy to recommend things to do in Kilkenny to suit your needs. Book your stay on our website where you can read more blogs, browse pictures of the hotel and be guaranteed our best available rates.
