Shop Until You Drop – Kilkennys Boutique & Craft Magic
When you stay in one of our self catering cottage in Kilkenny, you deserve more than just a basic shopping trip. You deserve a treasure hunt. Kilkenny, a small city but one bursting with character, is full of boutique shops, artisan studios, independent craft shops, fashion gems, and gift stores unlike those you’ll find anywhere else.
Here are some of our favourite spots in city and county.
The Castle Yard. At the heart of Craft & Design in Ireland
One of the most enchanting places in the city for craft lovers is the Castle Yard (Kilkenny Design Centre). This is the place where you’ll find potters, silversmiths, leather workers, jewellers, glass artists and more working in live studios. You can watch makers at work and choose pieces you’ll treasure and talk about for years.
Highlights in the Castle Yard include:
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Ken Foley Leather, beautiful handcrafted leather handbags and goods.
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Castle Arch Pottery, ceramics with rich glazes and thoughtful forms.
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Brennan Knives, functional and artistic knife making.
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Wired Irish Crafts, eco friendly candles and creative home fragrances.
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Des Byrne Silver, striking silver jewellery and pieces.
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My Skin Integrity, botanical skincare made with care.
These are not just shops, these are experiences of Irish craft in motion. You’ll leave inspired and likely carrying something that means more because you saw how it was made.
Indie Boutiques & Fashion Finds
Once you’re in Kilkenny city centre, slip into the narrow streets and you’ll find boutique fashion stores offering unique lines you won’t see in big chains. A few to keep your eyes peeled for:
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Mimi Boutique, a well‑curated women’s fashion boutique with personality.
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Goods of Kilkenny, though larger, it carries local and international brands with a distinct style.
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Carraig Donn, contemporary Irish design, dresses, accessories and artful gifts.
- Folkster, a go-to for fashion lovers, offering a stunning collection of vintage-inspired pieces
Boutiques are often run by people with passion, so expect better service, styling help, and a chance to find something truly yours.
The Merchant Shop at Rothe House
Hidden behind heritage walls is the Merchant Shop at Rothe House, where you can find a range of Irish made gifts, leather bags, ceramics, woven throws, jewellery, and more. It’s a wonderful stop if you want something rooted in local story, something you’ll remember long after your holiday is over.
Craft Studios in the County
Don’t limit yourself to the city — the county beyond Kilkenny has craft treasures too.
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Jerpoint Glass, just 10 minutes from Croan Cottages, near Thomastown is a must. Watch glassblowers shaping molten glass and browse their gallery of unique pieces.
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Nicholas Mosse Pottery in Bennettsbridge is another beloved name. Their spongeware style is timeless; their workshop galleries are a joy to visit.
Taking a drive outwards can reward you with beautiful work, scenic views, and the chance to carry home something made where you visited.
Markets & Sunday Strolls
On market days and Sundays, local markets bring out artisans, food makers, jewellery creators, art prints and more. There’s always a chance to discover something fresh, handcrafted and direct from maker to customer. Keep your eyes open for pop‑up craft fairs or weekend markets — they’re part of Kilkenny’s rhythm.
Why Shopping Matters on a Holiday Cottage Stay
Staying in a holiday cottage in Kilkenny gives you time and freedom to enjoy the county and city at your pace. Time to stroll, explore, linger, talk to makers, choose carefully. You’re not just passing through. You can carry your finds home proudly, not as generic souvenirs but as stories, reminders, gifts that mean something.
Boutique shops, independent makers and artisan studios are the heartbeats of local culture. When you base yourself at Croan Cottages, you’re only a short drive or pleasant cycle from these gems. Shop local, support makers, and come home with more than memories.