Nestled in the shadows of historic Kilkenny Castle, Kilkenny Design Craft Centre is situated in what were once the stables and coach houses of historic Kilkenny Castle. 

One of the most instantly recognisable buildings in Ireland, Kilkenny Castle has been an important site since Strongbow constructed the first castle, probably a wooden structure, in the 12th century.  William the Earl Marshall built the first stone castle on the site, which was completed in 1213. This was a square-shaped castle with towers at each corner and three of these original four towers survive to this day.

The Butler family - Earls, Marquesses and Dukes of Ormonde - bought the Castle in 1391 and lived there until 1935.  The property was given to the Nation in 1967 and the impressive castle and its parklands are now open to the public. 

In 1790, a magnificent coach house and stables were built for Kilkenny Castle, seat of the Duke of Ormond.  Today, the entrance building with its arched gateway and copper domed clock-tower, is a landmark in medieval Kilkenny.  It is here where Kilkenny Design Centre first opened and continues today, in the middle of the city’s historic and cultural centre, to attract visitors seeking high quality Irish gifts from around the world.