LOVE IN THE CLUB

Old charm meets modern living in Kilkenny hotel

- BY RACHEL BERESFORD

"THERE must be something happening this weekend" I said to my friend as we pulled into Kilkenny city centre at the end of last month for an overnight break.

As Ireland enjoyed a mini-heatwave during the last weekend in June, we headed for the Medieval City for a stay in the Club House Hotel (www.clubhousehotel.com) on Lower Patrick Street, which has just unveiled 25 refurbished luxury guestrooms as part of a stunning €2.5 million renovation.

This hotel dates all the way back to 1797, starting out as a local foxhunting club, before being given the title of 'hotel' in 1817.

Run by Kilkenny couple, Ian Brennan and Joanna Hannick, the new wing of the second-generation Brennan family hotel is like stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia.

While the main part of the Georgian townhouse is dated, it's in the best possible way as it retains all the charm and features - including stained-glass windows and ornate architraves - of its 18th century origins, the refurbished rooms bringing this hotel into the 21st century.

The decor is modern yet warm, with a collection of photography by renowned artist Patrick McDonald adorning the walls, showcasing beloved Kilkenny streetscapes and landmarks.

Location, location, location, though, is everything - and when it comes to the Club House you are never more than a five-minute walk in any direction from all of the famous Kilkenny landmarks, including Kilkenny Castle and St Canice's Cathedral, which is where Ireland's Medieval Mile starts and finishes.