9-Day Real Ireland Tour

A Storied Stay in the Medieval Mile

The Pembroke Hotel stands on a site with a curious past. Back in the 1930s, it was home to Statham’s Garage, a favourite among racing fans. The famous Statham-Ford Special, a sleek Ford V8 racer, was built here and once roared through the Limerick Grand Prix. Today, a gleaming replica of that car still lives inside the hotel as a tribute to its racing roots.

Modern comforts now fill the hotel’s 84 rooms, many of which offer lovely views of Kilkenny Castle or the rooftops of the old city. The interiors are fresh and stylish but still feel connected to the city’s character.

What to See and Do

Kilkenny Castle is just steps away. This impressive structure has guarded the River Nore since the 12th century and is one of Ireland’s finest Anglo-Norman castles. From there, stroll through the Medieval Mile, where every cobbled corner reveals another chapter of the city’s long history.

Inside the hotel, Statham’s Bar and Restaurant is a highlight in itself. It serves locally sourced dishes and award-winning breakfasts that draw praise far beyond Kilkenny. Come evening, the atmosphere turns lively with music, cocktails, and cheerful conversation.

Need a breather? Head downstairs to the Mint Medispa. It’s a peaceful space offering relaxing treatments and professional skincare therapies. It’s especially lovely after a full day of sightseeing.

Other local gems include Rothe House, a beautifully preserved Tudor merchant’s home, and the Black Abbey, where light filters through medieval stained glass. For something fun and local, join a walking tour that blends storytelling, humour, and maybe even a pint at a traditional pub.

Practical Tips

Book a room facing the castle if you can. It's worth it for the view alone. On-site parking is free, and the hotel even has EV charging points. Once you’ve parked, leave the car and explore on foot. Kilkenny is a compact city, and that’s part of its charm.

A Family Story on the Waterfront

Casey’s of Baltimore has grown from humble roots. It began in the 1970s when Michael and Ann Casey started serving home-cooked meals and welcoming guests into their small pub. What started as a family project has since become a much-loved hotel and restaurant, known for its views, hospitality, and seriously good chowder.

The pub itself has even older bones, with parts dating back to the 1800s. Inside, it’s all timber beams, stonework, and the kind of warmth that can only come from a real Irish fire and a friendly barman who knows your name by the second pint.

Things to Do and Discover

A Place to Stay and Unwind

Casey’s offers a range of rooms, from traditional hotel accommodations to lodge-style suites and self-catering cottages. Many have sea views, so you can watch the boats drift across Baltimore Harbour without leaving your bed. The rooms are simple, fresh, and comfortable, with modern touches like Smart TVs and in-room coffee, all set against the calming backdrop of the Atlantic.

Guests can enjoy complimentary access to the local leisure centre, where a sauna, pool, steam room, and gym await. After a day of island-hopping or sea kayaking, a soak in the jacuzzi is well earned.

Seafood and Stories

Meals at Casey’s are about more than just eating. They reflect the land and sea around them. Mussels are harvested from the family’s own mussel farm, and the seafood chowder is still based on Michael Casey’s original recipe. The restaurant focuses on local produce, fresh baking, and the kind of dishes that let ingredients speak for themselves.

Over in the Cabin Bar, you’ll find a relaxed setting where live music often fills the evenings. The pub is also home to West Cork Brewing Company, Ireland’s first brew-hotel experience. If you’re into craft beer, try the Roaring Ruby Red Ale or Sherkin Lass Pale Ale—both brewed just a few steps from where you're sipping them.

Explore the Coastline

Baltimore is a gateway to island adventures. Take a ferry to Sherkin or Cape Clear for a day of hiking or beachcombing. Whale-watching tours depart from the harbour, and there’s no shortage of sea kayaking, coastal walks, or even a trip up to the old Baltimore Beacon. History buffs can explore Dún na Séad Castle, a medieval fortress with sweeping views of the bay.

Practical Tips

Book a sea-view room if you can, it’s worth waking up early for the sunrise. Tables in the restaurant fill quickly during summer, so reservations are a good idea. And if you’re planning on trying the local beer, ask about brewery tours or special tasting sessions.

Family-Run with a Historic Touch

Kingston’s Bar has been part of Killorglin life since 1889, and it’s still in the same family. Today, Erwin and Aoife Kingston continue that tradition with a modern townhouse right beside the original pub. While the bar keeps its classic feel, the guesthouse brings a fresh, stylish twist on local charm.

The building itself carries a lot of character, and each of the 17 ensuite rooms has been thoughtfully designed. Whether you're staying in a deluxe double, a family room, or the apartment suite, you’ll find smart TVs, rainfall showers, and lovely attention to detail. One of the upstairs rooms even looks out toward the medieval Castleconway ruins.

Great Food and Lively Evenings

Downstairs in the bar, you’ll find more than just a pint. Their wood-fired pizza has earned a loyal following and makes for a perfect casual dinner after a day of sightseeing. Expect a laid-back atmosphere where visitors and locals mingle over drinks and chat by the fire.

The bar’s whiskey and gin selection is also impressive. If you’re into your spirits, it’s worth asking for a local recommendation. In summer, the buzz spills onto Market Street. In winter, it’s all about cosy corners.

Exploring Killorglin and Beyond

Killorglin is famous for its Puck Fair, one of Ireland’s oldest festivals. But outside of August, it’s still a brilliant base for touring the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula, and the mountains and lakes of Killarney National Park.

Cyclists and hikers love this spot, and the guesthouse has handy storage for gear. The nearby River Laune is popular for kayaking and fishing, and the coast is only a short drive away.

A Special Stay in the Burren

Hazelwood Lodge is much more than a place to sleep. It’s an experience shaped by hosts who truly care. Victor and Geraldine have built a reputation not just for their hospitality, but for their eye for detail. From the stylish, spacious rooms to the thoughtfully prepared breakfasts, everything is designed to make you feel completely at home.

The Burren itself is one of Ireland’s most unusual and breathtaking landscapes. This karst region of north Clare is famous for its grey limestone terraces, ancient tombs, and a surprising range of wildflowers. Alpine, arctic, and Mediterranean plants grow here side by side, making it a botanist’s dream and a stunning place to explore in spring and summer.

Ballyvaughan and the Spirit of Clare

Ballyvaughan was once a bustling port, known for exporting turf and fish. Today it is a quiet, welcoming village that still carries echoes of its past. You can walk to the harbour, browse local shops, or enjoy a relaxed pint at one of the nearby pubs. On weekends, a small farmers market pops up with fresh produce, local crafts, and homemade treats.

For those curious about the area’s deeper past, the Burren is filled with ancient sites. Corcomroe Abbey, just a few minutes away, is a 13th-century monastery surrounded by hills and grazing cows. Aillwee Cave offers underground adventures and a birds-of-prey centre, and the Flaggy Shore walk is a local favourite with views across Galway Bay to the hills of Connemara.