Rothe House & Garden

Kilkenny

Rothe House is a unique Irish merchant's townhouse built in the Tudor period between 1594 and 1610.

Rothe House is a unique Irish merchant's townhouse built in the Tudor period between 1594 and 1610.
The property comprises three houses, three enclosed courtyards and a large garden. John Rothe, a wealthy merchant and landowner in Kilkenny, built the first house in 1594 as his residence and place of business. As his family grew (to 12 children) he build the second and third houses. Rothe House is now owned by Kilkenny Archaeological Society, and is home to their large collection of artefacts relating to Kilkenny city and county. The garden to the rear of the house has been reconstructed to reflect a typical early 17th century garden. It measures 1/2 acre approximately and is made up of two enclosed spaces, with a large Orchard to the west beside the City Wall, and a pleasure garden and vegtable garden to the east beside the Third House, The planting scheme is authentic using only plants that would have been available in the early 17th century.

In the heart of Kilkenny City, on the route between Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral. Access is on Parliament Street.

Throughout the year.
House: Apr-Oct: Mon-Sat 10.30-17.00. Sun 15.00-17.00.
Nov-Mar: Mon-Sat 10.30-16.30.
Garden: Open during the daytime.

Adults: €5.00. Adult Groups (10+): €3.00. Students and OAPs: €4.00. Children (under 16) €4.00.

Toilets, shop. Lectures, concerts and outreach activities for children take place throughout the year. Family History Service also available. Special interest tours of House & Garden available.

Roisin McQuillan,
Rothe House & Gardens,
Parliament Street, Kilkenny.

Tel./Fax. +353 56 7722893