Kelly Ortiz here, I’m back from an unforgettable journey and so excited to share my latest adventure at the enchanting Mount Juliet Estate in Kilkenny with you! Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s charming countryside, the estate was a perfect blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty. Let me take you on a virtual tour, and who knows—you might just be inspired to start planning your visit!
If you’ve been following me this week on our recent independent trip through Ireland, you can click here to see my previous tips about our journey.
Why Visit?
There are countless reasons to fall in love with Mount Juliet, but let me spill the secrets of why we loved it and we will be back. ? It’s a sanctuary for those wanting to dine like royalty at the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant (see attached menus). Whether you’re indulging in a gourmet feast or exploring the estate’s stunning grounds, there’s a sense of magic in every moment. Think horse-drawn carriage rides and picnics by the river—doesn’t that sound dreamy?
We absolutely LOVED the magic of our morning breakfast in the garden, it was something out of a storybook. Cocktail hour at the 32-bedroom Manor House allows you to step back in time. We stayed at the Hunter’s Yard which is where families, groups, and couples stay. Here’s more about our experience.
If you’ve been following me this week on our recent independent trip through Ireland, you can click here to see my previous tips about our journey.
- CLICK HERE to view the Signature Tasting Menu.
- CLICK HERE to view the Signature Vegetarian Tasting Menu.
Quick tip, if you want to dine at Lady Helen, you need to have advanced dining reservations. In addition, during slow season, they may not be open daily. Guru Travel will make your reservations for you in advance.
Family Travel
Mount Juliet Juniors Club
Holy cow!! I wish I had this when I was a kiddo!! The price is amazing and the experience is priceless.
The Mount Juliet Juniors club is open to children aged between 5 and 12 years. The Juniors Clubs is located in Hunters Yard and is open to families staying on the estate during mid-terms and summer holidays. While at the club, your children will have the chance to enjoy specially tailored (and supervised!) activities that have appealed to the young for centuries.
Opening Times
Monday to Sunday
Afternoon: 12.00 noon – 4.00pm
Evening: 6.00pm – 9.00pm
CLICK HERE to see a brochure on all of the activities. No wonder, we saw so many tired kiddos at dinner!!
Family Activities
I’ve got the scoop on the perfect places for some family-friendly excitement. For younger guests, the playground is the ultimate adventure zone. It’s jam-packed with fun things like a Zipwire, swings, and slides – perfect for a day of non-stop energy-burning and giggles.
And here’s a little magical tidbit: right next to the playground is the Fairy Garden. It’s home to the enchanting Woodland Fairies and Gnomes of the Mount Juliet Estate Hotel. Keep your eyes peeled for their colorful little houses nestled in the trees – it’s like stepping into a fairy tale!
Let’s not forget the complimentary bicycles – ideal for exploring the stunning estate grounds with the whole family. And if water fun is more your style, dive into the expansive 15-meter pool. It’s open to families every day from 9 am to 6 pm.
Family Pastimes
Mount Juliet Estate Hotel is the ultimate spot for an unforgettable family getaway, with something for everyone to enjoy. The place is steeped in history and packed with all sorts of activities that’ll have the whole family smiling.
For those with a love for horses or just hoping to try something new, the Mount Juliet Equestrian Center is a must-visit. They’ve got horse riding lessons and scenic trail rides, perfect for both adults and kids, whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out.
If golf is more your speed, swing by our Golf Academy. It’s fantastic for the entire family, offering lessons infused with the latest Top Tracer technology. Take part in the fun challenges, from seeing who can get “closest to the tee” to testing your mettle in the “longest driver” category. Plus, for the kiddos, we have Junior Golf Camps lined up during mid-terms and school breaks – a great chance for them to learn and have fun!
Overall, Mount Juliet Estate offers countless opportunities for creating those special, shared moments that make family vacations so memorable.
CLICK HERE to see a menu of family activities.
Here’s an idea of what is waiting for you at the Mount Juliet Estate:
- Golf
- Cinema
- Equestrian
- Archery
- Fishing
- Falconry
- Segway Tours
- The Gym
- The Spa
- Swimming Pool
- Walking & Running Trails
- Tennis
- Snooker
- Biking
- Playground
- Fairy Garden
- Picnics
Activities and Experiences
If you’re anything like me, you thrive on adventure mixed with a bit of pampering. ? You can tee off at their championship golf course or opt for a peaceful ride at the equestrian center (seasonally available and we can book this for you in advance). The estate’s spa offers tranquil escapes, perfect after a day exploring Kilkenny’s vibrant streets. And for my fellow history buffs, the estate’s historical tours provide so much depth and intrigue!
We fell in LOVE with the indoor pool area which is a wonderful escape! There were tons of families at Mount Juliet: Hunters Yard so please be sure to check out the pool hours for kiddos and adults.
Opening Hours
- Monday – Friday: 7am – 9 pm
- Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays: 8am – 9pm
- Children are welcome to swim in the pool, with family hours strictly from 9 am – 6 pm daily.
| Who should visit? | – Couples seeking a romantic getaway – Luxury travelers looking for exclusive experiences – Families desiring upscale, kid-friendly activities – Business travelers combining work with leisure |
| Why Visit? | – Escape into a serene countryside setting – Indulge in high-end culinary experiences – Embrace outdoor activities such as golf and horseback riding – Attend and host special events (e.g., weddings, corporate retreats) |
When to Go?
Each season offers its own unique charm. Spring and summer are a riot of color and nature; fall comes adorned with a golden crunch underfoot, while winter wraps the estate in a cozy, festive glow. No matter when you choose to visit, Mount Juliet promises an unforgettable experience.
It is very important to know that while Ireland has mild weather year-round, there’s certain activities that will not carry normal operating hours during low season. We visited at the end of February and first week of March. I knew in advance that we would need to stay mid-March to experience everything the Estate had to offer. Please consult a professional so that we can guide you through the planning process.
| Ideal Seasons | – Spring and summer for outdoor activities and lush landscapes – Fall for vibrant foliage and cooler weather – Winter for cozy retreats and festive holiday events |
Dining and Bars
Mount Juliet Estate & Hunter’s Yard both offer wonderful dining options. We had our included daily breakfast at The Hound which was absolutely beautiful. We truly enjoyed the garden room over-looking the golf-course. They made it especially cozy with blankets at each table. Such a wonderful touch!
Afternoon Tea at Manor House
A trip to Ireland would not be complete without a proper afternoon tea in the Manor House. Get ready to indulge in the most delightful Afternoon Tea ever! You’ll be whisked away to the elegant Georgian Manor House, where you get to enjoy this treat from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm, every single day. Whether you decide to nestle into the sophisticated Majors Bar or sip your tea amidst the serene beauty of the Manor House lawns (because let’s face it, who can resist a bit of sunshine?), you’re in for a real treat.
Each venue offers up a selection of mouthwatering delights – we’re talking delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones topped with rich, creamy homemade jams, and cakes that are oh-so-decadent. And, just to tantalize your taste buds even more, why not sip on some of our divine signature beverages? Feeling a bit fancy? Add a sparkle to your afternoon with a bubbly glass of Gremillet Champagne.
- CLICK HERE to view the menu for the afternoon tea. Guru Travel will make reservations for our clients in advance.
The Clubhouse
The Clubhouse is the ideal restaurant in Mount Juliet for a light lunch or for sinking into a deep-set leather chair, where you can relax with a drink in hand while enjoying televised sports.
TIP: We found this to have limited hours while we were there, so make sure it is open prior to planning a meal there.
Majors Bar at Manor House
Take a seat in Majors Bar and enjoy a glass of amber whiskey by the crackling fire, savor a pint of Guinness in heart of the grand Georgian estate and enjoy the intimate atmosphere of the venue. Believe me, you will not be disappointed you took the time to visit Majors bar. It just may be your new favorite spot.
The Saddle Bar at Hunters Yard
We spent a lot of time at Saddle Bar. It is casual and cozy! It was also a 30-second walk from our amazing room at Hunters Yard.
Imagine walking into a space adorned with fascinating equestrian memorabilia that you won’t find anywhere else. Wherever I find myself settling in, I’m always surrounded by these unique elements that just bring the estate’s rich past right into the here and now.
It’s the kind of place where the history and charm weave seamlessly around you, making every visit feel like a special escape. I truly love that whenever I’m there, the past and present come together in such an intriguing way—it’s super captivating and oh-so-cozy.
The 1757 Bar at Manor House
The recently refurbished, 1757 bar is located in the original cellar of Manor House. Enjoy the sense of history as you relax amongst the vaulted ceilings, thick stone walls and atmospheric black and white photographs. The elegant 1757 bar enjoys a private terrace overlooking the River Nore and Ballylinch Stud.
This place is amazing! YOU MUST head over there and enjoy the ambiance. You will not regret it!!
The Value of the Experience
What seals the deal for me is the seamless blend of luxury with authentic Irish countryside charm. With personalized service at every turn, the estate provides not just a visit, but a treasure trove of memories. ? With history whispering in the winds and nature embracing every corner, staying here feeds the soul and sparks joy that lasts long after you’ve left.
Everything from the moment we checked in felt luxury without pretention. My husband and I value nice rooms, luxury bedding, and bathrooms that allow us to unpack. While I loved everything, I will say the bathroom was a bit too small to unpack and the lighting made it difficult for my 45-year old eyes to see my makeup hahahaha!! Would this keep me from going back? Absolutely, not!
Do not worry about being board, there is a ton to do!! Golfers unite! You will love the Jack Nicklaus Signature Designed Parkland Golf Course, which is 7,200 yards of visionary, set across 180 acres of rolling Irish countryside.
You can also enjoy; Fishing, Falconry, Archery, The Cinema, Walking Trails, Wellness, Pool, Equestrian Center and more.
Maybe you are a foodie and want to experience the The Michelin Starred Lady Helen which is STELLAR! The Michelin Starred Lady Helen is one of Ireland’s most unique dining experiences. Serving the highest quality modern Irish food in Mount Juliet in a magnificent 260-year-old country manor, John Kelly’s menus champion the finest of Irish natural produce.
If you are more casual, you will love The Hound Restaurant which we loved as well. The afternoon tea at the Manor House is something you will not want to miss!
Last, the 1757 Bar at the Manor House is simply divine and historic! The recently refurbished, 1757 bar is located in the original cellar of Manor House. Enjoy the sense of history as you relax amongst the vaulted ceilings, thick stone walls and atmospheric black and white photographs. The elegant 1757 bar enjoys a private terrace overlooking the River Nore and Ballylinch Stud.
| Activities | – Championship golf course – Equestrian center with personalized horseback riding lessons – Spa and wellness facilities for ultimate relaxation – Fine dining at the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant – Riverside walks and historical tours of the estate |
| Value | – Seamless blend of luxury with nature, offering both adventure and relaxation – Award-winning service ensuring personalized guest experiences – Rich historical background adding depth and narrative to the guest stay – Opportunities for unique vacations tailored to guest preferences |
Our Room: Hunter’s Yard: King Garden View
We loved our room! It was close to the lobby. Please beware, there will be noise from the lobby, this did not bother us at all as we sleep with a white noise machine on our phones (download it, called White Noise Lite and it is free!). I never travel without it. I just like to inform, you get what you pay for, if you book a lower category room, you will hear noise.
Everything in our room was luxury, we even received nightly turn-down service. This was the only place we stayed in Ireland that offered this nightly. It may not seem like a big deal when you are booking, however, when you are there, it is amazing!
I like a lot of pillows, which was not an issue here at Mount Juliet Estate. We called down, and pillows were on our room within minutes!
You will notice that there’s a fridge with both, still and sparkling water, this is included!! In addition, the coffee and tea in your room is included. Use it, and ask for more!! It is wonderful!
Let’s touch on the included breakfast….it is magical! We arrived with zero expectations, yet, we were amazed to be shown to our table which overlooked a beautiful golf course, birds singing, flowers trees, and blankets to keep us warm….WHAT?! We loved our full Irish Breakfast and wished we had an additional night here to fully enjoy the amenities.
Conclusion
Leaving Mount Juliet Estate was no easy feat; its captivating allure had me wishing for “just one more night.” Whether you’re planning a getaway or simply dreaming of your next travel destination, allow yourself to get lost in the beauty and bliss of Mount Juliet. I bet you’ll fall in love with Kilkenny just like I did. Stay-tuned for a full post on why I think you need to invest more time in Kilkenny and skip some other well-known areas in Ireland. You will not be disappointed.
Got questions or ready to plan your next trip? Let’s chat—I’m here to guide you every step of the way! Call me at 630-885-3999 or email me at kelly@thewdwguru.com.
