I found the Kilkenny Tourist Hostel while searching Trivago for cheap online deals for a long…read moreweekend visiting friends last month. I ended up booking a bed in one of the 6 bed, female dorms for just €53, paying a tiny deposit online and the rest up front on arrival. The hostel does not take credit cards so bring cash or visit the nearby atm before you check in!
I was greeted by a really friendly, laid back guy who gave me a key and door code as well as a run through of house rules and where to find everything. I was also upgraded to a smaller 4 bed dorm room as they were obviously fairly quiet and I made my way up to check out the room which was basic but clean. It consisted of two single beds, a bunkbed, a large open wardrobe and a sink and mirror in the corner.
On the first night there were just two of us is the room and the second night we were joined by another two Spanish girls. In my third night I had the whole place to myself!
Facilities in the hostel were basic but I was never left wanting. Each floor had a small, double cubicle bathroom and a separate shower room with two showers, and a sink and mirror. Towels can be provided for an extra couple of Euro, just ask on reception on check in!
On ground level there is a lovely sitting room with big comfy couches and a fireplace, a really great spot to sit with a good book or to make new friends. There is an ancient laptop here that can be used by residents if they need it, lots of tourist guides and history of the town and a handful of board games. This is locked by 10 or 11. The kitchen consists of everything you could need, a decent dining area, a cooker, microwave, large countertops, a huge fridge and freezer. Customers can use all of these facilities but are asked to finish cooking by 10pm to ensure that smoke alarms don't go off and wake up residents!
Staff here are super friendly and have great insights into what's happening in the town and recommendations for events, sightseeing, live music, pubs and restaurants. Check out is at 10am but staff offered to keep my bags while I was out exploring on my final day.
Did I mention the dog?
There is also the SWEETEST, most adorable little schnauzer having a snooze at reception from time to time which absolutely made my weekend! :D