Search

06 Sept 2025

Historic Kilkenny building given a new lease of life following €2 million investment

Historic Kilkenny building given a new lease of life following €2 million investment

Anthony Smith, General Manager of River Court Hotel and Michellin recommended chef, Keith Boyle

The historic Bridge House, a former Dower House which was devastated in a fire in 2018 has re-opened as an exquisite addition to the renowned Kilkenny River Court Hotel. 

The property has been restored to its former glory following a devastating fire in 2018. Thanks to the vision and €2 million investment of The Neville Group, the Bridge House now emerges as a magnificent addition, showcasing 12 impeccably designed bedrooms, a breathtaking parlour overlooking Kilkenny Castle, and the extraordinary original dining room that will feature a fine dining restaurant. 

To coincide with the much-anticipated launch, The Neville Group is also delighted to announce the appointment of Keith and Carmel Boyle to lead the culinary and front of house team at the Bridge House. Hailing from their renowned Michelin recommended restaurant Lady Anne at Creamery House, Keith and Carmel bring with them a wealth of experience in both food and wine, having earned numerous awards and accolades for their culinary expertise over the past number of years. 

Keith Boyle, recently named the 'Best Chef in Leinster' at the prestigious Restaurant Association of Ireland awards, expressed his enthusiasm about their new venture, stating: 

"Both Carmel and I are thrilled to bring our culinary expertise, impeccable service, and unique style to this extraordinary landmark building in Kilkenny City Centre. The opportunity to collaborate closely with General Manager Anthony Smith and join the esteemed Neville Group of Hotels is truly a fantastic opportunity for us. With breathtaking views from the dining room overlooking the river and a glass-fronted parlour offering direct views of Kilkenny Castle, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome both our loyal patrons and new guests, showcasing the remarkable restoration of The Bridge House. Our menu will continue to feature a similar style tasting experience, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients sourced with the utmost care matched perfectly with Carmel’s carefully selected wines.” 

Anthony Smith, General Manager of River Court Hotel, eagerly awaits the highly anticipated reopening of the Bridge House, stating: "We are so excited to unveil the restored Bridge House at Kilkenny River Court Hotel and welcome the Michelin recommended Chef Keith Boyle and Carmel Boyle who will lead the Front of House team. Their unrivalled expertise and commitment to culinary excellence will undoubtedly elevate the dining experience for our guests, adding a new level of excitement to our reopening." 

‘Keith Boyle at The Bridge House’ will offer dinner service from Thursday to Saturday commencing at 6pm, and lunch service on Saturday and Sunday commencing at 1pm. Guests will enter through the original door on John St, preserving the historical character of the building. The anticipated opening is set for mid-July and reservations can be made now by calling 056 781 3225

www.rivercourthotel. com/TheBridgeHouse.html

To continue reading this article,
please subscribe and support local journalism!


Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles.

Subscribe

To continue reading this article for FREE,
please kindly register and/or log in.


Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites. You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news!

Register / Login

Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.

Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.