Kilkenny is a place that is well known for its night life. Langtons is famous all over Ireland. Pubs in Kilkenny have fantastic live music especially my favourite, trad music. When I was younger and more mobile I was able to get into most places. Now, however I am a little bit older and far less mobile. I can’t get around as easily as I used to. I now depend on my chair to get me from A to B.
Most pubs in Kilkenny are not accessible for wheelchair users especially with heavy, motorised chairs. Steps to the door, narrow doorways, high tables, toilets and big crowds all limit people in wheelchairs.
A lot of pubs are too poky for people with wheelchairs like mine.
Even if you go early to get a seat, the layout and business of the pub can make it difficult to get to the bar and the bathroom. Often, pubs do not have big enough bathrooms for the new longer wheelchairs. You can fold up a buggy but can't fold up a wheelchair!
I usually drink in hotel bars. For me there is no choice at the weekend. On quieter midweek nights. I would recommend Sixty Seven Bar in Langton’s. It is bright, the food is good and there is an accessible bathroom in the hotel reception near the bar. Paris Texas on High Street also has excellent bathroom facilities -very spacious. The Ormonde Hotel is great for a quiet drink. If you are looking for a spacious, accessible bathroom take the lift downstairs to the bathroom by the conference rooms.
If you are planning to visit Kilkenny City (and you definitely should!!) and would like some advice on accessible places to eat and drink you can email me at [email protected].