Mount Juliet Estate has been crowned Best Luxury Resort in Ireland by Luxury Lifestyle Awards, a recognition that celebrates the estate’s rare ability to fuse centuries-old heritage with contemporary sophistication. Located in the lush countryside of Kilkenny, this five-star retreat is more than a place to stay; it is a living testament to Irish history and hospitality. Every inch of the 500-acre estate reflects a devotion to quality, comfort, and authenticity, inviting guests to discover an experience steeped in culture and beauty.

Stepping through its gates, visitors are met with a sense of grandeur that feels both historic and refreshingly modern. Whether one chooses to stay in the stately Georgian Manor House or the sleek, contemporary Hunter’s Yard, Mount Juliet Estate offers two distinct yet equally luxurious worlds.

The Manor House and Hunter’s Yard: Two Expressions of Luxury

At the heart of the estate stands the 18th-century Manor House, an architectural treasure where heritage reigns supreme. Once home to the Earls of Carrick and later the McCalmont family, it retains the elegance of its storied past through grand staircases, marble fireplaces, and Georgian décor. The atmosphere is intimate and deeply characterful, making it a favourite for guests seeking a sense of timeless charm.

In contrast, Hunter’s Yard presents a modern interpretation of comfort, light-filled, stylish, and designed for today’s traveller. With sleek interiors and easy access to the estate’s many amenities, it captures a contemporary spirit while remaining in harmony with its historic surroundings. This dual accommodation offering allows guests to choose between the romance of a bygone era and the convenience of modern luxury, all within the same estate.

Culinary Excellence at Lady Helen

The Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant is the jewel of Mount Juliet’s dining experience. Head Chef John Kelly takes locally sourced ingredients, from estate gardens and nearby producers, and transforms them into dishes that embody creativity and Irish authenticity. Every plate reflects a deep respect for provenance and flavour, served in a setting overlooking the rolling pastures of Kilkenny.

For those seeking something more relaxed, the Major’s Bar and The Hound in Hunter’s Yard provide inviting spaces for afternoon drinks, light bites, and lively conversation. Each dining venue showcases the estate’s belief that true luxury lies in the details, where craftsmanship, locality, and atmosphere combine to create unforgettable moments.

A Playground for the Senses

Beyond its grand interiors, Mount Juliet Estate invites guests to explore an extraordinary range of pursuits. The world-famous Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course has become a pilgrimage site for golf enthusiasts, offering scenic fairways and challenges that live up to its global reputation.

Equestrian enthusiasts can trace the hoofbeats of Lady Rose McCalmont across the same trails where she once rode with passion and flair. Whether galloping through meadows, casting a line into the River Nore, or learning the art of falconry, guests can experience Ireland’s countryside through the lens of history and adventure. The estate also offers rejuvenating spa retreats, woodland walks, and family-friendly activities, each designed to immerse guests in the rhythm of life at Mount Juliet.

A Heritage of Hospitality

For more than 250 years, Mount Juliet has stood as a symbol of Irish refinement and resilience. From the romance of Somerset Hamilton Butler and Lady Juliet, whose love gave the estate its name, to the vision of Sir Dermot McCalmont, who restored it to grandeur in the early 20th century, every era has added its own chapter to this remarkable story.

Today, under the Marriott Autograph Collection banner, the estate remains fiercely individual while benefiting from a global reputation for excellence. This balance between tradition and progress defines its enduring allure. Guests are not merely accommodated; they are welcomed into a heritage that continues to evolve with grace and imagination.

Authentic Service, Modern Comfort

What truly distinguishes Mount Juliet Estate is its approach to hospitality. Every stay is shaped by attentive, personalised service and an understanding of what luxury means to each individual guest. Whether arranging private dining, golf sessions, or bespoke wellness experiences, the team’s attentiveness ensures that each visit feels deeply personal.

Staff are empowered to create moments of connection, those spontaneous gestures and thoughtful touches that linger long after check-out. It’s a philosophy that has earned the estate a devoted following from Ireland to North America and beyond.

Experience Ireland’s Award-Winning Luxury Destination

To stay at Mount Juliet Estate is to participate in a story that continues to unfold, a story of elegance, passion, and Irish charm brought vividly to life. With its storied architecture, refined service, and array of world-class experiences, this is a destination where heritage feels alive and hospitality feels artful.

To learn more, visit https://www.mountjuliet.ie/.