Magic in the Making – Get Crafty in Kilkenny This Christmas

In the second of two-part series, we're looking at the amazing Irish craft trail you’ll find in Kilkenny. Kilkenny is the home of Irish craft, simply put. You can follow the Made in Kilkenny Craft Trail and visit makers in the city and county including potter Nicolas Mosse in Bennetsbridge, basket weavers Heike Kahle and Klaus Hartmann in Baurnafea, Castlewarren, or see jeweller Frederike Grace work with precious metals at her studio in Burnchurch. Pop into the National Craft Gallery in the city and browse to your heart’s content in the Kilkenny Design shop opposite Kilkenny Castle. After a hard day exploring Kilkenny’s food and craft delights wind down over a delicious meal at one of the city’s top class restaurants including two new Michelin star award winners, Campagne in the city and the Lady Helen in Mount Juliet Estate. There are lots of other options too! A craft and culinary break in Kilkenny will be the perfect opportunity to get in some Christmas Shopping with an abundance of unique, hand-made craft and food items to make it a very special present. Check out www.visitkilkenny.ie for details of great value craft and culinary breaks. Here is a menu of some available to get your crafty side thinking Christmas breaks...     Two Night Newpark Kilkenny Craft Experience from €149pps Enjoy two nights bed and full Irish breakfast in a luxurious superior bedroom with dinner on 1 Evening of your choice in our newly refurbished Scott's Brasserie. During your stay make a visit to the craft studios within Castlecomer Discovery Park, explore the National Craft Gallery of Ireland and finish off with a trip to the wonderful Nicholas Mosse Pottery factory where a light lunch awaits you. All this from €149.00 per adult sharing. During your stay you may also enjoy complimentary use of our escape Health Club with thermal suite and outdoor infinity pool. Free Car parking and complimentary Wi-Fi is also included during your stay. Tel: +353 (0)56 7760500. Email: reservations@newparkhotel.com   Kilkenny Ormonde City Craft Break Relax at the 4 Star Kilkenny Ormonde Hotel in the very heart of Kilkenny City. Enjoy 3 nights bed & breakfast, 2 delicious evening meals in Savour Restaurant and tea and homemade scones on an afternoon of your choice. Explore Kilkenny craft trail with a different producer to visit each day.....Nicholas Mosse Pottery at Bennettsbridge is a must and Jerpoint Glass in Stoneyford. For more details check out www.trailkilkenny.ie Tel: +353 (0)56 7750200 Email:reservations@kilkennyormonde.com   A Feast of Food and Craft with the Springhill Court Hotel Take time for the two of You! From €139pps. Enjoy 3 nights B&B 3 Evenings Meals in their Claddagh Restaurant or Paddock Bar. Full use of our Leisure Facilities including our 19 metre deck level swimming pool, heated seat area, sauna, steamroom and Jacuzzi. Take time to enjoy some of Kilkenny’s finest crafts at Jerpoint Glass. 10% Discount for Springhill Court Hotel guests on all Premium Glass Tel: +353 (0)56 7721122