Created by the cultured Power family (founders of the Kilkenny Theatre) in the 1790s, Kilfane Demesne is one of Kilkenny's - and Ireland's - most interesting historic properties and anyone reading its history is likely to feel that the original owners would be happy with its current ownership and use. Having been unused for a number of years it was acquired in 2022 by the Seraph Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation founded by Lorna Byrne (author of Angels in My Hair), to develop a sanctuary and residential retreat along with educational activities, sustainable organic farming and natural habitat regeneration.
Following restoration of the property, The Wildflower Tea Rooms opened in late 2025 to the delight of local visitors. Attached to the main house, which is used mainly for retreats but now also available for other events including weddings, the setting is a purpose built modern building sympathetically designed by Canice Architects to reflect elements of a former barn.
When buzzing with happy customers, the large timber framed room is a joyful space - and this is largely down to the chef, Karen Long, who has worked in various Kilkenny establishments and has great knowledge and experience of café cooking. Very creative and known for light and flavoursome cooking, her menus are always enticing - Magnificent Mushrooms on toasted sourdough might tempt, for example, or an aromatic Chicken Massaman curry poke bowl. But then you'll see the Daily Specials, and should not pass them up... Excellent home-made soup, for a start, and then perhaps a delicious Sancturay Organic Lamb Burger or a Buttermilk Chicken Pitta. But do make sure that you leave room for one of the gprgeous home made cakes and pastries displayed at the counter...
After enjoying some simply special food at this very relaxing gem of a place (hidden so far, but not for long), you can look forward to a stroll around the extensive gardens, including the restored walled kitchen garden which supplies produce to the house and tea rooms - and also to the shop, so you can take fresh some seasonal produce home with you as well.
