Ashford Castle crowned No. 1 resort hotel in Ireland and UK

Ashford Castle has been voted the number one resort hotel in the UK and Ireland by readers of the iconic Travel & Leisure magazine, one of the most acclaimed travel publications in the world for discerning travellers.

The annual Travel & Leisure World’s Best Awards, which are among the most prestigious travel awards globally, are based on votes from the publication’s almost five million readers, so are a true reflection of authentic guest experiences.

The luxury hotel in Mayo, which reopened its doors on July 2, was deemed the number one ahead of many of the UK and Ireland’s most elite and exclusive resort hotels, each of which is rated by readers on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value.

According to Travel & Leisure, the top resort hotels in Europe are synonymous with old-world grandeur, exacting service, and exceptional amenities, all of which are in abundance at Ashford Castle.

Speaking of the latest accolade, Niall Rochford, general manager at Ashford Castle said: “Winning this award and being recognised as the UK and Ireland’s number one resort hotel is a seminal moment for Ashford Castle, particularly when you consider the standard and number of wonderful properties operating in both markets.

“I’m extremely proud of our dedicated and long-serving team for consistently delivering such impeccable service and warm hospitality and this award is really a testament to them.

"We are particularly grateful to be presented with this accolade after the recent challenging months and it’s marvellous to be able to reopen our doors with some fantastic celebratory news.”

With 83 rooms and suites, together with a hideaway cottage, Ashford Castle sits majestically by the shores of Lough Corrib, surrounded by ancient Irish woodland and beautifully manicured lawns.

The 350-acre estate in Cong,is part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection and a member of Leading Hotels of the World, where guests have been enjoying exceptional levels of hospitality for more than 80 years.

The great outdoors is part of the 350-acre estate’s quintessential charm and home to a myriad of outdoor activities.

You can watch Hawks soar through the air with a visit to Ireland’s first school of falconry or swing into action on the estate’s Eddie Hackett-designed nine-hole golf course.

The five-star luxury hotel is no stranger to awards and is the only hotel in Ireland to have earned a Five-Star Forbes rating.

*Pictured is the Ashford Castle team with the hotel in the background.