Ireland’s 85-Room Ashford Castle Re-Opens

Ashford Castle, now a member of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, has been officially re-opened by Ireland’s Prime Minister, Enda Kenny.

Located near Cong on the Mayo-Galway border, on the shore of Lough Corrib in Ireland, Ashford Castle, which was once home to the Guinness family for over 100 years, has undergone a two-year multi-phased restoration programme .

The Castle has welcomed royalty, celebrities and heads of state across its illustrious history including George V (then the Prince of Wales) and President Ronald Reagan.

Mrs Beatrice Tollman, President and Founder of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, said, “We are so proud of this fabulous property - our first in Ireland - and we applaud the work of the many Irish craftsmen and artists who have worked fastidiously with our team to restore Ashford Castle to this glorious state.”

New amenities at the 85-room castle include a 32-seat cinema, billiard room, cigar terrace, retail space, spa, children’s games room and wine cellars for private dining. A luxury lakeside cottage will be added in July.

The outdoor areas and enhanced facilities located within the 350-acre estate include falconry, an equestrian centre, clay shooting, golf, tennis, cycling, fishing and water sports on Lough Corrib.

Remaining a constant throughout the entire restoration programme has been Ashford Castle’s General Manager, Niall Rochford, and his team, several of whom have worked at the hotel for between 30 to 40 years.

Mr Rochford has presided at Ashford Castle for nearly 14 years and was awarded the prestigious Hotel Manager of the Year 2013 by the Irish Hospitality Institute Founders.