Some of Ireland’s leading hotels were recognised at the Irish Hotel Awards 2026, which took place at the Fairways Hotel in Dundalk on Monday, October 19.
The annual awards ceremony brought together hoteliers, industry leaders and hospitality professionals from across the country to celebrate excellence in the Irish hospitality sector.
Among the major winners on the night was the Abbey Court Hotel in Tipperary, which claimed the Best 3 Star Hotel award, while the Shannon Springs Hotel in Shannon was named Best 4 Star Hotel.
Bishop’s Gate Hotel in Derry took home the Best 4 Star Luxury Hotel accolade, with Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa in Killarney securing the prestigious Best 5 Star Hotel award.
Organised by NI Media, the Irish Hotel Awards recognise excellence across a broad range of hotel operations, including guest experience, food and beverage, spa services, housekeeping and management.
Entries were received from hotels throughout Ireland, with awards presented to properties and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding standards of service and hospitality.
Speaking at the ceremony, Shane Smith, Managing Director of NI Media, praised the dedication and resilience of those working in the hotel industry and highlighted the important contribution the sector makes to Irish tourism and local communities.
“The Irish Hotel Awards shine a spotlight on the people and properties who set the standard for hospitality in Ireland. Their commitment to excellence ensures that guests from home and abroad experience the very best our country has to offer,” he said.
The 2026 ceremony also provided an opportunity to look ahead to a significant milestone for the awards programme, which will celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2027.
Since its establishment, the Irish Hotel Awards have developed into an important event on the hospitality calendar, recognising the achievements of hotels and their staff across the country.
Next year’s anniversary celebrations will focus on the evolution of Ireland’s hotel sector over the past decade, highlighting the innovation, resilience and standards of service that continue to shape the industry.
The 2026 awards were supported by a number of sponsors, including Gallo UK, Dalcassian Wines, Lindt Chocolate, Coca-Cola, O’Donnell’s Crisps, Traditional Cheese Co and Bluebell Falls Goats Cheese.
A full list of winners from the Irish Hotel Awards 2026 is available at www.irishhotelawards.com.
