Two Irish Hospitality Awards for Mayo businesses

Two Mayo businesses have taken home Irish Hospitality Awards.

The Wild West and The Old Grainstore, both in Westport, were recognised at the annual award ceremony, which took place in Dublin yesterday.

Presented by Creative Oceanic, powered by Oceanic Awards, the Irish Hospitality Awards aim to celebrate the dedication, skill and customer service of the professionals that work within establishments where excellence is standard.

The Wild West took home Children’s Play Centre of the Year. A spokesperson wrote on Facebook that they were ‘so delighted’ to receive the award.

The indoor play village situated on Altamont Street is open all summer long from 10am-6pm.

_{Tish Gill from The Wild West receiving the Children's Playcentre of the Year award at The Great Irish Hospitality Awards}

On the flip side, The Old Grainstore on Bridge St was named Pub of the Year. The business wrote on Facebook: “We are thrilled to have won “Pub of the Year 2024” at The Great Irish Hospitality Awards. Thank you for your support! Well done to our brilliant team and suppliers.”

The pub's building dates back to the late 1800s and included a working grain store, with its tracks still visible today. 

After intensive and careful restoration work, The Old Grainstore, run by Vivian Walsh, is now one of Westport’s most popular and much-loved bars. 

A spokesperson for the sixth Irish Hospitality Awards 2024 said: ”Working for the hospitality industry can be challenging at times and the last few years have shown that. These awards aim to recognise those who have succeeded in this sector, despite the difficulties.

“There are people who have dedicated their whole career in making the country a special destination for visitors. It is time to give those professionals the recognition they deserve,” they added.

See the full list of winners on the Irish Hospitality Awards website.