Mayo historic estate earns place among world’s top one-of-a-kind hotels
Ashford Castle has been named Ireland’s second-best hotel while historic Prince of Wales Bar joins elite list of world-leading hotel bars
Ashford Castle has once again been recognised among the world’s finest hotels, earning top honours in two prestigious global awards programmes.
The iconic Mayo estate was ranked No. 2 in Ireland in both the Best Hotels and Luxury Hotels categories, while also securing an impressive No. 12 ranking globally in Tripadvisor’s One-of-a-Kind Hotels category.
It is the only Irish hotel to receive global recognition in this category for a second consecutive year.
Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Awards represent the platform’s highest distinction, awarded to fewer than one per cent of more than eight million hospitality listings worldwide.
Located on a 350-acre estate in Cong, Ashford Castle was praised by Tripadvisor as the “quintessential castle hotel”, highlighting its historic character, luxury accommodation and unique guest experiences including falconry and archery.
Adding to the recognition, Ashford Castle’s historic Prince of Wales Bar has also been named among the world’s finest hotel bars after securing a place on the prestigious 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Star Bars list.
The bar is one of just 37 hotel bars across 18 countries selected for the honour, which recognises exceptional beverage programmes, luxury service, atmosphere and guest experience.
The estate’s sister property, The Lodge at Ashford Castle, also received a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, placing it among the top 10 per cent of hospitality destinations worldwide.
Niall Rochford, Managing Director of the Ashford estate, said the recognition reflected the dedication of staff across both properties.
“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition from Tripadvisor, particularly because it is based on genuine guest feedback and experiences,” he said.
“To be recognised by travellers globally is a wonderful reflection of the passion, care and commitment shown every day by our entire team across Ashford Castle and The Lodge at Ashford Castle.”
Meanwhile, the Prince of Wales Bar’s inclusion on the Forbes Travel Guide Star Bars list marks another significant achievement for the Mayo estate.
Named after the Prince of Wales, who visited Ashford Castle in 1905 before becoming King George V, the bar was recognised for combining luxury service, craftsmanship and a unique sense of history.
As part of the judging process, the bar team created a signature cocktail called The Last High King, featuring Slane Triple Cask Irish Whiskey, Antica Formula Vermouth and Aperol.
“It’s a combination of setting, service and history together with the expertise and personality of the bar team that make our bar so special,” said Mr Rochford. “Guests pop in for a drink and stay for the stories. It’s a huge testament to Noli and all of his team that the Prince of Wales Bar is one of just 37 bars singled out by Forbes for this recognition.”
The latest honours come shortly after Ashford Castle became the only property in Ireland and the UK to hold Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star ratings for both its hotel and spa.
Guest reviews praised Ashford Castle as “a magical place” and “not just a stay, it’s an experience,” while visitors to The Lodge highlighted its welcoming atmosphere, elegant surroundings and exceptional staff.
“We are deeply grateful to all of our guests who have taken the time to share their experiences, and to our exceptional team who continue to create memorable stays for visitors both from Ireland and around the world,” added Mr Rochford.