Killeavy Castle Is Named Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland at The AA Hospitality Awards 2023
The four star, Killeavy Castle Estate, nestled in the heart of County Armagh has been named AA Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland at the prestigious AA Hospitality Awards 2023.
Killeavy Castle Estate, opened in 2019, has emerged as a beacon of excellence in the Irish hospitality industry. This 45-bedroom boutique hotel, set in 365 acres of countryside on the slopes of Slieve Gullion, also boasts two charming lodges, magnificent castle accommodation, a luxury spa, working farm, fine dining farm to fork restaurant, farm store and woodlands.
Owners of Killeavy Castle Estate, Mick and Robin Boyle, proudly accepted the award for ‘AA Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland’ alongside General Manager Matthew Hynds and other members of the Killeavy team on 25 September 2023.
Expressing their profound joy and gratitude at receiving the prestigious award, Mick and Robin Boyle said: "We are delighted and honoured that Killeavy Castle Estate has been named Hotel of the Year Northern Ireland by the AA Hospitality Awards.
“This award is a testament to our vision to create a special, environmentally sensitive destination hotel in South Armagh, the unparalleled beauty of our estate and the surrounding area but mostly the unwavering dedication of our exceptional team and the fantastic service they provide to all our guests. At Killeavy we are all deeply committed to providing our guests with an unforgettable and sustainable experience, and this accolade inspires us to continue our pursuit of excellence.
“We are most proud that the Killeavy luxury experience is a uniquely environmentally friendly one. The produce we serve is grown on the estate or from the surrounding countryside. Single plastic use is minimised, and waste is composted or recycled, nothing goes to landfill. Over the next decade, we are replanting and regenerating 50,000 native trees on the estate as part of a plan to create 150 acres of native woodlands. The net effect is that Killeavy Castle will be carbon neutral next year, well ahead of our 2027 target, so guests can come and enjoy our luxury without any environmental concerns.”
Speaking about Killeavy Castle Estate and its offering, the AA Hospitality Awards inspector commented: “Located in a 365-acre estate made up of woods and farmlands, Killeavy Castle was built in the 19th century, but only recently opened as a hotel after massive refurbishment and investment. The original coach house and mill blend seamlessly into the newer locations. Dining is relaxed and much of the provenance comes from the estate and walled gardens. The spa offers an array of treatments while a wealth of outdoor activities are also on offer along with some wonderful walks. The estate also offers self-catering options.”
The AA Hospitality Awards are a symbol of excellence in the UK's hospitality industry, recognising outstanding establishments across various categories in the sector, seeking out and celebrating the very best in hospitality across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
This latest accolade reaffirms Killeavy Castle Estate's commitment to delivering exceptional experiences, showcasing the rich heritage and natural beauty of Northern Ireland, and offering guests a luxurious retreat unlike any other. Killeavy Castle Estate has won numerous awards in recent years in recognition of its excellence in hospitality including two AA rosettes for ‘Culinary Excellence’ in its restaurant and an AA four-star rating for excellence in hospitality last year.
Welcome to Killeavy Castle Estate, the perfect antidote to the modern fast paced world. Named winner of the Luxury Castle Hotel (Europe) Award at the prestigious World Luxury Awards 2021, it’s the ideal place to escape and unwind, and is located just 10 minutes outside Newry City.
Our Luxury Self Catering Gatelodge Our purpose-built self catering Gatelodge is located at the entrance to the Estate. Sympathetically designed to embrace the sweeping views, this light and cosy two-storey cottage can cater for up to six adults within three Guestrooms. Each spacious Guestroom contains a king-size bed, suitable for double or twin occupancy. A fully fitted kitchen with all modern amenities including laundry facilities, dining area and lounge with a wood burning stove plus a large family bathroom upstairs and a separate shower room downstairs mean the Gatelodge is the perfect base for that longer retreat experience. Access to the Hotel Restaurant, Bar and Spa facilities within the Estate means pampering is on your doorstep
Follow Fionn's Giant Adventure (previously known as the Giant's Lair) at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Follow the trail, there's so much to explore. Seek out fairies, spells, music and more. Help is at hand as you'll have fairies and warriors to help you follow the trail.
