Five-star Hotel Bar of the Year accolade comes to Mayo

The Price of Wales Bar in Ashford Castle has been crowned Ireland’s number one five-star hotel bar at the 2022 Bar of the Year awards.

The announcement was made at a gala awards ceremony in Dublin.

The bar dates back to the late 1800s and features fine wood panelling, traditional furnishings and an original fireplace with a warm and welcoming ambience.

Its name came following a visit, in 1905, by the Prince of Wales who subsequently became George V of England.

Bar & Lounge manager, Noli Alngohuro, leads the team of experienced bar tenders who combine a passion for serving great tasting and beautifully presented drinks with an innate passion for hospitality.

And, with more than 80 years of hospitality and service between them, Noli paid particular tribute to three of the hotel’s long-standing bar tenders, Fintan Sweeney, Paul Coyne and Michael Connelly.

The trio’s stories, bar skills and service have been enjoyed by Ashford Castle’s guests for many years and their extensive expertise was key to winning the award.

Serving a full selection of wines, beers, liqueurs and both traditional and proprietary cocktails, some of which feature ingredients foraged on the Ashford Estate, the bar team also offers private gin and whiskey tasting experiences.

For 17 years, the annual Bar of the Year Awards have been recognising the excellent bars, knowledgeable staff, high quality service and innovation that are prevalent in the bar trade in Ireland.

Organised by Licensing World, the Five-Star Hotel Bar of the Year Award is sponsored by Schweppes.