Kilkenny hotels come out on top

The Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards winners were announced with the Flynn Group coming out on top, to win the Hotel Group of the Year Award.

Kilkenny's Newpark award winning family hotel is part of The Flynn Hotel Collection. John Flynn of the Flynn Group said, “we are thrilled, it was an award from our peers and it was great to be recognised.”

He added, “It’s down to hard work and a huge team effort from everybody. We wouldn’t be where we are today, only for the people we have working with us. We are very proud of them all.”

The Flynn Group’s Imperial Hotel in Co. Cork was also crowned the Supreme Winner at the sold out Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards last week.

The team at Kilkenny's five-star Mount Juliet take home three top awards at the Gold Medal Awards

After much deliberation, the judging panel have chosen the candidates they believe to be worthy of receiving a Gold Medal Award and only the best in the industry were crowned winners. Amongst many of the winners on the night was Kilkenny's five-star Mount Juliet Estate, who took home the two gold awards and one silver.

Mount Juliet’s two gold awards were for Ireland’s Hotel Casual Dining Experience for The Hound Restaurant in the Hunter’s Yard and for Ireland’s Afternoon Tea. They also received the silver award in the Ireland’s Wedding Hotel category.

“We are absolutely delighted with the Gold Medal Award wins for Best Afternoon Tea and Best Hotel Casual Dining for The Hound," said General Manager Mark Dunne.

"Chef John Kelly and his team always surpass expectations and we are delighted to see their work recognised with this award. Afternoon Tea at Mount Juliet Estate is a ritual that has been enjoyed at the Manor House for over a century."

He added, "since Executive Head Chef Andy Nolan joined the team here at Mount Juliet Estate, he has brought with him a wealth of expertise and new energy to the dining experience at The Hound. His menus feature a clever selection of delicious dishes which have proven to be very popular with guests and locals. We’re looking forward to welcoming our spring and summer visitors to enjoy Chef Andy’s award-winning dining at The Hound.”

Now in their 33rd year, the Gold Medal Awards are recognised as the leading independent awards programme for the Irish hospitality industry. Judged by industry experts, the Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards recognise and reward excellence in hospitality and catering operations across the island of Ireland. The winners were announced on Tuesday, January 31 last at a gala awards ceremony hosted by Anne Doyle at The Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway.