2025 Award Winners ‘HOSPITALITY HERO’ AWARD 2025

Niall Rochford, Ashford Castle, Co Mayo

A great ship needs a great captain and you won’t find better than the man at the helm of Ireland’s premier hospitality destination, Ashford Castle. Ireland’s grandest castle hotel has been in the safe hands of Niall Rochford for over two decades - and it is a testament to his vision, steadiness and warmth that this unique place continues to set the standard for Irish hospitality worldwide. General Manager for over two decades, and recently appointed Managing Director of Ashford Estate, comprising both the Castle itself and the Lodge at Ashford Castle, Niall Rochford has overseen extraordinary developments at Ashford, including major restoration following its acquisition by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection in 2013. That ambitious project brought the castle, its interiors, gardens and parkland back to their glorious best, ensuring the hotel’s place among the finest in the world - and has recently progressed excitingly to include development of the extensive kitchen gardens, with a fascinating Cré Kitchen Garden Experience tour now offered. But bricks and mortar (and even soil) tell only part of the story. Niall’s leadership is defined by the professionalism and care he inspires in his team – including Liam Finnegan and Jonathan Keane, Executive Head Chefs of the Castle and the Lodge respectively, and veteran Restaurant and Wine Programme Manager Robert Bowes, who has worked at Ashford Castle since 1987 - his championing of sustainability and responsible tourism, and the authentic warmth of welcome that greets every guest. Respected across the industry and beloved by visitors who return year after year, he embodies the qualities that make Irish hospitality unique.
For his unwavering dedication, his ability to balance grandeur with genuine warmth, and his role as mentor and ambassador, Niall Rochford is a true Hospitality Hero.