Following a secret inspection, Killeavy Castle Estate is named an 'AA four-star hotel'

The restaurant has also been awarded two AA rosettes for ‘Culinary Excellence’, further acknowledging the quality of Killeavy Castle Estate’s food and drink offering.

In just four years, Killeavy Castle Estate has won multiple awards including a spate of industry award wins in recent weeks. This latest recognition from the AA Awards is a testament to the strength of the team and quality that Killeavy Caste Estate strives to deliver for every guest.

The inspector described his dining experience in the restaurant as “impressive with thought and imagination shown” and the meal experience as “worthy of note.”

Commenting on their visit, the AA inspector said: “This is a wonderful property from both the physical point of view with the combination of the heritage of the location blended seamlessly with the new buildings. Service and hospitality were both on point. Two AA Rosettes are confirmed in recognition of the Culinary Excellence.”

Jason Foody, general manager of Killeavy Castle Estate, explained: “This is a proud day for everyone in the team at Killeavy Castle Estate. Our goal is to deliver an unparalleled experience to our guests seven days a week and receiving this feedback following an unannounced and secret visit from the AA is recognition of the high standards that our team sets for itself. It is this commitment to excellence that makes Killeavy Castle Estate a truly special place.”

Killeavy Castle Estate’s Restaurant and Bistro Bar serves local and seasonal dishes created by the estate’s executive head chef, Darragh Dooley, head chef, Dario Percic and their team.

“To be recognised by the experts at the AA is a true honour for my team and I. We’re passionate about the food and drink experience that we have created at Killeavy Castle Estate and to have the stamp of approval of two AA Rosettes is a reflection of our standards, quality of ingredients and use of local produce,” says Darragh.

“Over 90% of the food served throughout the Estate is produced within the grounds of Killeavy Castle Estate or sourced within a 20-mile radius, and it’s this commitment to local sourcing that underpins the strength of our offering at the restaurant. This, combined with hard work and determination from a passionate team has paid off and we look forward with optimism for the future.”

The recognition from the AA Awards is just the latest in a string of award wins for Killeavy Castle Estate.

The Estate has also received the title of ‘Hotel of the Year’ (up to 75 rooms) at the LCN Awards.

Their commitment to delivering exceptional customer service was acknowledged at the Newry Chamber Employee and Team awards where the team scooped the Best Tourism & Hospitality Team Award.

It received the award for Best Food and Drink Experience (Large) at NI Giant Spirit Awards, where owner of Killeavy Castle Estate, Mick Boyle also received the ‘Local Spirit’ Award and was also awarded the National Intimate Wedding Venue of the Year 2022 at the recent Irish Hotel Awards held in Athlone.