Rewarding Excellence in Housekeeping – NIHF Celebrates 15 Years of the Housekeeping Awards
The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) is celebrating the success of its 15th annual Housekeeping Awards, recognising the outstanding contribution of housekeeping teams and individuals across Northern Ireland’s hotel and hospitality sector.
Marking a significant milestone for the industry, this year’s awards attracted a record number of guests to the celebration dinner, reflecting the growing recognition and value placed on housekeeping excellence across the profession.
Vicky Green, President of NIHF, said:
“Housekeeping teams are at the heart of the hotel experience, yet their work often takes place behind the scenes. These awards provide an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people whose standards, pride and attention to detail help define the industry. As the Housekeeping Awards marks its 15th year, NIHF is proud to continue championing excellence within this essential profession.”
The assessment day took place at room2 Belfast Hometel, where participants demonstrated their expertise and commitment to excellence. Winners were announced at a prestigious awards dinner held on Wednesday 4 March 2026 at Hilton Belfast. Hosted by Donna Traynor, the event welcomed leading industry professionals and supporters for an evening of celebration and recognition.
Winners:
Hotels with under 75 rooms:
Winner: Tara Lodge, Belfast
Runner-up: Belmore Court & Motel, Enniskillen
Third place: The Harrison, Belfast
Hotels with 75-149 rooms:
Winner: DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast Templepatrick
Runner-up: Canal Court Hotel, Newry
Third Place: DoubleTree by Hilton Belfast City Ten Square
Hotels with 150 rooms and over:
Winner: AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast
Runner-up: Holiday Inn, Belfast City Centre
Third place: Maldron Hotel Belfast City
Housekeeper of the Year:
Winner: Zach Milligan, voco Belfast
Runner-up: Michele Nolan, Grand Central Hotel
Third place: Barbora Palackova, Maldron Hotel Belfast City
The awards dinner featured a drinks reception, a three-course meal and entertainment, celebrating the dedication, professionalism and achievements of housekeeping teams across the region.
This year’s competition was supported by Tourism Northern Ireland. Category sponsors included Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities and Linencare, both committed to recognising and advancing excellence in housekeeping standards.