Characters of the Castle: Noli Alngohuro

What is your full name?

Noli Alngohuro

What is your role at Ashford Castle?

I have the fantastic job of leading a team of very talented and passionate individuals in the Prince of Wales Bar and The Drawing Room.

What was your background before you worked at Ashford Castle?

Prior to working at Ashford Castle I worked in physiotherapy.

What was your first experience of Ashford Castle?

I arrived at Ashford Castle on the 6^th November 2002 at around 11am. I vividly remember the first time I saw the main gate and as I passed through the golf course and grounds I was awash with anticipation and excitement. As the Castle appeared when we immerged at the WOW avenue my jaw dropped.

When I first began at Ashford Castle, the castle was also seasonal. This meant that I was lucky enough to spend my first night in room 401 - I didn’t sleep that night due to disbelief and excitement about the journey ahead. Whilst I had planned to give it a go for a year, I have now happily spent half of my lifetime (and counting) at Ashford Castle.

What were your thoughts when you saw the Castle for the first time after the restoration?

Incredible! and Majestic! 

Tell me something about Ashford that people might not know.

There was a smoking room across from the Ardilaun suite with a full size snooker table where brandy/cognac, whiskey and cigars were enjoyed by guests after dinner.

What makes Ashford so special?

The Castle and the people that work here give it the character. The relationships and the community that are built within makes it very special and unique, and continues to add to its steep and wonderful history.

What does a typical day at Ashford look like for you?

Day-to-day I ensure that all the pieces needed to exceed guests expectations when staying and dining at the castle are in place, but every day is different and that is what makes my role both challenging and exciting.

What is your favourite part of your role?

To be able to work, be empowered with, and surrounded by passionate individuals and in turn create a memorable experience not just for our guests but for ourselves also.

What do you do to relax when you are not working?

Hanging out with family and friends, basketball, drawing, and music.

What three words would you use to describe Ashford?

Nurturing, Influential, and Excellence.

What is your proudest achievement of your time at Ashford Castle? 

While I appreciate the personal achievements and accolades I have received throughout the years, I could not have done it without the people or the team around me. Therefore, it is knowing and seeing my past and present colleagues grow and excel at a personal and professional level that makes me the most proud.