The Ashford 25 Club

Without doubt, one of the main factors that makes Ashford Castle such a unique place is the incredible number of long-serving team members we’re blessed to have with us. The walls of the castle are steeped in the stories and achievements of these icons, and it is their wisdom that guides us gracefully from one day to the next.

We’re so grateful for the wonderful women that have provided us with this incredible decade-spanning service that, for those who have been with us for over 25 years, we have formed a special 25 Club. From the time of Lady Ardilaun, who, along with Lord Ardilaun, was responsible for revitalising the castle and planting almost one million trees across the estate, women have played a central role in the journey of the Ashford Estate. It gives us so much pride to see this legacy still very much alive today.

In the above video, we’re introduced to Kathleen Moran, Boutique Manager, Mary Haire, Back of House Attendant, Mary McGrath, Breakfast Chef, Emer O’Connor, Kitchen Porter, Bernie O’Brien, Accommodation Supervisor, Cindy Mullarky, Accounts, and Catherine Kenny, Rooms Division Manager. The collective years these women have spent with us amount to well over a century, a truly invaluable level of experience.

Kathleen Moran has been here since 1990, which has given her the opportunity to meet an impressive array of people over the years, including Bob Hope and Pierce Brosnan. Cindy Mullarkey’s inspiring journey with us began as a Waitress in the George V Dining Room, before arriving in the Accounts role she does today.

Together, they have seen a great deal of change throughout their time here, change that they feel has had a positive effect on the castle. We hope they’re around to see plenty more, and to contribute more stories that help forge the legacy of this unique part of the world.