Airbnb announces winners of 2024 Historic Houses Capacity Awards in Ireland 

Airbnb has announced the winners of the 2024 Capacity Awards, a fund available to members of Historic Houses of Ireland. Through the funding, Airbnb aims to support the restoration of heritage properties throughout the country, helping historical home owners to prepare their homes to host guests visiting rural Ireland. 

The winners of the Airbnb Capacity Awards, Mountrothe House in Kilkenny, The Gate House in Cork, and Castlegarde in Limerick, were announced at the ‘Historic Houses – An Autumn School’ event,  which took place in October, at Burtown House in Kildare. 

Applications were received and assessed by a panel consisting of Historic Houses of Ireland and Airbnb representatives. Each winning property received the Capacity Award of €5,000 to assist with renovations that will help them to welcome guests.

The Capacity Awards were established as a result of a partnership between Airbnb and Historic Houses of Ireland that marks Airbnb’s continued commitment to heritage tourism. For those looking to explore historic properties across Europe, Airbnb’s Historical Homes category makes it easier than ever with over 43,000 listings available globally.

Derek Nolan, Head of Public Policy for Ireland at Airbnb, said: “We are so excited to announce the winners of the second annual Capacity Awards, aiming to help restore and preserve Ireland’s historic homes. It is a pleasure to contribute to the restoration of these homes which have such a rich and important heritage, while also providing an opportunity to bring more of the benefits of local tourism to these rural areas.” 

Thomas Cosby, Chairman of Historic Houses of Ireland said: “Our partnership with Airbnb is a meaningful one for our members, providing much needed support to those who are looking to boost local tourism. We are glad to be involved in restoring these heritage properties across Kilkenny, Limerick and Cork, and hope they will continue to house many guests for years to come.”

Winners of the 2024 Capacity Awards

Mountrothe House, Kilkenny 

Situated in the Kilkenny Countryside and built in 1765, Mountrothe House offers guests the opportunity to relax and unwind, just 10 miles from the Medieval City of Kilkenny. Since joining the Airbnb platform, owner Derek Walshe noticed that many families were looking to enjoy the space, and the Capacity Award funds will help with renovations to cater for groups with younger children and families. With the property improvements, Mountrothe House will have the potential to further boost local tourism in the area, providing accommodation for visitors that is not always readily available.

Derek Walshe, owner of Mountrothe House said  “Seona and myself are delighted to receive the 2024 Airbnb Capacity Award. We will be using the funding to improve our amenities so we can welcome more guests to stay with us and learn about the history of Mountrothe House. This includes developing an exciting games room for guests so we can welcome more families with an interest in heritage tourism.” 

The Gate House, Cork

The Gate House in North Cork has been run by  Eileen Magner Smith’s family since the 1920s, and it is currently in its final stages of necessary renovations ahead of reopening for visitors in the coming months. The home has already seen tourists visit from across the world, and Eileen hopes the funding will keep the house alive and running at its best. The Capacity Award funds will help to complete the roof and gate restorations that are required before the property can be ready to host  guests.

Eileen Magner Smith, owner of The Gate House, said “We cannot wait to greet our guests and let them experience the rich history that The Gate House has to offer. Thanks to this award we will be able to finish this passion project to the highest standard whilst ensuring it keeps its charm.”

Castlegarde, Limerick 

Owned by David and Hazel Thompson, Castlegarde in Limerick has remained in continuous occupation since medieval times. The tower house on the property is preparing to welcome guests to this historic home which dates back to circa A.D. 1190. With the help of the Capacity Awards funding, David and Hazel will be able to complete the  final stages of improvements. David is passionate about preserving and sharing the history of the home. 

David Thompson, owner of Castlegarde, said “We are honoured to receive these funds from Airbnb, which will allow us to finally be able to welcome guests into our home and share more about our history with them as they enjoy all that the house and Limerick have to offer.”