A new chapter for the historic Imperial Hotel as Louis Fitzgerald Family expands portfolio into the Cork market

 A new chapter for the historic Imperial Hotel

Louis Fitzgerald Family expands portfolio into the Cork market with the acquisition of the luxurious Imperial Hotel

The Louis Fitzgerald Group, one of the largest family-run hospitality groups in the country, has announced that its acquisition of the iconic 4-star Imperial Hotel in Cork City is now complete.

The family business, headed by Louis Fitzgerald and now in its 54^th year, has a longstanding track record of acquiring landmark properties, so the timeless 200-year-old Imperial Hotel is the perfect addition to their impressive portfolio.  The Group includes the Arlington Hotel, Louis Fitzgerald Hotel and Joels Restaurant, An Poitin Stil, The Stag’s Head, Kehoes Pub, The Quays Bar Galway and most recently, Murphy’s Bar in Galway.

Staff and locals alike welcome that the Grande Dame, as it’s fondly known, will move from one Irish owned family business to another, bucking the trend of international investments, and that the family places great emphasis on ensuring the legacy, history and character of their hotels, pubs and bars are carried forward for future generations to enjoy.

Commenting on the purchase, Louis Fitzgerald said, ‘We have been an admirer of the Imperial Hotel for some time. The Hotel has an incredible history and has built a fantastic reputation as one of the country’s most luxurious and boutique city hotels to stay in. This is a credit to the team in place there, and we look forward to working with them to continue to innovate.

We have been looking for the right opportunity to expand into the Cork market for a number of years and The Imperial, with its rich history and association with Michael Collins, is a great fit for what we stand for. Cork City is steeped in great culture and creativity and future developments in the pipeline are very exciting. We look forward to being a part of it. On a personal note, the Flynn family have been a pleasure to deal with throughout the process. It is very satisfying to see the Imperial move from one Irish family to another and to carry on its great heritage, particularly in a time when we see so many Irish hotels being bought by international investment funds.”

After successfully navigating the organisation through the pandemic, the Fitzgerald family are positively looking forward to continued growth and development over the coming years.

The Imperial boasts a rich history and has welcomed high-profile names over the past 200 years including actress Grace Kelly, Prince Rainier of Monaco, Michael Collins, and many others. With 131 guest rooms, multiple dining options, and conference facilities, the hotel is a popular choice for both leisure and business travellers.

The acquisition comes on the back of major investment, renovations, a new food offering, a new strategic direction and a myriad of awards over the past three years. 

 

The new ownership has assured employees that their jobs are safe and they are committed to investing in the continued development of staff skills and expertise.  The Louis Fitzgerald Group has also assured guests that all vouchers will continue to be honoured. 

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Spring down the Rabbit Hole this Easter on a Mad Hatter themed stay at Cork’s Imperial Hotel

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Spring down the Rabbit Hole this Easter on a

Mad Hatter themed stay at Cork’s Imperial Hotel

Jamie-Leigh Fallon from the Imperial in the role of Mad Hatter Pic by Louis Tang

~Treat some bunny special to a fantasy inspired break inspired by the Mad Hatter available to book now until 16^th April~

Cork’s Imperial Hotel is transporting guests to Wonderland this Easter with their latest innovative offering inspired by the beloved and zany Mad Hatter from Lewis Carroll’s novel ‘Alice in Wonderland’. Affectionately known as Cork’s Grande Dame, the Imperial is Cork’s most historic hotel, located on Cork’s South Mall, right in the heart of the city. While steeped in over 200 years of history the Imperial is synonymous with creative flair and exudes a fun-loving personality which not only makes every stay unique but keeps guests anticipating what sensational offering could be coming next! This Easter guests are invited to ‘spring’ down the rabbit hole and journey into Wonderland.

Following on from the recent ‘Queen of Hearts’ inspired décor the hotel team has devised a brand new ‘Mad Hatter’ inspired display in the hotel’s iconic lobby which features top hats and wonderland flourishes tumbling in topsy turvy fashion from the high vaulted ceiling overhead. The hotel has also collaborated with talented milliner Tina Coyne from Elizabeth Christina Design in Kinsale to curate a hat and head wear showcase in true ‘Mad Hatter’ fashion!

Search for the white rabbit and his signature pocket watch which may be hiding amongst the impressive floral displays festooned throughout the hotel’s ground floor. Take pause to puzzle out a riddle or two at the impressive photo-wall which is designed for any would be ‘Mad Hatters’ to strike a pose at during their stay.

Little bottles labelled ‘Eat me’ and ‘Drink me’ playfully invite you to sample delicious food and drinks with a mad hatter twist! Join in the slightly bonkers fun of a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party with a themed afternoon tea prepared by the hotel’s talented pastry team.  Savoury treats to look forward to include; a hot cross chocolate bun, buttermilk scone with cream and jam, cream cheese and cucumber finger sandwiches, egg mayonnaise on a brioche bun, mushroom pâté on brown bread, bacon jam and cheddar on brown bread. Sweet confections will include: ‘Grow me Shrink me Shroom’ choux bun filled with vanilla ganache, blackberry gel on a pistachio sablé biscuit, ‘Always Time for Tea’ spiced biscuit and a ‘White Rabbit’ carrot cake.

You’ll smile like a Cheshire cat upon sampling the ‘Mad Hatter’ signature cocktail which has been devised using local ingredients and Irish spirits for your delectation at No. 76, the trendy bar within the hotel and available to accentuate your meal at the elegant ‘Sketch’ dining space.

The hotel was recently awarded supreme winner at the Hotel and Catering Gold Awards in recognition of their superb standard of hospitality, heartfelt commitment to sustainable business and constant  strive towards innovation.

Don’t be late for this important date! The Mad Hatter themed package at the Imperial Hotel is available for bookings now until 16^th April and includes an overnight stay for 2 people with afternoon tea, cocktails and a birdcage sharing platter to share plus breakfast included starts from €160 per person or you can also add a couples spa treatment from Escape Spa at the Imperial for extra indulgence.

See www.imperialhotelcork.com/madhatter.html for more. To make a booking email reservations@imperialhotelcork.ie or call 021 4274040. 

‘Queen of Hearts’ extends reign at Cork’s Imperial Hotel this Valentine’s. A Royal Romance not just for a day! You Have Until March 8th!

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Queen of Hearts reigns at Cork’s Imperial Hotel this Valentine’s.

A Royal Romance not just for a day! You Have Until March 8th!

Treat your loved one like royalty this Valentines by planning the ultimate romantic date at Cork’s iconic and elegant Imperial Hotel. Cork’s most historic hotel has just unveiled a new ‘Queen of Hearts’ inspired theme, featuring extravagant displays, themed cocktails and afternoon tea along with rose flourished spa treatments all designed to set hearts racing. These exclusive Queen of Hearts experiences will be available throughout the romantic season leading up to and after Valentine’s Day until the 8th March giving love birds every opportunity to paint the town red on a date of their choosing!

The scene for you date will be set from the moment you arrive. The majestic Imperial lobby with its high vaulted ceilings and sparkling crystal chandelier has been elevated to new romantic heights with a jaw dropping ‘Queen of Hearts’ inspired floral display. Décor wise expect white roses painted red, alongside hearts, and playing card motifs inspired by the Lewis Carroll classic Alice in Wonderland. Whether you want to aim cupid’s bow at the king or queen in your life, you’ll be guaranteed a memorable first impression or the perfect instagrammable moment!

Sparks will fly over an indulgent ‘Queen of Hearts’ themed afternoon tea for two which has been designed by the hotel’s talented chef and pastry team who are renowned for their culinary talents and aesthetic creations. Get swept away with local delights: on the savoury side you’ll enjoy a generous sandwich selection including cream cheese & cucumber, ham & tomato chutney, egg brioche, red pepper and hummus, while the sweet selection includes a ‘Wonderland’ of on theme treats including the ‘Queen of Tart’ Red Sable Biscuit sandwich, ‘Eat Me, Opera Cake’ with chocolate, coffee and nut layers, White Rabbit Vanilla Yogurt Mousse, Berry Rice Gateaux ,  ‘Red Knight Army Shortbread’  sandwiched with Vanilla and Jam, a ‘Grow Me, Shrink Me, Bring Me Back Scone’ served with Champagne Jam.

 

Why not spend quality time together, relaxing with a couples spa treatment in Escape Spa at the hotel, followed by time to unwind in the vitality suite. Choose from a customised facial, full back of the body massage, Indian head massage or facial and back massage combination treatment.

 

Of course, Cork’s Grande Dame of romance has unrivalled love credentials as it has been hosting first dates, engagements, weddings, and honeymoons for more than 200 years. Continuing in this tradition, The Imperial is pulling out all the stops when it comes to romantic gestures, providing the services of their Director of Welcomes and Special Occasion Butler, James Gunter, who is on hand to help grant guests every romantic wish during their stay.   Whether you are planning the ultimate romantic date weekend, an anniversary celebration, or a surprise proposal, James will be on hand to provide local insights, advice, and unparalleled expertise. 

Or if you fancy making a night of it the Queen of Hearts package night stay with afternoon tea, cocktails and a birdcage sharing platter to share plus breakfast included starts from €270 and you can also add a couples spa treatment from Escape Spa at the Imperial for extra indulgence. See www.imperialhotelcork.com/queenofhearts.html for more. To make a booking email reservations@imperialhotelcork.ie or call 4274040.  To engage with the Special Occasion simply email events@imperialhotelcork.ie                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               

More info

Queen Of Hearts Afternoon Tea is priced at €35 or €45 with prosecco

 

 

Queen of Hearts Spa Package (without overnight) includes:

• 60 minutes in the Vitality Suite
• Get the Royal Treatment with your choice of one of the following (total treatment time: 50 mins)

• Customised Facial
• Full Back of the Body Massage
• Indian Head Massage
• Facial and Back Massage Combo
• Afternoon Tea
• Midweek: €149/Weekend: €159

 

Queen of Hearts Stay Package Priced from €270 includes:

• An overnight stay
• Arrival treats in the room
• Afternoon Tea for two
• Birdcage and cocktails in Sketch or 76 in the evening
• Breakfast the following morning

 

Booking on 021 7306622 escape@imperialhotelcork.ie

https://www.imperialhotelcork.com/spa-packages.html

Model Jaime- Leigh Fallon as the Queen of Hearts at the Imperial Hotel.

 Photo credit Louis Tang @noirxtone PR contact Clair Phillips clair@e-t-c.ie 0857473204

 

Imperial Hotel the Supreme Winner as 2022 Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards Winners Announced

2022 Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards Winners Announced

The Imperial Hotel in Co. Cork has been crowned the Supreme Winner at the Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards

Now in their 33rd year, the Gold Medal Awards are recognised as the leading independent awards programme for the Irish hospitality industry. Judged by industry experts, the Virgin Media Business Gold Medal Awards recognise and reward excellence in hospitality and catering operations across the island of Ireland. The winners were announced on Tuesday, the 31st of January at a gala awards ceremony hosted by Anne Doyle at The Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway.

After much deliberation, the judging panel have chosen the candidates they believe to be worthy of receiving a Gold Medal Award and only the best in the industry were crowned winners. Amongst many other winners on the night, Adare Manor in Co. Limerick took home the Gold Award for "Ireland's Five Star Resort", sponsored by Virgin Media Business. Hotels were awarded nationwide as Castle Leslie Estate in Co. Monaghan was named "Ireland's Favourite Place To Stay", voted for by the public. Other properties across the nation were also praised such as the Armada Hotel in Co. Clare as they won "Ireland's Four Star Hotel", sponsored by Career Vision Recruiters.

For more information visit www.goldmedal.ie or Call 01-6401777 or email the events team with your details and enquiry to: events@ashvillemediagroup.com.

2022 Winners Badges

2022 Winners Revealed

Supreme Winner Gold - The Imperial Hotel, Co. Cork Sponsored by Virgin Media Business Ireland's Favourite Place To Stay Overall Winner - Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan Connacht - Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Co. Sligo Leinster - Ashling Hotel, Co. Dublin Munster - Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, Co. Kerry Ulster - Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan Ireland’s Family Friendly Hotel Gold - Mulranny Park Hotel Co. Mayo Silver - Sligo Park Hotel, Co. Sligo Bronze - Clonakilty Park Hotel, Co. Cork Sponsored by Adsmart Ireland's Sustainability / Leading Green Hotel Gold - Ashford Castle Hotel, Co Mayo Silver - Clew Bay Hotel, Co Mayo Bronze - Fernhill House, Co Cork Sponsored by AIB Ireland’s Five Star Hotel Gold - InterContinental Dublin, Co Dublin Silver - Hayfield Manor, Co Cork Bronze - Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate, Co Galway Sponsored by Avvio Ireland's Afternoon Tea Hotel Gold - Mount Juliet Estate, Co. Kilkenny Silver - Ashford Castle Hotel, Co Mayo Bronze - Dingle Benners Hotel, Co Kerry Sponsored by Barry's Tea Ireland's Chef of the Year Gold - The Lodge at Ashford Castle - Chef Jonathan Keane, Co. Mayo Silver - The Blue Haven - Chef Meeran Manzoor, Co. Cork Silver - Mount Falcon Estate - Chef Tom Doyle, Co. Mayo Sponsored by BWG Food Service Ireland's Hotel Group Gold - The Flynn Hotel Collection Silver - Killarney Hotel Group Bronze - Dalata Group Sponsored by Career Vision Recruiters Ireland’s Business & Conference Hotel Gold - Great Southern Killarney, Co. Kerry Silver - Cork International Hotel, Co. Cork Bronze - Lyrath Estate , Co Kilkenny Sponsored by Career Vision Recruiters Ireland’s Four Star Hotel Gold - Armada Hotel, Co. Clare Silver - The Montenotte Hotel, Co. Cork Bronze - Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa Sponsored by Career Vision Recruiters Ireland’s Wine Experience Gold - The Twelve Hotel, Co. Galway Silver - The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo Bronze - Tankardstown House , Co Meath Sponsored by Classic Drinks Ireland’s Site Contract Caterer Gold - Gather & Gather , Co Dublin Silver - Sodexo - Stryker, Anngrove, Co. Cork Sponsored by Excel Recruitment Ireland’s Four Star Resort Gold - Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan Silver - Galgorm, Co. Antrim Bronze - Ballynahinch Castle, Co. Galway Sponsored by Istil38 Ireland’s Guest Experience Gold - Hayfield Manor, Co. Cork Silver - The Imperial Hotel, Co. Cork Bronze - The K Club, Co. Kildare Sponsored by Netaffinity Ireland's Five Star Resort Gold - Adare Manor, Co. Limerick Silver - Ashford Castle Hotel, Co. Mayo Bronze - The K Club, Co. Kildare Sponsored by Virgin Media Business Ireland’s Three Star Hotel Gold - Clew Bay Hotel, Co. Mayo Silver - The Wyatt Hotel, Co. Mayo Bronze - Castle Arch Hotel, Co. Meath Ireland's Hotel Casual Dining Experience Gold - The Hound at Mount Juliet Estate, Co. Kilkenny Silver - The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens, Co. Kerry Bronze - Dingle Benners Hotel, Co. Kerry Ireland's Innovative Supplier Gold - Excel Recruitment Ireland’s City Hotel Gold - The Westin Dublin, Co. Dublin Silver - Granville Hotel Waterford, Co. Waterford Bronze - Temple Bar Inn, Co. Dublin Ireland’s Country House & Guest House Experience Gold - The Mustard Seed, Co. Limerick Silver - Dunbrody Country House Hotel, Co. Wexford Bronze - Marlfield House Hotel, Co. Wexford Ireland’s Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant Gold - Adare Manor, Co. Limerick Silver - Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa, Co. Roscommon Bronze - Tankardstown House, Co. Meath Ireland’s Five Star Hotel Spa Experience Gold - The Spa at Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo Silver - Aqua Sana at Center Parcs Longford Forest, Co. Longford Bronze - ESPA at The Europe, Co. Kerry Ireland’s Four Star Hotel Spa Experience Gold - Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa, Co. Roscommon Silver - The Redcastle Oceanfront, Golf & Spa Hotel, Co. Donegal Bronze - Kelly's Resort Hotel, Co. Wexford Ireland’s Front of House Team/Team Member Gold - Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, Co. Kerry Silver - Dylan Hotel, Co. Dublin Bronze - The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney, Co. Kerry Ireland’s Healthcare Caterer Gold - Marymount University Hospital and Hospice, Co. Cork Ireland’s Hotel Breakfast Gold - Harvey's Point Hotel, Co. Donegal Silver - The Imperial Hotel, Co. Cork Bronze - Marlfield House Hotel, Co. Wexford Ireland’s Menu Provenance Award Gold - Brook Lane Hotel, Co. Kerry Silver - Ballymaloe House, Co. Cork Bronze - Castlewood House Dingle, Co. Kerry Ireland’s Wedding Hotel Gold - Markree Castle, Co. Sligo Silver - Mount Juliet Estate, Co. Kilkenny Bronze - Fernhill House, Co. Cork Outstanding Customer Service Award Gold - Fiadh Little, Castlemartyr Resort, Co. Cork Silver - Ashling Hotel Dublin Reservations Team, Co. Dublin Bronze - The Address Citywest Team, Co. Dublin

Imperial's Grinchmas Getaway package. Casey's Teddy Bear charity appeal. Aware Charity 5k walk. Christmas at Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny

Something for everyone...

A Grinch takeover with luxurious decorations, cocktails and afternoon tea at Cork’s Imperial Hotel, a Teddy bear charity appeal from Casey’s Furniture, calling all dashers, dancers and prancers for the Aware Charity 5k walk, and the ultimate family Christmas hotel stay at Newpark, Kilkenny.

Images for all experiences are available for use here.

• If you love ‘The Grinch who Stole Christmas’ , then a trip to Cork’s historic Imperial Hotel is a must!

Cork’s luxury boutique Imperial Hotel is set to stand out from the crowd this Christmas as they have undergone a festive makeover from none other than ‘The Grinch’ himself! The historic hotel on Cork’s South Mall is daring to be different and opting for whimsical, theatrical, and luxurious décor with flourishes of Grinch green and candy canes to bring some extra festive magic this Christmas.

Embracing a playful take on a Cork Christmas, the exterior of the hotel has also undergone a temporary rebrand to ‘The Imperial WHOtel’ in a nod to the village where the Grinch grew up. They also have Grinch themed afternoon teas, signature cocktails, guest room amenities, Instagramable moments and more! Make a break for the Imperial with the Grinchmas Getaway package priced from €235 per Who for two nights bed & breakfast with a three-course dinner in Sketch on an evening of your choice with a sumptuous birdcage breakfast each morning.

See www.imperialhotelcork.com for more

Wake up in the Marble City. Kilkenny sunrise.

Have you ever considering making a break for it with the family at Christmas?

• With mid-week breaks and residential Christmas packages you can experience Winter Magic at Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny

Looking for a festive break with all the trimmings this winter? The award-winning Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny is a perfect base to experience the ultimate seasonal break in the Marble City.

The Newpark ho-ho-ho-tel team offer a truly magical Christmas break with family and friends. Checking in on the 23^rd of December you can enjoy a 2-, 3- or 4-night package designed to offer the ultimate Christmas celebration.

Newpark Hotel Kilkenny also offers the ultimate Winter Midweek break with prices starting at €234 for 2 night stay when booking our Linger for Longer Package, stay 2 nights midweek & save 10%

For Christmas residential packages staying from 23rd December two night stay (which includes all your festive dining and entertainment) is from €599pps; newparkhotelkilkenny.com 

For more visit www.NewparkHotelhotelkilkenny.com or www.newparkhotelkilkenny.com/christmas-breaks.html

Get a feelgood factor by supporting a good cause this Christmas…

• Casey’s will sell their classic ‘Casey Bedtime Bear’ in store and online during the festive season will 100% of proceeds going for the local good cause 

Casey’s Furniture launched their Christmas Appeal, to help give back to the local community, in true Christmas spirit.

The furniture retailer is selling their signature Casey’s Bedtime Bear in their Limerick and Cork stores and online for the festive season with 100% of proceeds going to children’s hospital wards in University Hospital Limerick (UHL) and Cork University Hospital (CUH).

The super-soft high quality teddy bear will retail for just €10/ Dressed in adorable vintage blue and white striped pyjamas, it’s the perfect chance to give a cute gift this Christmas while making a difference. 

For more see caseys.ie.

Look after Yours’elf’ this Christmas and help others in their community….

Why not do something to support your own well-being whilst helping people impacted by depression and bipolar disorder by taking part in the 17^th annual Aware Christmas 5K.

From Friday 9^th to Sunday 11^th December, people all over the country are being encouraged to come together physically or virtually to be part of this fun, festive and healthy event to support Aware’s vital services.

You can walk, jog, run or hike in your favourite 5k route anywhere in the country at a time of your choice over the event weekend, and share your efforts and your support on social media using the hashtag #WeAreAware. Those who want to get into the festive spirit of the Aware Christmas 5K are encouraged to dress up

Online registration is now open at aware.ie/christmas5K  at a cost of €25 per person. Each participant will receive a custom medal that doubles as a Christmas tree decoration and a treat from event sponsor Cadbury.

If you are impacted by depression, bipolar disorder or other mood related conditions, you can contact Aware’s free support line 7 days a week from 10am to 10pm on 1800 80 48 48.

For more information on Aware or to register for their 2022 virtual Christmas 5K fundraiser, visit aware.ie/christmas5k. #WeAreAware

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