L-R. Philip Rock (General Manager), Mark Collins (Golf Course Superintendent), Michael Meegan (Head Gardener), Paddy McCarthy (Golfers Guide to Ireland), Cormac Ryan (Director of Golf & Hospitality Operations)
Killeen Castle, one of Ireland’s best golf destinations, has been announced as the winner of the Best Parkland Hotel in Leinster at the 2025 Golfers' Guide to Ireland Awards. The annual awards night was held at the Knightsbrook Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort on Monday 1st December.
The awards evening commenced with a prosecco reception and photographs on arrival, setting a celebratory tone for the night. Guests then enjoyed a gourmet dinner, during which the prestigious Tipperary Crystal Awards were presented. The event was hosted by RTÉ’s golf correspondent, Greg Allen, alongside Cork golfing legend Denis O’Sullivan as the distinguished guest of honour.
The award recognises excellence in design, conditioning and the overall visitor experience of Ireland’s finest parkland venues, with the winning course standing out not only for its immaculate presentation and strategic challenge, but also for its commitment to continuous improvement and exceptional hospitality. As one of only two Jack Nicklaus Signature Designed Golf Courses in Ireland, Killeen Castle combines world-class facilities with an unwavering commitment to delivering the very best of Irish parkland golf.
Killeen Castle’s accolades continue with the news that Cormac Ryan, Director of Golf & Hospitality Operations at Killeen Castle, has been honoured for his contribution to the Irish golfing industry, being named Best Golf Club Manager - Leinster at the Golfer’s Guide to Ireland Awards. This award celebrates excellence across Irish golf and highlights Cormac’s outstanding leadership and commitment to the sport.
Since joining Killeen Castle in 2011, Cormac Ryan has redefined golf and hospitality excellence through innovation, collaboration and a customer-focused approach. His leadership has seamlessly combined championship golf, luxury lodge accommodation and authentic Irish hospitality into an exceptional guest experience, both strengthening Ireland’s global golf tourism profile and positioning Killeen Castle as both a world-class destination and an employer of choice.
Under his stewardship, Killeen Castle has achieved record guest satisfaction levels, hosted major events including the Solheim Cup and Ladies Irish Open and secured the HotelPlanner Irish Challenge for 2025–2027. Additionally, on the back of the successful hosting of the Irish Challenge, Killeen Castle was awarded the Overall Tourism Business of the Year 2025 at Meath Business & Tourism Awards on Friday 14th November.
Philip Rock, General Manager of Killeen Castle, said: “We are thrilled to see Killeen Castle recognised among Ireland’s leading golf destinations at such a prestigious event. Our Signature Golf Course continues to set the standard for modern golfing excellence, combining exceptional design with an outstanding playing experience. We are equally proud of Cormac Ryan’s recognition as Best Golf Club Manager, which is a testament to his leadership and the passion that continues to elevate Killeen Castle’s reputation within Irish golf.”
Spanning 350 acres of lush woodland in the heart of Ireland's Ancient East, the Killeen Castle Signature golf course is one of the country's top golfing destinations. Just a 30-minute drive from Dublin, the course offers an exceptional golfing experience and, thanks to its extensive drainage system, is playable year-round.
Killeen Castle was recently named Best Parkland Course of the Year at the 2025 Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association (IGTOA) Awards ahead of distinguished nominees Adare Manor and Druids Glen, two of Ireland’s most prestigious golfing destinations.
Killeen Castle is delighted to offer a Stay & Play package that includes a luxurious overnight stay in the lodge. Guests will start each morning with a traditional Irish breakfast and enjoy 18 holes of golf on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. The package also provides guests with access to 6km of ancient woodland walks, complimentary Wi-Fi and car parking, with prices starting from €300 per night for 2 people.
With these recent achievements across both products and services, there's never been a better time to choose Killeen Castle for your Christmas voucher gifting. Give more than a present - give time, memories and the chance to escape. Our gift vouchers are perfect for the festive season or as a thoughtful last-minute gesture that still feels truly personal.
For voucher purchases, bookings and further information, visit KilleenCastle.com