Airbnb grants historic Irish property owners €5k for renovations

Airbnb has announced the winners of the 2024 Capacity Awards, a fund available to members of Historic Houses of Ireland to support the restoration of heritage properties.

Supporting historical homeowners across the country, the award grants €5,000 to assist with renovations, protect historic properties, and boost local tourism.

The winners of the Airbnb Capacity Awards 2024 were announced at the 'Historic Houses - An Autumn School' event, which took place in October, at Burtown House in Kildare.

The three winners of this year's awards are:

Mountrothe House in Kilkenny

Built in 1765, Mountrothe House is a self-catered Georgian House that offers guests the opportunity to relax and unwind, just 10 miles from the Medieval City of Kilkenny.

A 'Guest Favourite', the home can cater to large group bookings, with seven bedrooms and 12 beds up for grabs, and beautiful period detailing found throughout.

Since joining Airbnb, owner Derek Walshe noticed that many families were looking to enjoy the space, and says he hopes to put the money towards accomodating groups with younger children and families.

Derek Walshe 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 in 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 €5k grant will help to complete the roof and gate restorations that are required before the property can be ready for guests.

Eileen Magner Smith 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 in Limerick

Owned by David and Heather Thompson, Castlegarde Castle in Limerick is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Ireland. Occupied since medieval times, this historic home dates back to circa A.D. 1190 when it was built by Donal Mor O’Brien, King of Thomond.

Situated on a 300 acre working dairy farm, the castle features intricate stone figures, a walled-in back garden, a tower house that blends into a three-story extension designed by the famous Pain brothers, and eagle-eyed guests will even spot gargoyles on the gallery ceiling.

David Thompson 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."