A hotel housed within a historic Welsh castle has recently received two prestigious European awards, solidifying its reputation as one of the top accommodation options in Wales. Roch Castle, situated near St Davids in Pembrokeshire, clinched two accolades at the esteemed Historic Hotels of Europe Awards. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle was originally constructed by Norman knight Adam de Rupe and later came under the ownership of the Walter family in the 17th century. Following a series of restoration works in the early 20th century, architect Keith Griffiths acquired the castle in 2008 and embarked on its transformation into a hotel.
The renowned castle hotel was honoured with the titles of Historic Eco Hotel of the Year and the Silver Award for Historic Castle Hotel of the Year during a ceremony held in Prague. The award for Historic Eco Hotel of the Year highlights Roch Castle’s dedication to sustainable practices in the hospitality sector, emphasising its environmentally conscious approach while offering guests a luxurious experience filled with historical significance. The Silver Award recognises the castle’s ability to provide guests with a truly memorable stay within a beautifully restored 12th-century castle.
Keith Griffiths, the mastermind behind the castle’s conversion, shared his inspiration for the project, mentioning his deep connection to St Davids as his spiritual home. The hotel currently boasts an impressive 9.6 ‘exceptional’ rating on Booking.com based on 291 reviews, with guests praising the castle’s historical charm and luxurious amenities. Following the success at the Historic Hotels of Europe Awards, Johanna Slade, the marketing manager at Retreats Group, which owns Roch Castle, expressed gratitude to everyone who played a part in the accomplishments.
Roch Castle’s journey from a historic building to an award-winning hotel has been nothing short of extraordinary, attracting visitors from all over the world seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Guests have lauded the castle’s exquisite rooms, captivating views of the coastline, and the overall sense of grandeur it exudes. The meticulous restoration efforts and the commitment to providing a sustainable and eco-friendly environment have set Roch Castle apart as a beacon of excellence in the hospitality industry.
The success of Roch Castle serves as a testament to the vision and dedication of the team behind its transformation into a world-class hotel. From its rich historical roots to its modern-day accolades, the castle continues to enchant visitors and capture the essence of Welsh heritage. The recent awards have not only recognised the castle’s outstanding achievements but have also spotlighted its commitment to preserving the environment while offering guests a truly exceptional and immersive experience steeped in history.
In conclusion, the accolades received by Roch Castle at the Historic Hotels of Europe Awards underscore its position as a premier destination in Wales, where history, luxury, and sustainability converge to create a truly unparalleled experience for guests. As the castle continues to draw visitors from near and far, its legacy as an award-winning hotel within a storied Welsh castle is sure to endure for generations to come.