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Belfast's dedicated housekeeping teams and individuals were celebrated recently at the 15th annual Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) Housekeeping Awards. Numerous local hotels and staff members received top honours, recognising their outstanding contribution to the hospitality sector and the guest experience.
2026/03/07
The Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating 15 years of its annual Housekeeping Awards. This prestigious event recognises the vital, often unseen, work of housekeeping teams and individuals across Northern Ireland's bustling hotel and hospitality sector.
The awards dinner, held on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at the Hilton Belfast, saw a record number of guests, reflecting the growing appreciation for housekeeping excellence. NIHF spokesperson highlighted the crucial role these teams play: “Housekeeping teams are at the heart of the hotel experience, yet their work often takes place behind the scenes. These awards provide an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people whose standards, pride and attention to detail help define the industry.”
The rigorous assessment day took place at room2 Belfast Hometel, where participants showcased their expertise and unwavering commitment to maintaining impeccable standards. The evening's host, Donna Traynor, welcomed leading industry professionals and supporters to an evening of well-deserved recognition and celebration.
Belfast hotels and their dedicated staff were particularly successful, taking home numerous accolades:
Hotels with under 75 rooms:
Winner: Tara Lodge, Belfast
Third place: The Harrison, Belfast
Hotels with 75-149 rooms:
Hotels with 150 rooms and over:
Winner: AC Hotel by Marriott Belfast
Runner-up: Holiday Inn, Belfast City Centre
Third place: Maldron Hotel Belfast City
Housekeeper of the Year:
Winner: Zach Milligan, voco Belfast
Runner-up: Michele Nolan, Grand Central Hotel
Third place: Barbora Palackova, Maldron Hotel Belfast City
The awards dinner was a grand affair, featuring a drinks reception, a delicious three-course meal, and lively entertainment, all dedicated to honouring the professionalism and achievements of these essential teams. This year’s competition received strong support from Tourism Northern Ireland, with category sponsorships from Bunzl Rafferty Guest Amenities and Linencare, both committed to fostering and advancing excellence in housekeeping standards across the region.