Big week for Waterford tourism
Pictured L-R: Aidan Murphy, Chairman of CIÉ Tours, Jack Burtchaell with Seán Canney TD, Minister of State at the Department of Transport. Photo: John Ohle
Waterford made headlines across national news this week with the CIE Tours Awards of Excellence, a Michelin Bib Gourmand and a decision to close one of the country's most beloved restaurants.
The Tannery restaurant in Dungarvan is closing its doors next year. According to a post on social media, their last service will be January 1, 2027.
"If someone had told us in 1997 that our little restaurant in Dungarvan would still be going strong 30 years later, we would have signed up on the spot. We’ve had the run of our lives."
However, according to chef and restaurateur Paul Flynn, this is not the end of the Tannery's story. He and his wife, Máire - a front of house extraordinaire - will be maintaining the cookery school and also the restaurant will continue to serve guests of the Tannery Townhouse.
The couple and co-owners paid tribute to their staff, their daughters and the Dungarvan community.
"There won’t be one farewell party. Instead, the next 11 months will be one long celebration."
They are inviting regulars, old friends and first-time visitors to be part of their final service season.
Farmgate in Lismore was one of five Irish restaurants awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand ahead of the Michelin Guide ceremony in Dublin this week. Farmgate Lismore gained a Bib in recognition of the “fuss-free, produce-led cooking” it offers.
“Farmgate Lismore is a converted former pub where the warm, friendly team and comforting dishes will make you wish you lived up the road. The lamb’s liver and bacon perfectly encapsulates the kitchen’s talent for showing off quality produce,” they said.
Unlike Michelin stars, which focus on fine dining, the Bib Gourmand was introduced in 1997 to showcase "restaurants that serve high-quality food at great value".
State transport company CIÉ honoured local Waterford walking tour guide Jack Burtchaell and his wife Carmel with a celebratory dinner following Mr Burtchaell’s completion of 10,000 walking tours. Mr Burtchaell was hired by CIÉ in 1990. Waterford was the first location to roll out the scheme.
CIÉ estimates that Mr Burtchaell has toured with over 300,000 American guests over the past 35 years. While Mr Burtchaell did the touring, Mrs Burtchaell oversaw administration and bookings.
“I’ve worn out a lot of shoe leather over the years, but it gives me great satisfaction to share the story of Waterford with people from all around the world," said Mr Burtchaell. "We have a great history and a great story to tell."
Dooley's Hotel has been named the Best Three-Star Hotel in Ireland at the 2026 CIÉ Tours Awards of Excellence. The awards, which are in their 34th year, celebrate excellence in tourism and are based on post-stay feedback from guests.
Speaking after the team took home the gold award, Dooley’s Hotel’s Tina Darrer explained why the award means so much.
“This recognition means so much to us because it comes directly from our guests. It reflects the care, consistency and pride our entire team brings to their work every day. To be recognised by CIÉ Tours for delivering a warm, authentic Irish welcome alongside high standards of service is incredibly rewarding, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported and stayed with us over the years,” said Ms Darrer.
