Celebrating Harbour Masters House B&B of the Year in the Small Stay Category at the Georgina Campbell’s Ireland Guide Awards 2026.

A huge congratulations from all of us at B&B Ireland!

A Georgian Gem on the Grand Canal

Overlooking the idyllic harbour at Shannon Harbour, The Harbour Masters House is a charming Georgian house surrounded by beautiful County Offaly countryside.

Nestled on the banks of the Grand Canal, guests have been warmly welcomed here since 2000. With its spacious bedrooms, pretty gardens and peaceful waterside setting, it is the perfect place to slow down, relax and experience a quieter side of Ireland.

The house has also been highly recommended by Georgina Campbell’s Ireland Guide, making this latest award a particularly special achievement.

Just 5km away, the picturesque town of Banagher offers opportunities for golfing, fishing, cycling and birdwatching, while the historic Martello Tower provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's past.

A Place Steeped in History

Shannon Harbour itself has a fascinating story to tell.

The village was built in the 1830s and once played an important role in Ireland’s canal and trading network. Its historic buildings include a bonded warehouse, customs and excise post, former Royal Irish Constabulary barracks, boat and barge repair dockyard, school, smithy and livery, cottages, and the former Grand Hotel.

The Harbour Masters House forms an important part of this historic landscape.

The Grand Hotel, now sadly in ruins, once welcomed emigrants who stayed overnight before travelling by barge towards Limerick and Cobh, beginning journeys that would ultimately take them to destinations such as America, Canada and Australia.

Today, the tranquillity of Shannon Harbour offers a very different experience — but its fascinating history remains all around you.

Discover County Offaly

The Harbour Masters House makes an ideal base for exploring some of the Midlands' most fascinating attractions.

Birr Castle Gardens

Just 15km away, Birr Castle Gardens are home to an extraordinary collection of rare trees, beautiful flowers and wildlife. Visitors can explore the magnificent gardens, rivers and lake, with access to the castle’s main living quarters available during the summer months.

Clonmacnoise

Around 20 minutes away is Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most important monastic sites. Founded in the 6th century, the historic settlement features three High Crosses, seven churches, two round towers and a cathedral. It is also the final resting place of several High Kings of Ireland.

Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery

For something a little different, guests can visit the Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery and Visitor Centre, around 20 minutes from the house. Discover the story behind one of Ireland’s best-known whiskeys and explore the history behind the brand.

And for those looking to venture further afield, the mysterious Leap Castle provides an unforgettable glimpse into Ireland’s more intriguing and atmospheric past.

The Warmest of Irish Welcomes

At the heart of The Harbour Masters House is the welcome provided by Niamh and Darren.

Guests can expect genuine Irish hospitality from the moment they arrive, with every effort made to ensure they feel completely at home. Whether it’s helping guests plan their itinerary, sharing local knowledge or simply making sure everything is just right, their personal approach is a huge part of what makes a stay here so memorable.

It is this combination of beautiful surroundings, fascinating history, genuine hospitality and attention to detail that makes The Harbour Masters House such a wonderful example of Irish B&B accommodation.

Congratulations, Harbour Masters House!

From all of us at B&B Ireland, congratulations to Niamh and Darren at The Harbour Masters House on being named B&B of the Year – Small Stay Category at the Georgina Campbell’s Ireland Guide Awards 2026.

It is a fantastic achievement and one that is thoroughly deserved.

Posted: 24 Sep 2026 by Orlagh Cassidy | with 0 comments