Our Q&A with JP Kavanagh, General Manager of The Shelbourne Dublin, delves into why this esteemed Dublin hotel is a dream destination for any traveler, featuring world-class spa treatments, afternoon tea, and more!
The Shelbourne is such a historic and iconic property. How do you balance preserving its legacy while evolving the guest experience?
At The Shelbourne, preserving our historic legacy goes hand in hand with enhancing the guest experience. We maintain the hotel’s iconic features and stories with great care, while continuously introducing modern touches that cater to contemporary needs. This thoughtful balance ensures that guests can enjoy the timeless charm of the hotel alongside the comfort and sophistication expected today, creating a stay that respects tradition yet feels fresh and inviting.
Are there any recent updates or initiatives at the hotel you’re especially proud of?
We are thrilled to announce the recent launch of the exclusive Grace de Monaco retail collection, available exclusively at The Shelbourne. Inspired by the timeless elegance of Princess Grace, this refined collection features luxurious home fragrances—candles and diffusers—as well as silk scarves and twilly ribbons.
This launch holds particular meaning for The Shelbourne, as both Princess Grace and Prince Rainier were frequent guests of the hotel and had a special fondness for Room 270, overlooking St. Stephen’s Green – now named the Princess Grace Suite in honour of her enduring legacy.
What makes this collaboration even more meaningful is its purpose: 100% of the profits from the Grace de Monaco collection are donated to the Princess Grace Foundation-USA, supporting emerging talent in theatre, dance, and film, reflecting Princess Grace’s lifelong dedication to the arts.
This initiative forms part of a wider commitment at The Shelbourne to excellence with purpose. Our Mission Zero sustainability programme continues to lead the way in responsible hospitality, with a focus on zero waste across our operations. From state-of-the-art food waste reduction systems to strong partnerships with local producers and ongoing improvements in energy efficiency, we are proud to be recognised by Green Hospitality and other leading environmental bodies.
Together, these initiatives represent The Shelbourne’s ongoing dedication to offering a guest experience defined not only by luxury, but by care—for our heritage, our community, and the world around us.
What sorts of experiences do you recommend every guest try during their stay?
Afternoon Tea in The Lord Mayor’s Lounge is an essential Shelbourne experience. Set within one of the hotel’s most elegant spaces, it is a tradition that speaks to the heart of our heritage—gracious, unhurried, and beautifully presented. From the fine china and tiered stands to the seasonal menus created by our pastry team, it is a celebration of craft and occasion. Whether it is a first visit or a long-standing ritual, Afternoon Tea at The Shelbourne offers a moment of calm and luxury in the centre of the city.
For those wishing to explore a different side of Irish tradition, our Whiskey Tasting in The Horseshoe Bar is another highlight. Guided by our resident whiskey sommeliers, this tailored tasting explores a curated selection of exceptional whiskeys—not only from Ireland, but from around the world. Recently expanded to include rare and international labels, the experience offers guests an engaging and informative journey through one of the world’s most storied spirits, in the intimate setting of one of Dublin’s most iconic bars.
What’s The Shelbourne’s approach to hospitality culture and training?
At The Shelbourne, our approach to hospitality is grounded in genuine warmth and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Every team member, from front-of-house to behind the scenes, is trained not only in service standards but in the art of anticipation—delivering thoughtful, personalized care before it’s even requested.
We focus on creating experiences that feel both polished and personal, where professionalism and genuine connection go hand in hand. Ongoing training, mentorship, and a deep sense of pride in the hotel’s legacy help foster a culture where every guest feels truly at home. For us, hospitality is never just about service—it’s about creating meaningful moments that leave a lasting impression.
How does the hotel engage with the local Dublin community or highlight Irish culture for international guests?
At The Shelbourne, we are committed to celebrating Irish craftsmanship and culture through meaningful partnerships that enhance our guests’ experience. We are proud to partner with Ground Wellbeing, an innovative Irish brand whose products are featured in some of our spa treatments,. Using Ground’s carefully formulated products allows us to offer a wellness experience rooted in the natural heritage of Ireland.
We also collaborated with Cloon Keen, a renowned Irish perfumery, to create our exclusive Shelbourne candle. Inspired by the tranquil beauty of St. Stephen’s Green, the candle’s scent captures the essence of Dublin’s green heart, allowing guests to take a piece of the city’s spirit home with them.
Beyond these collaborations, we maintain close partnerships with local suppliers to showcase the finest Irish produce in our seasonal menus. Our Shelbourne Stories initiative invites guests and staff to share their personal connections to the hotel and the city, enriching each visit with a deeper sense of history and community. Through these efforts, we ensure that every guest experiences the true warmth and character of Dublin.
What does receiving a 2025 Editor’s Choice Award for Best Luxury Spa Experience mean to your team?
Receiving the 2025 Editor’s Choice Award is a tremendous honour for our entire team at The Shelbourne. It is a testament to the dedication, passion, and excellence that every member brings to their role, day in and day out. This recognition not only celebrates our commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience but also serves as both encouragement and inspiration for us to continue striving for excellence. It motivates us to innovate thoughtfully while staying true to the heritage and legacy that make The Shelbourne truly unique.
Can you share any exciting plans for the rest of 2025 or into 2026?
Watch this space. With our new owners, Archer Hotel Capital, we have some exciting plans ahead that we look forward to sharing soon.
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