This week we had the pleasure to be invited to Ashford Castle in Co.Mayo, Ireland to have a look around with a view to doing some shooting. Having never visited the west coast before I was staggered by the raw brutal beauty of the place, and how similar it is in places to the South West of the UK – specifically Dartmoor.

Ashford is a 12th century castle hotel – and has recently been awarded the Conde Nast ‘Best Resort in Europe’ accolade which it absolutely deserves. We were welcomed by Paula Carroll (Head of Sales) and the wonderful hospitality team who are the friendliest you will meet. Pictured above right is Killary – a ballsy Harris Hawk who I took out for a spin in the castle grounds right after the early morning horse ride through the forest, which in turn was right after a spectacular full Irish breakfast. The breakfast was after a wonderful night’s sleep in a the Presidential suite which was preceded by four courses in the George V dining room. Needless to say I am in love with the place.

Our pitch was warmly received and we are moving ahead with the intent to capture ‘The Character and Characters of Ashford’. Storyboarding is well underway for the piece which will convey the authenticity of what is afterall, the oldest Castle Hotel in Ireland.