We are delighted to see seven Red Carnation hotels recognised across the UK and US editions of the 2026 Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards, with nine placements spanning Ireland, South Africa, Geneva and London.

Voted for by readers, the awards celebrate the hotels, resorts and destinations that continue to stand out in travellers’ memories. This year, both Ashford Castle and The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa have been recognised by readers on both sides of the Atlantic, alongside The Lodge at Ashford Castle, The Oyster Box, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, The Rubens at the Palace and The Egerton House Hotel. Condé Nast confirms that the Readers’ Choice Awards are determined through its reader survey.

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The Oyster Box


Recognition across the collection

In the Condé Nast Traveler US Readers’ Choice Awards 2026:

- The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa was named the No. 4 Hotel in South Africa
- Ashford Castle was named the No. 7 Resort in Europe
- The Lodge at Ashford Castle was named the No. 7 Hotel in Ireland
- The Rubens at the Palace was named the No. 20 Hotel in London

In the Condé Nast Traveller UK Readers’ Choice Awards 2026:

- The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa was named the No. 8 Hotel in Eastern & Southern Africa
- The Oyster Box was named the No. 10 Hotel in Eastern & Southern Africa
- Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat was named the No. 15 Resort in South Africa
- Ashford Castle was named the No. 16 Resort in the Rest of Europe
- The Egerton House Hotel was named the No. 39 Hotel in London

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The Rubens at the Palace, London


A recognition that means a great deal

Each of these results is particularly meaningful because it comes from the people who travel, stay with us and choose to return.

Whilst we are incredibly proud to see the collection recognised on the global stage once again, these accolades are a reflection of the remarkable people behind each hotel. Every member of our teams plays a part in bringing our values to life each day, creating the warm, personal experiences that guests remember long after they return home.

To everyone who voted for one of our hotels, thank you. And to our teams across the collection, this recognition belongs to you.

Select results from the 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards will also appear in the November editions of Condé Nast Traveler US and Condé Nast Traveller UK.

Planning your next trip? Come and experience our award-winning collection for yourself, from characterful city stays to remarkable escapes across Europe and South Africa.