John Brennan on starting a new chapter: ‘We were delighted when Adam came home to join the business – but Kenmare would be a lot different to Ibiza and Miami’

After selling two of the three hotels he ran with his brother Francis for decades, keeping Dromquinna Manor was non-negotiable for John Brennan and his wife Gwen. As their 27-year-old son joins the family business, the trio talk about life after the Park, John’s cancer battle and who’s really in charge...

John Brennan with son Adam. Photo: Lynda Kenny

Nicola Brady

When it comes to Irish hotel royalty, the Brennans wear the crown. From John and Francis swiping picture frames for dust on At Your Service, to the pair running the show up until recently at the Park Hotel Kenmare, the family is synonymous with hospitality.

The last few months have seen been big changes in the Brennan households. At the end of last year, John and Francis sold both the Park and The Lansdowne after 43 years of running the former, and three in the latter.