Cliff at Lyons

Ireland is the perfect destination for a family holiday; with its rugged coastline, wild countryside, and abundance of outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Known for its warm hospitality there are a wide range of hotels that readily welcome guests travelling with children which can make picking the right hotel for you a tricky choice. This is where our hotel experts come in. Our hand-picked collection of the best family hotels in Ireland have been chosen for their location, style, activity choices, and cuisine. From five-star luxury offerings to charming boutiques there is something for everyone.

For a boutique

Victoria House Hotel

  • Victoria House Hotel has smart, individually styled, rooms. Family suites are ideal for those travelling with children and there's a kids menu in the widely acclaimed restaurant. A charming base to explore Killarney and its surrounds.
  • The Twelve is situated in the seaside village of Bearna, close to Galway. Chic rooms are luxurious and contemporary and there are family suites offered too. The award-winning restaurant and indulgent spa make this an appealing choice for grown-ups too.

For a coastal stay

Seafield

  • Seafield Golf & Spa Hotel is set beside a beautiful stretch of unspoilt sandy beach in County Wexford. The resort offers an award-winning spa and its own golf course. Choose the Gate Lodge for self-contained family accommodation.
  • Connemara Coast Hotel is a luxurious hotel boasting a spectacular setting overlooking the dramatic Connemara coastline. Interiors are chic and modern, there's an indulgent spa and a choice of two restaurants. While, for children, there's a kids club and outdoor playground.

For foodies

Hunters Yard Hotel

  • LIss Ard House & Lodge in County Cork has 25 luxurious rooms set across three separate properties. Families will find plenty of activities to keep everyone busy while the restaurant governed by the Slow Food movement is a treat for all.
  • Hunter's Yard Hotel is a beautiful Georgian estate and five-star hotel in picturesque County Kilkenny. Families are well catered for with dedicated suites and numerous activities for children. Pick this hotel to dine at the Michellin Plate awarded restaurant, The Hound.
  • Gregans Castle Hotel is an 18th-century manor house hotel set in a scenic spot along the Wild Atlantic Way in County Clare. Boasting an award-winning restaurant the hotel is also very family friendly, some rooms even have a small private garden area where little ones can stay active.

For a country escape

Lyrath Estate

  • Lyrath Estate is set in 170 acres of County Kilkenny parkland replete with woodlands and lakes. Family suites are available for those travelling with younger children and there's a splash pool for kids too. Meanwhile, the spa will please any parent!
  • Cliff at Lyons offers smart modern rooms in a privileged location set beside the Grand Canal in County Kildare. Private apartments and country cottages are ideal for families. The Orangery restaurant and cosy bar make this a chic stay.

For the activities

Lough Eske Castle Hotel

  • Lough Eske Castle Hotel is a magnificent castle set amidst the abundant beauty of rural Donegal. Interiors are elegant and traditional. With an abundance of activities on offer from sailing to cycling, this is an appealing choice for families.
  • Castlemartyr Resort has everything a family holiday may require. For adults, there's a spa, golf course, and selection of restaurants. While children will be kept entertained with the wide variety of activities available from archery to fishing. All set amid spectacular County Cork countryside.
  • Brook Lane Hotel offers sumptuous accommodation in the Ring of Kerry. The very friendly staff and children specific in-house activities makes this a great choice for families. Better yet, there are a plethora of things to do in the area from seal spotting to diving.

For luxury

Sheen Falls Lodge

  • Sheen Falls Lodge is a five-star luxury country estate set in the Kerry countryside. With activities for everyone from croquet to yoga classes there is something for eveyone here.
  • Parknasilla Resort is a luxury hotel and spa boasting a spectacular setting with a backdrop of the Kerry Mountains and sea views. Children are very well catered for and there's a number of activities for everyone to get involved in.
  • Dromoland Castle, in County Clare, is an imposing castle set in 450 acres of parkland and boasting its own18-hole championship golf course. Rooms are suitably grand while the restaurant is highly acclaimed. There's a wide range of rural activities on offer making this perfect for families.
  • Killarney Park Hotel is a luxurious five-star property set in the quaint town of Killarney. Family rooms make this a comfortable option for those travelling with children. With all the luxury trimmings this is an indulgent stay.

For a Dublin break

Gleesons Townhouse

  • Gleeson's Townhouse is a stylish home away from home. Rooms are chic and contemporary and the spacious suites are ideal for families. The cosy pub has a laid-back feel. A great option for a city break with the kids.
  • Herbert Park Hotel is a smart hotel set in the heart of historic Dublin. Triple interconnecting suites make this a great choice for families travelling with older children. A stylish choice complete with a gourmet restaurant and high tea available.

Still not sure?

The 16 Best Family Hotels in Ireland

Seafield Golf & Spa Hotel

County Wexford

A quiet luxury retreat with spa and golf course just an hour from Dublin. Fantastic for groups, families and weddings. Beautiful sea views from crisp bedrooms - some with balconies. Perfectly unspoilt sandy beaches are great for long walks. A charming and quiet spot, ideal for a weekend getaway.

  • Families - The Gate Lodge is perfect for groups or families.
  • Spa breaks - Winner of the Tatler Hotel Spa of the Year 2012.
  • Great walks - Gardens at Marlfield House
  • Sights nearby - Wells House and Gardens
from $104 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Gregans Castle Hotel

County Clare (County Clare)

18th-century manor house hotel with literary connections within a scenic national park in Western Ireland. Rooms have stylish contemporary decor and views are sublime. Very family friendly, some rooms even have a small private garden area, and dogs are welcome too.

  • Child friendly - There are a selection of family rooms some with direct access to their own garden area.
  • Foodies - 3 AA Rosette standard fine dining.
  • Outstanding location
  • Sights nearby
from $247 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Sheen Falls Lodge

Kenmare (County Kerry)

Situated amid stunning Kerry countryside with views over the Sheen Falls from almost every room. Family friendly five star luxury country retreat with activities for everyone. Borrow a bike, go fishing with the ghillie or simply relax in the spa then indulge in gourmet Irish cuisine.

  • Child friendly - The hotel has children's menus, free bikes, board games and a wide selection of DVDs
  • Fishing - The hotel has a resident ghillie who can plan residents' fishing expeditions
  • 5* Luxury
  • Spa - Easana Wellness & Spa includes sauna, steam room, hot tub, 5 treatment rooms, hair & beauty salon, and a range of therapies.
from $168 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Liss Ard House & Lodge

County Cork (County Cork)

With luxury accommodation split amongst three different locations you can choose Country House, Garden Mews or Lake Lodge. Rooms are contemporary and sleek, and Liss Ard is very family friendly with numerous activities on site. Cuisine is governed by "slow food" rules. Perfect for a country escape.

  • Child friendly - Liss Ard has extensive family facilities, including qualified child minders
  • Fishing - The estate includes Lough Abisdealy and boats can be provided
  • Country Escape
  • Great walks - Woodland and riverside walks on the doorstep
from $116 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Brook Lane Hotel

Kenmare (Kenmare)

Splendid hotel in the Ring of Kerry. Sumptuous rooms have modern art, dark velvet furnishings and chandeliers. Charming fireplace lounges and excellent restaurant offering locally sourced and organic dishes; unmissable breakfasts. Very friendly staff.

  • Local exploring - Abundance of activities on the doorstep, with sea fishing, golf, walks and wildlife
  • Families - Lovely activites for children with Lorge Chocolate Factory and Adopt a Sheep farm
  • Diving - Kenmare Bay Diving Club is located in Lauragh on the spectacular Beara peninsula
  • Fishing - Boat fishing, shore angling or charter a boat on Kenmare Bay
from $168 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Lough Eske Castle Hotel & Spa

County Donegal

A magnificent castle set amidst the abundant beauty of rural Donegal. Rooms are luxurious and spacious, adorned with comfortable, tasteful furnishings. In the day unwind in the hotel's extensive spa and at night enjoy delicious locally sourced seafood in the Cedars Grill. A rural Irish gem.

  • Families - The perfect spot for a rural getaway, with plenty of space and lots of activities to keep the little ones busy!
  • Local exploring - In a superb location on the shores of Lough Eske and only a ten minute drive from the town.
  • Spa - Cara Organic Beauty Spa with thermal suite, infinity pool and extensive range of restorative treatments.
  • Fishing - Great place for fishing, bring your catch back to the hotel and learn how to cook from the experts!
from $199 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Killarney Park Hotel

Killarney (Killarney)

A luxurious 5 star property in the quaint town of Killarney. Traditionally styled rooms are light and airy with large sash windows, antique furniture and contemporary bathrooms. A spoiling spa and indoor pool are the perfect place to unwind after a day in the great outdoors. Fabulous.

  • Local exploring - Ideally located to enjoy the quintessentially Irish town of Killarney as well as the surrounding countryside.
  • Total relaxation - Complete with fabulous spa, exemplary restaurant and five star service, wish for nothing at this property.
  • Great walks - Explore the Killarney National Park just minutes from the property.
  • Kayaking - Paddle across one of the scenic Lakes of Killarney.
from $231 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Herbert Park Hotel and Park Residence

Dublin (Ballsbridge)

A smart hotel in leafy south Dublin. Plush rooms offer soft carpets and luxurious linens, with stunning views over the expansive Herbert Park. The family rooms are great for travelling with children; dine at the gourmet restaurant or take afternoon tea in the terrace lounge. A stylish city break.

  • Families - With triple, interconnecting rooms in the family suites, this hotel is perfect for families travelling with older children
  • City Style - Located in Dublin's historic centre, this hotel is a great base for exploring the local sights on a city break
  • Romantic Break - With cosy interior décor and a romantic terrace lounge, this hotel is perfect for couples on a city getaway
  • Sailing - The Surfdock Centre offers windsurfing and sailing courses; enquire at the hotel for more information
from $195 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Gleeson's Townhouse

Dublin (Booterstown)

A new boutique hotel situated in Blackrock, South Dublin. The ambitious renovation of this family home has resulted in spacious, modern rooms with lots of light and classic interior design. Enjoy a homemade pie at Gleeson's Corner, or have a pint at the cosy pub. A stylish home away from home.

  • Families - The spacious suites are great for people travelling with children, and the restaurant is child-friendly too
  • Romantic Break - Couples will love the comfy beds and homely feel to this hotel, plus the award-winning pub downstairs
  • Hideaway - With cosy rooms, a pub, restaurant and shop all on-site, this is a great Dublin bolt-hole
  • Sights nearby - Take a bus into Dublin's city centre and visit the historic sights, from Christ's Church Cathedral to the Kilmainham Gaol
from $169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hunter's Yard Hotel

County Kilkenny (Co Kilkenny)

Set on a verdant, Georgian country estate, this five-star hotel offers a luxury escape from the city. Duck feather pillows promise a restful night's sleep in the hotel's bright guestrooms; book a suite for a marble-topped bathtub. Dine at the acclaimed hotel restaurant, The Hound. A stylish getaway.

  • Country Escape - Set on an idyllic Georgian estate in County Kilkenny, this hotel offers many rural delights from fishing to golf and riding
  • Families - Families are well-catered for at this hotel, with family rooms available and great activities for children
  • Foodies - Dine at the hotel restaurant The Hound, awarded a Michelin Plate and two AA rosettes
  • Fishing - Go fishing in the River Nore; the hotel has a fishing room onsite and all the equipment you could need
from $200 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Parknasilla Resort

County Kerry (Co. Kerry)

A luxury hotel and spa boasting a spectacular setting with a backdrop of the Kerry Mountains and sea views. Spacious rooms are contemporary and bright with large planes of glass yet there's a traditional feel with chandeliers and antiques. The spa is utterly indulgent; a chic country escape.

  • Active Holiday - With its own golf course and plenty of outdoor pursuits on offer this the perfect spot for those who like active holidays
  • Spa breaks - The indulgent spa features a fabulous indoor pool, a selection of outdoor hot tubs, and an array of treatments
  • Local exploring - Perfectly located for exploring both the Ring of Kerry and Wild Atlantic Way
  • Restaurant - Various dining options including fine dining at the Pygmalion Restaurant which features modern Irish cuisine
from $169 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Twelve

County Galway (Galway)

A modern hotel in the quaint village of Barna with a destination restaurant and one of Ireland’s finest wine lists. Sophisticated guestrooms and spacious suites. The location, a stone’s throw from Barna pier is perfect for a brisk morning walk after a hearty breakfast in Pins Gastro Bar.

  • Hideaway - Set in a charming village on the Galway coast with a spa and acclaimed restaurant, this hotel makes the perfect luxury bolt-hole
  • Local exploring - There is lots to explore close to the hotel; see the coast on a long walk or rent bikes in the village and explore nearby Galway
  • Families - This hotel caters to families well, with spacious family suites that can accommodate children
  • Great walks - Take a long walk and discover the best coastal paths on this stretch of the Irish coast; enquire at the hotel for routes
from $131 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Victoria House Hotel

Killarney

This smart, family-run hotel is tucked away in Killarney, Ireland. The individually dressed guestrooms are comfortable and stylish with contemporary interior design; opt for a luxury suite for an indulgent hot tub bath. Dine at the hotel's award-winning restaurant after a day sightseeing in Kerry.

  • Foodies - With an acclaimed restaurant onsite serving the best in locally sourced ingredients, foodies are well looked-after at this hotel
  • Families - Family suites at this hotel are perfect for parents travelling with children, and there is a kids' menu in the restaurant, too
  • Local exploring - With Killarney town centre and a national park close by, there is lots to explore local to this hotel
  • Great walks - Go walking in the Killarney National Park, a beautiful area of natural beauty and the first national park in Ireland
from $88 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Connemara Coast Hotel

County Galway

A luxurious contemporary hotel boasting a spectacular setting overlooking the dramatic Connemara coastline. Chic interiors are fresh and modern with large expanses of glass to fully take in the views. There's also an indulgent spa and two restaurants. A spoiling option for a rural getaway.

  • Country Escape - Set on the Wild Atlantic Way and the shores of Galway Bay, a rugged spot to explore picturesque Connemara from
  • Families - With a kids club, outdoor playground and excellent family accommodation, this is ideal for a family break.
  • Kids Club - There's a kids club for morning and evening activities which is open during the school holidays.
  • Spa - There are a wide range of holistic treatments and therapies available
from $115 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Dromoland Castle

County Clare

An imposing castle set in 450 acres of parkland and boasting its own 18-hole championship golf course. Rooms are suitably grand with a heady blend of traditional style with contemporary luxuries. The restaurant is highly acclaimed and there's a wide range of rural activities on offer.

  • Active Holiday - Boasting its own golf course and numerous other rural pursuits this is perfect destination for those who like to get outdoors
  • Golf - Play a round on the impressive 18-hole championship course on the property grounds
  • Country Escape - An imposing castle set in acres of manicured grounds; a luxurious rural escape
  • Swimming Pool - Indoor pool
from $326 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Castlemartyr Resort

County Cork

A luxury family-friendly offering set within 220 acres of spectacular countryside in County Cork. Spacious rooms are traditionally styled and feature indulgent marble bathrooms complete with White Company products. A spoiling spa, golf course and choice of restaurants complete the picture.

  • Country Escape - A sprawling estate offering luxury accommodation and outdoor pursuits abound. An indulgent rural escape
  • Golf - Play a round on the property's own Ron Kirby designed 18-hole links style course
  • Great walks - Take a walk along one of the three marked trails (the hotel's resident dogs will happily accompany guests)
  • Spa - There are 10 treatment rooms and a couples's suite, plus vitality lounge, pool, sauna....
from $165 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Katie Harris

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