May Bank Holiday can entice us to think of the June Bank Holiday or further afield to the Summer Holidays! Now is a great time to look at some hotel options. There’s lots of fantastic family-friendly deals to be found across the country. Whether you’re travelling further afield or simply looking for an escape closer to home, here’s our top hotels for families in Leinster.
- GLASSON LAKEHOUSE, WESTMEATH
Glasson Lakehouse is a true experience for families. With a modern, rustic atmosphere and set against a stunning natural backdrop, this staycation hotspot is stand out. Room options include family suites, dog friendly rooms and modern cabins. A visit to Glasson Lakehouse means you need never leave this resort – it has everything you need. A number of outdoor hot tubs and the outdoor heated swimming pool are a real treat, especially as the chilly weather arrives. The kids can choose from kiddie golf, cookery classes, movie evenings, equestrian lessons, cycling, kayaking, and much more.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Glendeer Pet Farm
- Visit Athlone
- Viking Tours Ireland
- Old Rail Trail Greenway
- Lough Ennell
Truly picturesque, Loughcrew Estate and Gardens dates back to the 17th Century. Brimming with history and religious significance, the medieval architecture and ancient buildings are a sight to behold. The property boasts 200 acres of rolling parkland, stunning lawns and gardens; full of nooks and crannies including a whimsical fairy garden for the little ones to explore.
Situated one hour from Dublin, a stay here is a luxurious treat for the family and a great base to explore from. Choose from the self-catered Courtyard Apartment or Stable Lodge for your stay.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Tayto Park
- Boyne Valley
- Dublin Zoo
- Loughcrew Cairns
Sitting at the edge of the River Nore and in the heart of Kilkenny City, the four-star Kilkenny River Court Hotel boasts an ideal location for families who enjoy history, heritage and a host of kids activities. There’s lots of fun and loads to do and see in Kilkenny! With spectacular views of the 12th century Kilkenny Castle, the kids will be swept away by the air of magic in the vicinity of Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile. The hotel features ample on site parking, spacious rooms, a private courtyard and a range of dining options to suit the entire family.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Visit Kilkenny Castle
- Visit Kilkenny Design Centre
- Castlecomer Discovery Park
- Kilkenny City Tours by Train
- Reptile Zoo
- K Bowl Kilkenny
Sanctuary, escape, haven, are just a few words that come to mind when envisaging a staycation at the five-star Druids Glen Resort. A mere 30 minutes from Dublin, yet feeling like a lifetime away, Druids Glen is the ideal luxury family staycation for those looking to treat themselves after the past 18 months. Comfort and safety are a top priority for families and Druids Glen offers a range of kids activities with social distancing in mind. The entire family can enjoy facilities such as an outdoor picnic area, mini soccer pitch, swimming pool, and kids movie room. For those with smaller tots, the Baby Pantry lends superb facilities including a bottle steriliser, dishwasher and more.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Glenroe Farm
- Sealife Aquarium Bray
- Powerscourt Waterfall
- Glendalough
- Greystones
Set amidst an elegant backdrop, Dunboyne Castle Hotel offers a retreat for adults and lots of fun for the kids. Two and 3-Night mid-term break packages for families include kids dining free – result! Family-friendly amenities include; bike rides, a fairy trail, kit flying, family movie night, storytelling sessions in the library, picnic basket options, and more.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Newgrange
- Hill of Tara
- Battle of the Boyne site
- Tayto Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Clonfert Pet Farm
- Ship Shape Kids Play
- Aquazone
Brimming with history, romance and tradition, The Royal Marine Hotel is a coastal diamond. Situated in Dun Laoghaire and with views across Dublin Bay, the hotel has played host to many famous faces since 1863, including; Queen Victoria, Michael Collins and Frank Sinatra to name but a few. The coastal executive family rooms are highly recommended.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Harbour Splash – Dublin’s first inflatable water activity park
- East Park and Teddy’s ice cream
- Dublin Bay Cruises
- Airfield Estate
- Kayaking and paddle boarding
- Bray to Greystones cliff walk
Only 35 minutes from Dublin, the Osprey Hotel is a convenient short-term hotel stay for families from the Dublin area. Load up the car last minute and head for a well deserved weekend away with the kids. Similarly, the hotel is convenient for those travelling from further afield, but would still like to remain near a variety of day trip hot spots. Families can enjoy use of the leisure club and kids pool at the Osprey Hotel.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- The National Stud
- Lullymore Heritage Park
- Wallaby Woods
- Stoneybrook Pet Farm
- Kildare Maze
- Dublin Zoo
The Johnstown Estate is a four-star Georgian manor offering warm service and an abundance of comforts. With 120 acres of parkland adjacent to the property, enjoy fairy trails, explore the many walking trails or hire a bike for the duration of your stay. The on-site leisure centre features a 20m swimming pool and individual kiddies pool.
The Johnstown Estate offers a number of deluxe two bedroom self-catering lodges with all modern amenities. A play area is conveniently located in the green area by the lodges.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Tayto Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Boyne Valley
- Irish National Stud & Gardens
- Clonfert Farm
- Wallaby Woods
- Lullymore Heritage Park
Golden hour in the sunny south east is magical – when the Irish weather accommodates of course! The Maldron Hotel Wexford has large family rooms, a leisure centre and an array of activities like family bingo, making this a stress-free hotel stay for families.
Family-Friendly Things To Do Nearby:
- Curracloe Beach
- Johnstown Castle
- Pirates Cove
- Dunbrody Famine Ship
- Kia Ora Mini Farm
Have recommendations? We’d love to hear your tips for family-friendly hotels and activities in Leinster. Submit your tips and reviews in the comment section below or share with us on Instagram @thefamilyedit
