There are some exceptional family hotels in Ireland, with places like Newpark continuously enhancing their family-friendly amenities, while long-standing favourites like Kelly’s have been creating cherished family memories for decades.
To get an opinion from the masses on the best child friendly hotels in Ireland, I asked our 280,000 strong Instagram following for their favourites – they shared the good, the bad and the very ugly!
Below, you’ll find:
- The most voted for family hotels in Ireland: Each of which has been cross checked across all review sites
- Hotels with family rooms: Either dedicated family rooms with plenty of beds or ones with interconnecting rooms
- Hotels with family activities: Either on-site, close by or, in many cases, both
The best family hotels in Ireland

Photos via Delphi Adventure Resort on FB
The first section of this guide is packed with the best family hotels Ireland has to offer.
Note: if you book a stay through one of the links below we may make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.
1. Newpark Hotel (Kilkenny)

Photos via Newpark Hotel on FB
It’s off to Kilkenny, first, to the award-winning, family-run Newpark Hotel, located on the edge of the historic Kilkenny City.
This place is perfect for families looking to dive into a bit of adventure, with everything from a Dinosaur park to a fairy trail nearby.
There’s a whopping 40 acres of parkland to explore and a range of activities on offer, both in the hotel and nearby, so you’ve plenty of activities to choose from.
Family rooms include:
- Deluxe (1 double + 2 singles) or Superior (2 double + 1 single)
- Interconnecting rooms for large families
- Travel cots available
Family amenities and activities
- Wildlife farm
- Go Karting track
- Kids Club
- Adventure playground
- Fairy trail
2. Amber Springs (Wexford)

Photos via Amber Springs on FB
Amber Springs is a 4-star hotel and spa in Gorey Town that has previously been voted as one of the best child friendly hotels in Ireland.
It’s perfectly located just an hour from Dublin and it’s within easy reach of a tonne of things to see and do.
There’s also plenty of indoor activities for those dreaded rainy days.
Family rooms include
- 1 double bed and 2 single beds
- Interconnecting rooms available
- Ensuite with shower and bathtub
Family amenities and activities
- Amber Kids Club
- Outdoor Amber Park with go-karts, archery, mini-golf, playground and train
- Indoor playzone with jungle gym
- Swimming pool
- Cinema
- Games room with pool table and air hockey
3. Center Parcs (Longford)

Photos via Center Parcs on FB
Center Parcs is arguably the best family hotel in Ireland when it comes to the overall experience delivered.
This is, quite literally, a hotel that’s been designed to make family holidays enjoyable from the get-go.
You can book into a self-catering lodge tucked away in the woods or opt for one of the lakeside apartments
However, unique accommodation aside, it’s the sheer volume of activities on offer that make this one of the best family breaks in Ireland.
Family rooms include:
- From one-bed up to four-bed lodges
- Ensuite bathrooms
- TV and DVD player
Family amenities and activities
- Swimming area with slides and whirlpools
- Treetop course
- Archery
- Science sessions
4. Mulranny Park Hotel (Mayo)

Photos via the Mulranny Park Hotel
Mayo’s Mulranny Park is another of the more popular kid friendly hotels in Ireland, and you’ll find it a stone’s throw from Achill Island.
Accommodation wise, there’s a range of options, from spacious family rooms to 2 bed apartments right next to the hotel.
There’s also plenty of on-site activities, like fairy trails, a sea shore safari and a kids club.
Family rooms include:
- Classic Family Rooms for 2 adults and 2 children
- Superior Family Rooms for 2 adults and 4 children
- Sea View Family Apartments that sleep up to 6
Family amenities and activities
- Kids club
- Swimming pool
- Animal trail
- Fairy trails
- Sea shore safari
5. Hayfield Manor (Cork)

Photos via Booking.com
If you’re in search of the best luxury family hotels Ireland has to offer, this next hotel will tick every single one of your boxes… twice!
The stunning Hayfield Manor is a very fancy 5-star hotel and estate located in the heart of Cork City.
As a family-run hotel, these folks understand the needs of a family holiday and they offer a range of time-tested kid-friendly facilities.
Family rooms include:
- 1 king sized bed and 2 singles
- Extra beds and cots available
- Interconnecting rooms on request
Family amenities and activities
- Indoor heated pool
- Family afternoon tea
- Family movie nights
- Babysitting available
6. Hodson Bay (Westmeath)

Photos via the Hodson Bay
Hodson Bay is one of the more unique hotels for kids in Ireland. It’s plonked in a picturesque setting in Athlone on the shores of Lough Ree.
This is a large 4-star hotel that gets rave reviews for its range of rooms to suit all families.
If you’re the type of family that’s fond of getting out and about, the hotel is close to cycle tracks and, wait for it…. THE TALLEST WATERSLIDE IN IRELAND.
Family rooms include
- 1 double bed and 2 singles
- 2 bedroom suites and interconnecting rooms for up to 8
- Cots available
Family amenities and activities
- Indoor swimming pool
- Kids activity camp
7. Fota Island Resort (Cork)

Next is arguably the most popular of the family hotels Ireland has to offer – Fota Island Resort.
If you’re thinking, ‘Eh, is this the place with all the animals?!’, then you’ve hit the nail on the head.
You can enjoy the beautiful East Cork countryside (and see animals!) at this stunning resort on Fota Island.
Family rooms include:
- Double bed and 1 single bed
- Interconnecting doors for larger families
- Options for stunning views over the golf course
Family amenities and activities
- Fota Island Adventure with archery, obstacle courses, and field games
- Tennis courts
8. Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel (Limerick)

Photos via Fitzgeralds on FB
Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel is one of those places that makes you truly appreciate the difference warm, attentive service brings.
You’ll find this much-loved family-owned hotel down some quiet country lanes, a stones throw from the beautiful village of Adare in County Limerick.
Family rooms include:
- King size bed and 2 singles
- Cot and additional beds for up to 3 children available
- Interconnecting rooms available
Family amenities and activities
- Baby-sitting service
- Kid’s Club
- Children’s playground
- Indoor heated pool
- Gardens and woodland fairy trail
9. Delphi Adventure Resort (Galway)

Photos via Delphi Adventure Resort on FB
Next up is one of the best family hotels Ireland has to offer if you’re the type of family that enjoy active breaks away (and endless natural beauty!).
Delphi Adventure Resort is a 4-star hotel in Connemara that boasts stylish rooms and plenty of activities for kids and parents alike.
Family rooms include:
- Full size double bed and set of single bunks
- Shower and bathtub
Family amenities and activities
- Free kids club during holidays
- Kids movies shown each evening
- Water-based activities such as kayaking, surfing and canoeing
- Zip line and aerial trek
- Archery
- Abseiling and climbing
- Mountain biking
10. Dingle Skellig Hotel (Kerry)

Photos via the Dingle Skellig
If you read my Dingle Skellig review, you’ll know that this spot by the sea is one of my favourite spots for family holidays in Ireland.
The cosy Dingle Skellig hotel is, unsurprisingly enough, located in Dingle, right on the westernmost peninsula in Europe.
Family rooms include:
- 1 double bed and a 1 single bed
- Sofa beds and cots available
- Interconnecting rooms available
Family amenities and activities
- Skellig Creche on weekends and school holidays
- Kid’s Club with a variety of daily activities
- Swimming pool
11. Diamond Coast Hotel (Sligo)

Photos via the Diamond Coast
If you’re after a seaside getaway on the Wild Atlantic Way, this award-winning 4-star hotel in Enniscrone in Sligo is worth a visit.
Situated on a site that overlooks nearby Killala Bay, the Diamond Coast is perfect for a family break, with plenty to see and do, especially for those looking to enjoy the outdoors with their kids.
Family rooms include:
- Double beds with bunk beds to accommodate up to 8
- 2 Smart TVs with kid friendly apps
Family amenities and activities
- Little Diamonds Kid’s Club
- Outdoor playground
- Tennis and basketball court
- Babysitter service
12. Castlemartyr Resort (Cork)

Photos via Castlemartyr on FB
If you read my guide to the best dog friendly hotels in Ireland, you’ll recognise this next hotel – the very plush Castlemartyr.
Castlemartyr Hotel is a historic property in Cork that boasts traditional luxury rooms. It’s ideally located close to the ocean and other popular destinations such as Cork City, Midleton and Ballcotton.
Family rooms include:
- 1 double and 1 single bed (deluxe rooms)
- 1 double and 2 single beds (junior suites)
- Interconnecting deluxe rooms
Family amenities and activities
- Very Important Kids check-in with activity pack
- Kid’s Club during school holidays
- Fairy trail on the castle grounds
- Child-friendly swimming times at the pool
- Baby-sitters available
13. Kelly’s Resort and Spa (Wexford)

Photos via Kelly’s on FB
Kelly’s is one of the long-standing kids hotels in Ireland and it’s been a firm favourite for many families for years.
Kelly’s is a popular resort and spa that’s finely located on the southeastern tip of Ireland overlooking the sea in Rosslare in County Wexford.
Family rooms include:
- A double bed with 1 or 2 single beds
- Cots available
- Interconnecting rooms for families with up to 4 children available
Family amenities and activities
- Child minding services available
- Children’s Club with daily program
- Swimming pools
- Tennis courts
- Children’s pirate ship playground
14. Lyrath Estate (Kilkenny)

Photos via Lyrath Estate on FB
For the ultimate indulgence, this 5-star luxury family hotel in Ireland is spread across 170 acres of countryside in Kilkenny with lakes, gardens and woodlands to explore.
The Lyrath Estate resort is located in Kilkenny City with its historic 17th century house and modern-day extension welcoming families.
Family rooms include:
- 1 double bed and 2 single beds
- Cots available
- Views of the garden and estate from the window
- Nespresso machine
Family amenities and activities
- Reilly’s Fun Club
- Outdoor playground with zip line, slide and swings
- Movie room with DVD library
- Indoor pool and kid’s splash pool
15. The Connacht Hotel (Galway)

Photos via The Connacht on FB
This standout Connacht Hotel in Galway City has been welcoming guests for over 50 years, so they know a thing or two about delivering a top-notch experience.
This is one of the more notable child friendly hotels in Ireland and there’s a wide variety of room options available to suit everyone and popular kids’ activities.
Family rooms include:
- Double bed and a single or 2 doubles
- New bunk bedrooms with a double bed and 3 sleeper bunks
- Interconnecting rooms
- Cots or rollaway beds available
Family amenities and activities
- Friendly Fellows Kid’s Club
- Kid’s movie nights
- Indoor swimming pool
16. The McWilliam Park Hotel (Mayo)

Photos via the McWilliam Park Hotel
This highly reviewed 4-star hotel is widely regarded as one of the best family friendly hotels Ireland has to offer.
It’s situated in Claremorris, a stone’s throw from many of the best things to do in Mayo.
From the comfortable rooms to the array of activities, you’ll enjoy staying here just as much as the kids!
Family rooms include
- Double bed and 1 or 2 singles
- TV
- Wi-Fi
Family amenities and activities
- Kid’s Club on school holidays with arts and crafts, games and storytime
- Swimming pool
17. Renvyle House Hotel (Galway)

Photos via Renvyle House Hotel on FB
This beautiful 150-acre estate is set on the shores of the Atlantic Coast outside of Renvyle. The historic house and property includes a private lake, beach, woodlands and gardens.
It’s been owned and run by the Coyle family for three generations, so they understand the ins and outs of what a mighty family holiday requires.
Family rooms include:
- 1 double bedroom and a twin room
- Ensuite bathroom
- Shower and tub
Family amenities and activities
- Boating and kayaking
- Tennis courts
- Outdoor heated swimming pool
- Coastal and woodland trails
18. Rathmullan House (Donegal)

Photos via Rathmullan House
I’ve raved about Rathmullan House on more than one occasion on this website, and for good reason, as the photos above should show!
Located in the pretty seaside village of Rathmullan, this beautiful 4-star house is situated right on the shores of Lough Swilly.
Family rooms include:
- 1 double bed and 2 singles
- Interconnecting rooms for up to 6 guests
- Additional travel cots available
Family amenities and activities
- Babysitting available
- Heated indoor pool
- TV room with DVDs and games
19. Mount Juliet (Kilkenny)

Photos via Mount Juliet
The stunning estate of Mount Juliet is the perfect location for a memorable family holiday on the River Nore in Kilkenny.
The luxurious property has historic buildings with beautiful interiors. It’s both a romantic getaway and family friendly, with plenty of entertainment for the kids.
Family rooms include:
- 2 double beds
- Views of the garden
- Coffee machine
- Air conditioning
Family amenities and activities
- Kids Club with a variety of activities
- Junior golf
- Tennis court
- Movie nights
- Archery
20. Parknasilla (Kerry)

Photos via Parknasilla
Another of the more popular luxury family friendly hotels in Ireland is Kerry’s Parknasilla.
Perfectly located between the stunning Kerry mountains and just as breath-taking coastline, this 4-star luxury estate is the perfect place for a relaxing holiday.
Family rooms include
- Large double bed and 2 single beds in adjoining room
- Sea or mountain views
- Highchairs, cots and baby changing stations available
Family amenities and activities
- Welcome Activity Pack
- Games Room with pool table and arcade games
- Archery and kayaking
- Fairy and nature trail
- Dedicated Kid’s Menu
21. The Merrion (Dublin)

Photos via The Merrion
One of the most luxurious 5-star hotels in Dublin, this historic accommodation has restored its original buildings from the 1760s.
The Merrion Hotel perfectly located in Dublin City, in easy reach of a range of attractions.
Family rooms include:
- 1 king bed with additional crib or rollaway bed
- Adjoining rooms available
- Large marble bathrooms with bathtub and shower
- Views of Dublin street or garden
Family amenities and activities
- Babysitting services
- Dedicated kid’s menu
- Indoor swimming pool
22. Lough Erne Resort (Fermanagh)

Photos via Lough Erne Resort on FB
This award-winning luxury resort in Enniskillen in County Fermanagh is the ideal place for a bit of luxury in northwest Ireland.
The 600-acre Lough Erne estate has spectacular views of the Lakelands and plenty of outdoor activities for the whole family.
Family rooms include:
- 2 and 3 bed ensuite rooms
- 1 king sized bed and 2 single beds
- Spacious living and dining areas
Family amenities and activities
- Games including air hockey, table tennis and arcade machines
- Ernie’s Den kids’ room with board games and a movie room
23. Waterford Castle Hotel (Waterford)

Photos via Waterford Castle Hotel on FB
Next up is arguably one of the most unique family friendly hotels in Ireland in this guide – I’m talking, of course, about Waterford Castle Hotel.
This very quirky property on the outskirts of Waterford City has plenty of family-friendly activities on offer for those in search of things to do.
The island resort is on 310 acres of gardens offering the perfect setting for a relaxing holiday in their self-catering lodges or castle rooms.
Family rooms include
- Self-catering lodges with 3 or 4 bedrooms
- Kitchen and dining facilities
Family amenities and activities
- Tennis and basketball courts
- Playground
- Fairy trail in the woodlands
- Family picnics
24. The Knightsbrook (Meath)

Photos via The Knightsbrook on FB
The Knightsbrook in Meath is another of the award-winning child friendly hotels in Ireland, with the exception that this spot is also a golf resort.
The hotel is located in the heritage town of Trim, just 35 minutes from Dublin city centre. It’s an ideal place for family breaks with a range of family packages available.
Family rooms include:
- 1 double and 2 singles
- Self-catering rooms
- Pull out beds available
Family amenities and activities
- Childminding services
- Games, books and music
- Indoor children’s pool
- Family change room at the health club
25. Treacy’s West County Hotel (Clare)

Photos via Treacy’s on FB
Treacy’s West County Hotel is arguably one of the better-known family friendly hotels in Ireland, and probably the best-known in the Shannon and Clare region.
It’s located on the edge of Ennis and is the perfect gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way. It’s one of the largest convention centres in Ireland, also, and has plenty of entertainment facilities for the whole family.
Family rooms include:
- 1 Double and 2 singles
- Flat-screen TV
Family amenities and activities
- Mini T’s Kids Club
- Leisure centre with a separate kid’s pool
Have you visited any family hotels in Ireland recently that you loved? Shout in the comments!
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.