10 Best Luxury Family-Friendly Hotels in Ireland

If you are planning on visiting Ireland as a family, or taking a staycation on the Emerald Isle, then you are probably starting to investigate accommodation. So why not treat yourselves and splash out on one of the best luxury family-friendly hotels in Ireland for your trip. In this post you’ll find 10 of the best hotels in Ireland which will make for amazing luxury holidays with kids on the Emerald Isle.

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Where you stay in Ireland will depend on what you want to do in Ireland with kids, where you want to visit and also whether you are staying in one place or travelling around. Budget will also be a factor. But, if you are looking to splash out then let me help you decide with my top picks of the best luxury kid-friendly hotels in Ireland.

Comparison of the best luxury places to stay in Ireland with kids

In this table you will find my top picks for the best luxury hotels for kids and their families in Ireland.

Name	Stars	Location	Price Range	Book
Druid's Glen Hotel & Golf Resort	*****	Wicklow	$$$	Click Here
Fota Island Resort	*****	Cork	$$$	Click Here
Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort	****	Carlow	$$$	Click Here
Newpark Hotel	****	Kilkenny	$$	Click Here
Kelly's Resort Hotel & Spa	****	Wexford	$$	Click Here
Castlemartyr Resort	*****	Cork	$$$	Click Here
Parknasilla Resort & Spa	****	Kerry	$$$	Click Here
The Europe Hotel & Resort	*****	Kerry	$$$	Click Here
Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort	****	Waterford	$$$	Click Here
Castleknock Hotel	****	Dublin	$$	Click Here

Best Luxury Family-friendly Hotels in Ireland

When it comes to luxury family holidays in Ireland, there are a range of hotels for kids and their families. But how do you choose which of the best family hotels in Ireland to stay in?

Well, firstly it depends on where you are visiting and what you are looking for in a hotel. Do you want swimming pools and activities to keep the kids happy, or is it ‘just a room’ because you won’t be spending too much time there, instead exploring the surrounding areas?

We’ve chosen 10 of the best hotels for kids and their families to help you decide. Note that these are hotels in Southern Ireland, or the Republic.

Druid’s Glen Hotel & Golf Resort, Wicklow

Located on 360 acres of countryside, sitting between the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea, Druids Glen Hotel and Golf Resort is one of the top family hotels in Ireland when it comes to luxury. Just minutes away you’ll find Greystones beach, and within 30 minutes you can be in Dublin.

The Resort has 145 spacious guestrooms and suites, conference and events spaces, 3 dining options, a Spa and Health Club and no less than two championship golf courses. The hotel can also offer airport transfers to/from Dublin Airport, has free on-site parking, and there is complimentary WiFi in all rooms.

Family Rooms – There are deluxe and superior family rooms available in which you will find both a double and king bed, sleeping 2 adults and 2 children. For larger families, interconnecting rooms are available on request.

Family Amenities – The indoor swimming pool has dedicated children’s swimming times, a great play area aptly named “Druid’s Den” with a soft play area, a playground, a walking trail through a fairy forest, extensive DVD collection, and a seasonal kids club. There is also a games room, daily movie screenings and the hotel can provide a babysitting service with a local agency.

Family Dining – 3 options ranging from AA Rosette fine dining in Hugo’s restaurant to kid-friendly food in the Garden Rooms and Bar. Note children are welcome in Hugo’s until the 7.30pm seating for dinner and until 9pm in the Garden Rooms and Bar when accompanied with an adult. Children’s Afternoon Tea and Kids High Tea is available seasonally during Easter, mid-term breaks, Christmas and summer school holidays.

Things to do nearby – Greystones Beach, Glenroe Farm, Sealife Aquarium Bray, Clara Lara, Powerscourt House & Gardens, Powerscourt Waterfall, Glendalough.

Summary – When it comes to good hotels for kids in Ireland, you won’t go wrong with Druid’s Glen in Wicklow.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Fota Island Resort, Cork

Situated on a private island, the Fota Island Resort offers breath-taking views to nearby woods and across several golf courses. With easy access to Cork city, the resort offers family luxury in one of the best places to stay in Ireland. Of all the Ireland resorts and hotels, Fota Island is one of the most popular with families owing to its proximity to Fota Wildlife Park.

Fota Island Resort has 131 warm and luxurious bedrooms and suites, many of which have stunning views across one of the three championship golf courses on the island and open woods and parkland. The hotel also has conference and events spaces, a spa, free on-site parking, can offer airport transfers to Cork Airport and there are dining options. Each room also has complimentary WiFi access.

Family Rooms – There are family rooms with one king bed and two single beds sleeping 2 adults and 2 children. Families can also book a deluxe double double room with two king beds. For larger families, Fota Island Resort also offers 2, 3 and 4-bedroom spacious lodges on the island.

Family Amenities – There is a playroom in the hotel for the younger members of families filled with high quality preschool toys. There is a swimming pool in the hotel which guests of both the hotel and lodges can access and this has dedicated children’s swim times. You’ll also find a kids club, “Camp Fota” for children aged between 4 and 12 years which provides an active and fun-filled afternoon, and there is also an evening camp. You’ll also find seasonal activities available for times such as Easter, Christmas and school holidays. There are also tennis courts, forest walking trails and movie nights (seasonal).

Family Dining – There are 3 dining options from fine dining in the Fota Restaurant to quick bites in the Spike Bar (located in the Club House) and afternoon tea in the Amber Lounge. The Amber Lounge also offers more casual lunch and dinner dining options. Families may be more comfortable in the relaxed setting of the Spike Bar.

Things to do nearby – Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens, Fota Wildlife Park, Cobh Heritage Centre, Titanic Experience Cobh, Barryscourt Castle, Spike Island Walking Tours, Jameson Experience, Blarney Castle, Blackrock Castle.

Summary – Fota Island Resort is regularly featured as one of the top 10 family hotels in Ireland and is a relaxing yet luxurious place to stay with plenty on offer on the island and slightly further afield for kids and their families. And its location beside Fota Wildlife Park makes it stand out from many of the others.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort, Carlow

If you are looking into luxury family hotels in Ireland, Mount Wolseley should be on your radar. This hotel, spa and golf resort is set in 200 acres of tranquil countryside in County Carlow and is just one hour from Dublin, Kilkenny and Waterford, making a great base for families to explore more of Ireland.

As one of the best luxury hotels in Ireland, Mount Wolseley offers relaxation and comfort in the most luxurious of settings. Think sweeping grand staircases, Italian marble and regal furnishings.

The hotel has 143 beautifully decorated bedrooms and suites, offers championship golf, has an award-winning spa and extensive leisure facilities, and can host conferences and events. There is free on-site parking, a large indoor pool, WiFi in all rooms and several dining options.

Family Rooms – Family rooms come with a large double bed and either another double bed, two singles or a double sofa bed sleeping 2 adults and 2 children. For larger families there are purpose-built interconnecting rooms. Or you could stay in one of the 4-bedroom resort houses which have self-catering facilities and sleep up to 7 people.

Family Amenities – There is a Teen Zone with a pool table, Wii and Xbox games consoles and a chill out area. There is a playroom with soft toys and mats for younger children. The outdoor playground is complete with a zip wire. And there is a range of DVD’s and games available from the hotel reception. There is a walking trail around the perimeter of the golf course, a seasonal kids club called the Woolie Bear Club and the hotel can arrange babysitting services. Note that guests of the resort houses can access all the facilities alongside hotel guests.

Family Dining – There are 2 dining options at Mount Wolseley for families.Fredrick’s Restaurant has a dedicated kid’s menu and is a relaxed place in which to dine. In the Aaron Lounge you will find a selection of bar food and snacks. If you fancy Afternoon Tea, you can experience it at Mount Wolseley between 12 and 4pm.

Things to do nearby –The Chocolate Garden of Ireland, Delta Sensory Gardens, Carlow County Museum, Rancho Reilly, Borris House, Rathwood Lifestyle & Garden Centre, Altamont Gardens, Rathwood Forest Walks, Duckett’s Grove.

Summary – For luxury in a tranquil setting, the Mount Wolseley Resort is often one of the top recommended family hotels in Ireland.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny

Situated on 40 acres of parkland and on the edge of the medieval town of Kilkenny, the Newpark Hotel offers award-winning service to visitors of all ages.

Priding itself on being a family-friendly luxury hotel in Ireland, you will find 132 bedrooms and suites which all have complimentary WiFi. The hotel also has free on-site parking, several dining options, a health club and spa with an indoor heated and outdoor infinity pool and can accommodate events and conferences. There is a golf course nearby, although it is not part of the hotel.

Family Rooms – The deluxe family room contains a double bed and two single beds sleeping 2 adults and 2 children. Larger families can opt for the superior family room which has two double beds and a single bed, sleeping 2 adults and 3 children. For families requiring more space, interconnecting rooms are available.

Family Amenities – There is a wildlife farm on site which has the likes of rabbits, llamas, ponies, donkeys and more to delight kids. The hotel also has a go-karting track for kids aged 8 and over, a Crazy Cats Kids Club during school holidays and Friday and Saturday evenings. There is an outdoor adventure playground complete with a zip wire. In the scenic grounds you’ll find a fairy trail, and there are seasonal themed events during times like Easter, Halloween and Christmas. Children are welcome to use the pool with an accompanying adult until 7pm.

Family Dining – From fine dining in Gulliver’s Restaurant to Afternoon Tea in The Terrace and The Lounge and wholesome food in Scoot’s Bar and Brasserie, there is a range of family-friendly dining at the Newpark, including Afternoon Tea, Brunch, al fresco dining and Summer BBQ’s (seasonal).

Things to do nearby – Kilkenny Castle, National Reptile Zoo, Castlecomer Discovery Park, Daville Farm House (equestrian centre), Hawkeye Falconry, Jerpoint Park, Kilkenny Activity Centre.

Summary – Newpark Hotel is one of the great hotels for kids in Ireland as it is a family-run establishment. If you and your family want to visit the historic town of Kilkenny or the surrounding area, this is the hotel for you.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa, Wexford

Located beside Rosslare’s sandy beach, Kelly’s Resort Hotel and Spa is one of the best luxury family resorts Ireland has to offer. Kelly’s Resort Hotel has been family-run for five generations making it one of the best places to stay in Ireland with kids.

Alongside its relaxed atmosphere, Kelly’s has 120 bedrooms and suites, a lodge with 6 rooms, a spa and fitness centre, two pools, free on-site parking, WiFi in all rooms, dining options and is close to public transport. There are three golf courses nearby, although they are not part of the hotel.

The hotel also offers half and full board packages.

Family Rooms – Families can use family rooms which contain a double bed along with 1 or 2 single beds sleeping 2 adults and 1 or 2 children. For larger families interconnecting rooms are available sleeping 2 adults and up to 4 children.

Family Amenities – There are two kids clubs are Kelly’s. The Pirates Club caters for children aged 4 and over, while the Starfish Club caters for under 4’s. Both provide supervision and activities for kids while parents relax. The hotel also has tennis courts, crazy golf, badminton courts, croquet and bowls, snooker tables and table tennis. There is a playroom for under 4’s with plenty of toys, a children’s games room with consoles, a DVD player and TV. Outside is a playground featuring a pirate ship and the hotel can also arrange babysitting services. And of course, there’s always the beach!

Family Dining – Enjoy fine dining at the Beaches restaurant or a slightly more relaxed affair in La Marine Bistro which has a children’s menu. There is a special children’s dinner served at 5.30pm followed by an evening disco in the Ivy Room, making it a perfect place for families.

Things to do nearby – Quad Attack, Leisureplex, Kitesurf, Rosslare Watersports Centre, Wexford Equestrian, National Opera House, Johnstown Castle and Gardens, National Heritage Park, Loftus Hall, Hook Lighthouse, Dunbrody Emigrant Ship, Saltee Islands, Kilmore Quay Maritime Museum, John F. Kennedy Arboretum.

Summary – When it comes to great Ireland holiday resorts for families to combine luxury with relaxation and enjoyment, Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa is a perfect place to stay with kids.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Lobby Area of Kelly’s Resort Hotel – Picture Credit – Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa

Castlemartyr Resort, Cork

Sitting in 220 acres, Castlemartyr Resort consists of a 17^th century manor house adjacent to the ruins of an 800-year-old castle and is one of the top places to stay with kids in Ireland. With a history that includes Strongbow, Walter Raleigh and the Knight’s Templar, this is one of the top ten family hotels in Ireland and is located just 20 minutes from Cork.

The resort offers 103 guest rooms and suites as well as 47 luxury self-catering lodges. There is a spa, fitness studio and pool, free on-site parking, WiFi in all rooms and a golf course. There are four dining options to choose from as well.

Family Rooms – There are a range of family accommodation options available. Deluxe rooms sleep 2 adults and 1 child, junior suites sleep 2 adults and 2 children, while larger families can choose either a two-bedroom suite or interconnecting rooms. There are also 2 and 3-bedroom self-catering lodges available sleeping up to 6 people.

Family Amenities – There are carriage rides around the resort as well as horse riding on offer. Kids get a welcome pack upon arrival and there is a seasonal kids club. The hotel has a range of children’s DVDs to borrow, plenty of woodland walks and pets are welcome too (in pet-friendly rooms). There are dedicated swim times for kids in the pool.

Family Dining – Enjoy fine dining in the Bell Tower or a relaxed atmosphere in Franchini’s for Italian-inspired dishes. There is a dedicated children’s menu available throughout the day in the Bell Tower, Franchini’s and Clubhouse. Children are welcome in the main Bell Tower dining room with last orders at 7pm and until 9pm in Franchini’s and the Clubhouse once accompanied by an adult. Children are also welcome to experience Afternoon Tea in the Bell Tower Restaurant.

Things to do nearby – Fota Wildlife Park, Leahy’s Open Farm, Go Safari, Old Midleton Distillery, Ballymaloe Cookery School, Titanic Experience Cobh, Stephen Pearce Pottery, Blackwater Boating.

Summary – As one of thebest Irish hotels for families, an enjoyable stay is guaranteed when you choose the Castlemartyr Resort for your Irish getaway.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Parknasilla Resort & Spa, Kerry

Overlooking Kenmare Bay on the Ring of Kerry and the Wild Atlantic way, one of the top luxury hotels in Ireland is Parknasilla Resort and Spa. Sitting on 500 acres of parkland, islands and hidden beaches, Parknasilla is a hotel that has been welcoming guests since 1895.

As well as being one of the places to stay in Ireland for families, you will also find one of the best spas in Ireland in this luxury hotel. The hotel offers seclusion, relaxation and adventure all in one go.

There are a range of accommodation options including superior rooms, manor rooms, parkland view rooms and suites, all with complimentary WiFi. The hotel has a spa as mentioned, a 12-hole golf course, free on-site parking, a pool, several dining options and a private beach.

Family Rooms – Family rooms consist of a double room with a twin adjoining, accommodating 2 adults and 2 children. The Courtyard Lodges can accommodate the same sized party and have self-catering facilities. For larger families, there are woodland lodges which contain a king, double/twin room and a queen double room, sleeping up to 6 guests. These also have self-catering facilities.

Family Amenities – Families can enjoy welcome packs for kids upon arrival, as well as a full range of children’s DVD’s and board games. The hotel has activities such as archery and kayaking as well as a games room equipped with a pool table and arcade games. There is a fairy trail to enjoy, a nature trail and the hotel can arrange babysitting services. Children are welcome to use the pool and there are pool toys available. The hotel also has an outdoor playground complete with a zip wire.

Family Dining – Choose from fine dining at the Pygmalion restaurant, enjoy light snacks and bar food at the Doolittle Bar, or enjoy wholesome street food from the Tram (seasonal). Children are welcome to dine at the 7pm sitting in the restaurant or until 8pm in the bar and there is a dedicated children’s menu in both.

Things to do nearby – The Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Sneem, Skellig Michael, Dursey Island.

Summary – If the Ring of Kerry is on your Ireland bucket list and you are looking for one of the top 10 hotels in Ireland to stay in with kids, then Parknasilla might just be the one you are looking for.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Exterior of the Parknasilla Resort & Spa Hotel – Picture Credit – The Parknasilla Resort & Spa

The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney, Kerry

Regularly voted one of the best 5-star hotels in Ireland, The Europe in Killarney overlooks the beautiful Killarney lakes. The hotel has a spa, restaurants, can host events and conferences and has a wide range of activities including golf, horse riding, boating and fishing.

Guests can also enjoy walking, hiking, tennis, swimming and much more. The 187 resort bedrooms and suites are immaculately decorated and have complimentary WiFi. There is also plenty of free on-site parking.

Family Rooms – The hotel has both a Golfside family room and a Lakeview family suite. The Golfside family room has a master Superking bedroom with a triple room adjacent with three single beds, comfortably accommodating 2 adults and 3 children. The Lakeview family room also has a master bedroom and triple room for 2 adults and 3 children, but also boasts a spacious living room.

Family Amenities – Children are welcome to use the indoor heated pool, as well as the outdoor pool and indoor tennis courts. There is a playroom, games room and the hotel can arrange babysitting services. There is also an outdoor children’s playground and kids will love the complimentary pony ride.

Family Dining – From formal fine dining to a more relaxed affair, there is plenty of choice at The Europe. There is a dedicated children’s menu at the Brasserie Restaurant where you can enjoy relaxed al fresco dining. The Panorama Restaurant also offers a children’s menu in this fine dining setting. There is also a spa café and light snacks available in the Lounge.

Things to do nearby – Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry, Muckross House, the Gap of Dunloe, Killarney Town, Ross Castle.

Summary – The Europe isone of the best family hotels in Kerry and if you are thinking of treating your family to a bit of luxury, then a stay in this hotel won’t disappoint.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, Waterford

As Ireland’s only island castle hotel, Waterford Castle hotel is one of the top kid friendly hotels to stay in this region. Set on a private 310-acre island, accessible only by a short ferry journey, Waterford Castle resort is a must.

The hotel is the 16^th century castle itself and with just 19 bedrooms, all of which have complimentary WiFi, it is the ideal place for a special break. Guests can enjoy a round of golf, clay pigeon shooting, croquet, walking and tennis. While the resort does not have its own pool, there is a Leisure Centre attached to another hotel close to the land-side ferry terminal which guests can use for a fee.

Family Rooms – Waterford Castle is one of the best family friendly hotels in Ireland with self-catering, thanks to the 45 three- and four-bedroom lodges located on the island, just a short walk from the Castle itself. These sleeps either 6 or 8 people and are ideal for families.

Family Amenities –There is a children’s playground located near the lodges with a zip wire, free kids club during school holidays and also seasonal junior golf camp. You’ll also find a nature trail, family movie screenings, family picnics are available from the hotel and the hotel can also organise babysitting services. And make sure to watch out for the resident deer when walking through the grounds.

Family Dining – Families can enjoy fine dining in the 2-AA Rosette Munster Room restaurant in the castle, light snacks and bar food in the Clubhouse, light snacks until 6pm in the Fitzgerald Bar or enjoy Afternoon Tea in the castle. Family picnics are also available from the hotel.

Things to do nearby –Waterford City,House of Waterford Crystal, Mount Congreve Gardens, Reginald’s Tower, Waterford and Suir Valley Railway, Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens, Tramore Blue Flag Beach.

Summary – If you are looking forluxury castle hotels in Ireland, then look no further than Waterford Castle for your luxury family getaway. Having experienced this resort for ourselves, this is one of the best places to stay in Ireland for families.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Castleknock Hotel, Dublin

One of the best resorts in Ireland that is very close to Dublin is the Castleknock Hotel. Located in a leafy suburb of the capital, it is the ideal place to relax and take in the sights of the city.

Each of the 190 bedrooms are well decorated and have complimentary fibre optic broadband. The hotel has a spa, health club, pool and children’s pool and a stunning 18-hole golf course. There is plenty of free on-site parking and dining options.

Family Rooms – Family rooms contains two double beds sleeping 2 adults and 2 children. Deluxe family rooms with a queen bed and two single beds are also available. For larger families, there is the option to get interconnecting rooms with a double and triple sleeping 2 adults and 3 children.

Family Amenities – As well as being able to use the main pool, there are dedicated children’s pools including one for babies and toddlers. The hotel also has a playground and can arrange babysitting services.

Family Dining – From fine dining in the signature Earth & Vine restaurant to casual dining in the 22 Bar & Restaurant, families are welcome. The 22 Bar & Restaurant has a dedicated children’s menu. The hotel also has a Patisserie in the lobby and Afternoon Tea is available in the Earth & Vine Restaurant.

Things to do nearby – Phoenix Park, Dublin Zoo, Tayto Park, Fort Lucan Outdoor Adventures, Aquazone at the National Aquatic Centre, Farmleigh House, and everything else Dublin has to offer families.

Summary – If you are looking for great 4-star hotels in Ireland with a swimming pool close to Dublin, then the Castleknock Hotel is one you really should consider.

Click here for more information and latest prices.

Family Bedroom for 5 – Picture Credit – Castleknock Hotel

Map of the best luxury hotels to stay in with kids in Ireland

Summary

When it comes to child-friendly hotels, you will find an abundance on offer on the Emerald Isle. And there is no need to dismiss looking at staying in luxury hotels with kids as we’ve shown there are plenty that are family friendly.

You can enjoy some of the best family holiday destinations in Ireland and treat yourself to a bit of luxury while you are at it. All the hotels featured cater for families with family rooms, entertainment and child-friendly dining options. I hope you have found at least one of the 10 best luxury hotels in Ireland for families we’ve featured here is the one for your next trip to Ireland as a family.

NOTE: if you require interconnecting rooms for your family you should contact the hotel directly to arrange and book your rooms.

Cath x

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