15 of the Best Luxury Family Hotels in Ireland
Are you headed to Ireland with family? It’s going to be an unforgettable adventure. But before you can walk among the verdant landscapes and immerse yourself in its lively culture, you have to figure out where to stay. There are so many great hotels for families in Ireland, from woodland lodges to authentic castles to modern luxe resorts. Read on to learn about all the best luxury family hotels in Ireland and how to make the most of your vacation in The Emerald Isle.
*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!
Table of Contents
Luxury Hotels for Families in Ireland
1. Ashford Castle
(Located in Cong Village, on the border of counties Mayo and Galway)
Of course you want to see Ireland’s magnificent castles during your family vacation, but have you considered actually staying in a castle? Ashford Castle in County Mayo allows you to feel like royalty as you sleep in its immaculate hotel rooms, dine in its luxe restaurants, and meander through its ornate gardens. It is regularly on the top list of the best family hotels in Ireland.
Plus, it was once home to the Guinness family – can you get more quintessentially Ireland than that?
You’ll be minutes from the mystical Cong Abbey and about an hour from Connemara National Park or the Great Western Greenway.
But there’s plenty to do onsite, like golfing, horseback riding, archery, and award-winning spa services. Plus, you can book a LEGO Butler to bring blocks on a silver tray, a kid-friendly indulgence fit for royalty.
2. The g Hotel and Spa
(Located in Galway)
Galway is such a fun, vibrant city, and you want your stay here to reflect that. The g Hotel and Spa embodies the city’s unique spirit through its eclectic decor and distinct personality. Families will love stepping into its colorful yet comfortable world after a busy vacation day.
The hotel is located in a commercial area of Galway and is just a short drive (or long walk) to the city center.
The g Hotel and Spa is near some scenic beaches, the National Aquarium, and shops and pubs that embody Ireland’s folk culture. Galway is the halfway point of the Wild Atlantic Way, making this a great place to stop and stay during your grand Ireland road trip.
3. Adare Manor
(Located in Limerick)
Adare Manor has embraced a romantic atmosphere, but it’s also one of the best hotels for families in Ireland. Kids of all ages will be welcomed and entertained throughout the 840-acre property.
The activity center maintains the Manor’s sense of place while offering family-friendly fun through Padel Tennis, swimming, and virtual games. Families can also bond through fishing, archery, falcon encounters, and gourmet dining.
You’ll be immersed in the storybook setting of Adare Village, home to some of Ireland’s most quaint shops and cafes.
4. Dromoland Castle
(Located in Newmarket on Fergus, near Limerick)
Vacation like royalty at Dromoland Castle. This 16th-century treasure offers magical stays for guests of all ages and if a favorite among the best luxury family hotels in Ireland.
Want to see as many sights as possible while in Ireland? Dromoland Castle is about an hour from the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park. Onsite, enjoy falcon encounters, nature walks, and kid-centric activities like movies and board games.
Dromoland Castle goes all-out during the holidays, so it’s the perfect destination for a Christmas getaway.
Tips for Staying in an Ireland Castle with Kids
Still deciding if a castle stay is a good fit for your family? Here are a few tips to make the most of your royal adventure:
- Look for a place that has kid-friendly activities like horseback riding, falcon encounters, walking trails, and special restaurant menus for young children.
- Embrace their sense of wonder! Staying in a castle is probably a dream experience for your kids – slow down and enjoy that magic with them.
- Make time for yourself. See if your hotel offers a nanny service so that you can enjoy a quiet dinner or spa service.
5. The Europe Hotel & Resort
(Located in Killarney)
A stay at the Europe Hotel & Resort is simply indulgent. This five-star resort is immaculate but still warm. After all, the surrounding Killarney landscape embraces the hotel and offers an air of natural charm.
And the good news is that you can enjoy this incredible property with your whole family. Horse riding is complimentary, there are multiple swimming pools (including an indoor pool!), and the grounds offer endless exploration.
You’ll be minutes away from Killarney National Park and the small, picturesque town of Killarney.
6. Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa
(Located in Killarney)
You want to feel near to nature while relaxing in comfort. The Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa is a contemporary resort right on the water, and you’re going to love it.
This luxury hotel slips so effortlessly into its surroundings – you can fully enjoy the beauty of Killarney here.
Windows are everywhere at Aghadoe Heights – in the world-class spa, the kid-friendly swimming pool, and its many restaurants. Even a garden room view is stunning, though it’s certainly worth splurging on the lake-view suite.
7. Mount Juliet Estate
(Located in County Kilkenny near the city of Kilkenny)
Mount Juliet Estate was built in the mid-eighteenth century and restored in the early 1900s. A stay here reflects the best of both time periods and beyond, offering old-world hospitality that’s sweetened by modern comforts.
Free yourself of distractions and instead enjoy the beauty and activities at hand. There’s golfing, horseback riding, falcon encounters, archery, fishing, and swimming, all set against the most stunning scenery of Kilkenny.
Beyond the estate, you’ll be near Kilkenny Castle, Castlecomer Discovery Park, and Kiltorcan Raceway, an adrenaline-pumping go-kart track that older children will love.
Mount Juliet Estate is operated under Marriott’s Autograph Collection, so it’s a great option if you use loyalty points for family holidays.
8. Hayfield Manor
(Located in Cork)
Hayfield Manor is a 5-star luxury property that offers many amenities to make younger guests feel welcome. They offer mini bathrobes and slippers, milk and cookies before bed, a children’s afternoon tea, an indoor swimming pool, and a babysitting service if parents need alone time.
The estate has spacious family rooms and interconnecting rooms for larger families. Property features include award-winning restaurants, beautiful gardens, a fitness studio, and resident lounges.
This is the perfect location for easy access to Cork City. Nearby attractions include the English market and St. Patrick’s Street for shopping. It is a good home base for taking day trips to Fota Wildlife Park, Kinsale, and Cobh.
9. Kilkea Castle Hotel and Gardens
(Located in the town of Castledermot in County Kildare)
Kilkea Castle offers a range of luxe accommodations to match your family’s needs and dreams. The most exclusive option is to stay inside the walls of the 12th-century castle, where there are 11 unique bedrooms fit for royalty.
Most families opt to stay in the onsite lodges, which are more spacious and run more like vacation rentals (an attentive yet hands-off approach from the staff). These family suites have full-size kitchens, direct entrances, and private patios. The hotel also offers carriage room accommodations, which are classic hotel-style options next to the castle.
You’ll have no shortage of activities while staying at Kilkea Castle. The hotel offers falconry experiences, archery, horseback riding, and off-roading adventures.
Plus, it’s just an hour from Dublin (and the Dublin Airport), making it the perfect hotel for a classic Ireland vacation.
10. The Shelbourne
(Located in Dublin)
Looking for the best Dublin hotel for families? You should check out The Shelbourne. This institution has welcomed guests for 200 years, and it’s become the name for luxury stay in Ireland’s capital.
And now your family can experience the history and grandeur of The Shelbourne, which is within walking distance of Dublin’s best attractions, like Phoenix Park and Guinness Storehouse.
If this is your first time visiting Ireland, The Shelbourne is one of the best places to start your family trip. Spend your entire vacation in Dublin, or venture on to the far corners of the county.
The Shelbourne is under Marriott’s Autograph Collection and participates in the brand’s loyalty program.
11. The Merrion
(Located in Dublin)
The Merrion embodies so much European charm and its prime location in Dublin City Centre allows easy access to family activities. From the Georgian architecture to the stunning decor, each historical detail in this hotel has been thoughtfully preserved.
You’ll have all the modern amenities you need and want during a busy Ireland vacation: free wi-fi, a pristine swimming pool, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. And if you want to feel truly surrounded by the rich, ornate architecture, you should swing for a room in the main house.
Kids are welcomed here, and the hotel’s proximity to Dublin’s many attractions makes it a breeze to enjoy your vacation. Walk to the city’s incredible museums, shops, and castles. Or, if you’re up for it, explore the city on two wheels – older kids will love biking through Dublin.
12. Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa
(Located in County Wicklow, just outside Dublin)
Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa sits on 1,000 acres and is surrounded by the gorgeous Wicklow Mountains. Families will love exploring the property with the hotel’s complimentary bicycles or simply taking a walk along the Dargle River that runs through the grounds.
There is ample space for families in the deluxe family room, superior triple room, or classic family suite. The hotel has three restaurants, a swimming pool, leisure facilities, and even a falconry experience.
This family-friendly hotel has easy access to many outdoor activities including Powerscourt Waterfall, Powerscourt Estate, House, & Gardens, Avondale Treetop Walk, and Kilruddery House.
13. Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa
(Located in the village of Ballyfarnon, in County Roscommon)
Kilronan Castle stands tall among the many luxe hotels of Ireland. Its rich history extends through each detail, and guests of all ages are treated like royalty.
Kids will love exploring the estate’s woodlands and gardens, and you’ll be close to some of Ireland’s best things to do, like horseback riding, fishing, and clay pigeon shooting. The Leisure centre at Kilronan Castle is top-notch. Take a dip in their pool or jacuzzi, or unwind in their steam room.
Kilronan Castle is in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, an area of natural, unspoiled beauty where adventures abound.
14. Sheen Falls Lodge
(Located in Kenmare, County Kerry)
Sheen Falls Lodge sits on 300 acres on the shore of Kenmare Bay. This luxury property has plenty of activities to entertain kids of all ages. Older children can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, and archery, while small children can enjoy the swimming pool and exploring the great outdoors.
Families can have a classic or deluxe room, a Falls View Suite (for larger families), or a combination of connecting rooms. Sheen Falls also offers self-catering options for large family groups in their beautiful estate villas.
Family dining is available on the property, as there are two restaurants, both with children’s menus. Additional activities that families are sure to love include horseback riding, a sheep dog demonstration, a chocolate-making class, and falconry.
The resort has easy access to the town of Kenmare, Molly Gallivan’s Traditional Farm, and the Ring of Kerry.
15. Fota Island Resort
(Located in Cork)
Have you considered spending your Ireland vacation in Cork? This fantastic city has excellent dining, shopping, and sightseeing – many seasoned travelers recommend vacationing here instead of Dublin.
Plus, Cork has some of the best hotels for families in Ireland. Fota Island Resort tops the list of Cork Hotels, thanks to its luxe ambiance and unbeatable location. This five-star destination is just 15 minutes from Cork City, allowing you to enjoy the best of the lively town while still enjoying Ireland’s natural scenery.
Onsite, you’ll find tennis courts, a golf course, walking trails, and adventure courses. You’ll want to head out beyond the hotel’s boundaries. Fota Island Resort is close to a great wildlife park, the Titanic Experience, a top-notch farmers market, and the legendary Blarney Stone.
Your Vacation with the Best Family Hotels in Ireland
Ready to begin planning your Ireland family vacation? Whether you are searching for a relaxing escape, a grand adventure, or a leisurely getaway, there is a luxury family hotel in Ireland for you.
