4. Ashford Castle
Cong, County Mayo
Perhaps the best known of Ireland’s castle hotels, Ashford Castle in County Mayo was the former home of the Guinness family – now that’s Irish royalty! Families can opt for the Deluxe Queen family rooms in the castle or – if you really feel like splurging – you can rent the hideaway cottage which was the former boathouse during the Guinness era.
The expansive 35 acres host a range of activities: falconry, fishing, horseback riding, clay pigeon shooting, biking, golf, kayaking, lake cruising, stand-up paddleboarding, and ziplining. There’s even an adult tree climb!
KidTripster Tip: Make sure to book your activities well in advance of your stay.
KidTripster Tip: While it’s not the typical time of the year to visit Ireland, Harry Potter fans may want to spend Halloween at Ashford Castle. The castle transforms into the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with Forbidden Forest treasure hunts, house elves cooking classes, and evening screenings of the Harry Potter films. While the kids are “in class,” mom and dad can sneak off to the spa for a magical treatment followed by an adult-only dinner.
5. Knappogue Castle
Knopoge, County Clare
Knappogue Castle in County Clare offers an entirely different castle experience where you’re the Irish lord and lady of the house. In fact, you’re the only guests! The “apartment” includes one double bedroom with en-suite bathroom, two twin bedrooms with a shared bathroom, a garden drawing room with a grand piano, and a large dining room. The stay includes a full Irish breakfast prepared by the castle’s housekeeper, otherwise known as your “fairy godmother.”
KidTripster Tip: The castle does host tour groups for evening banquets in a separate part of the castle.
6. Mount Juliet Estate
County Kilkenny
Mount Juliet Estate in County Kilkenny embodies modern elegance. Here your family can choose to stay in the historic Georgian Manor House or in the more laidback luxury of the Hunter’s Yard Hotel near the golf course. Regardless of your accommodations, the personalized service will be second to none.
Start your day with a leisurely bike ride around the country estate. The Juniors Club (ages 5 to 12) offers supervised activities: archery, golf lessons, swimming, horseback riding, outdoor games, and evening karaoke and movies. The Jinks Club caters to older kids and teens with similar activities but at a more challenging level. Parents can join in the fun or sneak off to the spa for a couples’ treatment, and then the whole family can reunite for afternoon tea in the Manor House, the perfect setting to enjoy an Irish tradition.
This writer received a discounted or complimentary stay at some of these properties for the purpose of this review. However, all opinions expressed are solely her own.
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