Top Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Northern Ireland
Places to stay in Northern Ireland with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities, offers a plethora of family-friendly accommodations that cater to both parents and children alike. Whether you’re planning a relaxing coastal getaway, an adventure-filled trip exploring the countryside, or a cultural city break, there are plenty of options to suit every family’s needs and preferences. In this article, we explore some of the top family-friendly places to stay in Northern Ireland, highlighting their unique features, amenities, and attractions nearby.
Causeway Hotel, Bushmills
Overview: Located near the iconic Giant’s Causeway on the stunning Causeway Coast, Causeway Hotel offers a prime location for families looking to explore Northern Ireland’s natural wonders. This historic hotel provides comfortable accommodations with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and easy access to the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Interconnecting Rooms: Ideal for larger families, the hotel offers interconnecting rooms that provide privacy while keeping everyone close.
- On-Site Dining: Enjoy family meals at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves traditional Irish cuisine and overlooks the Causeway coastline.
- Outdoor Activities: Explore the Giant’s Causeway, embark on coastal walks, or visit nearby attractions such as Dunluce Castle and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Why Visit: Causeway Hotel combines stunning natural beauty with family-friendly amenities, making it a perfect base for exploring the Causeway Coast and beyond.
Lough Erne Resort, Enniskillen
Overview: Set amidst the serene lakes and woodlands of County Fermanagh, Lough Erne Resort offers luxury accommodations and a wide range of family-friendly activities. This resort is renowned for its golf courses, spa facilities, and stunning views of Lough Erne, providing a tranquil retreat for families seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Suites: Spacious suites equipped with amenities such as separate living areas, kitchenettes, and scenic views of Lough Erne.
- Activities: Enjoy golfing at the resort’s championship courses, take boat trips on Lough Erne, or indulge in spa treatments while children participate in supervised activities.
- Local Attractions: Explore the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, visit Enniskillen Castle, or take a day trip to Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre.
Why Visit: Lough Erne Resort offers a luxurious yet family-friendly environment amidst picturesque surroundings, perfect for both relaxation and exploration.
Center Parcs, Longford Forest
Overview: Although technically located in the Republic of Ireland, Center Parcs in Longford Forest is just a short drive from Northern Ireland and offers an immersive family holiday experience. Nestled in a vast woodland setting, this holiday village features a variety of accommodation options, from woodland lodges to luxury treehouses, along with a range of activities for all ages.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Subtropical Swimming Paradise: Indoor water park with slides, lazy rivers, and splash areas suitable for all ages.
- Outdoor Activities: Adventure golf, cycling, nature trails, and outdoor play areas provide endless opportunities for family fun.
- Kids’ Clubs: Supervised clubs and activities tailored to different age groups, ensuring children are entertained while parents relax.
- Restaurants and Shops: On-site restaurants, cafes, and shops cater to family dining and convenience.
Why Visit: Center Parcs Longford Forest offers a comprehensive family holiday experience with a wide range of activities and accommodations in a beautiful woodland setting.
Corick House Hotel & Spa, Clogher
Overview: Corick House Hotel & Spa, nestled in the heart of County Tyrone, is a historic Georgian mansion surrounded by tranquil gardens and countryside. This family-friendly hotel combines traditional charm with modern amenities, offering a peaceful retreat for families seeking relaxation and exploration.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Rooms: Comfortable rooms and suites suitable for families, some with garden views and additional space for children.
- Spa Facilities: Parents can unwind with spa treatments while children enjoy supervised activities or outdoor play areas.
- Local Activities: Explore nearby attractions such as the Ulster American Folk Park, Omagh Leisure Complex, or take scenic drives through the Sperrin Mountains.
Why Visit: Corick House Hotel & Spa provides a serene atmosphere, family-friendly accommodations, and easy access to cultural and outdoor activities in County Tyrone.
Slieve Donard Resort & Spa, Newcastle
Overview: Overlooking the picturesque Newcastle Beach and the Mourne Mountains, Slieve Donard Resort & Spa offers a luxurious seaside retreat with stunning views and a range of family-friendly amenities. This historic resort hotel combines Victorian elegance with modern comforts, providing an ideal base for exploring the Mourne Mountains and nearby attractions.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Suites: Spacious accommodations with separate living areas, stunning sea or mountain views, and luxurious amenities.
- Swimming Pool: Indoor pool and spa facilities where families can relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
- Outdoor Adventures: Hiking in the Mourne Mountains, visiting Tollymore Forest Park, or enjoying seaside activities at Newcastle Beach.
Why Visit: Slieve Donard Resort & Spa offers a blend of luxury and family-friendly activities in a breathtaking coastal setting, perfect for a memorable family getaway.
Ballygally Castle Hotel, Ballygally
Overview: Situated on the Antrim coast overlooking Ballygally Bay, Ballygally Castle Hotel is a 17th-century castle offering a unique family-friendly experience with a touch of history. This charming hotel provides a blend of comfort, elegance, and scenic views, making it an ideal choice for families exploring the Causeway Coast.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Rooms: Comfortable accommodations with options for interconnecting rooms and stunning views of the coast.
- Ghost Tours: Experience the hotel’s famous ghost tours, adding excitement and intrigue for older children and teenagers.
- Local Attractions: Visit Glenarm Castle, explore Glenariff Forest Park, or enjoy beach activities along the Causeway Coast.
Why Visit: Ballygally Castle Hotel offers a unique blend of history, coastal beauty, and family-friendly amenities, providing an unforgettable stay for families of all sizes.
Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, Ballymena
Overview: Set within 163 acres of lush parkland, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort is a luxurious estate offering family-friendly accommodations and a wide range of activities. This resort hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities, providing a tranquil retreat for families seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Rooms and Suites: Spacious accommodations with options for additional beds, cribs, and family-friendly amenities.
- Thermal Spa Village: Relax and rejuvenate in the resort’s Thermal Spa Village, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, and relaxation areas.
- Golf and Activities: Tee off at the championship golf course, explore the estate’s gardens, or enjoy bike rides along scenic trails.
Why Visit: Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort offers a luxurious yet family-friendly environment amidst beautiful parkland, perfect for both relaxation and outdoor activities.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel, Belfast
Overview: Located in the heart of Belfast city center, The Fitzwilliam Hotel offers contemporary luxury with a focus on family-friendly accommodations and amenities. This boutique hotel provides easy access to Belfast’s cultural attractions, shopping districts, and family-friendly activities.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Rooms: Spacious rooms and suites with modern décor, extra beds, and amenities for families with children.
- Location: Explore nearby attractions such as Titanic Belfast, Belfast Zoo, W5 Interactive Discovery Centre, and St. George’s Market.
- Dining: Enjoy family meals at the hotel’s restaurant or explore nearby cafes and restaurants offering diverse cuisines.
Why Visit: The Fitzwilliam Hotel provides a stylish and family-friendly base for exploring Belfast’s vibrant city center and its many attractions and activities.
Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry/Londonderry
Overview: Located within the historic city walls of Derry/Londonderry, Bishop’s Gate Hotel is a meticulously restored Georgian hotel offering luxury accommodations and family-friendly amenities. This elegant hotel provides easy access to the city’s cultural attractions, historic sites, and family-friendly activities.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Suites: Spacious suites with separate living areas, modern amenities, and views of the city or historic walls.
- Exploration: Walk along the city walls, visit the Tower Museum, explore the Guildhall, and take a guided tour of the city.
- Dining: Enjoy family meals at the hotel’s restaurant, featuring local and seasonal dishes in a refined setting.
Why Visit: Bishop’s Gate Hotel offers a blend of luxury, history, and family-friendly accommodations in the heart of Derry/Londonderry, perfect for exploring the city’s rich heritage.
The Bushmills Inn, Bushmills
Overview: A historic coaching inn dating back to the early 1600s, The Bushmills Inn is located in the charming village of Bushmills near the Giant’s Causeway. This family-friendly hotel combines old-world charm with modern comforts, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for families.
Family-Friendly Features:
- Family Rooms: Comfortable accommodations with options for interconnecting rooms and amenities suitable for children.
- Dining: Enjoy family meals at the inn’s restaurant, known for its hearty Irish cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.
- Local Exploration: Visit the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, explore Dunluce Castle, or take a scenic drive along the Causeway Coastal Route.
Why Visit: The Bushmills Inn provides a historic and family-friendly setting amidst the beauty of the Causeway Coast, offering a memorable stay for families exploring Places to stay in Northern Ireland.
Conclusion
Northern Ireland offers a diverse range of family-friendly accommodations, from luxury resorts and historic hotels to charming inns and holiday villages nestled in scenic landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the rugged coastline of the Causeway Coast, the tranquil lakes of Fermanagh, or the vibrant cities of Belfast and Derry/Londonderry, these family-friendly places to stay ensure that every member of the family enjoys a memorable and enjoyable stay. Plan your next family adventure in Northern Ireland and create lasting memories amidst its rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
