Neurodivergent Family Travel – Our 2026 Report
-
Chloe Gallagher
- Uncategorized
- Posted: 27/10/2025
Family Hotels in Ireland With a Swimming Pool
Courtney Gallagher
Originally from Canada, I now call Northern Ireland home. A keen traveller and mummy to two adventurous boys, we're always on the lookout for new places to explore, whether it's across the world or right here at home.
Family Hotels in Ireland With a Swimming Pool
Who doesn’t love a staycation or a quick weekend escape? One of my favourite things about travelling within Ireland is being able to pack up the car without stressing over luggage limits – I can say yes to all the toys my kids want to bring (within reason, of course!). That said, finding the right hotel – one that feels like a proper break for the adults but still keeps the kids entertained – can be a bit of a challenge. That’s why I’ve rounded up some of the best Family Hotels in Ireland with a Swimming Pool. A pool adds that extra bit of excitement for little ones (and let’s be honest, for us grown-ups too), making even a short getaway feel like a real holiday.
*Almost all hotels listed have stated that swimming caps must be worn in the pool and spa areas. These can be purchased at the hotel.
Amber Springs Hotel, Wexford
Whenever I speak to others about family friendly resorts Amber Springs always comes up.
You won’t hear anyone say they are bored here, there is really something for everyone! In the leisure centre you will find a large swimming pool with a separate kids pool. There is also a Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.
They also have a Kids Club for ages 4- 12. Toys, arts & crafts and board games available to play with. Activities like Treasure hunts and special events like cinema screening or kids disco. For older kids there is table tennis, foosball and pool table.
The indoor Playzone is ideal for children under 10 years, with massive jungle gym and mini slides.
At the rear of the hotel you will find Amber Park- A large outdoor playground. Here you will also find Go-karting, Mini Golf, Archery, a football pitch and a train that departs daily!
The onsite Cocoon Spa offers a variety of treatments and is a great place to sneak away for some relaxation.
They are offer family, and interconnecting family rooms so can accommodate families of all sizes.
With 3 restaurants, a coffee shop and bar on site you can get everything you need without going far. Amber Springs pride themselves on offering a ‘Farm to Fork’ experience, and much of their produce comes from their own farm just down the road.
Hodson Bay Hotel, Athlone
On the shores of Lough Rea is the beautiful Hodson Bay Hotel. Enjoy the views over the marina and lake from the comfort of your room, or from the large swimming pool.
There are room for all families, you can choose from Classic and Lakeview Family Rooms, Two-Bedroom Family Suites for up to five guests or Interconnecting Rooms that sleep up to eight.
The new kids club has lots to keep little ones entertained like games, crafts, disco and movies.
The swimming pool is large, and there is a kids pool too so lots of place to splash around. Enjoy the views over the Lough from the pool through the panoramic windows.
There are walking trails around the lake and a spa on site. They also offer free cheese and wine tasting, yoga and craft beer tasting
*Some activities need to be booked in advance
Fancy getting out of the hotel? Close by in Lough Rea you will also find Baysports – an inflatable waterpark, kayaking, pedal boats and paddle boarding. There is also a golf course next door to the hotel.
You’re also a short drive into the centre of Athlone where you can take a viking boat tour, or visit Athlone castle, or just a wander through the town. A 20 minute drive will take you to the amazing Dún na Sí Heritage Park. Meet the ancient Irish warrior Lugh, explore the roots of Irish music, or journey through the past and discover how rural communities lived throughout time. A great day out for the family. You can get tickets for Dún na Sí here.
Hodson Bay Hotel has something for the whole family. You can choose to stay just at the hotel and really relax (they have a great restaurant and bar on site), or venture further afield to explore more of the Irish Hidden Heartlands.
Lough Eske Castle, Donegal
Who hasn’t dreamed of staying in a castle! If you are looking for luxury, this is it. The beautiful castle is just 10 minutes from Donegal Town and sits on the shores of Lough Eske.
The infinity indoor swimming pool overlooks lush gardens; spa guests have access to thermal facilities like sauna, steam room, ice fountain, tropical showers and heated benches.
Explore the castle grounds on a complimentary bike, or a horse drawn carriage. There are daily history tours of the castle, and if you enjoy whiskey you can discover the castle’s very own whiskey cellar.
With 3 restaurants on site you will have plenty to choose from.
Lough Eske would make a great getaway for a special occasion with the family.
The Connacht Hotel, Galway
Just 10 minutes outside bustling Galway city is The Connacht Hotel, a great spot for families. You can choose from classic family rooms or a family room with bunk beds for up to 4 people. For families of 5 they offer suites which also have a kitchenette in the room.
The ‘Friendly Fellows’ kids club is Ireland’s longest running hotel kids club, and they are open every weekend and all summer. In the summer and half term they have child friendly entertainment such as magicians and discos. Kids will love the large pool and kids pool, which is a highlight when visiting this hotel.
You will find great options for eating at The Connacht too. friendly Reuben’s Restaurant is located at the hotel for breakfast and dinner. They also serve a family afternoon tea (book in advance) or pop into The Dock for a quick coffee and pastry. Bar Solo is a great spot for a drink and live music.
Fancy doing a bit of exploring? It’s just a 10 minute drive into Galway, or if you prefer a bus there is a stop just outside the hotel. Galway is a great place for foodies and you will find an amazing variety of restaurants, cafes pubs and more to visit and sample the local fare. Travel further afield and spend a day travelling to the famous Cliffs of Moher or stunning Connemara. Get Your Guide is the place to go for booking day trip and tours in the area. Check them out here.
The Connacht is a fabulous choice for a family getaway, and a perfect base for exploring Galway and the surrounding area.
Claregalway Hotel, Galway
A little further outside Galway is the historic Claregalway village. Another great spot to base yourself for visiting nearby Galway city and surrounding area.
Claregalway hotel has family rooms that can sleep up to 5, and are very reasonably priced. There is a great restaurant onsite and bar, and you are not far from the local village restaurants and cafes.
After visiting nearby Claregalway Friary & Castle head back to the hotel for a swim in the large swimming pool. A perfect spot too if it’s a rainy Irish day. For over 16s there is also a sauna and spa to relax in too!
A brilliant spot for a family break near Galway.
Castleknock Hotel, Dublin
Located on the outskirts of Dublin, right beside Phoenix Park is Castleknock hotel. A great base if you are visiting the city. There is a bus stop a 2 min walk away and train station a 10 minute walk away. Both of these will take you in Dublin. The hotel is very close to Phoenix park and Dublin Zoo.
They have a great selection of rooms, including family rooms for 4 or 5. They also have a number of interconnecting rooms, so contact them if you are travelling with a larger family to check the availability on these.
When it comes to things to do, there is no shortage! There is a large swimming pool and separate baby and toddler pools, so everyone has space to splash. There is also an on site spa for a treat for the grown ups.
You will also find a dedicated cinema room for screenings of family‑friendly films during school breaks and mid-term stays. There is a playground located at the rear of the hotel, and board games and cards are available from reception to enjoy in public spaces.
With 2 restaurants on site and a bar you won’t have to travel far for dinner. If you need to do any shopping Liffey Valley Shopping Centre is just a 2 min drive.
Castleknock hotel is a great location outside Dublin, and have everything you need for a great stay with your family.
Family Hotels in Ireland with a Swimming Pool – Overall
Whether you’re planning a fun-filled weekend or a relaxing escape, Ireland has no shortage of fantastic options for families. Family Hotels in Ireland with a Swimming Pool offer more than just a place to stay—they provide memorable experiences for kids and a bit of well-earned downtime for parents. Many of these hotels also feature extra family-friendly amenities that can make your getaway even more enjoyable. So, if you’re packing for your next Ireland staycation, don’t forget the swimsuits!
Looking for a holiday from Northern Ireland or Ireland?
Check out my page where I update amazing family holidays deals weekly by clicking here! You can sign up to receive them by email over there too!
Written by: Courtney Gallagher
Originally from Canada, I now call Northern Ireland home. A keen traveller and mummy to two adventurous boys, we’re always on the lookout for new places to explore, whether it’s across the world or right here at home.
RELATED ARTICLES
Keep up to date...
Leaving a stable job to be able to do more of this, was never really a risk - the risk would have been waiting for years to maybe give it a shot …
Nov 8
Leaving a stable job to be able to do more of this, was never really a risk - the risk would have been waiting for years to maybe give it a shot …
Anyone else? 🙃✌🏻
Unlock the perfect
Cheap holiday
Build a custom DIY trip in 30 seconds!