Are you struggling to think of family activities now that life is returning to normal? It can be hard enough to entertain the little ones on the weekend, but even more so for an entire week such as during a mid-term break. Visit Dublin’s Ashling Hotel and enjoy the city’s exciting activities, with something for young and old on our doorstep. Our location means family activities in Dublin are easy to walk to, as are a huge selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops, and more. Enquire about our special family getaway rates and make this a trip to remember.
1. Phoenix Park
One of Dublin’s greatest assets and practically the Ashling Hotel’s back garden, the Phoenix Park is an ideal spot for family activities. Let your little ones run wild in the rolling fields, taking a blanket and a picnic for a day out to remember. Visit the beautiful Farmleigh House where you’ll often find demonstrations and exhibitions, live music, and more alongside the gorgeous gardens and flowerbeds. Dublin Zoo is one of the best things to do in Dublin. You could spend an entire day exploring the grounds, visiting the animal habitats, and most importantly tiring out the young ones for a peaceful night’s sleep!
2. Epic Museum Dublin
There are activities in Dublin for all ages. One of our favourites, and the winner of Europe’s Leading Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards for three years in a row, is the excellent Epic Museum. The museum ‘provides creative and inspirational learning experiences for local, national and international visitors based on the many personal stories of a diverse range of Irish people at home and abroad.’ It’s a fascinating and interactive look into life as an Irish emigrant and has activities to suit all ages and abilities. If you’re interested in finding out more about your family history, you can look up your ancestors in The Irish Family History Centre and learn about Ireland’s greatest achievements in sports, arts, and much more.
3. Water Sports in Dublin
It may not be the first thing you think of when you come to the Big Smoke, but water sports are becoming increasingly popular in Dublin, especially when the weather gets a little warmer. Head to the coast and enjoy a sea dip in the cold Irish Sea, set sail in Dun Laoghaire or try kitesurfing in Clontarf. If you’d prefer to stay closer to home, why not try canoeing, kayaking, or SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) in the River Liffey, the very same view you’ll see from the front of the hotel. High tide tours allow you to paddle through the city centre almost at ground level – ideal to see the city in a different way.
4. Enjoy the Great Outdoors
If you’re an outdoorsy family, there are lots of activities to keep you occupied on your family break in Dublin. Pack up your car or take the train to the Dublin Coast. Enjoy a long walk along one of the scenic routes, north or south. Stroll from the city to the Bull Wall where you can enjoy a picnic on the beach and a perfect picture opportunity by the iconic red lighthouse that shelters Dublin Bay. Alternatively, you could enjoy the Bray to Greystones Coastal walk stopping off for chips on the beach and a flutter on the amusements on the way back. If you prefer mountains to seascape, the Dublin mountains are a perfect place for a gentle family hike. The possibilities are endless.
5. Rainy Day Activities
As we know, with winter you’re not guaranteed good weather – in fact, that’s never a sure thing in Dublin! It’s good to plan some indoor activities in case Mother Nature isn’t on your side. Head to adventure world in Tallaght or Imaginosity in Sandyford for soft play or there are multiple Leisureplex facilities around the county for bowling and laser tag. In the city, you can visit The Wax Museum, The Leprechaun Museum or multiple cinemas showing the very best blockbusters and kids’ movies. For a more educational trip, the National Museums and Galleries have some fantastic kids tours and worksheets.
6. Choose A Family-Friendly Hotel for your Dublin Break
After a long day of exploring, you’ll want somewhere warm and comfortable to relax. Ashling Hotel, located on the very edge of Dublin City Centre is an ideal spot for a family getaway. Our comfortable spacious rooms offer everything you need for a family break. Our in-house restaurant has a huge selection of breakfast items to suit even the fussiest eater. Dinner in Chesterfields is one to remember and our fully stocked bar will be much appreciated by Mam & Dad after an eventful day.
Our family rooms can cater for families of 4 or 5 people, making traveling together very easy. We also have interconnecting bedrooms and rooms which are large enough to accommodate a travel cot. Check out our special offers and family packages exclusively on our website. We look forward to welcoming you and creating lasting family memories together.
Author Bio: Katie McGarr is a resident writer for Ashling Hotel Dublin, a luxury 4 star hotel in the heart of Ireland’s capital, Dublin, stuated in close proximity to Phoenix Park, The Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Zoo. When she’s not taking vibrant street photos, you can find her writing articles about travel, food, and lifestyle.
