Family Friendly Summer Adventures
Near Midlands Park Hotel
Create unforgettable memories with the whole family this summer at the 4 star Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, your perfect base for exploring the very best of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and beyond.
Whether you’re seeking exciting outdoor adventures, interactive animal experiences or peaceful nature strolls, there’s something for every age just a short drive from the hotel. We’re proud to welcome families with open arms and offer helpful support for planning your day trips, including local knowledge, picnic options and even assistance with bike hire.
Here are some top things to do with kids this summer during your stay:
Your Family Base for Big Adventures
Castlecomer Discovery Park
35 Minute Drive
Castlecomer Discovery Park is a must for families who love the outdoors.
This 80-acre woodland adventure park offers a wide variety of activities for kids of all ages, including tree-top zip lines and climbing walls, boating on the lake, axe throwing for teens and adults, a junior playground and an elf & fairy village for little explorers and Ireland’s longest over-water zipline.
Whether you want a relaxing nature stroll or a full on action packed afternoon, Castlecomer has something for everyone.
Castleview Open Farm
28 Minute Drive
This delightful open farm is perfect for younger children.
The Saunders family opened the Open Farm, set on 14 acres with an additional two acres of sheds and a farmyard, in the shadow of the stunning Cullohill Castle. As well as the spacious open farm which you can leisurely stroll around and see the alpacas, pigs, sheep, ducks and cows among others.
There’s also an incredibly good indoor space that includes electric go karts, a mud kitchen, sandpit, log cabins, a huge play area with smaller toys and and indoor soccer and basketball challenges.
Barrow Way Bike Hire
20 Minute Drive
Take in the scenic beauty of the Barrow Way with a family cycling adventure. The gentle canal-side paths are perfect for beginners and seasoned cyclists alike.
Cycle across the unspoilt countryside to the renowned James Gandon designed Emo Court and Gardens. Enjoy the breath-taking views from the historic Rock of Dunamase. Follow the ancient towpath down along the stunning Grand Canal and River Barrow and explore the beautiful hidden gems of the Midlands.
The Barrow Bike Hire is just 20 minutes from Midlands Park Hotel and provide everything you need for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
On-Site Fun & Relaxation
After a fun-filled day of exploring local attractions, there’s nothing better than returning to the comfort and welcome of Midlands Park Hotel. Designed with families in mind, our hotel makes relaxing just as enjoyable as your adventures.
Settle into our spacious family rooms, where there’s plenty of space for everyone to stretch out and unwind. Let the kids splash and play in our kiddies’ pool while you enjoy a moment of calm in our leisure centre. When hunger strikes, head to one of our Charter Bar & Eatery or Kelly’s Steakhouse, offering delicious dishes and a dedicated children’s menu to keep even the pickiest eaters happy.
At Midlands Park Hotel, family comfort comes first, so you can focus on making the most of every moment together.
Family
Friendly Dining
Experience a family dinner together in Kelly’s Steakhouse or Charter Bar & Eatery.
Interconnecting
Rooms
These spacious and stylish rooms ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Nature, History & Nonstop Family Fun
Emo Court & Gardens
20 Minute Drive
Emo Court is a beautifully preserved neoclassical mansion surrounded by stunning parklands and is definitely worth a visit during your stay with us in Laois.
We recommend you enjoy a guided tour of the house which is open from March to late September before relaxing in its charming tearoom where you can enjoy warm drinks and treats.
The gardens and lakeside walks offer a relaxing escape and kids will love the space to roam, roll down grassy hills or spot ducks and swans along the lake.
It’s the ideal place for a peaceful summer afternoon for all the family.
The Rock of Dunamase
11 Minute Drive
The Rock of Dunamase is a must visit during you family hotel break in Laois, perched on a hill-top, situated in Dunamase on the N80 road halfway between Portlaoise and Stradbally.
Unleash your inner knights and princesses with a visit to the dramatic ruins of the Rock of Dunamase. This ancient site rises proudly over the Laois landscape and offers panoramic views, along with plenty of room for imaginations to run wild. A fantastic spot for both history lovers and energetic explorers.
The Rock of Dunamase is an easy climb suitable for all ages and it’s paved up to the site and is well worth a visit to soak up both the history and the views.
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park
40 Minute Drive
Lullymore Heritage and Discovery Park combines history, fun, and nature.
The Park is set on 60 acres of breath-taking landscape and explores Irish heritage, culture and environment with woodland/peatland trails, gardens and exhibitions. Lullymore is the only attraction in Ireland offering a comprehensive insight into the Irish Peatlands and the people living around it.
With its fairy trails, train rides, crazy golf, indoor play centre, petting zoo and heritage exhibits, it’s a full day of entertainment for all ages, rain or shine.
A great day out for all the family is guaranteed.
Book Your Summer Family Break
at Midlands Park Hotel
Summer Family Breaks
Explore, play and relax, all from the comfort of our 4-star hotel in the heart of Portlaoise.
BOOK NOW