As February’s mid-term break approaches, the search begins for a fun-filled family escape— a place where kids can be kids, parents can unwind, and memories are made. At Kilkenny’s award-winning Newpark Hotel, families will find exactly that: a resort-style retreat where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand.
Newpark Hotel has just been announced as the ‘Best Family Hotel in Ireland’ at the Gold Medal Hospitality Awards for the second year in a row, cementing its reputation as the ultimate family-friendly destination. With schools closing from Monday 17th or Thursday, 20th February, and reopening on Monday, 24th February, mid-term is the perfect time to swap the school run for 40 acres of freedom, where each day is packed with discovery, excitement, and a touch of luxury.
From the moment families arrive, Newpark Hotel’s warm hospitality ensures everyone feels like a VIP. Thoughtful details—like kids welcome packs and a step at reception so little ones can see over the desk—set the tone for an experience designed with families in mind. After check-in, bags are delivered to the room, leaving guests free to explore and settle in.
What to Do
Beyond the hotel, the sense of space and adventure is captivating. While members of the public can book tickets to visit, hotel residents enjoy unlimited complimentary access to Jurassic Newpark—one of Ireland’s most exciting outdoor attractions. As a year round outdoor attraction visitors are advised to dress for the weather, so pack sun cream, coats, wellies as per a typical Irish summer! Beyond the park gates children can race around the go-karting track, climb and swing in the treetop adventure playground, or come face to face with alpacas, goats, and rabbits at the hotel’s charming wildlife farm. But the real showstoppers are the impressive life-size animatronic dinosaurs which rise up among the trees, roaring to life as young explorers wander through the ‘prehistoric’ landscape.
Jurassic Newpark is also home to the Southeast’s largest covered inflatable adventure park which is fittingly called ‘Jurassic Bounce’! While there is an additional cost for this activity, it is well worth it as it features 8000 square feet of bounce fun, including slides, obstacle courses, and themed inflatables. The cost is just €3 per person aged 4 and over and €3 per child aged 3 and under and it should be pre booked online as there is a waiver to be signed and then the kids are free to kick their shoes and jump and bounce out all their energy!
Mid-term at Newpark is not just about outdoor excitement. Within the hotel, the Jurassic Juniors Kids Club offers arts and crafts, movie nights, and themed activities designed to keep little ones entertained while parents slip away for a rare moment of peace. The hotel’s heated swimming pool is another favourite, perfect for an hour of family fun. With the comfort of guests in mind pool slots must be pre-booked ensuring it’s never too busy and that everyone gets a chance to make a splash!
Spa
For parents craving a little downtime, the Escape Health Club & Spa provides the perfect sanctuary. Head to the gym if you fancy boosting your mood with activity, or indulge in more laid back self care. The heated outdoor infinity pool offers a blissful retreat, you can swim in the pool, use the sauna, steam room, plunge pool or jacuzzi. For an extra bit of indulgence book in with the expert therapists for a rejuvenating massage or facial to ease away everyday stresses.
Delicious Food
As evening falls, the warmth of Newpark’s hospitality extends to the table. Families can come together over delicious, Italian dishes at Gulliver’s Restaurant or Scott’s Bar & Brasserie, where menus are designed to please both adventurous young diners and grown-ups delighted to enjoy a meal they don’t have to shop for, prepare or cook, just simply remember to book! Whether it’s comforting classics or kid-friendly favourites, the attentive service and freshly sourced produce means that mealtimes are as delicious and effortless as they should be on holiday. Top off a fun filled day with milk and cookies before bedtime in the lounge while the adults enjoy live music and the relaxed atmosphere.
Cosy Lodgings!
With spacious family and interconnecting rooms, a long list of activities, and the kind of authentic Irish family owned hotel welcome that makes every guest feel at home, it’s easy to see why Newpark Hotel continues to be Ireland’s top choice for families. Mid-term packages start from €820 for two nights B&B in a deluxe family room for two adults and two children, dinner on an evening of your choice at Gullivers’ Restaurant, high tea on one evening for children served in our Jurassic Juniors Kids Camp. Also included is a Daily Kids Camp for 4–12-year-olds from 10am-2pm (with lunch included) & 7pm – 10.30pm with complimentary access to all of the hotel’s attractions.
With demand high and availability limited, early booking is essential. Visit newparkhotelkilkenny.com to secure your family’s award winning mid-term escape!
