When it comes to glamping experiences, Northern Ireland has it covered. From a bell tent in the forest to a glamping pod by the sea, a luxury dome or a Shepherd’s Hut and everything in between. A cosy horsebox for two is lovely but when you are heading away with the kids, there is a lot more to consider.
Tried and Tested Family Glamping in Northern Ireland
Here are three top picks for family-friendly glamping in Northern Ireland from Michelle Davis, of StaycationsNI.
Escape Glamping, Castlewellan, County Down
Escape Glamping offers luxury, furnished bell tents with carpeted floors, a cute wood burning stove capable of heating the tent even on the colder nights, double beds and additional singles available, lighting and BBQ.
All your bedding, crockery and cutlery is provided so you don’t need to pack it all. The site has lots of space for the kids and is enclosed so little feet can’t wander off too far. Escape Glamping is dog friendly so you don’t need to leave anyone behind.
Why it’s great for families:
Located just 10-minute walk to Castlewellan town for shops, cafes and restaurants. The site is close to Castlewellan Forest Park with the Peace Maze, adventure playground and a lovely lakeside walk. It is also home to the Life Adventure Centre, you can hire e-bikes, kayaks and more. Escape Glamping is so close to the camping experience that kids love but you’ve still got somewhere to charge your phone,
From €116 approx. per night based on 2 adults and 2 children (min. 2-night stay required), see here.
Sperrinview Glamping, Cookstown, County Tyrone
Sperrinview is a unique glamping site with a little ‘village’ of luxury pods sleeping up to five guests in two double beds and sofa bed. Situated at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains in a location recognised as one of Northern Ireland’s Dark Sky sites and is ideal for star-gazing.
Each pod has its own kitchenette and private bathroom with shower. The best feature is the ‘viewing window’ where you can lie in bed and stare up at the night sky. Each pod has its own outdoor seating, fire pit and BBQ area.
Why it’s great for families
This spacious site is close to Davagh Forest Trail and the Beaghmore Stones. You can visit the Dark Sky Observatory nearby or you can just lie and star gaze from the comfort of your glamping pod. The pods are quirky and conveniently sleep five- kids will love them. The Jungle NI outdoor activity centre, is less than half an hour from Sperrinview with kids Gruffalo trail, paintball, zorbing and more.
From €232 approx. per night (min 2-night stay July and August), see here.
Vincent, Ballybogey, County Antrim
The ultimate in family friendly quirky glamping has to be Vincent. Vincent is a converted 52 seat static bus just 10 minutes from Portrush on the North Coast, sleeping up to six guests complete with kitchen and dining area, toilet (in the driver’s seat) and movie room. The private decking with hot tub and outdoor seating, patio heater and BBQ is perfect for enjoying the panoramic views over the countryside. There are also a selection of smaller converted vehicles for glamping.
Why it’s great for families
Vincent is quirky glamping at its best. The kids will absolutely love it, The North Coast location makes it a great base for visiting Portrush, local attractions like the Giant’s Causeway and all those local beaches. With space to sleep six there is plenty of room for families and parents can relax in that hot tub with the children safely tucked up in bed after a busy day exploring the North Coast. From €232 approx. per night based on four guests May- Sept, from €174 approx. per night Oct- April (min. 2-night stay), see here.
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