Christmas is just around the corner, and if you’re planning a family Christmas getaway in Kildare, the Glenroyal Hotel in Maynooth offers the perfect holiday escape! Nestled in the heart of County Kildare, the Glenroyal Hotel provides a cozy and festive base for exploring a variety of seasonal events that will delight kids and adults alike. Here’s a roundup of the best family-friendly Christmas activities in Kildare and beyond. Holiday sweaters encouraged!

As a family-owned hotel, our dedication to comfort, fun, and relaxation is at the core of our service. The Glenroyal Hotel offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where families can enjoy quality time together. Our prime location provides convenient access to a range of family-friendly holiday attractions, ensuring there is something festive for everyone.

Click here for a full list of family activities near Glenroyal Hotel.

Glenroyal Hotel’s In-House Christmas Activities

The Glenroyal Hotel itself has an array of Christmas activities planned. Kids can join in the fun at Lenny the Lion Kids Club for a festive Christmas party complete with holiday games, crafts, and even a visit from Santa Claus! Check out our special holiday packages to make your family stay extra magical this year. Click here to view.

Clonfert Farm

A beloved local favourite in Maynooth, Clonfert Farm is a family favorite year-round, and it truly shines during Christmas. Their Christmas Farm event offers a winter wonderland experience, complete with a holiday trail, a cozy Christmas market, and opportunities to meet Santa’s farmyard friends. It’s a great way to enjoy the farm’s festive transformation with the whole family. Tickets are in high demand, so pre-booking is essential.

Santa Special Dublin

The Santa Special steam train experience is a magical holiday adventure that brings the charm of a traditional Christmas to life. Families can climb aboard a vintage steam train from Connolly Station, beautifully decorated for the season, and embark on a festive journey through scenic countryside. During the ride, children can enjoy holiday treats and games, while the highlight of the trip is a visit from Santa Claus himself, who brings gifts and cheer to every child onboard. The Santa Special is an unforgettable experience that fills hearts with Christmas magic and creates cherished memories for the entire family. This event sells out every year so best book those tickets in advance!

Santa's House Express

The Santa House Express at Palmerstown House Estate is an enchanting Christmas experience located close to the Glenroyal Hotel, making it a convenient and magical outing for families staying in Maynooth. This festive journey takes visitors through twinkling Christmas displays and holiday-themed rooms, where kids can meet Santa, his elves, and even Mrs. Claus. With activities, crafts, and plenty of holiday cheer, the Santa House Express is a joyful way to immerse the whole family in the Christmas spirit, just a short trip from the cozy comfort of the Glenroyal Hotel. Click here to book tickets.

Ice Skating Blanchardstown

Ice Skating Blanchardstown offers a fun, family-friendly experience just a short 20-minute drive from the Glenroyal Hotel. This seasonal ice rink is perfect for all ages and skill levels, making it a great winter activity for families looking to create memorable holiday moments together. With skate rentals available and a festive atmosphere, Ice Skating Blanchardstown is an exciting way to enjoy the magic of the season while staying near the comfort and convenience of the Glenroyal Hotel. Click here to book tickets.

Emerald Park’s Jingle Fest

Emerald Park, Ireland’s first theme park, brings Christmas cheer to families with its magical winter experience. Formerly known as Tayto Park, this gem is beautifully decorated for the season, and families can enjoy holiday-themed rides and attractions.

We are delighted to have teamed up with Emerald Park Jingle Fest this Christmas season. The Glenroyal Hotel is offering an exclusive package which includes tickets to Jingle Fest 2025. The package has very limited availability so book now and don’t miss out! Click here to book.

Emerald Park has brought back their popular Retro Drive-In Movie Night on 15th December. With prices starting at €35 for a car of five and three different movies and show times to choose from, you can't go wrong!

Wild Lights at Dublin Zoo

A short trip into Dublin brings you to the Dublin Zoo. Kids will love the Wild Lights night-time experience. This year Wild Lights is back with an exciting new theme which will bring you on a ‘A Journey Through Time’. While not actually Christmas themed, the beautiful lights make it perfect for families, couples, groups and anyone who loves adventure. Wild Lights is an unforgettable experience where truly magical memories are made. Bookings are available online and are highly recommended.

Staying at the Glenroyal Hotel

After a day of holiday excitement, return to the Glenroyal Hotel for a cozy evening in our spacious family rooms. Parents can relax in the Arkle Bar while kids enjoy Christmas-themed activities in Lenny Lion’s Kids Club. Later, the whole family can gather for a delicious three-course meal in The Enclosure Restaurant, rounding off a memorable day.

The Glenroyal Hotel offers wonderful Christmas Family Packages, making it the ideal family-friendly base for exploring all the festive fun in County Kildare and beyond. Book your stay today and prepare for a holiday season filled with unforgettable memories!

For more information on booking and activities, contact our friendly team at the Glenroyal Hotel.
Phone: 01 629 0909 or Email: info@glenroyal.ie

Merry Christmas from Glenroyal Hotel & Leisure Club!