A Family Weekend in Bundoran: Things to Do With Kids
Whether your children are happiest building sandcastles, racing down water slides, exploring the coastline or trying something completely new, there is plenty to discover in and around Bundoran.
And because so many of the town's attractions are close together, you can enjoy a busy day out without spending your whole weekend in the car.
Here's our guide to making the most of a family weekend in Bundoran.
1. Start with a day at the beach
For many families, the perfect Bundoran day starts at the beach.
Bundoran's main beach sits right on the Atlantic coast, making it an easy place to spend a few hours whether the plan is swimming, paddling, building sandcastles or simply enjoying the sea air.
For families staying at The Holyrood Hotel, the beach is just across the road from the hotel, making it particularly convenient if you need to pop back for something during the day.
Pack the buckets and spades, bring a picnic or enjoy a walk along the seafront. And when everyone needs an energy boost, Bundoran's town centre is close by for an ice cream or something to eat.
Always check local weather and sea conditions before swimming, particularly when visiting the Atlantic coast.
2. Make a splash at Bundoran Waterworld
If your children love swimming and water slides, Waterworld is one of Bundoran's best-known family attractions.
Located on the seafront, the indoor aqua adventure centre offers water-based fun for a range of ages, with features including slides, a wave pool, rapids and children's areas.
It's also a useful option when the Irish weather isn't cooperating with your beach plans.
Opening dates, sessions and booking arrangements can vary throughout the year, so it's worth checking Waterworld's current information before you travel.
3. Let the kids burn off some energy
Bundoran is packed with opportunities for children and teenagers to try something different.
Depending on age, confidence and the time of year, families can enjoy activities including surfing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, bodyboarding and other outdoor adventures.
Bundoran is particularly well known for surfing, and there are local surf schools offering lessons and equipment for beginners and more experienced surfers.
For teenagers, an activity day can be a great way to turn a family weekend into an adventure they'll remember.
4. Explore the coastline
You don't need to book an organised activity to enjoy Bundoran.
One of the best things about the town is simply getting outside and exploring the coastline together.
The Roguey Walk is a popular coastal walk, with spectacular views and the famous Fairy Bridges and Wishing Chair along the route.
It's a good option for families who want to stretch their legs, take photographs and see a different side of Bundoran.
Take your time, keep an eye on younger children around the coastline and make sure everyone has suitable footwear.
5. Have some rainy-day fun
One of the great things about a family break in Bundoran is that you don't have to rely on sunshine.
If the weather turns wet, there are plenty of indoor options to consider.
Waterworld is an obvious choice for families who want to keep swimming and playing, while Bundoran Glowbowl offers ten-pin bowling and family entertainment.
There are also amusement centres in the town, and younger children can enjoy indoor play facilities.
The key to a successful family weekend in Ireland is having a few back-up plans — and Bundoran gives you plenty of them.
6. Give parents some time to relax too
A family holiday doesn't have to mean that every minute is organised around the children.
At The Holyrood Hotel, families can enjoy the Blue River Leisure Centre, which includes a heated swimming pool and a separate children's pool area.
The hotel also has The Spa @ Orchids, giving parents the opportunity to enjoy some well-earned relaxation during their stay.
The Holyrood's go!kids! Club is another option during the periods when it operates. The supervised club provides activities for children from age four, giving younger guests an opportunity to make friends and enjoy their own holiday activities while parents get some time to themselves.
It's worth checking the hotel's current kids' club schedule and availability before your visit, as activities can vary during the year.
7. Keep everyone well fed
After a day of swimming, walking and adventure, everyone will be ready for dinner.
One of the advantages of staying in the heart of Bundoran is having a choice of places to eat close to the hotel.
At The Holyrood, families are welcome in both The Waterfront Bar & Grill and Watermelon Restaurant, with children's options available alongside the main menus.
For families with younger children, having dining options close to your bedroom can make evenings considerably easier.
A simple two-day family itinerary
If you're only staying for a weekend, here's one way to plan your time.
Friday evening
Arrive in Bundoran and settle into The Holyrood Hotel.
Take a stroll along the seafront before dinner, then enjoy a relaxed evening without having to get back in the car.
Saturday
Start with breakfast before heading to the beach.
Spend the morning exploring the seafront and enjoying some family time by the Atlantic.
After lunch, choose an activity depending on the children's ages and interests — perhaps Waterworld, surfing or an adventure activity.
Return to the hotel for some time in the leisure centre, followed by dinner.
Sunday
After breakfast, head out for a coastal walk and explore the Fairy Bridges and Wishing Chair.
Alternatively, choose another family activity before heading home.
If the weather isn't on your side, swap the outdoor plans for Waterworld, bowling or another indoor activity.
Why Bundoran works so well for family breaks
The best family destinations are often the ones where you don't have to over-plan.
Bundoran has the combination of a seaside location, outdoor adventure, family attractions, restaurants and indoor activities that means there is usually something to suit different ages and interests.
For parents, having so many attractions close to the town centre is another advantage.
And for families staying at The Holyrood Hotel, the location puts the beach, town and many local attractions within easy reach.
Make The Holyrood your base in Bundoran
The Holyrood Hotel is a family-run 4-star hotel in the heart of Bundoran, just across from the beach.
Families can choose from spacious family rooms, enjoy the Blue River Leisure Centre and swimming pool, and take advantage of the hotel's family facilities and go!kids! Club when operating.
With the beach, town centre and many Bundoran attractions close by, you can spend less time travelling and more time enjoying your family break.
Whether you're looking for a weekend of beach adventures, a swimming-filled getaway or simply some quality time together by the Atlantic, Bundoran is a destination where the whole family can find something to enjoy.
Ready to plan your family break? Explore our family rooms and family breaks at The Holyrood Hotel and start planning your Bundoran adventure.