We headed off on a festive break away with our two children, including the brilliant Jingle Fest at Emerald Park, and were more than impressed
Kileen Castle is a beautiful base for families to explore the Boyne Valley
When it comes to family trips, I always look for a place that is child-friendly and offers a range of on-site or nearby amenities. And Killeen Castle in Co Meath never struck me as that kind of place. I knew it as one of Ireland’s top golf courses, and maybe a spot for a nice couple’s break, but I underestimated how perfect it actually is for families until our recent visit.
We headed off on a festive break away with our two children, aged 7 and 4, and one attraction nearby was on our agenda, Emerald Park. We have visited before in the summer months last year, but never this time of year, as to be honest, I wasn’t sure what the attraction would be in the depths of winter.
But again, I was wrong. Emerald Park’s Jingle Fest was excellent. Wrapped up warm, we were lucky enough to land on a crisp, but dry, November day to explore the attractions. Of course, the bigger rides on site are understandably closed for the winter, but there was still plenty to explore for two excited children.
OPINION
Sheena McStravick
OPINION
Sheena McStravick
There were still lots of rides to enjoy in the Junior Zone, including rollercoaster rides, driving experiences, the carousel and much more. On top of that, the place was brimming with festive attractions, including the Candy Cane train, a 25-minute live panto, live music, festive gingerbread decorating, a full zoo, and that’s even before you head over to meet Santa himself!
Emerald Park really delivered on the Christmas magic for us. My four-year–old daughter has never really taken to Santa in person; she usually won’t get too close, and that’s fine. We’ve never forced her, but I was amazed when she walked into the room along with her big brother, and chatted happily to Mr Claus, who was a delight and really gave the children an experience to remember alongside his group of chatty and friendly elves.
Emerald Park was full of festive magic
After meeting Santa, we headed down to the toy store to meet more friendly elves who then gave the children a present, perfectly wrapped. I was also amazed by the quality of the toys they received, the seven-year-old came away with an LCD electronic writing tablet, and the four-year-old, who loves all things arts and crafts, got a lovely whiteboard with carry handle and magnetic shapes and numbers.
Emerald Park really impressed me with its festive offering. I’d go as far as saying it’s one of the best Christmas experiences we’ve been to, and well worth the trip.
Meeting the elves in the toy shop to get a present was a big attraction for the kids
After a busy day of festive fun, it was time to head to our home for the night, Killeen Castle. The drive up to the main resort is stunning, offering a breathtaking view of the golf course and beautiful gardens. The accommodation offering at Kileen Castle is unique in that there is no main hotel, but rather lodges equipped with a communal mini kitchen and living space . To me, this is ideal for families and groups of golfers as you have a spacious hotel-style room in the lodge to yourself, complete with an ensuite, but also the use of the communal area if you wish. It’s also a perfect spot for large families who can hire the entire lodge and use all four bedrooms and the communal area for a family get-together.
The Castle itself is stunning, and work is currently ongoing to upgrade and transform the historic property while also keeping with its heritage. The goal is to create a hotel castle resort in stages, with 43 guest rooms and refurbished hospitality and function spaces on the upper ground floor.
The Lodge guest bedrooms were beautifully decorated and very spacious
Our lodge guestroom was spacious and had plenty of room, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day at Emerald Park. We had dinner booked in The Kiln restaurant that evening, and again it was the perfect spot to dine with children. Hungry after a busy day, we delved straight into the main course with my husband and I both choosing the Sirloin steak with all the trimmings. While both of the children ordered chicken goujons and chips. There wasn’t much left on any of the plates, and the steak was cooked to perfection for both of us. It was so flavorful and not at all greasy like some steaks can be.
We opted to share some desserts between us, so we ordered the Apple Crumble and the Chocolate Brownie, both of which went down a treat. With everyone tired after a long day, a walk across the walled gardens back to our lodge whilst star spotting was the perfect end to a great day.
A perfectly cooked steak at The Kiln
A delicious breakfast awaited us the next morning back in The Kiln restaurant, and my only advice would be to get there early as it can be quite busy at weekends, particularly with golfers heading out on the course. The time had come to head home, but not before we took a stunning walk around the Castle once more. It’s truly a beautiful place, and one that you’ll definitely want to return to. The staff were also exceptional and really made us feel at home.
Killeen Castle currently offers some fantastic deals alongside Emerald Park visits, so be sure to check them out. Just 20 minutes down the road to the park, it’s perfect for a family trip away at any time of the year. Or treat someone you love to a gift voucher so they can experience it whenever they wish – a great gift for the golf lover in your life as well!
As we headed home, we weren’t quite ready to end the festive fun, so we made a pitstop at Newry’s first-ever Christmas Market. My eldest had been pestering me to take him to a Christmas market, and if I’m honest, I didn’t fancy navigating the crowds at weekends in Belfast, so Newry’s was the perfect alternative. It was busy but not overcrowded, and offered some great local stalls for gifts, as well as the usual round-up of tasty food offerings and a beer tent, of course!
Another magical Santa experience at Newry Christmas market
The highlight of our visit, though, was a meeting with Santa at his market grotto. The kids were treated to making their own festive plates, reindeer food crafting, before meeting the man himself and Mrs Claus. After checking, they were both on the nice list. They received a cute, cuddly, but magical Snow Dog to help them sleep on Christmas Eve and a token to treat themselves to some toasted marshmallows at the market stall outside, the perfect way to warm up on a chilly Saturday afternoon.
If you’re thinking of a family break away, don’t rule out Killeen Castle, it really is an ideal break for all ages. I’ve also told my husband he might be allowed to bring his clubs next time we return so he can test himself on the tricky Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, one of only two in Ireland!
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