The author and her family. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)
Dublin’s charm lies in its mix of historic elegance, vibrant culture and famously warm welcomes. For families, finding accommodations that balance luxury with kid-friendly touches can be tricky—but The Merrion Hotel makes it seem effortless. Nestled in the heart of Dublin, The Merrion combines Georgian grandeur with modern comfort, offering families an unforgettable stay infused with history, hospitality and a touch of indulgence.
On a recent trip to Dublin with my husband and children, we chose The Merrion as our base, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like the perfect choice. Between its impeccable service, prime location, and thoughtful family amenities, The Merrion proved to be more than just a hotel—it was a destination in itself.
A Grand Welcome and Elegant Accommodations
Stepping into The Merrion feels like stepping back in time—only with all the modern luxuries. The hotel, a collection of four restored Georgian townhouses, offers stunning architecture, period furniture and art-filled interiors. Greeted by smiling porters in classic tailcoats and top hats, we knew we were in for a treat.
For families, The Merrion offers interconnecting rooms and spacious suites, blending practicality with timeless elegance. Our two interconnecting suites gave the kids plenty of space while ensuring we remained connected to the hotel’s serene ambiance. Each room features soft fabrics, original artwork and sumptuous details, but the real showstopper is the marble bathroom, with its deep-soaking tub and Asprey amenities—a welcome retreat after a day of exploration.
Little Luxuries for Little Travelers
While The Merrion exudes sophistication, it never forgets its youngest guests. Personalized cookies greeted our kids upon arrival, and they were delighted by the games and surprises left just for them. The hotel’s thoughtful touches—like kid-friendly room service options and in-room movie nights with popcorn and hot chocolate—ensured they felt as special as we did.
The Merrion’s heated indoor pool became a favorite spot for a quick swim before heading out or winding down in the evening. And the concierge’s expertise in crafting family-friendly itineraries (and even arranging babysitting services) made navigating Dublin with kids easier than ever.
Dublin Adventures Made Easy
Located on Upper Merrion Street, the hotel’s central location makes it a breeze to explore Dublin’s highlights. We kicked off our adventure with a visit to EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, just a 15-minute walk away. This immersive museum brings history to life, with interactive exhibits that had our kids stamping passports and uncovering the global impact of Irish emigrants in science, politics and entertainment.
From there, we strolled to Trinity College to marvel at the Book of Kells and the breathtaking Long Room. The kids were captivated by the library’s grandeur, while we appreciated how family-friendly the tour was.
No trip to Dublin would be complete without a stop at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Just a 20-minute walk from The Merrion, this Gothic masterpiece impressed us all, especially the kids, who loved learning about the legend of St. Patrick. The surrounding gardens offered a peaceful spot to relax before heading back to the hotel.
An Evening at Johnnie Fox’s
For dinner with a dose of Irish culture, we ventured to Johnnie Fox’s, the highest pub in Ireland. Located about 30 minutes from the hotel, this iconic spot delivers on food, fun and folklore. The cozy pub, with its roaring fireplaces and rustic charm, served up hearty Irish dishes like lamb stew and seafood chowder.
But the highlight of the night was the “Hooley Show”—a lively mix of traditional Irish music and dancing. Our kids were spellbound by the energetic performers and even we couldn’t resist clapping along. The Merrion’s concierge handled transportation seamlessly, making the outing stress-free and unforgettable.
Sweet Moments with Art Tea
Back at The Merrion, we indulged in one of the hotel’s signature experiences: Art Tea, a refined afternoon tea inspired by its impressive art collection. While the elegant setting might seem tailored for adults, the children’s version of the service is just as delightful. Our kids relished their finger sandwiches, scones and playful pastries, all presented with the same artistry as the adult menu.
The tea service, paired with a relaxed afternoon in the drawing rooms, became a cherished family memory—a quiet moment to savor the finer details of The Merrion experience.
Why The Merrion is Perfect for Families
For families visiting Dublin, The Merrion Hotel delivers the best of both worlds: refined luxury and thoughtful hospitality tailored to guests of all ages. Its unbeatable location makes exploring the city’s top attractions a breeze, while its warm, welcoming atmosphere ensures families feel pampered and at home. Whether your clients are seasoned Ireland travelers or experiencing Dublin for the first time, The Merrion promises an unforgettable family adventure.
For more information, visit merrionhotel.com.
This story originally appeared in worldstompers.com, a family travel website created to inspire families with kids to expand their idea of adventures. You can follow the adventures of the Bazavilvazo family @worldstompers on Instagram and The Worldstompers on Facebook.
For more of @worldstompers’ adventures around the world, click here.
