If there’s one type of break that feels made for childhood, it’s a farm stay.
Not the theme-park kind with plastic tractors (but those can be great too!), but the kind where morning light floods into a lush green field, hens peck around your feet, happy cows call across paddocks and toddlers learn there’s a difference between real eggs and egg-shaped chocolates. These kinds of stays are just what the soul needs and are perfect for children. They allow them to experience nature, slow down and enjoy the great outdoors around them and have lots of fun being around and getting up close and personal with animals. They make for a beautifully peaceful break for families and ones which will create great memories to be shared and remembered for years to come.
Farm stays in Ireland are perfect for families because they give you:
• Wide open spaces for little legs to roam
• Laid back days with animals to meet
• Calm mornings and relaxed afternoons that fit real family life
• A chance to reconnect with nature as a family and make some happy memories
Below are some of the loveliest farm stay experiences across Ireland, from cosy cottages on working farms to farm-based glamping and rural retreats, there's something that will appeal to all families.
Delightful Farm Stay Experiences Across Ireland
West & Northwest Ireland
Ireland West Farm Stay – Tucked away in the rolling countryside of County Mayo, this boutique farm stay invites you into authentic Irish farm life. Families can stay in traditional farmhouse accommodation and enjoy guided tours of the working farm, meet the animals, and hear stories from your hosts who are part of the local farming community.
Devlin Farm Life – A wonderfully welcoming farm stay in Mayo where you can experience life on a small-scale Irish farm first hand. Expect tractor rides, barn tours, and lots of animal visits — perfect for toddlers and early walkers.
Southern & Mid-Ireland Farm Retreats
Legan Castle Farmhouse – Beautifully restored farmhouse stays near Thomastown in Kilkenny. This spot blends history and rural calm perfectly, with spacious rooms and easy access to gentle countryside walks and local farm experiences.
Glasha Farmhouse – A highly rated farmhouse stay in County Tipperary where families love the peaceful setting and the easy go-at-your-own-pace vibe. It’s close to family-friendly trails and small towns with cafés and shops.
Countryside Farm Stay – This cosy B&B in Co. Louth is a wonderful base for families exploring the northeast. Expect warm hospitality, calm landscapes, and a real farm feeling without any big crowds.
Munny Farm – Set in lovely Wicklow countryside, Munny Farm is known for its friendly atmosphere and welcoming hosts. Think orchard walks, friendly animals, and relaxing outdoor spaces where kids can run free.
Rock Farm Slane – An organic farm stay in Meath where families can experience sustainable rural life up close. With wide open fields and farm animals, it’s a lovely, grounding place to slow down and enjoy simple days.
Photo by Caitlin O’Brien
Unique & Extra Special Stays
Fernwood – This farm stay in Clifden, Co. Galway, is one of Ireland’s most-loved rural retreats. With superb reviews from families, Fernwood combines beautiful countryside, traditional comforts, and easy access to Connemara’s lakes, beaches, and wild spaces.
Glasson Glamping Farm – If you love the idea of farm life with a glamping twist, this Westmeath farm stay delivers. Spacious glamping units, farm views, and a slower pace of life make it ideal for families who want something a little magical.
Corderry Farm – A wonderful small farm stay in the Glen of Aherlow, Co. Tipperary, perfect for families who want authentic rural landscapes, farm animals, and plenty of outdoor space to explore.
Doire Farm Cottages – Situated in Co. Kerry, these farm cottages are surrounded by the lush beauty of rural Ireland and make a dreamy, peaceful base for families exploring the southwest.
Fairy Fort Farm – With a name straight out of storybooks, Fairy Fort Farm in Tipperary is perfect if you want outdoor fun, rolling fields, and a real sense of adventure for children.
What Makes Farm Stays So Brilliant for Little Ones
Farm stays aren’t just about a place to sleep, they’re about days that feel like stories.
Most of the stays above offer:
• Easy access to animals (sheep, chickens, horses, pigs, goats)
• Beautiful walks right from your doorstep
• Space for children to run, explore and burn energy
• Quiet evenings and simple breakfasts that fit family life
• A chance to connect with nature and the real pace of rural life
Many are working farms too, so your children can see where food comes from and how farm life unfolds. This isn’t just a holiday, it’s a childhood memory that they'll treasure forever.
For more inspiration on places to stay, explore and things to do within Ireland check out my Ireland section which is full of great ideas and hidden gems!
