"Friendly team, lovely spacious and well equipped room with Elemis toiletries in the bathroom. Great food offer and service at both breakfast and dinner. Lots of parking and as a solo female traveller I felt very safe staying here. Great value for money"
"Friendly team, lovely spacious and well equipped room with Elemis toiletries in the bathroom. Great food offer and service at both breakfast and dinner. Lots of parking and as a solo female traveller I felt very safe staying here. Great value for money"
"I wished we had had more than one night at the Kilkea Castle before going back to the USA. It’s a beautiful place, the employees were very helpful. The grounds were stunning."
"I wished we had had more than one night at the Kilkea Castle before going back to the USA. It’s a beautiful place, the employees were very helpful. The grounds were stunning."
"Very clean and comfortable room, staff was friendly and helpful. Breakfast was excellent- lots of choices and spaced out well with attentive staff greeting you and making sure nothing ran out."
"Very clean and comfortable room, staff was friendly and helpful. Breakfast was excellent- lots of choices and spaced out well with attentive staff greeting you and making sure nothing ran out."
"Really had a very comfortable stay. Room was comfy and a good size. The staff were incredibly helpful and the hotel passed my 'plumbing test'. The shower was fantastic."
"Really had a very comfortable stay. Room was comfy and a good size. The staff were incredibly helpful and the hotel passed my 'plumbing test'. The shower was fantastic."
"This was a great place! The car park was around the back of the building with plenty of spaces. The room was clean and well maintained and the bed was comfortable. We ate in the bar restaurant and the food was delicious. Our waiter, John, gave us excellent advice on things to see and do in the area and Trish, one of the managers, went above and beyond with hospitality. I’d definitely stay here again."
"This was a great place! The car park was around the back of the building with plenty of spaces. The room was clean and well maintained and the bed was comfortable. We ate in the bar restaurant and the food was delicious. Our waiter, John, gave us excellent advice on things to see and do in the area and Trish, one of the managers, went above and beyond with hospitality. I’d definitely stay here again."
"Wonderful stay at Silken Thomas. Highly recommend. Fabulous rooms only bettered by the wonderful staff. Food great in restaurant also and close to shopping village."
"Wonderful stay at Silken Thomas. Highly recommend. Fabulous rooms only bettered by the wonderful staff. Food great in restaurant also and close to shopping village."
"We had a lovely stay at Firecastle. Kildare is a magical area with lots to do and see in walking distance. The room we stayed in was beautiful and well appointed, breakfast was delicious and the staff were all really nice. I highly recommend Firecastle."
"We had a lovely stay at Firecastle. Kildare is a magical area with lots to do and see in walking distance. The room we stayed in was beautiful and well appointed, breakfast was delicious and the staff were all really nice. I highly recommend Firecastle."
"We loved everything about Seven Oaks - parking was plentiful, room was very clean and large, restaurant was convenient and delicious - but the standout feature was the helpfulness of the staff. Aisling and Declan welcomed us in and made us immediately comfortable. Hospitality is taken seriously and we were very appreciative."
"We loved everything about Seven Oaks - parking was plentiful, room was very clean and large, restaurant was convenient and delicious - but the standout feature was the helpfulness of the staff. Aisling and Declan welcomed us in and made us immediately comfortable. Hospitality is taken seriously and we were very appreciative."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Learn about the local history of Portlaoise with a stop at Rock of Dunamase. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
You can enjoy a show at The Dunamaise Arts Centre during your trip to Portlaoise. Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this family-friendly area.
Enjoy an outing to Portlaoise Leisure Centre during your stay in Portlaoise. While in this family-friendly area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
Explore the Rock of Dunamase ruins just outside Portlaoise for spectacular views across the midlands countryside. Discover local heritage at the Dunamase Arts Centre and Fort Protector, then browse unique shops along Main Street.
We had an excellent stay at the Firecastle rooms and we will definitely return. Very clean room- spotless. I spoke to the lady cleaning the rooms in the morning and she was very helpful and pleasant. The staff in the downstairs restaurant (Harte's) and the delicatessen were all very accommodating. It was a truly excellent place to stay and we are fussy! Thank you. Ps. The Nespresso coffee machine was also amazing.
We had an excellent stay at the Firecastle rooms and we will definitely return. Very clean room- spotless. I spoke to the lady cleaning the rooms in the morning and she was very helpful and pleasant. The staff in the downstairs restaurant (Harte's) and the delicatessen were all very accommodating. It was a truly excellent place to stay and we are fussy! Thank you. Ps. The Nespresso coffee machine was also amazing.
Gillian
Reviewed September 2, 2026Reviewed September 2, 2026
Can not fault this hotel. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. For e.g. our coffee maker did not work one call to reception and within 5 minutes someone was there to sort it out.
The food in the restraunt was exceptional and the waiting staff were knowledgble about the dishes. Service fantastic.
Can not fault this hotel. The staff were all very friendly and helpful. For e.g. our coffee maker did not work one call to reception and within 5 minutes someone was there to sort it out.
The food in the restraunt was exceptional and the waiting staff were knowledgble about the dishes. Service fantastic.
A wonderful peaceful 3-day stop staying in the superior lodge room. The room itself comprised a spacious living area and a similarly large bedroom set a short walk from the castle itself. All of the staff were exceptionally friendly, attentive, and helpful. Breakfast was superb with a great selection of high quality options. Highly recommended for anyone looking to stay in the area.
A wonderful peaceful 3-day stop staying in the superior lodge room. The room itself comprised a spacious living area and a similarly large bedroom set a short walk from the castle itself. All of the staff were exceptionally friendly, attentive, and helpful. Breakfast was superb with a great selection of high quality options. Highly recommended for anyone looking to stay in the area.
This is a lovely hotel. The staff are very efficient and friendly. The rooms are generous with comfortable beds, good bathrooms and my favourite toiletries. The food is very good: breakfast has lots of hot and cold options with tea and coffee. If you want a latte or cappuccino then the small cafe in the foyer has them with an excellent selection of cakes and pastries. The only thing I would have changed was the toilet tissue in the room, a little thin for me and not as good as that in the public...
This is a lovely hotel. The staff are very efficient and friendly. The rooms are generous with comfortable beds, good bathrooms and my favourite toiletries. The food is very good: breakfast has lots of hot and cold options with tea and coffee. If you want a latte or cappuccino then the small cafe in the foyer has them with an excellent selection of cakes and pastries. The only thing I would have changed was the toilet tissue in the room, a little thin for me and not as good as that in the public...
Jacqueline
Reviewed September 11, 2024Reviewed September 11, 2024
I’ve stayed at the Dolmen a couple of times now, staff are really friendly, food in the restaurant is fantastic. Rooms are clean and tidy and well equipped. The only thing that lets it down ever so slightly in my opinion is that the bathrooms are starting to look a little tired but still perfectly functionable. All in all, I like staying here and will book a room here again.
I’ve stayed at the Dolmen a couple of times now, staff are really friendly, food in the restaurant is fantastic. Rooms are clean and tidy and well equipped. The only thing that lets it down ever so slightly in my opinion is that the bathrooms are starting to look a little tired but still perfectly functionable. All in all, I like staying here and will book a room here again.
Rob
Reviewed September 20, 2017Reviewed September 20, 2017
Stayed here 4 nights when visiting family. Had my son who is two years old and it had the facilities next door at the dome to keep him entertained.
Room was big, clean and beds were comfy.
We didn't use the pool as your required to wear a swimming hat which is apparently normal there.
We had breakfast included and there was a lot of choice.
Staff were very friendly and helpful. Room service was fast.
Couldn't fault a thing.
Stayed here 4 nights when visiting family. Had my son who is two years old and it had the facilities next door at the dome to keep him entertained.
Room was big, clean and beds were comfy.
We didn't use the pool as your required to wear a swimming hat which is apparently normal there.
We had breakfast included and there was a lot of choice.
Staff were very friendly and helpful. Room service was fast.
Couldn't fault a thing.
Scenic Golf Courses: Enjoy a round of golf at the picturesque Portlaoise Golf Club, perfect for both enthusiasts and beginners.
Charming Town Centre: Explore the vibrant town centre, filled with friendly locals, shops, and a rich cultural atmosphere.
Historical Attractions: Discover local monuments and historical sites that highlight the region's significance.
Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in a variety of attractions suitable for families, ensuring fun for all ages.
Diverse Accommodation: Choose from lovely bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to all preferences.
Find great hotels in Portlaoise
Portlaoise offers a delightful selection of accommodations, ranging from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, catering to both business and leisure travellers. Whether you're seeking family-friendly amenities, a relaxing spa experience, or convenient access to local attractions, you'll discover a variety of options, including the well-regarded Maldron Hotel. Explore the unique hospitality that County Laois has to offer for an unforgettable stay.
Maldron Hotel Portlaoise: Maldron Hotel Portlaoise is a 3-star eco-certified hotel featuring a harmonious blend of comfort and sustainability. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for eco-conscious travellers and business professionals alike. Located conveniently in Portlaoise, it offers a range of modern amenities designed to enhance your stay, including spacious rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a restaurant that focuses on locally sourced ingredients. The hotel's commitment to environmental responsibility makes it a standout choice for those prioritising sustainability during their travels.
Midlands Park Hotel: As a 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Midlands Park Hotel provides a luxurious experience tailored for families and business travellers. This establishment features a full-service spa and an indoor pool, allowing guests to unwind and rejuvenate. The hotel is particularly family-friendly, offering amenities such as a children's pool and safety features like window guards. Located in the heart of Portlaoise, it also boasts an on-site restaurant and bar, making it a convenient choice for both relaxation and entertainment.
The Killeshin Hotel: The Killeshin Hotel is a 4-star accommodation rated 8.6 out of 10, perfect for families and business guests seeking comfort and convenience. Situated in Portlaoise, this hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere with amenities designed for younger guests, including a children's pool and childcare services. The hotel’s well-appointed rooms and on-site dining options provide a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. Whether travelling for work or leisure, The Killeshin Hotel aims to create a pleasant and memorable experience for all its visitors.
Where to stay in and around Portlaoise
Portlaoise offers a delightful mix of family-friendly attractions and vibrant city life, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a family staycation. Explore the charming Portlaoise town centre, where friendly locals and a rich cultural atmosphere await. Just a mile from the centre, discover hidden gems that showcase the area's historical significance and relaxing vibe, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveller.
Ballyfin: Nestled in the picturesque countryside near Portlaoise, Ballyfin is a charming village that offers a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Visitors flock here primarily between July and September, drawn by its stunning golf courses and relaxing resorts. The area is also home to a beautiful private garden and a historic castle, perfect for leisurely exploration. Whether you're keen on sports or simply wish to enjoy the tranquil surroundings, Ballyfin provides an inviting escape into nature.
Emo: Emo is a quaint village known for its rich cultural heritage and welcoming atmosphere. Located close to Portlaoise, Emo experiences a seasonal peak in visitors during April, July, and September, making it an ideal time for hiking and biking enthusiasts. One of the village's highlights is the impressive monument that stands as a testament to its history. This peaceful setting allows for a leisurely exploration of the local culture, making Emo a delightful stop on your journey.
Mountmellick: Just 10km from Portlaoise, Mountmellick is a vibrant city that caters to families and business travellers alike. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months, the city offers a range of attractions, including a shopping centre and an exciting arcade adventure zone, perfect for families looking for entertainment. History buffs will appreciate nearby landmarks such as the local history museum, castle, and parks, providing a mix of leisure and learning opportunities in this bustling urban environment.
Things to do in Portlaoise
Shopping
In Portlaoise, you can explore local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Kildare Village for designer outlet shopping or the larger retail options at the Portlaoise Shopping Centre, featuring various high street brands.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at the Midlands Park Hotel's spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and unwind in the relaxation area. Explore the nearby Emo Court, a beautiful estate with tranquil gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and connecting with nature.
Adventure
In Portlaoise, explore the scenic trails of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, ideal for hiking and nature walks. Experience the thrill of paintballing at the local venue, or visit the Portlaoise Golf Club for a challenging round amidst beautiful landscapes.
Nightlife
In Portlaoise, The Vault boasts a lively atmosphere with vibrant music and a welcoming crowd, while The Heritage Hotel's bar offers a more relaxed setting for cocktails. The town also features local pubs where you can enjoy traditional Irish music and a friendly pint.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Portlaoise
To save money on your trip to Portlaoise, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, and aim to book your hotel about a month in advance. Tuesdays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations and explore package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Look for last-minute deals marked with a green label for potential discounts on your stay, and consider eco-certified hotels for a sustainable option.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Portlaoise are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Portlaoise about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Portlaoise is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Portlaoise is Saturday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your selections by hotel type; for instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you'll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save some money by combining your hotel booking in Portlaoise with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Portlaoise
Portlaoise offers a delightful mix of attractions for families and business travellers alike, with highlights including golf courses, private gardens, and local monuments. Visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture while enjoying eco-friendly outdoor experiences. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Portlaoise's diverse points of interest provide something for everyone to enjoy during their stay.
Emo Court: This impressive neo-classical mansion is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a serene atmosphere steeped in culture. Visitors can wander through the scenic parkland and admire the stunning architecture, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
Rock of Dunamase: A remarkable historic site, the Rock of Dunamase boasts an ancient castle perched on a limestone hill. The panoramic views of the surrounding countryside provide a sense of the area's rich history and strategic significance, ideal for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Portlaoise Golf Club: A welcoming venue for both seasoned golfers and families, this golf club features a picturesque course set in relaxing surroundings. Enjoy a round of golf or simply unwind in the friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for leisure seekers.
Best time to go to Portlaoise
The best time to visit Portlaoise is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
39.7°F (4.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
February
40.6°F (4.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
March
42.3°F (5.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
April
46.0°F (7.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
May
50.9°F (10.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
June
55.9°F (13.3°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
July
58.6°F (14.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Slightly High
August
57.6°F (14.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Slightly High
September
54.5°F (12.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Average
October
49.8°F (9.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
November
43.9°F (6.6°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
December
40.8°F (4.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Portlaoise
Getting to Portlaoise, County Laois, is convenient with access from three major airports. CORK Airport (ORK), situated 154km away, offers nearby hotels such as the 5-star Hayfield Manor, located 5km from the airport. Dublin Airport (DUB), 84km from Portlaoise, features luxurious options like the 5-star St. Helen's Hotel , 14km from the airport, with 24-hour shuttle services available. Lastly, Shannon Airport (SNN), 116km away, has excellent accommodations like the 5-star Dromoland Castle, situated 10km from the airport, providing various transport options. Each airport provides easy access to Portlaoise, making your travel hassle-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Portlaoise has to offer?
3 Bed House in Kildare, Sleeps 9 With Parking: This holiday home rental outside of Portlaoise offers a fireplace, a private garden and free WiFi to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. It has 4 bedrooms, as well as a kitchen with a dishwasher, a fridge and a stovetop, so that you can cook with friends or family. See all vacation rentals in Portlaoise.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Portlaoise, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of hotel reservations are fully refundable if you cancel prior to the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before your check-in date. If your reservation is non-refundable, you may still be able to cancel and receive a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Portlaoise.
What's the best family accommodation in Portlaoise?
The Killeshin Hotel is a hotel with a children's pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Also, attractions in the area such as Stradbally Steam Museum and Stradbally Narrow Gauge Steam Train are fun for children of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Portlaoise.
What's the best luxury accommodation option in Portlaoise?
Midlands Park Hotel is a top spa hotel featuring 3 restaurants, a fitness centre, a bar and an indoor pool. Spend an afternoon at Midlands Park Spa & Beauty where you’ll find massage treatments. See all spa hotels in Portlaoise.
What's it like to stay in Portlaoise?
Families will find child-friendly activities in Portlaoise, and visitors give high marks for the top-notch restaurants. Tourists who journey to this welcoming city can discover its bars, sporting events and shopping. In Portlaoise, there are 6 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Portlaoise.
If you want to explore the larger area, hop aboard a train at Portlaoise Station. If you want to venture out around the area, you may want a rental car in Portlaoise for your journey.
What's the seasonal weather like in Portlaoise?
The hottest months are usually July and August, with an average temperature of 14°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 5°C. Average annual precipitation for Portlaoise is 869 mm.