Mother's Day is a cherished occasion, and treating your mum to a delightful lunch is a tradition many families hold dear. Fortunately, Ireland boasts an array of charming spots perfect for celebrating this special day. From quaint countryside houses to elegant city bistros, there's something to suit every taste and preference. Whether you're a doting child or a new parent, we've picked 9 of our favourite spots to relax and celebrate your mum!
1/ Ashford Castle
Co. Mayo
Known for the glamour of the venue and impeccable quality of service, lunch at Ashford Castle is a must-book to end a girly weekend away or as a treat for your mother-in-law before the wedding day! With spectacular views from the comfort of the castle’s elegant interior, take your time to savour every delicious moment. Book a table in the stunning drawing room, book in for a sumptuous afternoon tea in The Connaught Room or go the whole hog and treat your mum to fine dining in the George V Dining Room!
2/ Lough Eske Hotel
Co. Donegal
Elegant, remote and relaxed, if you're looking for a few hours basking in decadence then a Sunday lunch at Lough Eske Hotel is just the thing you need! Situated on the shores of Lough Eske, close to the Blue Stack Mountains and yet only a short distance from Donegal Town, treat your favourite woman to a sumptuous lunch and then enjoy a stroll in the stunning Donegal countryside. For Mother's Day, they are offering a delicious three-course meal including buffet starter and dessert, and Grand Carvery.
3/ Montalto Estate
Co. Antrim
Nestled beautifully in the heart of Co. Down, Montalto Estate offers heritage and natural beauty for visitors to relax and reconnect with nature. Your visit will begin with a warm welcome and an introduction to the rich history of Montalto Estate and finishes in The Chinese Room, a space which perfectly complements the traditional afternoon tea that awaits you. With a minimum number of 15 guests for the afternoon tea, why not turn this into a celebration for all the family and invite aunts, grandmothers, and the inlaws!
4/ Charlotte Quay
Co. Dublin
Set in the heart of Grand Canal Dock, Charlotte Quay is a lively and atmospheric restaurant using only the best Irish produce to create a fresh, exciting dining experience with a Mediterranean feel. Relax along the waterfront, order a selection of their tapas-style snacks and enjoy spending time with the people you love!
5/ Bobby's Wine & Champagne Bar
Co. Dublin
Treat your mum or mother-in-law to a shopping day in Dublin's city centre followed by a boozy brunch in one of the city's chicest wine bars, Bobbys! With a menu of delicious breakfast treats, fabulous cocktails and more wine than you can dream of, a visit to this hidden oasis is sure to go down a treat. Especially when paired with some retail therapy!
6/ Carton House Hotel
Co. Kildare
The Morrison Room at Carton House Hotel brings you all the grandeur and beauty you come to expect of the hotel, in a more intimate setting, supported by discreet, attentive service. Offering a fabulous Sunday lunch menu, made with fine Irish local and foraged ingredients. The Morrison Room is a true retreat that provides the timeless spirit and impeccable service we've come to expect from this five-star hotel!
7/ The K Club
Co. Kildare
Earn some extra brownie points and spend some quality time together this Mother’s Day with an indulgent trip to one of Ireland’s most stylish hotels, The K Club. Visit the Barton Restaurant and enjoy their exclusive Sunday lunch, with a set three-course menu just for the occasion!
8/ Castle Leslie Estate
Co. Monaghan
This Mothering Sunday, give your mum a luxurious day out at the jaw-droppingly beautiful Castle Leslie Estate! Enjoy an exquisite three-course lunch at Snaffles, the hotel's 2 AA Rosette award-winning restaurant, followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride around the estate. And for an extra treat, why not gift your mum a massage in the Victorian Treatment rooms!
9/ Maryborough Hotel & Spa
Co. Cork
Set in 18 acres of 300-year-old listed gardens and woodland, the family-owned Maryborough Hotel affords guests an experience in luxury and is among the top hotels in Cork. Relax with a glass of wine and enjoy their delicious three-course Sunday lunch menu, made with local ingredients and crafted with care for a delicious dining experience. The hotel is also offering a Mother's Day pamper package, offering a list of luxe treatments, an hour in the thermal suite and a glass of bubbly!
- Gráinne