County Meath: Passage Tombs, Castles and Experiences

In a bend of the River Boyne lies the Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site – a striking introduction to the history of County Meath. Visitors can explore everything from prehistoric monuments and medieval buildings to exhibitions, guided tours and hands-on activities. Paddling and summer walking trails offer more ways to shape your stay. When planning, it helps to distinguish between historical highlights and the kind of experience you are looking for.

Passage Tombs and Landscape

Brú na Bóinne encompasses the prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth, built around 3200 BC. The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is the starting point for all visits to Newgrange and Knowth. As advance-booking and shuttle procedures may change, check the latest arrangements before your visit.

Another group of Neolithic passage tombs is located at Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetery; it dates to around 3000 BC. The site extends across four gently rolling hills. This creates two distinct landscapes: Brú na Bóinne lies in a bend of the Boyne, while at Loughcrew the hills form the setting for the monuments. Both dates are approximate, not exact construction years for each individual tomb. Guided tours at Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetery explore the history and mythology of the monuments; check availability before travelling.

Castles, Monasteries and Historic Sites

Trim Castle stands on the south bank of the River Boyne and is Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle. For safety reasons, the keep can only be accessed as part of a guided tour; check the current arrangements before your visit. The Trim Medieval Armoury, an exhibition of medieval armour, is housed in the Trim Visitor Centre beside the castle. Visitors can touch and handle swords, chain mail and helmets – a hands-on way to learn about the equipment of the period.

The Hill of Tara was the seat of the High King of Ireland and an important centre of political and religious power. The visitor centre offers an audiovisual show; guided tours are available on request. Four high crosses survive in Kells. The base of a fifth cross is also visible on the grounds of St Columba’s Church. The High Crosses of Kells are part of the historic Boyne Valley and one of Ireland’s most important monastic settlements. Bective Abbey offers another perspective on medieval history; it was Ireland’s second Cistercian foundation.

The events at the Boyne are also part of the county’s historical story. On 1 July 1690 according to the Old Style calendar, King William III and his father-in-law, King James II, met at the Boyne near Oldbridge. Those interested in military history can see recreated examples of First World War trenches at the Irish Military Museum & Park. Prehistoric burial sites, monastic heritage, castles and more recent military history therefore offer a range of historical themes to explore.

Activities and Special Visits

Emerald Park offers more than 45 rides and attractions, a varied zoo with special experiences, shows and events. The zoo is home to more than 250 animals. The park is also home to The Viking Voyage, Ireland’s only water ride. The range of attractions and the number of animals may change; check the latest information before your visit. This mix appeals to a range of interests, without limiting a visit to just one kind of experience.

The Boyne Blueway Trim is an 8 km stretch of the River Boyne in County Meath. A trip along it can take 2.5 to 3 hours; the route is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Access and operating conditions may vary, so it is advisable to check the latest conditions before setting out. The Blueway therefore offers a clear time frame for an activity on the river, while visits to historic sites are shaped more by tours, exhibitions or the type of visit.

At Causey Farm, 19th-century barns are used for traditional music workshops. Visitors can also bake traditional soda bread using Lilly Murtagh’s recipe. At Slane Castle, you can take a private guided tour. The grounds have summer walking trails, and guided Irish whiskey tastings are also offered. The seasonal trails, tours and tastings provide different reasons to visit. Check the latest information if you are planning around a particular offering.

The activities differ in format: the Boyne Blueway centres on a trip of several hours, Causey Farm on taking part in music workshops or bread-making, and Trim on exploring historic equipment. These differences can help you choose the right focus for your stay in County Meath.

Discover more destinations: Ashbourne, Dun Buinne, Collinstown, Kilmessan, Trim, Navan, Kells, Donore, Duleek, Dunshaughlin, Balrath, Kilcloon, Longwood, Summerhill, Pelletstown, Julianstown, Donaghmore, Kilbride, Stamullin, Rathmolyon, Dunsany, Mullaghmore, Kiltale, An Seanchaisleán, Ratoath, Boycetown, Laytown, Athboy, Enfield and Slane.

Back to the broader travel overview: Leinster.