Navan: River Landscape, Culture and Hotels

Navan lies at the confluence of the Rivers Boyne and Blackwater. Culture, events and paths along waterways offer different ways to enjoy a stay—from a visit to the Arts Centre to a section of the Greenway.

Bus connections and culture in Navan

The NV1 and NV2 town bus routes operate in Navan: NV1 runs between Gainstown and Dunville, while NV2 runs between Gainstown and Blackcastle. The regional NX bus route connects Navan to Dublin via Blanchardstown. Routes and frequencies may change; check the details before travelling.

The Solstice Arts Centre has a 320-seat theatre, a cinema with a digital 4K Sony projector and Dolby surround sound, three gallery spaces, a studio area, a foyer and a café. The centre hosts arts and cultural events throughout the year and develops an international programme of performing and visual arts. Current events may vary.

Navan Racecourse hosts the Navan Racing Festival every November. The programme includes the Troytown Chase, the Fortria Chase and the Lismullen Hurdle. Dates and the programme may vary, so it is worth checking before travelling.

The Navan Points of Pride Town Walk is a 4 km historical town walk that starts at the Solstice Arts Centre. If you plan to do the walk, check the brochure’s availability in advance.

Greenway, riverside paths and nature

The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway follows the route of a former railway line from Navan in County Meath to Kingscourt in County Cavan. The route is 30 km long and designated for walkers and cyclists. A 3.7 km section runs from Blackwater Park in Navan to Gibbstown Station. This section offers a shorter route than the full connection between the two towns.

The Boyne Ramparts Walk follows the old canal towpath alongside the river. Kingfishers, moorhens, otters and herons can be spotted along the way. This adds a different kind of walk to the Greenway, with the river and the wildlife listed here taking centre stage.

A Scéal Trail has been set up in Blackwater Park in Navan. Its planned activities include reading a book, listening to songs and singing along. Check the trail’s condition before visiting.

Just outside Navan is Navan Adventure Centre, an outdoor adventure park offering a wide range of activities in the Boyne Valley in County Meath. Activities and access arrangements may change; check the latest details before visiting.

County Meath as a regional historical context

The Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site lies in County Meath, in a bend of the River Boyne. It includes 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 arrangements may change, check the latest procedures before planning your visit.

Another historical landmark in County Meath is the Hill of Tara: it was the seat of the High King of Ireland and an important centre of political and religious power. These county-wide themes are distinct from Navan’s own attractions and provide an additional regional context for planning your trip.

For the broader travel overview: County Meath.