BOYNE VALLEY
The Boyne Valley, the spiritual heart of Ireland’s Ancient East, is a land where history pre-dates the pyramids. It is a lush, compact landscape steeped in myth, legend, and the monumental heritage of Stone Age farmers, High Kings, and medieval monks.
This region in Counties Meath and Louth is a captivating journey through five millennia of European history. It offers visitors a world of magnificent prehistoric tombs, grand Norman castles, and early Christian ruins along the mystical River Boyne.
Most Popular Attractions
Ancient Wonders & Neolithic Monuments
Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre: The central hub for accessing the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Boyne Valley tombs.
Newgrange: A magnificent 5,200-year-old passage tomb famous for its winter solstice illumination and intricate megalithic art.
Knowth: Another vast Neolithic passage tomb known for the largest collection of megalithic art in Europe.
Dowth: A large, less-excavated passage tomb shrouded in local folklore, part of the Brú na Bóinne complex.
Loughcrew Cairns (Sliabh na Calliaghe): A collection of Neolithic passage tombs on hilltops, offering panoramic views and a quieter, more spiritual experience.
Hill of Tara: The ancient ceremonial seat of the High Kings of Ireland, offering incredible views and an insight into Iron Age royalty and paganism.
Fourknocks: A Neolithic passage tomb noted for its impressive cruciform chamber and decorated stone.
Medieval & Historic Sites
Trim Castle: Ireland’s largest and best-preserved Anglo-Norman castle, a formidable three-story keep set on the River Boyne.
Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre: Located at Oldbridge House, commemorating the 1690 battle between King William III and King James II.
Slane Castle: A majestic castle and estate, famous for its rock concerts and for housing the Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery on its grounds.
Monasterboice: An important early Christian monastic site famed for its spectacularly carved 10th-century Muiredach’s High Cross.
Old Mellifont Abbey: The atmospheric ruins of Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery, founded in 1142.
Bective Abbey: Picturesque ruins of a medieval Cistercian abbey, often used as a filming location, on the banks of the Boyne.
Kells Monastic Site: Home to a well-preserved Round Tower and several magnificent High Crosses, remnants of the monastery where the Book of Kells was finished.
St. Laurence’s Gate (Drogheda): An impressive, two-towered medieval town gate and one of the best-preserved in Ireland.
Culture, Nature & Activities
Slane Irish Whiskey Distillery: Located in an 18th-century stable block on the Slane Castle estate, offering tours and tastings.
Carlingford Heritage Centre: Located in the beautifully restored medieval Holy Trinity Church, exploring the history of the town of Carlingford.
Carlingford Greenway Walking Trail: A scenic trail along the shore of Carlingford Lough in County Louth.
Causey Farm: A working farm offering engaging, hands-on Irish cultural experiences and activities.
Loughcrew Historic Gardens: Splendid gardens set around a medieval motte and the family church of St. Oliver Plunkett.
Boyne Valley Activities: Offering river kayaking, canoeing, and medieval boat tours on the River Boyne near Trim.
Emerald Park (formerly Tayto Park): Ireland’s only theme park and zoo, featuring rollercoasters and family attractions.
County Museum Dundalk: An award-winning museum that explores the history and heritage of County Louth from the Stone Age to the present day.
Beaulieu House and Gardens: A beautiful 17th-century stately home near Drogheda with preserved architecture and tranquil walled gardens.
Activities & Experiences
Step Inside Newgrange (Brú na Bóinne): Take the guided tour of this 5,200-year-old Neolithic passage tomb, famous for its winter solstice alignment, a feat of ancient engineering older than the pyramids.
Explore Trim Castle: Walk the extensive grounds and climb the central keep of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved Anglo-Norman castle, a backdrop for the film Braveheart.
Kayak the Boyne Blueway: Rent a kayak or canoe in Trim and paddle past medieval ruins, including Trim Castle and Bective Abbey, on the tranquil River Boyne.
Visit the Hill of Tara: Stand on the legendary seat of the High Kings of Ireland, explore the ancient earthworks, and touch the Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny).
Tour Slane Distillery: Take a “grain to glass” tour of this working whiskey distillery, set on the historic grounds of Slane Castle, and enjoy a tasting.
Discover Monasterboice: Wander through the ruins of this early Christian monastic settlement and marvel at the intricately carved 10th-century Celtic High Crosses, including the renowned Muiredach’s Cross.
Walk the Boyne Valley Camino: Embark on a pilgrimage walk—a 25km loop starting in Drogheda—connecting historic sites like Monasterboice, Mellifont Abbey, and the Boyne River.
Learn to Make Irish Soda Bread: Take a hands-on culinary workshop, such as those offered at Causey Farm, to bake traditional Irish brown bread and sample local farm life.
Hike the Loughcrew Cairns: Climb the rolling hills near Oldcastle to explore a cluster of Neolithic passage tombs that offer spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Explore the Battle of the Boyne Site: Visit the Oldbridge Estate and Visitor Centre to learn about the famous 1690 battle between King William III and King James II, and walk the beautifully restored walled gardens.
Create Your Own Gin: Book a session at the Listoke Gin School to learn the distillation process and craft a custom bottle of gin using your chosen botanicals.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Recommended for Flexibility: While the region is accessible by public transport, a car offers the greatest freedom to move between the scattered historic sites (e.g., Newgrange, Trim, and the Hill of Tara) on your own schedule. The “Boyne Valley Scenic Drive” brown tourist signs are very helpful.
Limited Public Transport Between Sites: Bus Éireann and Local Link services connect the main towns (Drogheda, Navan, Trim, Kells), but inter-site transport is often infrequent, especially to the smaller or more remote heritage locations. Check the TFI Real Time Ireland app for the most up-to-date bus and rail times.
Accessing Brú na Bóinne: Note that you must go to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre first; access to Newgrange and Knowth is by mandatory guided tour shuttle from the centre only, and pre-booking tickets is essential, especially in high season.
Getting to the Region: The Boyne Valley is easily reachable from Dublin. Regular trains run from Dublin to Drogheda and commuter lines run to towns like Laytown and Dunboyne. Bus Éireann and private coach companies (like Matthews Coach Hire) also offer frequent and efficient services to key towns from Dublin city center.
Pre-Book Newgrange/Knowth: Tickets for the passage tombs at Brú na Bóinne often sell out, especially the sought-after winter solstice lottery tickets. Book your visitor centre and tomb entry tickets online well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Embrace ‘Craic’ and Local Pubs: The Irish term craic (pronounced ‘crack’) means fun, enjoyment, and good times. The local pub is the heart of the community. Look for traditional music (trad sessions), often taking place in the evenings, for a truly authentic cultural experience.
Ancient History vs. Medieval: The Boyne Valley is unique because you can explore two distinct eras of history: the incredible Neolithic sites (5,000+ years old) and the stunning Medieval castles and abbeys. Be sure to mix your visits to appreciate the full breadth of the region’s heritage.
Mind the Weather: Irish weather is famously changeable. Always carry a waterproof jacket, even on sunny days. Sturdy, waterproof footwear is recommended for walking the often muddy earthworks of sites like the Hill of Tara and the grounds of Monasterboice.
Hidden Gems & Unique Experiences:
- Laytown Races: If visiting in September, try to catch this unique spectacle where horses race on the beach, the only officially recognised beach race event in Europe.
- Bective Abbey: A quiet, atmospheric Cistercian abbey ruin on the Boyne River, often overlooked compared to Trim Castle, perfect for an uninterrupted historical wander.
- The Salmon of Knowledge: Keep an eye out for artistic references to the Salmon of Knowledge—a local mythological fish from the story of Fionn Mac Cumhaill—which symbolizes wisdom in Irish folklore.
- The Púca Festival: If visiting around Halloween (Samhain), the towns of Trim and Athboy host this vibrant festival celebrating the ancient Celtic roots of Halloween, which are linked to the Hill of Ward.
Speaking with Locals: While English is the primary language, the locals are famously warm and welcoming. Be sure to greet staff in shops and pubs, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations—they’re proud of their valley and eager to share its stories.
Top Restaurants
Sage & Stone [$15-$25] – A charming farm-to-fork eatery in Duleek located in a converted stable, serving hearty traditional breakfasts and lunches made from locally sourced Meath produce.
The Punt [$15-$25] – A classic, welcoming pub in Drogheda town center known for its unpretentious atmosphere and reliable menu of fish and chips and local beef burgers.
Maguire’s Hill of Tara [$15-$25] – Nestled right at the historic Hill of Tara site, this busy cafe serves traditional Irish stew and world-famous homemade scones to locals and hikers.
Jack’s Bar and Restaurant [$20-$30] – A quintessential riverside pub in Kells that offers a warm atmosphere and a menu focused on traditional roasts and Atlantic seafood.
Conyngham Arms Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in the historic village of Slane, this restored coaching inn serves French-influenced Irish classics using ingredients from the surrounding valley.
The Monasterboice Inn [$25-$40] – A long-standing institution near Drogheda famous for its massive portions, particularly its signature prime steaks and traditional Sunday roasts.
The Snailbox [$20-$35] – A quirky, traditional venue in Kilmoon known for its massive collection of baseball caps and a menu of honest, country-style Irish cooking.
Brogans of Trim [$20-$35] – A lively spot in the shadow of Trim Castle that serves traditional pub grub with a reputation for the best local beef in the Boyne Valley.
The Lime Kiln [$25-$40] – Set in the coastal village of Julianstown, this gastropub offers a rustic setting and a menu that highlights the best of the region’s seasonal vegetables and meats.
Bennett’s of Ardee [$20-$35] – A family-run favorite in Ardee town providing a traditional dining experience with a focus on local Louth lamb and fresh seafood.
The Central [$25-$40] – A multi-award-winning gastropub in Navan with a vibrant atmosphere, offering a massive menu that caters to every traditional craving from pies to seafood.
The Stockwell Arms [$20-$35] – One of the oldest pubs in Drogheda, featuring medieval walls and a menu focused on simple, high-quality local ingredients and craft beers.
Teach na Teamhrach [$25-$40] – Located on the outskirts of Navan, this traditional spot is a favorite for families looking for generous portions of Irish comfort food.
The Headfort Arms [$25-$45] – A historic hotel restaurant in Kells that takes pride in its “Boyne Valley Breakfast” and traditional evening carvery.
Smith’s of Drogheda [$20-$35] – A reliable, old-school restaurant in the heart of town specializing in fresh seafood landed at nearby Clogherhead.
The Glyde Inn [$25-$45] – A coastal gem in Annagassan known for its traditional atmosphere and award-winning “Razor Clams” caught right in the bay.
Scholars Townhouse [$30-$50] – Set in a former Victorian school in Drogheda, this elegant spot serves refined versions of traditional Irish dishes in a wood-paneled dining room.
Inside Out [$25-$40] – A popular Slane village restaurant that offers a cozy, Mediterranean-influenced take on local Irish produce in a converted stone house.
Caffrey’s of Batterstown [$25-$45] – A famous roadside pub in south Meath that locals frequent for its high-quality steaks and traditional Irish hospitality.
Lawrence’s of Trim [$20-$35] – A cozy and unpretentious bar in Trim town center perfect for a quiet pint and a bowl of fresh mussels or a steak sandwich.
79 West Street [$30-$50] – A trendy, modern eatery in Drogheda featuring an eclectic menu of international fusion dishes made with Meath-sourced ingredients.
Zucchini’s [$30-$50] – A stylish, contemporary restaurant in Navan town that offers a creative menu of modern European dishes with a strong local following.
Glebe Gardens [$30-$55] – Located near Oldbridge House, this modern cafe/restaurant focuses on hyper-local ingredients and creative, vegetable-forward seasonal plates.
Brabazon Restaurant [$40-$70] – Situated within Tankardstown House near Slane, this restaurant offers a creative and sophisticated “Garden to Plate” dining experience.
Eastern Seaboard [$30-$60] – A bustling, modern bar and grill in Drogheda that reinterprets local seafood and meat with bold, international flavors.
The Signal Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located in the Station House Hotel in Kilmessan, this creative spot offers modern Irish cuisine in the unique setting of a former railway station.
Franzini’s [$30-$50] – A modern, vibrant restaurant in Trim that offers “around the world” flavors using exclusively local Boyne Valley produce.
Roots at Slane Castle [$30-$55] – A modern culinary concept located on the grounds of Slane Castle, focusing on sustainable, creative dishes inspired by the estate’s lands.
The Khyber Garden [$25-$45] – A high-end Indian restaurant in Kells that provides a modern, creative twist on traditional spices using fresh Irish meats.
Tankardstown Bistro [$35-$60] – The more casual but equally creative sister to Brabazon, offering modern bistronomy in a relaxed, stylish courtyard setting near Slane.
Room 8 [$25-$45] – A modern, hip breakfast and lunch spot in Navan known for creative plating and inventive twists on brunch classics.
Bia at Slane [$30-$50] – A contemporary dining room in Slane village that focuses on clean, modern flavors and a rotating seasonal menu.
Harty’s of Drogheda [$30-$55] – A modern bar and restaurant with a focus on creative cocktails and contemporary Irish small plates in a sleek setting.
The Morning Star [$25-$45] – A Tullyallen favorite that blends a modern gastropub feel with creative, internationally-inspired daily specials.
The Rabbit Hole [$50-$80] – A refined, intimate dining room in Kells town center focusing on high-end local meats and an extensive, curated wine list.
The Great Hall at Slane Castle [$70-$120] – An opulent fine dining experience in Slane, offering historic surroundings and a menu that highlights the heritage of the Boyne Valley.
The Dining Room at Bellinter House [$60-$90] – A sophisticated restaurant in a Palladian mansion near Navan, known for its elegant presentation and focus on seasonal excellence.
Vanilla Pod [$50-$85] – An award-winning fine dining spot in Kells that offers a refined menu focusing on the “Best of the Boyne” local producers.
Eden Restaurant [$60-$100] – Located within the d Hotel in Drogheda, this high-end spot offers panoramic river views and a sophisticated modern Irish menu.
Dunboyne Castle Dining [$60-$110] – A grand setting in south Meath providing a classic fine dining experience with a focus on contemporary French-Irish fusion.
The Preston Restaurant [$50-$85] – A refined dining space in Navan town known for its impeccable service and high-quality local lamb and beef dishes.
Forge Restaurant [$70-$110] – A hidden gem in Slane that offers a sophisticated, chef-led tasting menu experience in a beautifully restored stone building.
Sheridan’s Cheesemongers [$20-$40] – Not a traditional restaurant, but their HQ in Pottlereagh offers unique cheese platters and local charcuterie in a rustic barn setting.
The Cider Mill [$15-$30] – A unique stop in Stackallen where you can enjoy local craft cider alongside simple, rustic food pairings from the orchard.
Loughcrew Megalithic Centre Cafe [$15-$25] – A quirky, spiritual spot near Oldcastle serving home-baked cakes and light lunches to those visiting the ancient cairns.
The Limekiln Gastropub [$30-$50] – A unique coastal spot in Julianstown that combines a bakery, deli, and high-end pub under one roof.
George’s Patisserie [$15-$30] – A high-end bakery and cafe in Slane village offering unique French-style pastries and light lunches with a local twist.
The Spire Restaurant [$40-$65] – Located in a converted church in Kells, this restaurant offers a unique architectural setting for a memorable dinner.
Martry Mill [$15-$25] – A working watermill near Kells where you can occasionally enjoy heritage bread and local treats in a 17th-century setting.
The Thatch [$25-$45] – A strikingly beautiful thatched-roof pub on the outskirts of Drogheda, offering a unique historic atmosphere and excellent local seafood.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Kilberry Restaurant: Located in Kilberry near Navan, this establishment offers exquisite cocktails and an extensive wine selection alongside its modern Irish cuisine.
Nelly’s Bar: A premium venue in the heart of Drogheda on West Street, recently refurbished, which prides itself on a wide selection of cocktails served in a stylish and cosy atmosphere, perfect for a night out.
The Railway Bar: Found on Railway Street in Navan, this “low-key local” offers a menu of “curious cocktails with a nod to the flavours of Ireland” alongside an outdoor heated beer garden.
The Piano Bar: A sophisticated bar adjacent to The Palace Nightclub in Navan, hosting live music and late-night DJs, serving expertly mixed cocktails from a dedicated list.
McCormack’s of Trim: This traditional Irish pub on Castle Street, directly opposite Trim Castle, features a cocktail menu of handcrafted, mouthwatering cocktails curated by talented mixologists.
The Central Bar & Restaurant: Located in the heart of Navan town centre, this multi-award-winning gastropub and venue boasts seven bars and a rooftop terrace, offering a full range of high-quality drinks, including cocktails.
The Black Bull Inn: Situated on the historic Dublin Road in Drogheda, this family-run gastropub offers a selection of superb crafted cocktails in a vibrant, welcoming social hub with live music every weekend.
Tribe Restaurant – Duleek: Housed in a beautifully restored church, this unique dining spot near Connell’s House & Barn is famed for its delicious sourdough pizza, welcoming atmosphere, and, notably, its cocktails.
The Kelltic Bar: Located at the Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells, this bar and stylish Courtyard venue offers a true Irish pub experience with live entertainment and, as a gastro pub, a selection of drinks including cocktails.
Cagney’s Bar: A traditional pub in Drogheda that has embraced a more modern offering, known for its live music and, importantly, its cocktails.
The Cross: Another popular spot in Drogheda, this bar is known for offering a mix of live music, food, and a selection of cocktails.
Headfort Lounge: A more relaxed and traditional bar within the Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells, offering a comfortable setting for enjoying a quiet drink from the hotel’s comprehensive bar selection.
Amigo’s Bar (James Griffin Pub): One of the bespoke private party rooms within the long-established James Griffin Pub in Trim, this space is available for events and is supported by the pub’s extensive drink offerings.
The Horseshoe Bar (James Griffin Pub): Also part of the historic James Griffin Pub in Trim, this bespoke area is perfect for parties and enjoying the pub’s award-winning service.
Brogans Bar & Hotel: Located in Trim, this spot offers a full bar service alongside its hotel and grill, with the option for drinks in a traditional setting or in the Bakers Loft live music venue.
The Palace Nightclub: One of the leading music and entertainment venues in the Boyne Valley, located in Navan. Open late Thursday to Sunday, it features an exceptional cocktail menu, top-class lighting and sound, and regularly hosts international DJs and bands.
Weavers Bar & Venue: Located in Drogheda, this venue often hosts themed parties and late-night DJ events, acting as a key nightlife spot for dancing and larger social gatherings in the area.
Odd Mollies: A popular Drogheda spot known for hosting various events, including techno nights and live bands, catering to a late-night crowd seeking a vibrant club atmosphere.
The Palace (Late Night Venue): The main nightclub section of the Navan venue, boasting stylish décor, a suspension bridge overlooking the dance floor, and a sophisticated system for club-goers to dance until the late hours.
Bakers Loft (Brogans Bar & Hotel): While not a traditional ‘club’, this dedicated live music venue within Brogans in Trim transforms into a vibrant late-night spot with its own sound system and bar, often featuring top Irish artists and late-night music.
The Steeple Bar (James Griffin Pub): While primarily a party room within the Trim pub, it offers a separate space with a late-night atmosphere that can host larger groups, providing a lively evening out.
The Central (Ruby Room): An exclusive room and event space within The Central Bar & Restaurant in Navan, which is used for parties and events, offering a more tailored late-night experience with music and dancing.
The Piano Bar (Late Bar): Operating until late, especially on weekends, this area of the Navan venue transitions from a sophisticated bar with live music to a late-night venue with DJs playing the best of the 90’s and 00’s.
Eden (Nelly’s Bar): A leafy, lavish private event space within Nelly’s in Drogheda, ideal for celebrations and larger groups looking for a glamorous setting with food and music that encourages dancing all night.
James Griffin Pub (Late Venue): While a traditional pub, it operates late and attracts a significant crowd, especially on weekends with live music and a lively, multi-bar setting that effectively serves as a social hub for late-night entertainment in Trim.
Sally Roger’s Bar: This traditional Irish pub in Trim, located by the river, features a late bar with a DJ or live music on Friday and Saturday nights, transitioning into a lively venue for a night out.
The Palace (Outdoor Terrace): Located adjacent to The Piano Bar in Navan, this outdoor area offers a unique setting to enjoy drinks and the late-night ambiance, particularly during warmer months.
Headfort Arms Hotel Function Room: The hotel in Kells often hosts larger themed events and late-night discos, especially on holidays or for private parties, serving as a dance-focused venue for local gatherings.
The Village Inn Pub: This traditional family-run pub in Slane often hosts regular live music on the weekends, creating a bustling and lively late-night atmosphere for dancing and socialising in the heart of the village.
Soho bars venue space: A spot in Drogheda that frequently hosts late-night party events and club nights, appealing to a younger crowd looking for a high-energy dance floor experience.