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Situated in Ireland’s Midlands and known as the Royal County, Meath was once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, and is one of Ireland’s most historic counties with an overwhelming array of mind-blowing sites. These include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange and the Hill of Tara, which was the traditional seat of the High Kings.. Read More
Meath is a wonderful mix of ancient history and busy towns. The prehistoric Newgrange in the Boyne Valley, the historical town of Kells and an array of castles and monasteries dotted across the county make it an ideal destination for any history buff. The Boyne Valley, birthplace of Ireland’s Ancient East, is a place steeped in history. Combined with its lush green landscape and magnificent waterways, fantastic food and drink, outdoor adventures and cultural gems, this wealth of heritage makes it a really special destination. Meath is known as the Royal County because many centuries ago aspiring High Kings of Ireland came to the Hill of Tara in the centre of County Meath to be crowned in elaborate kingship rituals.
Visit places filled with unforgetable experiences and prepare for an adventure through a land of legends. From brave knights, castles and round towers to tales of emigrants, monks and ancient civilisations, Meath is brimming with stories, culture, attractions, festivals and fun. The Boyne Valley is the birthplace of Ireland’s Ancient East and has some of the world’s most mythical landscapes. The rich valley is home to a range of heritage sites including the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Brú na Bóinne (Newgrange and Knowth) as well as Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle at Trim.
By Air
The nearest major airport to Westmeath is Dublin Airport just over 30 minutes drive offering direct flights from over 100 destinations around Europe, the USA and Middle East. Shannon Airport, Ireland West Airport and Belfast Airport are also very accessible from Westmeath.
By Boat
The main ports of entry are Cork, Dublin, Rosslare and Belfast. Dublin Port is approximately 30 minutes drive from County Meath. Brittany Ferries operates a service between Cork-Roscoff (France). Rosslare and Dublin ports offer daily services between Ireland-UK and services to France and Northern Spain. The following companies offer ferry services into Ireland – Stena Line, Irish Ferries, P&O Ferries, Kintyre Express, and Isle of Man Steam Packet
By Bus
There are many Bus Éireann Expressway services operating in County Meath connecting with Dublin, Dublin Airport, Westport, Galway, Belfast and Shannon Airport
By Rail
Meath is linked by rail via the Dublin-Belfast line through Drogheda (at Laytown and Gormanston), the M3 Parkway-Dublin line (via Dunboyne) and in the south at Enfield (on the Dublin to Sligo line). Visit www.irishrail.ie for more information.
Brú na Bóinne
The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre in Donore, County Meath, is an information hub for the thousands of visitors eager to explore Ireland’s mysterious Neolithic monuments, Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth. An extensive exhibition includes a full scale replica of the chamber at Newgrange (a World Heritage site), as well as a model of one of the smaller tombs at Knowth. The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is the only access point to Newgrange and Knowth, which lie north of the river. All tours of Newgrange start at the centre, before visitors cross the river via a footbridge and are brought by shuttle bus to the monuments.
Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre
The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre gives an in-depth insight into the battle between King William III and his father-in-law King James II in 1690. Explore the colourful tale of the Battle of the Boyne through detailed displays and historical reenactments. Learn the story of one of the most important battles in Irish history. See models of the battle brought to life through narration and lasers showing the cunning guile of the victors. Plan your visit around the historical reenactments where guides dress up in replica costumes and recreate the famous battle. Stroll around the gardens after visiting the house. Large walls, covered in flowers surround a natural amphitheatre,
Trim Castle
Trim Castle is a stunning Norman castle on the south bank of the River Boyne. The movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson was filmed at Trim Castle in 1995. Trim Castle, Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle is a must-visit in the historically rich Boyne Valley in Trim, County Meath. It was constructed over a thirty year period by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter as the home of the Lordship of Meath. This magnificent site experienced a renaissance in 2000 when it was opened to the public after being excavated and restored.
Emerald Park
Escape to the Ireland’s only theme park and zoo located in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East only 30 minutes drive from Dublin. Emerald Park is home to Ireland’s only water flume ride, The Viking Voyage. It is filled with thrill seeking attractions, a junior area, playgrounds, shows and entertainment plus a fantastic zoo which is home to over 250 animals. Take a ride on the wild side and meet some big cats, tigers, leopards, or visit a free flying birds of prey show and see some of the world’s largest eagles as well as the park’s iconic owls. Take a spin on the legendary Cú Chulainn roller coaster or for those young adventurers why not explore the playgrounds, jump on a train ride, and have an exciting adventure on Dino Dash.
Loughcrew Cairns
The Loughcrew Cairns site is one of the four main passage tomb sites in Ireland, thought to date from about 3300 BC. The sites consist of cruciform chambers covered in most instances by a mound. A unique style of megalithic petroglyphs are seen there, including lozenge shapes, leaf shapes, as well as circles, some surrounded by radiating lines. The site is spread across three hilltops, Carnbane East, Carnbane West, and Patrickstown.
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