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DutchIreland’s Ancient East, where vibrant history and modern life meet, covers the area outside of Dublin and east of the River Shannon, extending from Carlingford to Cavan and south to Cork City and East County Cork moving eastwards to Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford and Wicklow.
This is touring region like no other covering 17 counties and can be as long or as short as you want. Connecting the past and present, this is the perfect opportunity to have a personal journey of discovery in this relaxing, off the beaten track, lush beautiful landscape. Our suggestion is to break it into areas, don’t rush and don’t try and fit it all in on one trip, a great excuse to return. Pitch up for a few nights at one of Irelands Ancient East top quality approved caravan & camping sites.
There are three unique areas: the Land of 5,000 Dawns, the Historic Heartlands and the Celtic Coast. We are going to break our suggestions on things to do, see, explore and experience into these areas.
First up is the Land of 5000 Dawns which covers Cavan, Longford, Meath, Monaghan and Westmeath. There is so much to do in this area – forest parks, megalithic tombs, castles, gardens, adventure centres, watersports, the list is endless. Here are out top activities, things to do and places to visit in the Land of 5000 Dawns.
Explore the history of the Land of 5000 Dawns
The Megalithic Passage Tombs of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, County Meath, were built around 3200BC making them older than Stonehenge in England and the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre in Donore, County Meath, is an information hub to explore Ireland’s mysterious Neolithic monuments, Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth and is the only access point to Newgrange and Knowth. 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 Loughcrew Cairns are one of Ireland’s archaeological treasures and can be found just 3km east of Oldcastle, County Meath. The site comprises a group of 5,000-year-old Neolithic passage tombs. The site is spread across three hilltops, Carnbane East, Carnbane West, and Patrickstown. Cairn T is one of the best preserved and most accessible tombs at Loughcrew and appears to be the central tomb of the whole complex. This tomb is reputed to be the resting place of Ollamh Fodhla a legendary King of Ireland. Pitch up at the Loughcrew Megalithic Centre just short hike to explore the ancient tombs.
Step back in time at Cavan County Museum to life in the World War I trenches at the largest outdoor replica trench in Ireland and the UK. Built to official specifications, the 350m long trench includes frontline, communication and support trenches, using over 6,000 sandbags in its construction. Discover fascinating artefacts dating from the Stone Age through to the 20th century, with material spanning over 6,000 years. See what life was like on the battlefield at the World War One Trench Experience, the largest outdoor replica trench open to the public in Ireland and the UK. Stop off at the Percy French Gallery and admire the works of Cavan’s greatest songwriter, Percy French. Cavan County Museum is suitable for all the family and is a great rainy day option for a day out.
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. The movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson was filmed at Trim Castle in 1995.
Athlone Castle and Visitor Centre is a treat for all the family, with courtyard picnic facilities and picturesque town views. This 12th century stone castle was built for King John by Bishop John de Gray of Norwich and designed to defend the crossing point of the river at Athlone. Today the castle has been transformed into a multi sensory experience in which family friendly multimedia displays and interactive games guide visitors through its halls. The great Siege of Athlone is relived in a 360º cinematic experience, transporting visitors to the centre of the 1691 battle. Eight newly designed exhibition spaces pursue both a chronological and thematic sequence that mixes hands-on and fun experiences, and features dress-up activities for children and adults.
Belvedere House and Gardens located in Mullingar, County Westmeath, consists of The Victorian Walled Garden, The Enchanted Glen and The Parklands with woodland trials through the ancient wood. The estate comprises one hundred and sixty acres of parkland with six kilometres of magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks, including the Narnia Trail. Several follies adorn the landscape including Ireland’s largest folly, The Jealous Wall. The restored Belvedere House is an 18th Century hunting/fishing lodge and the stable block is home to a modern visitor centre with fully licensed cafe. Adjacent to the visitor centre are two children’s play areas, with another at lakeshore along with a zip-line.
The Kilbeggan Distillery in County Westmeath is the oldest distillery in the world, dating back to 1757. Discover real artisan Irish whiskey being made today and learn how Kilbeggan preserves its heritage. All tours enjoy a masterclass in tasting 3 different whiskeys. Find out how Irish whiskey was made in decades past. Discover the families that owned the distillery and the importance the local community had on the brand you see today. You will learn about the traditional methods of mashing in oak mash tuns, fermenting in Oregon pine vats, and will see the new Kilbeggan malt spirit flowing from ancient pot stills. The original waterwheel which once powered the whole distillery is still on show today.
Spend a few days in one of the great caravan & camping sites in Meath and Westmeath and explore the great history of this area.
Get the adrenalin rush with activities for all the family to enjoy
At Emerald Park, Ireland’s only theme park, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. 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. For that adrenaline rush 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.
Carlingford Adventure Centre in Carlingford, County Louth, is perfect for all the family to enjoy an action packed day out. Take to the water and explore beautiful Carlingford Lough before trying fun activities in the Cooley Mountains. Located midway between Dublin and Belfast, Carlingford Adventure Centre provides outdoor pursuits and activity holidays for kids and adults. There are over 20 great activities here in three different zones; on the ground, on the water and in the air. Try your hand at canoeing, kayaking, water trampolines, rock climbing, abseiling, archery, laser quest, the Crystal Maze challenge, the high ropes course and much more.
Viking Tours in Athlone, County Westmeath runs two main sailing routes down the River Shannon to Lough Ree and Clonmacnoise. The ship departs from the quayside of Athlone Castle. Set sail on the 75 minute round trip to Lough Ree or take the 90 minute one way trip to Clonmacnoise. Lough Ree cruise travels upstream on Ireland’s longest river. There is live commentary on local history, the religious settlements on the Islands and tales of Viking treasure. The Clonmacnoise Cruise travels downstream on the River Shannon to the famous 6th Century monastery of Clonmacnoise. There is live commentary on local history, monastic life and the surrounding flora and fauna.
Experience the great outdoors in a leisurely fashion
Dún a Rí Forest Park covers 565 acres Kingscourt, Cavan. The park is famous for its wishing well and wide variety of shrubs and rhododendrons. It features a dramatic gorge embracing part of the Cabra Estate. There are four walks of approximately 1.5-2km in length all with points of interest and plentiful, varied wildlife.
Cavan Burren Park is a unique place where geological and archaeological features are gently revealed in an open and natural setting. Peaceful birdsong, intriguing nature, stunning views, a Visitor Centre and five marked trails are waiting to be discovered. One of the marked trails is multi-access, so this a fantastic place for everyone to explore (and it’s dog friendly too).
Rossmore Forest Park is located only two miles southwest of Monaghan Town and covers a large area of approximately six by three miles. It covers over 320 hectares with many forest walks, a wonderful play park for children, a giant sculpture trail and remnants of its past life as an estate. Within its bounds are five fishing lakes. There are great walks within Rossmore Forest Park. The park has well maintained paths, several of which are suitable for wheelchair bound visitors. These walks range in length from two to four miles and are well posted.
These are just a few ideas for your trip to the Land of 5000 Dawns in Ireland’s Ancient East. So whether you are planning a few days away or a longer break there is plenty to see and do as part of your caravan & camping holiday. Click here for a list of top quality approved caravan & camping parks located within Ireland’s Ancient East
It is time to get planning and booking for your next trip away. Camping Ireland has so much information to help you plan your caravan & camping trip away. Our website is very user-friendly and has a number of great features which makes it very easy to navigate. One of the new features is that you can now add filters to your selection. This will allow you to get information on parks that are specific to your needs.
You can now filter for sites as follows:
Camping type – camping, glamping, mobile home hire, etc.
Holiday type – beach holiday, countryside, family-friendly, dog friendly, etc.
Facilities – beach nearby, playground, games room, shop, etc.
County
Region – Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s Ancient East, Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Dublin or Northern Ireland
Also, many sites are now offering online booking which will help you secure your pitch at the click of a button.
Whatever you want Camping Ireland has something to suit everyone. Enjoy the independence and flexibility that camping in Ireland can offer in quality approved sites. We look forward to welcoming you to Ireland’s outdoor living.
