11 unique experiences to try in County Meath
Few counties boast magnificent Neolithic tombs, movie-star castles and enormous wooden rollercoasters. If you’re in search of something a little different, Meath might just surprise you.
Here are 11 Unique Experiences in Meath that the Royal County has to share.
From ancient burial sites to stunning landscapes, 11 Unique Experiences in Meath await the adventurous traveler.
Discover 11 Unique Experiences in Meath and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this beautiful region.
- 1.Brú na Bóinne
- 2. Loughcrew Cairns
- 3. Kells High Crosses
- 4. Slane Castle and Distillery
- 5. Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre
- 6. Irish Military War Museum
- 7. Hill of Tara
- 8. Trim Castle
- 9. Emerald Park
- 10. Boyne Valley Activities
- 11.Púca Festival
Discover 11 Unique Experiences in Meath
View places on map1Brú na Bóinne
Home to three fascinating Neolithic passage tombs, Brú na Bóinne is a really special place to experience. Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth are 5,000-year-old engineering marvels, surrounded in mystery and intrigue. Best known for the illumination of its passage chamber during the winter solstice, access to Newgrange’s chamber on solstice mornings is decided by a lottery system, but visitors can experience a recreation of the event at any time of the year.
Newgrange might be the rockstar of Irish passage tombs but the lesser known Loughcrew Cairns are not to be overlooked. Come prepared for a steep climb to check out the collection of tombs and the unique style of megalithic petroglyphs spread across three hilltops. Gather at dawn on the March and September equinoxes to see the sun shine through the passage at Cairn T, illuminating the symbols carved into the back wall of the chamber and the corbelled roof. It’s truly magical, which is fitting for a site rumoured to have been created by a witch.
A few minutes down the road, standing in the shadow of the Round Tower at Kells, are three High Crosses built in the 9th century by the monks of St Colmcille’s Iona from Scotland. The same monastery produced the world famous Book of Kells. A fourth cross, with carvings to signify a fugitive could claim sanctuary within the boundaries of this monastic area, has been moved a short distance away to outside Kells Courthouse.
Kells High Crosses
Explore 11 Unique Experiences in Meath for an unforgettable journey.
Kells, Co. MeathOpen this item in the map4Slane Castle and Distillery
You may have seen your favourite band at Slane Castle, but you probably didn’t take in the sights of the 1,500-acre estate. Have a nose around the home of one of Ireland’s most famous aristocrats, Henry Conyngham, Earl of Mount Charles, and soak up the history of the 300-year-old estate with a castle tour. Leave time to check out Slane Distillery; a working whiskey distillery on the grounds where you’ll journey from grain to glass as you see, feel and smell Slane Irish Whiskey being created, before finishing up in the premium tasting rooms for a tipple.
When visiting, make sure to take part in these 11 Unique Experiences in Meath that showcase its unique charm.
5Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre
While you’re in the neighbourhood, visit the site of the historic battle in the 17th century between rival monarchs King James II and his son-in-law William III. The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre explores the clash over the British throne with a laser battle site model and displays of original and replica weaponry. Go for a stroll in the Victorian Garden with its unique sunken Octagonal Garden or venture further on one of the five battle site walks. Afterwards visit the Tearoom Pavilion to finish off your trip with lunch on the outdoor deck.
While you’re in battle mode, tag on a visit to the Irish Military War Museum just ten minutes away. There you’ll step into a World War, join 210,000 Irishmen at the mud-sodden trenches of France, Flanders and the Dardanelles, and feel the state of The Emergency. The stunning detail at the museum is complemented by one of the world’s finest collections of deactivated weapons and World War II Allied and Axis vehicles — you can even take a spin in a real tank.
As you explore, remember these 11 Unique Experiences in Meath that should top your list.
Climb atop the Hill of Tara and stand where 142 Irish high kings are said to have reigned, and where St Patrick himself allegedly confronted the ancient religion of the pagans. A lot has happened here, but the present day magic of the hill is in the view. On a clear day you can see half the counties of Ireland, as far as the Mourne Mountains. See if you can spot the brilliant white quartz front of Newgrange to the northeast and the Hill of Slane to the north.
The backdrop of the film Braveheart, Mel Gibson may be nowhere to be seen at Trim Castle today, but it’s still worth the visit. Virtually still intact, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland brings you straight back to the 1100s, and stands tall among Irish fortresses. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the impressive grounds, but book a guided tour early to access the castle’s three-storeyed keep.
Each of these 11 Unique Experiences in Meath offers something different, from history to adventure.
The title of Ireland’s biggest amusement park belongs to Emerald Park in Ashbourne. Turn yourself upside down on Europe’s largest wooden rollercoaster, fly down the zipline, say hello to the Amur tigers or run the legs off the kids at the adventure playground – there’s fun to be had for all ages.
While the Boyne Valley has much historical significance, there’s plenty of craic to be had here too. Boyne Valley Activities offer lots of options for families and groups. Hop in a kayak through the medieval town of Trim or get soaked white-water rafting on the Boyne. If you’re staying on dry land, head for the treetops and test your nerves with the High Ropes Challenge and then fly to the bottom by zipline.
Boyne Valley Activities
Trim, Co. MeathOpen this item in the map11Púca Festival
Not many people know it, but Halloween actually originated in Meath. It’s believed to have roots in the festival of Samhain, which centred around the Festival of Fires at the Hills of Tara and Ward. Now, the eerie tales of Ireland’s Ancient East are brought to life in spooky country houses and on interactive tours during the Púca Festival, which began in 2019. With a mischievous spirit, the festival of ghosts takes place around Halloween in Trim, Athboy and Drogheda, and things get fun just as light turns to dark.
Pack your bags and see more of the Royal County on a history-filled short break in Meath.
Don’t miss out on these 11 Unique Experiences in Meath that make this destination truly special.
Each of the 11 Unique Experiences in Meath contributes to the region’s fascinating narrative.
Make your way through these 11 Unique Experiences in Meath and discover its hidden treasures.
For an enriching adventure, embark on these 11 Unique Experiences in Meath that promise to delight.
Don’t forget to check out the top 11 Unique Experiences in Meath during your visit.
