We are proud to introduce a compact and accessible landscape that showcases 5,000 years of Europe's history - the Boyne Valley. Situated in the east of Ireland, just 20 minutes outside Dublin city, this valley is the birthplace of Ireland's Ancient East, and its history dates back to 5,000 years ago. The Boyne Valley is a unique holiday destination with a wealth of heritage, lush green landscape, magnificent waterways, fantastic food and drink, outdoor adventures and cultural gems. It offers lots of fun family activities, making it an ideal destination for a perfect holiday.
Uncover tombs that are older than the pyramids at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne, or find the birthplace of Samhain on the Hill of Ward (Tlachtga). Explore monasteries like Kells or Mellifont Abbey, discover a medieval armoury at Trim Visitor Centre, brave a battleground at the famous Battle of the Boyne Site or test your courage on the legendary Cú Chulainn rollercoaster at Emerald Park. Walk the Boyne Valley Camino, cycle the Royal Canal Greenway, try fishing in the Boyne or Blackwater, breathe in the fresh air atop the Hill of Tara, take the plunge at Clogherhead or Bettystown beach or savour a sunset at the prehistoric cairns of Loughcrew. The possibilities are endless.
Ireland's Ancient East is home to stories, culture, attractions, festivals, and fun. From brave knights, castles, and round towers to tales of emigrants, monks, and ancient civilizations, this region is brimming with history. The Boyne Valley has some of the world's most mythical landscapes and is home to a range of heritage sites and monuments, including Ireland's largest Anglo-Norman Castle.
Explore Boyne Valley's abundance of heritage sites by boat, bike, and foot. Take an electric bike from Rock Farm, wander around Newgrange, and float along River Boyne with Boyne Valley Activities to marvel at Trim Castle.
The Boyne Valley has a packed calendar of events and festivals with something of interest for everyone. From musical events, such as the International Festival for Irish Harp, Boyne Music Festival, Navan Choral Festival, and Vantastival, to cultural extravaganzas such as the Hinterland Festival, the Drogheda Arts Festival, and the Guth Gafa International Film Festival, there are a variety of literary, culinary, and artistic experiences to be enjoyed.
For equine enthusiasts, the Irish Grand National at the Fairyhouse Easter Racing Festival is a must. Summer festivals such as the Salmon of Knowledge and Trim Haymaking festivals are filled with fun for all the family.
Autumn brings Halloween, which originated in Co Meath over 3,000 years ago. The Spirits of Meath festival is stuffed full of scary and family-friendly events for the Halloween period. In addition to this, the new and exciting Púca Festival offers folklore, food, myth, and music.
Christmas experiences at Causey Farm and Tayto Park, amongst others, provide a magical way to experience the Boyne Valley in winter. Or perhaps you will be one of the lucky lottery winners to visit Newgrange at the Solstice!
Discover Boyne Valley offers tours and itineraries to explore the dramatic landscapes that have been the background to the film Braveheart. You can even take a trip in a paddleboat from Game of Thrones. The area offers some of Ireland's best seasonal cuisine through the Boyne Valley Food Series and is home to an emerging number of distilleries. Try your hand at creating your own gin at Listoke Distillery or embark on a whiskey tour at Boann and Slane Castle.
There are 5,000 years of history at Boyne Valley, with the Brú na Bóinne monuments dating back further than Egypt's Pyramids of Giza. Visit the site of the Battle of Boyne and relive history at Trim Living History.
The Boyne Valley, once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, brings to you food experiences fit for any king or queen. The rolling farmlands are home to a growing number of artisan producers and their products are used in several restaurants and eateries.
