My Ireland
Oops... no internet connection
While offline, you can still add items to My board. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.
Loughcrew Cairns
Explore mystical man-made stone structures where rituals, celebrations, burials and more took place thousands of years ago...
On the highest hills in County Meath, dozens of passage tombs dot the landscape forming a megalithic cemetery for the ages. Together, the ancient monuments are known as the Loughcrew Cairns. These prehistoric tombs generally consist of a narrow passage leading to a main chamber where the cremated remains of the dead were placed and then covered with earth and stones. Rock art carved into the stones, including abstract circles, spirals and other shapes, sets Irish passage tombs apart from others in Europe. Guided tours of these millennia-old structures depart from the Loughcrew Megalithic Centre at the base of the hills. Don’t miss the Hag’s Chair, a huge stone that visitors like to sit on and make a wish to the gods, both ancient and modern!
After exploring the cairns, return to the courtyard at the centre for a bite in Nelly’s café. Bewley’s tea and coffee, homemade cakes and award-winning Maud’s ice cream are all on the menu. A bonus attraction in the courtyard comes in the form of Maggie Heaney’s cottage, a traditional thatched-roof gem with whitewashed walls and an eclectic array of everyday items. From the cairns to the café to the cottage, a great day out is assured at this rural location steeped in history.
Loughcrew passage tomb, County Meath
Need to know
The Loughcrew Cairns are open daily. A good time to visit is the spring or autumn equinox – (approx March 21 and September 23), when the first rays of the rising sun illuminate the backstone of Cairn T.
The Loughcrew Guided Tour and the Loughcrew Spiritual Tour can be booked by emailing info@loughcrewmega.com.
You can book camper van, camping and glamping accommodation at the site if you fancy staying in the area longer.
Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre - Newgrange and Knowth
The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is the access point for guided tours of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth—Ireland’s world-famous Neolithic monuments in County Meath. All admissions are processed through the visitor centre, which also features exhibitions.
Meath
View detailsAttraction
Boyne Valley Activities
Boyne Valley Activities are a well established activities company set on the banks of the River Boyne in Trim, County Meath. They offer a wide range of activities that cater for the young and old at heart. They specialise in kayaking, archery, medieval river tours and children's outdoor camps.
Meath
View detailsAttraction
Tankardstown House
The beautiful Tankardstown Estate near the village of Slane, County Meath, comprises an imposing Manor House and Orangery, a choice of accommodation options, and the award winning Brabazon Restaurant, all set in 80 acres of park, woodlands and gardens.
Meath
View detailsAttraction
Rock Farm Slane
Rock Farm Slane is a gold-certified Ecotourism Ireland Glamping, Eco-lodge, tree climbing, electric bike hire and kayaking centre on an organic farm on the Slane Castle estate. They hold a Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence with 5 star reviews.
Meath
View detailsAccommodation
Bellinter House Hotel & Spa
Bellinter House Hotel & Spa, a countryside retreat. Offering you the comfort and elegance of a luxury boutique hotel. Bellinter House Hotel & Spa invites you to relax and indulge yourself in the heart of the Boyne Valley.
Meath
View detailsAccommodation
County Meath Golf Club
County Meath Golf Club, in Trim, County Meath is a challenging 18-hole parkland course. It has 18 sand based greens designed by Tom Craddock and tests the ability of all levels of golfers.
Meath
View detailsAttraction
Loughcrew Historic Gardens
Loughcrew is located near Oldcastle, County Meath, and offers 2.5 hectares of splendid gardens for visitors to explore. The property includes a medieval mote and the family church and tower house of St Oliver Plunkett.
Meath
View detailsAttraction
Slane Distillery
Visit Slane Distillery in an original 18th century stable block on the grounds of Slane Castle in Slane, County Meath. Enjoy an immersive tour, taste fine whiskey and learn about the history of the distillery.
Meath
View detailsAttraction
The Station House Hotel
Located in the heart of County Meath only 20 minutes from Dublin, The Station House Hotel, which was originally a railway station, offers the very best in luxury accommodation and fine dining in the award winning Signal Restaurant.
Meath
View detailsAccommodation
Irish Military Museum & Park
The Irish Military Museum & Park in Collon, County Meath, offers a fascinating insight into Irish participants’ involvement in both World War One and World War Two, as well as other military conflicts in world history.
Meath
View detailsAttraction