County Meath Ireland Map
County Meath is located in the eastern part of Ireland, just north of Dublin. It is a beautiful and historic county with plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to County Meath, including the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
County Meath is home to many top attractions, including the ancient ruins of Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, which are over 5,000 years old and predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. Visitors can take a tour of the passage tombs and learn about the fascinating history of the area.
The Hill of Tara is another popular attraction, where visitors can explore the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Other top attractions include Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, and Loughcrew Cairns, a series of ancient burial mounds.
Hidden Gems
County Meath has plenty of hidden gems that are worth seeking out. The Boyne Valley Drive is a scenic route that takes visitors past many of the county’s top attractions, as well as some lesser-known sites, such as the Hill of Slane and the ruins of Bective Abbey.
The Kells High Crosses are another hidden gem. These ancient crosses date back to the 9th century and are decorated with intricate designs and carvings. Visitors can take a tour of the crosses and learn about their history and significance.
Food Scene
County Meath has a thriving food scene, with plenty of local produce and traditional dishes to try. Visitors can sample local specialties such as coddle, a hearty stew made with bacon, sausages, and potatoes, or boxty, a potato pancake that can be served with a variety of fillings.
There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes serving international cuisine, as well as upscale dining options for those looking for a special meal.
Budget-Friendly Tips
County Meath can be a budget-friendly destination if you know where to look. Many of the top attractions are free or have a small entrance fee, such as the passage tombs at Newgrange and the Hill of Tara.
Visitors can also save money by staying in budget-friendly accommodation, such as hostels or guesthouses, and by seeking out local markets and street food for meals.
Outdoor Adventures
County Meath has plenty of outdoor adventures to offer, from hiking and cycling to water sports and horse riding. The River Boyne is a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing, while the county’s many parks and forests offer plenty of opportunities for walking and hiking.
There are also several equestrian centers in the area, offering horse riding lessons and trail rides through the countryside.
Historical Landmarks
County Meath is steeped in history, and visitors can explore many of the county’s historical landmarks, from ancient ruins to medieval castles. Trim Castle is a must-visit for history buffs, as it played a key role in the Norman conquest of Ireland and was also used as a filming location for Braveheart.
The ruins of Monasterboice are another popular historical landmark, featuring the remains of an ancient monastery and a series of high crosses.
Family-Friendly Activities
County Meath has plenty of family-friendly activities to offer, from visiting farm parks and petting zoos to exploring the county’s many parks and playgrounds. Rathbeggan Lakes is a popular destination for families, offering fishing, boating, and a range of outdoor activities.
There are also several historical sites that are sure to capture the imagination of children, such as the passage tombs at Newgrange and the Hill of Tara.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
County Meath has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences for visitors to enjoy. The Boyne Valley Honey Farm is a unique attraction where visitors can learn about beekeeping and sample local honey.
The Kiltale Farm Shop and Cafe is another hidden gem, offering a range of homemade products and a cozy cafe serving fresh food and drinks.
Natural Wonders
County Meath is home to many natural wonders, from rolling hills and lush forests to tranquil lakes and rivers. The Boyne Valley is a particularly scenic area, offering plenty of hiking and cycling opportunities.
Loughcrew Gardens and Estate is another natural wonder, featuring beautiful gardens and woodland walks. Visitors can also explore the ancient cairns and megalithic tombs on the estate.
Vibrant Nightlife
County Meath may be a rural area, but it still has a vibrant nightlife scene. There are plenty of traditional Irish pubs where visitors can enjoy live music and a pint of Guinness, as well as trendy bars and nightclubs in the larger towns and cities.
Local Markets
County Meath has several local markets where visitors can sample local produce and crafts. Navan Farmers Market is a popular destination for foodies, offering a range of fresh produce and homemade products.
The Trim Farmers Market is another must-visit, offering a range of locally sourced foods and crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
While County Meath is not known for its beaches or mountains, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in these areas. The coast near Bettystown offers a range of water sports, including surfing and kayaking.
The Slieve Bloom Mountains, just a short drive from County Meath, offer plenty of hiking and cycling opportunities, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Cultural Immersion
County Meath is a great destination for cultural immersion, with plenty of opportunities to learn about Irish history, language, and traditions. Visitors can take a traditional Irish language class, learn about traditional Irish music and dance, and explore the local museums and historical sites.
Art and Music Scene
County Meath has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The Solstice Arts Centre in Navan is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring a range of exhibitions and performances.
The Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge is another popular destination, offering a range of cultural events and workshops.
Walking Tours
County Meath is a great destination for walking tours, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture. The Boyne Valley Walking Festival takes place every year and offers a range of guided walks through the county’s scenic countryside.
The Trim Heritage Trail is another popular walking tour, taking visitors past many of the town’s historical landmarks.
Architectural Marvels
County Meath is home to many architectural marvels, from ancient ruins to modern masterpieces. The Drogheda Viaduct is a stunning example of Victorian engineering, while the Ardbraccan House and Gardens offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the Georgian era.
The Kells Priory is another architectural marvel, featuring the ruins of an ancient monastery and a series of high crosses.
Historical Sites
County Meath is steeped in history, and visitors can explore many of the county’s historical sites, from ancient ruins to medieval castles. The ruins of Monasterboice are a popular destination, featuring the remains of an ancient monastery and a series of high crosses.
The Hill of Slane is another must-visit historical site, known for its connections to Saint Patrick and early Christianity in Ireland.
Biking Routes
County Meath is a great destination for biking, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. The Boyne Valley Cycle Route is a popular option, taking visitors past many of the county’s top attractions and hidden gems.
The Royal Canal Greenway is another popular biking route, offering stunning views of the countryside and plenty of pubs and restaurants along the way.
Wellness Retreats
County Meath is a great destination for wellness retreats, with plenty of spas, yoga studios, and meditation centers to choose from. The Monksland Holistic Retreat Center is a popular destination, offering a range of holistic treatments and workshops.
Adventure Sports
County Meath has plenty of adventure sports to offer, from kayaking and canoeing to rock climbing and zip-lining. The Tullyallen Karting and Activity Centre is a popular destination for thrill-seekers, offering go-karting, archery, and laser tag.
AdventureWicklow is another must-visit for adventure sports enthusiasts, offering a range of outdoor activities in the nearby Wicklow Mountains.