County Meath

County Meath is the Royal County - seat of Ireland's High Kings and home to monuments older than the pyramids. The Boyne Valley is Ireland's most important archaeological landscape.

Why Visit Meath?

Five thousand years of history:

• Newgrange - Older than Stonehenge or the Pyramids
• Hill of Tara - Seat of the High Kings
• Trim Castle - Ireland's largest Norman castle
• Boyne Valley - UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Battle of the Boyne - 1690 battlefield

Top Attractions

Newgrange

A 5,200-year-old passage tomb with winter solstice alignment. Access is only by guided tour from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre.

Hill of Tara

The spiritual and political heart of ancient Ireland. The Mound of the Hostages is 5,000 years old; the site remained important until the 12th century.

Trim Castle

The largest Norman castle in Ireland, famously featured in Braveheart. The medieval town also has other impressive ruins.

Brú na Bóinne

The Boyne Valley complex includes Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth - a landscape of tombs, henges, and ritual sites.

Battle of the Boyne

The 1690 battlefield where William III defeated James II. The visitor center tells the story of this pivotal moment.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May): Quieter sites, good weather Summer (June-August): Book Newgrange well ahead Autumn (September-October): Atmospheric mists, fewer visitors Winter (December): Solstice at Newgrange (lottery for access)

Getting Around

Meath is easily explored from Dublin. Book Newgrange in advance - you cannot turn up at the tomb.

Local Tips

• Newgrange tours book out - reserve online
• Tara is free to visit and rarely crowded
• Trim deserves at least half a day
• The Boyne towpath is great for walking