Straddling County Meath and County Louth in Ireland’s Ancient East, the Boyne Valley is ideal for communing with the heart and soul of the country.
Although most famous for being the scene of the 1690 Battle of the Boyne, when William of Orange defeated James II, the area has a remarkable history dating back millennia.
Five thousand years of history and heritage are written deep into its lush green landscapes and as you wind through the Boyne Valley, historical and spiritual monuments pop up at every turn.. From castles and round towers to tales of brave knights, monks, emigrants and ancient civilisations, this is an area brimming with attractions, culture, stories and fun.
Take a private tour of the region with Boyne Valley Tours. Or design your own, choosing from sites such as the historic Hill of Tara, the Hill of Slane, the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre or the majestic Trim Castle, where the movie Braveheart was filmed.
Many more heritage sites, stately homes and ancient ruins will call for attention, but do not go by the complex of megalithic monuments built along a bend of the River Boyne known as Brú na Bóinne. This UNESCO World Heritage Site pre-dates the Pyramids and Stonehenge, and includes the 5,200-year-old passage tomb of Newgrange, one of the most mesmerising sights in Ireland’s Ancient East.
Once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, today the Boyne Valley can still offer food and drink experiences fit for royalty.
From modern restaurants, markets, snacks and shopping at heritage towns like Kells, Trim and Drogheda to guided food tours, weekend farm retreats, themed events and gourmet experiences, there is food and drink to suit the most sophisticated of palates.
Seek out Slane Food Circle, a group of artisan food and drink producers in the heart of the Boyne Valley who are all based around the historic village of Slane. Meet the producers and see how they grow, rear and create tasty local products using traditional techniques.
They include The Cider Mill, makers of a naturally sparkling cider using the ancient technique of keeving, and Sheridan’s Cheesemongers, celebrated for its selection of quality cheeses, foods, wine and an intimate Saturday market of local food producers.
Make sure to stay at Rock Farm, a glamping, ecotourism and organic farm destination on the historic Slane Castle estate. And while in the area drop into Slane Castle for a tour, which can be combined with an exploration of the Slane Whiskey Distillery.
www.ireland.com
www.discoverboynevalley.ie