The Boyne Valley, nestled in the heart of Ireland's Ancient East, is a region steeped in myth, legend, and remarkable history. Known as the birthplace of Ireland's ancient civilization, it is home to some of the country’s most iconic heritage sites. Visitors can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brú na Bóinne, which includes the 5,000-year-old passage tombs of Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth—older than the pyramids of Egypt. The valley also features the historic Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of Ireland’s High Kings, and the majestic ruins of Monasterboice with its famous high crosses. Whether you're walking through medieval castles, sacred Neolithic sites, or charming villages, the Boyne Valley offers a captivating journey through Ireland’s rich and storied past.
download orlagh's guidebookThe historic ruins of Monasterboice (Irish: Mainistir Bhuithe) are of an early Christian settlement in County Louth in Ireland, north of Drogheda. It was founded in the late 5th century by Saint Buithe who died around 521, and was an important centre of religion and learning until the founding of nearby Mellifont Abbey in 1142
Learn moreAs a memorial of the 1979 Pope John Paul II this Papal Cross was erected along the roadside at Killineer. The reason behind Drogheda being chosen to host the pope’s visit was to accommodate the population of Northern Ireland, halfway between Dublin and Belfast – this influenced Turlough’s concept behind the design as he drew inspiration from the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim. Constructed with in-situ cast boardmark concrete the well-known local landmark sits proudly by the N1 and is revered and maintained by the locals to this day.
Learn moreThe Battle of the Boyne (1690) is one of the most significant events in Irish history, part of a wider struggle for power across 17th century Europe. The Battle of the Boyne was fought between King William III and his father-in-law King James II on 1 July 1690. The kings were rival claimants to the English, Scottish and Irish thrones. Protestant King William (who was also the Dutch Prince of Orange) had deposed Catholic King James in 1688. James went to Ireland where he rallied his mostly Catholic army (know as 'Jacobites' after James' name in Latin, Jacobus), making a stand on the southern banks of the Boyne outside Drogheda.
Learn moreBrú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (Eircode A92 EH5C) is the starting point for all visits to Newgrange and Knowth. Do not go directly to the monuments as you will not gain entry. Visitors are brought via shuttle bus to the monuments.The Visitor Centre exhibition is a fully interactive visitor experience exploring the Neolithic culture, landscape and monuments of Brú na Bóinne.
Learn moreSlane Irish Whiskey Distillery is available for private and group bookings.Enjoy a signature private or group guided tour of Slane Distillery and delve into their story to learn how the trailblazing Slane Irish Whiskey came to be. Savor the sights and aromas of their state-of-the-art working distillery and learn how their triple distilled and triple-casked method makes them stand out from the crowd.
Learn moreThe Hill of Tara is the jewel in the crown of the Boyne Valley landscape. A site that has been in use for more than 5000 years as a place of burial and assembly, it grew to fame as the legendary inauguration site of the ancient High Kings of Ireland. From its rolling slopes one can see all the way to the other great sites of the Boyne Valley, including Loughcrew Cairns, the Hill of Slane, Trim Castle and beyond. In later centuries it remained the focus of Gaelic identity and remains to this day the beating heart of Ireland.
Learn moreTrim Castle is the largest, best-preserved & most impressive Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Trim get its name from the Irish Baile Átha Troim, meaning ‘Town of the Ford of the Elder Trees', indicating that this was an important fording point on the River Boyne. Such was the significance of this crossing point that by the fifth century a chieftain's dún (fort) and an early monastery were sited here. Trim Castle was built In 1172, shortly after the arrival of the Anglo-Normans in Ireland.
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" This cottage was an absolute dream! Orlagh has thought about everything from beautiful decor, delicious snacks, local soaps, cozy blankets by the fire, and morning espresso. Every single detail was perfection. It has everything you could ever want in a countryside cottage and more. We stayed here on the last night of our 3 week trip and it was by far the most beautiful place we rented. I would even say this cottage was my favourite Airbnb I have ever rented. I highly recommend staying here! Thank you so much, Orlagh! "
" What a gem! Our favourite Airbnb yet. I stayed with my husband and parents. The cottage was perfect for 2 couples, although would also work great if travelling with our 2 adult children due to the single beds in one room. Everyone kept echoing how well done the place was. What a brilliant restoration; the juxtaposition of the new with the old - just the right amount of stone retained as accent on the inside. The cottage is sooooo cozy yet very functional. The design and decorating are exceptional. The exterior is equally immaculate and welcoming. The detailed guide book and welcome treats were appreciated, as was the real coffee maker (no more instant). We were thrilled to finally have a place where counter space, a hair dryer plug and mirror coexisted. We had an enjoyable walk to the monastery and a quick drive into town for dinner. This was the perfect place to stay prior to our Dublin flight home. Thanks Orlagh! You have done an exceptional job with this beautiful cottage."
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