Drogheda

Drogheda, Ireland's largest town by population, sits on the banks of the River Boyne, 43 km north of Dublin. Walk through the medieval St. Laurence Gate from the 1300s, climb to the top of Millmount Fort for views across the town, or visit St. Peter's Church to see the shrine of St. Oliver Plunkett. The ancient passage tomb of Newgrange lies just 8 km away, where you can experience a 5,000-year-old architectural marvel.

Getting to Drogheda

Direct trains connect Drogheda to Dublin Connolly station and Belfast, with the journey to Dublin taking about 40 minutes. The town's bus station on Donore Road serves routes to Dublin, Monaghan, and local destinations. If you're driving, Drogheda is located just off the M1 motorway between Dublin and Belfast.

Historic Structures in the Town Center

Walk through St. Laurence Gate, a 13th-century barbican gate with two circular towers connected by an arch. You can visit the Magdalene Tower, the remaining bell tower of a 14th-century Dominican friary. At Millmount Fort, climb to the top of the large mound overlooking the River Boyne, where you'll find the Drogheda Museum with exhibits about the town's development through the centuries.

Museums and Art Spaces

Visit the Highlanes Gallery, located in a converted Franciscan church since 2006, to see art collections from the 17th century to present day. Watch performances at the Droichead Arts Centre, which runs theater productions, music concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year. In the Drogheda Museum at Millmount Fort, explore local archaeological findings and historical artifacts displayed in a Martello tower.

Cultural Events Throughout the Year

Experience traditional Irish music during the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann, which the town hosted in 2018 and 2019. Join the street celebrations during the Drogheda Arts Festival on the May Bank Holiday weekend. Listen to performances by the town's two brass bands or dance at the international samba festival.

Ancient Sites Nearby

Visit the Brú na Bóinne complex and Newgrange, 8 km west of Drogheda. Enter the 5,000-year-old passage tomb, older than the Egyptian pyramids, and learn about its winter solstice alignment. At the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre in Oldbridge House, watch historical reenactments and explore exhibitions about the decisive 1690 battle.

Family Activities

Splash in the water slides and pools at Funtasia Waterpark, which also includes indoor entertainment areas. Walk through the historic gardens at Beaulieu House as part of the Boyne Valley Garden Trail. Try salmon fishing in the River Boyne, or take walking trails along the river bank to connect different historical sites.