Dublin: Boyne Valley with Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne Entry
Ringsend, Dublin
Travel from Dublin to the UNESCO-listed Boyne Valley on a day trip with entry to ancient Celtic temple at Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne. Visit the Battle of The Boyne Visitor Centre and Monasterboice.
This guided tour from Dublin explores the Boyne Valley, a key historical area suited for history enthusiasts and cultural travelers.
Highlights
- Visit Newgrange, a site of astrological, religious, and ceremonial significance
- Discover local history at the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre
- Experience the landscape of the Boyne Valley’s rolling hills
- Explore the 5th-century Monastery of St Bhuite and its architecture
Description
The Boyne Valley and Boyne River stretch through counties Meath and Louth in eastern Ireland, reaching the sea at Drogheda. This tour provides a guided exploration of this historically important and scenic area, including entrance and skip-the-queue access to Newgrange Monument and Bru Na Boinne. These Neolithic sites date back over 5,000 years.
Note: Between November 1st and March 1st, Knowth is not accessible, so the Bru Na Boinne visit is shorter during this period.
Learn about Ireland’s early history, from the first Neolithic settlers and their megalithic tombs to the Celtic occupants and their pagan beliefs. The tour continues with a visit to the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre for approximately 1.5 hours. The 1690 battle was a decisive conflict affecting Ireland, Britain, and Europe, explaining the Northern Ireland troubles and the annual July 12th Loyalist celebrations.
Discover how the battle impacted Irish Celtic culture and led to the displacement of the Irish Celts. It also involved a contest for the English throne between Catholic King James II and Protestant King William of Orange.
The final stop is Monasterboice, with a half-hour visit to the 5th-century monastery founded by St Buithe. The site includes two 14th-century churches, a 10th-century Round Tower, and famous Celtic High Crosses.
Admire the well-preserved Round Tower, approximately 28 meters tall, likely built after 968 and damaged by fire in 1098. The three high crosses, dating from the 10th century, depict biblical scenes. Muiredach's High Cross, standing 5.5 meters tall, is regarded as the finest in Ireland, featuring carvings from the Old and New Testaments. It is named after Abbot Muiredach mac Domhnaill, who died in 923.
After the visit, relax during the return drive to Dublin, arriving around 5:00 PM.
Includes
- Transport from Dublin
- Guided tour
- Entrance fees and skip-the-queue access to Newgrange and Bru Na Boinne
Excludes
- Food and drinks
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For best experience, wear comfortable walking shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially outside the off-season when Knowth is closed.
