From Dublin: Newgrange and Boyne Valley Private Day Trip

County Meath, Dublin



Discover ancient Ireland on a private day trip from Dublin. Visit Newgrange, the Hill of Slane, Monasterboice and Mellifont Abbey with a private driver-guide. Private tour for up to 6 people.

This private day trip from Dublin explores Newgrange and the Boyne Valley, ideal for history enthusiasts and small groups.

Highlights

  • Marvel at the 5,000-year-old Newgrange, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the Hill of Slane, where St. Patrick lit Ireland’s first Paschal Fire
  • See the High Crosses of Monasterboice, including Muiredach’s Cross
  • Stroll through Mellifont Abbey, Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery
  • Enjoy a private, flexible itinerary tailored to your interests

Description

Discover over 5,000 years of Irish heritage on this private Newgrange and Boyne Valley tour, travelling comfortably with your own driver-guide. Experience Neolithic tombs, Celtic legends, early Christian monasteries, and medieval ruins across Ireland’s Ancient East.

Your tour starts at Newgrange, a prehistoric passage tomb built around 3200 BC that predates Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids. It is aligned with the winter solstice sunrise, illuminating its chamber through ancient engineering. Inside, find spiral carvings and symbols from Ireland’s earliest civilisation.

Next, visit the Hill of Slane, where St. Patrick lit the first Paschal Fire around 433 AD, marking the arrival of Christianity. From here, enjoy panoramic views of the Boyne Valley and explore medieval church and college ruins amid peaceful surroundings.

At Monasterboice, see the High Cross of Muiredach, known as Ireland’s finest Celtic High Cross featuring biblical scenes and knotwork, alongside two other crosses and a 28-meter round tower.

Continue to Mellifont Abbey, the country’s first Cistercian monastery, with ruins of cloisters, a lavabo, and chapter house set in tranquil countryside. Your guide shares stories of monastic life and craftsmanship.

This private tour offers the flexibility to set your own pace and interests. Optional stops such as Slane Castle, Trim Castle, or the Hill of Tara can be added based on your preferences and timing.

Includes

  • Private transport with professional driver-guide
  • Hotel pick-up and drop-off within the Dublin area
  • Commentary on history, legends, and local stories

Excludes

  • Ticket to Newgrange
  • Lunch

Important Information

  • Duration: approximately 8–9 hours
  • Suitable for history lovers, families, photographers, and small groups
  • Newgrange tickets are in high demand and must be booked online separately up to one month in advance. If booked within 30 days of the tour date, we will assist with ticket availability or suggest a visit to a similar passage tomb nearby.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To secure Newgrange entry, book tickets early or contact us for assistance if your tour date is within 30 days. Wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing for outdoor sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Newgrange is a 5,000-year-old passage tomb in the Boyne Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient winter solstice alignment.
Newgrange is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Dublin, about an hour’s drive.
The trip includes Newgrange, the Hill of Slane, the High Crosses of Monasterboice, and Mellifont Abbey.
Yes, the itinerary is private and flexible, allowing adjustments based on your interests.
Yes, the private day trip is ideal for small groups and history enthusiasts.
The Hill of Slane is in the Boyne Valley near Newgrange and is where St. Patrick lit Ireland’s first Paschal Fire.
The High Crosses of Monasterboice are early medieval stone crosses, including Muiredach’s Cross, located within a historic monastic site in the Boyne Valley.
Access inside Newgrange depends on season and availability, so check the website for current visitor information.
Mellifont Abbey, located in the Boyne Valley, was Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery, founded in the 12th century.
The private day trip generally lasts around 8 hours including travel and site visits.

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