As Ireland’s staycation summer gets into full swing, Newstalk’s Henry McKean is taking a trip to the Boyne Valley to savour the delights of Ireland’s Ancient East
Just a short hop from Dublin, Belfast and the midlands, the Boyne Valley is filled with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, award-winning golf courses and some of the best food in Ireland.
While the 5,000-year-old passage tombs at Newgrange and Knowth are famous all over the world, the Boyne Valley also boasts a host of other historical sites.
The Winter Solstice at Brú na Bóinne, Newgrange, County Meath, 14-12-2019. Image: John Lalor/RollingNews-
Bike or stroll along the Boyne valley’s fantastic tracks and trails – including the majestic Boyne Blueway and the Royal Canal Greenway.
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Visit Ireland’s largest castle in Trim and take in nearby Bective Abbey - the location for the upcoming Ridley Scott film “The Last Duel” starring Matt Damon.
Trim Castle Along Banks Of The River Boyne, Trim, County Meath, 11-09-2009. Image: Peter Mccabe/Zuma Press/PA Images-
Take a guided boat tour through the hidden beauty of the ancient Boyne Canal with Boyne Boats or join Boyne Valley Activities on a white-water rafting trip from Trim.
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Tee up at some of the finest golf courses in Ireland – including Solheim Cup host Killeen Castle and the top-rated Baltray, Headfort and Royal Tara golf courses.
Headfort Golf Club. Image: Rediscover Boyne Valley -
Make a break for the Boyne Valley’s long stretches of stunning beaches and coastline.
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Visit the birthplace of Samhain on the Hill of Tlachtga.
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Brave the Cú Chulainn Rollercoaster at Tayto park or make a splash at Funtasia.
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Take in the monastic town of Kells and visit monasteries like Mellifont Abbey.
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Set off down the Boyne Valley Camino– a 25km loop walk from Drogheda to Mellifont Abbey.
Old Mellifont Abbey. Image: Discover Boyne Valley
The sights and sounds of the valley are certain to strike up an appetite and for food-lovers, the possibilities are endless.
The Boyne Valley’s lush green hills have inspired a whole new generation of passionate farmers, chefs, producers and restaurants in recent years – and the area is now recognised as one of the world’s best destinations for food lovers.
Local food and drink producers have made it their mission to create exquisite dishes from locally sourced ingredients and the valley is bursting with mouth-watering restaurants and markets.
Right on Dublin’s doorstep, the Boyne Valley is easily accessible for an adventurous day trip or weekend escape.
The idyllic, unspoiled landscape, promises an enchanting escape for all the family, as you graze your way through farmer’s markets and food trails or trek the rolling hills and woodlands along the banks of the Boyne.
Henry will be going off the beaten track to visit some of the hidden gems of the valley – savouring the delights of Slane Distillery and Rock Farm Farmer’s Market before visiting Highlanes Gallery and setting off down the Boyne Valley Camino.
You can discover all the Boyne Valley has to offer and book your trip at Discoverboynevalley.ie.
The Boyne Valley, it’s time to enjoy….
