Newgrange and Boyne Valley Tour

The journey to Newgrange will provide you with breath-taking views of the Irish countryside, but Newgrange itself is simply a must-see attraction. The 5,200 years old passage is older than the pyramids in Egypt and is at the heart of the history of Ireland.

Newgrange

Our first stop is at Newgrange at the Bru Na Boinne Centre which is Located on the River Boyne of County Meath. Home to Ireland's most famous passage tomb, which dates back to before 3,000BC, this historical site is a fascinating attraction for everyone visiting the island of Ireland. On arrival you will be greeted by a qualified tour guide. They will take you through the history of Newgrange and guide you around the tomb. You can enter the tomb and take pictures of the wonderful megalithic artwork and the famous decorated entrance stone. You will also learn about the famous winter solstice which happens every year on the 21st of December- the sun shines through the centre of the tomb and illuminates the entire tomb. You will then visit the great mound at Knowth, another impressive monolithic structure of a similar size to Newgrange. This part of the tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours.

Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre

The next visit is to the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre, which tells the story of one of the most influential battles in Irish history. Fought between the Catholic King James II and Protestant King William of Orange on the banks of the River Boyne, this battle did not just affect the rule of Ireland but also that of Great Britain and Europe. Though the battle was fought in 1690, its impact is still felt today as the Loyalist community in Northern Ireland still celebrates their victory each year on 12 July. King James's defeat would eventually result in the downfall of the Irish Gaelic Lords which had a knock-on effect on the entire island of Ireland. The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre chronicles this story in a beautiful and informative exhibition that is not to be missed!

Monasterboice

The final stop on this magical tour is at the medieval monastic settlement Monasterboice. Dating back to the 5th century the impressive site contains two 14th century churches, a number magnificent Celtic High Crosses, including the Muiredach High Cross which stands at over 18 feet in height and is regarded as the finest example of a High Cross in Ireland, and a 10th century Round Tower which stands at over 90 foot in height. Monasterboice is named after the Abbot Muiredach Mac Domhnaill who died in 923AD, It's the kind of site you normally only see in the movies and is really worth a visit for anyone interested in Irish history.

You will return to Dublin at approximately 17:00.