Kilbride: Cultural and activity ideas in County Meath

Prehistoric passage tombs, medieval castles and waterside experiences give County Meath a varied character. When looking for a holiday rental in Kilbride, these regional themes can help you decide what kind of holiday you want: would you like to explore cultural history, get active or discover local traditions?

Passage tombs and landscapes

The Brú na Bóinne World Heritage Site lies in a bend of the River Boyne. It includes the prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth, built around 3200 BC. These three monuments offer a tangible connection to the early history of County Meath.

Loughcrew Megalithic Cemetery is a group of Neolithic passage tombs dating from around 3000 BC, spread across four gently rolling hills. During a guided tour, visitors can learn more about the history and mythology of the monuments. As tours are subject to operational conditions, it is advisable to check availability before travelling.

Seats of power, monasteries and medieval history

The Hill of Tara was the seat of the High King of Ireland and an important centre of political and religious power. The visitor centre offers an audiovisual show; guided tours are available on request. Check before your visit whether a tour is being offered. Oldbridge offers another historical point of reference: King William III and his father-in-law, King James II, clashed there on the Boyne on 1 July 1690 according to the old calendar.

Trim Castle stands on the south bank of the River Boyne and is Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle. For safety reasons, the keep can only be accessed as part of a guided tour; check current conditions before your visit. The Trim Medieval Armoury, housed in the Trim Visitor Centre next to the castle, features an exhibition of medieval armour. Visitors can touch and handle swords, chain mail and helmets.

Monastic history and high crosses also form part of the region’s cultural identity. Bective Abbey was Ireland’s second Cistercian foundation. Four high crosses survive in Kells; the base of a fifth cross is also visible on the grounds of St Columba’s Church. The High Crosses of Kells are part of the historic Boyne Valley and one of Ireland’s most important monastic settlements.

Paddling, animals and more experiences

The Boyne Blueway Trim is an eight-kilometre stretch of the River Boyne. Allow two and a half to three hours to paddle it; the route is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. As access and operating conditions may vary, check the latest information in advance. This lets you make paddling a distinct focus of your holiday plans.

Emerald Park combines rides and attractions with a zoo, special experiences, shows and events. It offers more than 45 rides and attractions. The park is also home to The Viking Voyage, Ireland’s only water ride. The zoo is home to more than 250 animals; animal numbers and attractions may change. Check the current offering and event dates before travelling.

Music, food and seasonal walking trails

At Causey Farm, the 19th-century barns are used for traditional music workshops. Visitors can also bake traditional soda bread using Lilly Murtagh’s recipe. Music and baking together offer different ways to experience regional traditions: one through sound and participation, the other through a time-honoured recipe.

Slane Castle can be visited on a guided tour and offers a guided tasting of Irish whiskeys. Walking trails are available on the grounds in summer. The seasonal nature of these trails makes them a distinct way to shape your stay. The Irish Military Museum & Park recreates examples of First World War trenches, adding another perspective to the historical themes.

Find a holiday rental that matches your travel interests

If you are looking for a holiday rental in Kilbride, first decide what you would like to focus on during your holiday: prehistoric sites and monastic history, castles and historic seats of power, waterside activities, or insights into music and food. These preferences give your search a personal focus and help you choose the themes that interest you most during your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: An Seanchaisleán, Collinstown, Enfield, Kiltale, Athboy, Balrath, Donore, Duleek

For the broader travel overview: County Meath.