Nestled in the heart of Ireland, County Meath is a popular tourist destination with plenty of activities to enjoy. Navan, the county town, is a vibrant and bustling town filled with history, culture, and plenty of things to do. Whether you’re looking to explore the outdoors, visit historic sites, or just relax and take in the local culture, here are ten things to do in Navan, County Meath, Ireland.
1. Visit the Hill of Tara
The Hill of Tara is one of the most important archaeological sites in Ireland and is steeped in history and mythology. Located just outside Navan, the Hill of Tara is believed to have been the seat of the High Kings of Ireland and is home to a variety of ancient monuments, including a ringfort, a passage tomb, and a standing stone. The Hill of Tara is also a great place for a picnic or a hike, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
2. Explore the Navan Town Centre
Navan Town Centre is a great place to explore, with plenty of shops, cafes, and pubs to visit. The main street of Navan is lined with historic buildings and cobblestone streets, and the town centre is home to a variety of attractions, including the Navan Centre and Market, the Navan Arts Centre, and the Navan Racecourse.
3. Visit Trim Castle
Trim Castle is one of the largest and most impressive castles in Ireland, and it is located just outside Navan. Built in the 12th century, Trim Castle is a stunning example of Norman architecture and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, take a guided tour of the castle, and even visit the King John’s Castle Visitor Centre.
4. Explore the Boyne Valley
The Boyne Valley is one of the most important historical and archaeological sites in Ireland, and it is located just outside Navan. The Boyne Valley is home to a variety of ancient monuments, including the Hill of Tara, the Hill of Slane, and the Newgrange passage tomb. Visitors can explore the area by foot, bike, or car, and there are plenty of attractions to visit, including the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre and the Hill of Slane Visitor Centre.
5. Visit the Navan Adventure Centre
The Navan Adventure Centre is a great place to visit for a fun and exciting day out. The centre offers a variety of activities, including paintball, archery, laser tag, and more. The centre also offers a range of outdoor activities, such as kayaking, mountain biking, and orienteering.
6. Take a Trip to the Solstice Arts Centre
The Solstice Arts Centre is a popular cultural centre located in the heart of Navan. The centre hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including theatre, music, and art exhibitions. The centre also has a cafe and a shop, and visitors can enjoy a variety of workshops and classes.
7. Visit the Navan Racecourse
The Navan Racecourse is a popular attraction and is located just outside the town centre. The racecourse hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including horse racing, greyhound racing, and family days. Visitors can also take a tour of the racecourse and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant.
8. Relax in the Navan Park
Navan Park is a great place to relax and take in the local scenery. The park is home to a variety of attractions, including a children’s playground, a lake, and a variety of walking and cycling trails. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts, markets, and festivals.
9. Visit the Navan Museum
The Navan Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including archaeological artefacts, photographs, and paintings. Visitors can also take part in a variety of workshops and educational programmes.
10. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Pub
Navan is home to a variety of pubs and restaurants, offering a variety of traditional Irish cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the pubs, or take part in a pub quiz or live music session. There are also a number of craft breweries in Navan, offering a selection of craft beers and ciders.