Ireland · Archaeology

Celtic Boyne Valley Day Tour

10 Hours Round trip from Dublin Easy pace

View all 29 photos

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Visit the sacred Hill of Tara, seat of the High Kings of Ireland
02 Explore the grounds of Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland
03 See ancient rock art inside the Neolithic passage tombs at Loughcrew
04 Enjoy a guided tasting at Fore Distillery
05 Discover the ruins of Fore Abbey, a 7th-century Christian monastery
06 Travel through the scenic Irish countryside from Dublin

Discover the rich heritage of Ireland’s Boyne Valley on this full-day journey from Dublin, visiting a remarkable mix of ancient ceremonial sites, medieval landmarks, and monastic ruins. From the sacred Hill of Tara to the impressive Anglo-Norman stronghold of Trim Castle, this tour brings together some of the region’s most significant historic locations in a single day.

Continue to the Neolithic passage tombs at Loughcrew, where intricate rock art has survived for thousands of years, then enjoy a visit to Fore Distillery for a guided tasting and insight into local craft spirits. The day also includes time at Fore Abbey, a 7th-century Christian monastery, offering another fascinating layer of Ireland’s spiritual and cultural past.

The unique tomb is ours to explore and once inside, you have the opportunity to view intricate artwork that has survived for thousands of years.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Hours

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

City Dublin

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

8:00 am - Departure from Molly Malone Statue

We meet at the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street. You will board our comfortable coach, meet your guide and fellow travellers and then sit back and relax as we head out of Dublin and head west to our first visit at The Hill of Uisneach.

8:40 am - Hill Of Tara

The most sacred site of Ancient Ireland is the Hill of Tara, and this is where we head next. An important and historic site in the Boyne Valley region, it was the center of the country in a sense as the High Kings ruled Ireland from this very site. From the hill, there is a lovely view of the surrounding area. It is said that a quarter of Ireland’s countryside is visible from this hill.

10:30 am - Trim Castle

It wouldn’t be a drive through the Irish countryside without seeing lush and picturesque landscapes. The scenery is breathtaking as we head to the town of Trim, home to an impressive and well-preserved Anglo-Norman castle. Trim Castle is the largest castle of its type in Ireland. With a castle so well preserved and with such stunning grounds, Hollywood would be hard-pressed to find something better! You will have time to explore the sprawling castle and grounds. This is a fantastic photo opportunity. Your guide will give you information in relation to the history of this fascinating castle and the surrounding area.

12:20 pm - Loughcrew passage tomb

The unique tomb is ours to explore and once inside, you have the opportunity to view intricate artwork that has survived for thousands of years. There is a number of Cairns on the site ready for exploration. It is a truly impressive site and a unique experience.

14:00 pm - Fore Distillery

Fore Distillery is delighted to invite visitors behind the scenes for an exclusive look at the craftsmanship behind Fore Valley spirits. Guests will experience the art of distillation, enjoy a guided tasting, and immerse themselves in the rich history of this remarkable location. For those wishing to extend their visit, a delightful lunch option is available (not included).

15:00 pm - Fore Abbey

7th century Christian monastery & high crosses

18:15 pm - Arrive in Dublin City Centre

The route