A long weekend in the Boyne Valley is enough to see its five best sites without rushing: Newgrange, Slane, Trim Castle, Monasterboice and Mellifont Abbey. They all sit within about 45 minutes of each other, so you spend your time exploring rather than driving. Here is a simple three-day plan, based at Tower Lodge beside the Monasterboice round tower.
Day 1: Monasterboice and Mellifont Abbey
Start on the doorstep. The round tower and high crosses at Monasterboice are right beside the lodge, free and open at any time. Muiredach’s Cross is one of the finest carved high crosses in Ireland. Our Monasterboice guide tells you what to look for in its panels.
In the afternoon, drive a few minutes to Old Mellifont Abbey, founded in 1142 as Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery. Its two-storey octagonal lavabo is the standout. The grounds are free; the visitor centre and tours run from April to early October.
Day 2: Newgrange and Slane
Newgrange is the big one: a 5,000-year-old passage tomb, older than Stonehenge. Tours run from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre and must be booked ahead. From November to February, tickets are released just 7 days in advance. Our Newgrange guide covers the details.
Afterwards, continue along the river to Slane. Stop for views of Slane Castle and climb the Hill of Slane, where St Patrick is said to have lit his Easter fire.
Day 3: Trim Castle
Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, begun in 1172 and used as a filming location for Braveheart. Take the guided tour of the keep, then walk the riverside path into Trim town for lunch. From November to early February the keep tours run at weekends only, which suits a long weekend perfectly.
Tips for a Boyne Valley long weekend
- Book Newgrange first. It is the only site where tickets can sell out, so plan the other days around your tour.
- Check seasonal hours. Opening times change between summer and winter, so check each site’s page before you go.
- Bring or hire a car. The sites are spread across the countryside with limited public transport. Coming from Britain? Our guide to taking the ferry from Holyhead explains the easy route.
Where to stay
Tower Lodge is a restored barn beside the Monasterboice round tower, sleeping four in a king room and a twin room. It sits in the middle of this route, so no day starts with a long drive. For more ideas, see the best things to see and do in the Boyne Valley.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in the Boyne Valley?
Three days covers the five main sites comfortably: Newgrange, Slane, Trim Castle, Monasterboice and Mellifont Abbey.
Is Trim Castle open in winter?
Yes, at weekends. From November to early February, keep tours run on Saturdays and Sundays, with grounds tours on weekdays.
Is Monasterboice free to visit?
Yes. The round tower and high crosses at Monasterboice are free and open at any time.
