Mellifont Abbey, near Drogheda in County Louth, was Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery, founded in 1142. Today its peaceful ruins sit in a quiet river valley a few minutes from Monasterboice, and its rare two-storey octagonal lavabo is one of the finest pieces of medieval monastic building in the country. Here is what to know before you visit.
What is the history of Mellifont Abbey?
Mellifont was founded in 1142 by St Malachy of Armagh, with monks sent by St Bernard from Clairvaux in France. It was the first Cistercian house in Ireland and became the mother house for many others across the country.
Centuries later, Mellifont played a part in a turning point in Irish history. The Treaty of Mellifont was signed here in 1603, ending the Nine Years’ War.
What can you see at Mellifont today?
- The lavabo. A two-storey octagonal building where the monks washed before meals. Only part of it survives, but its arches make it the highlight of the site.
- The abbey ruins. Foundations and walls of the church and cloister, laid out in the classic Cistercian plan.
- The visitor centre. An exhibition on the abbey and the Cistercians, with guided tours in season.
When is Mellifont Abbey open?
The visitor centre and guided tours run from 1 April to 1 October, daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with last admission at 17:00. Entry to the grounds is free. The exhibition and guided tour cost €5 for adults, €4 for seniors and groups, €3 for students and children aged 12 to 17, and €13 for a family. Check the Old Mellifont Abbey page on Heritage Ireland for current times and access outside the season.
How do you get to Mellifont Abbey?
The abbey is at Tullyallen, about 10 km north-west of Drogheda, off the R168. There is a car park on site, including coach parking, and the site is wheelchair accessible. From Tower Lodge at Monasterboice it is a short drive through quiet country roads.
Combine Mellifont with Monasterboice
Mellifont pairs perfectly with Monasterboice, the early Christian site with its round tower and high crosses. Together they make an easy half-day of Louth’s monastic heritage. Read our Monasterboice visitor guide, then add Newgrange for a full day (see our Newgrange guide). For a longer plan, try our three-day Boyne Valley itinerary.
Where to stay near Mellifont Abbey
Tower Lodge is a restored barn beside the Monasterboice round tower, a few minutes from Mellifont. It sleeps four in a king room and a twin room and makes a quiet base for exploring Louth and the Boyne Valley.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mellifont Abbey free to visit?
The grounds are free. The exhibition and guided tour cost €5 for adults, with reduced prices for seniors, students and families.
When was Mellifont Abbey founded?
In 1142, by St Malachy of Armagh, as Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery.
How long do you need at Mellifont Abbey?
About an hour is enough to see the ruins and the lavabo, or longer with the exhibition and a guided tour.
