Explore Historic Drogheda (2 Day Itinerary)

Located in Ireland’s Ancient East, just 45 minutes from Dublin city centre, the historic town of Drogheda on the banks of the River Boyne is rich in heritage and has a wealth of attractions to be explored on a short break.

DAY 1 - Morning

Spend your morning exploring Drogheda’s historic landmarks on foot. Begin with a visit to Drogheda Tourist Office based in the historic Tholsel building on West Street, to find out all there is to see and do in the region. Close by you will find Saint Peter’s Church, famous for housing the Shrine to Saint Oliver Plunkett which is well worth a visit. Next see the striking St. Laurence’s Gate, widely regarded as one of the finest medieval town gates in Europe. Then drop into Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery located nearby in the former Franciscan Friary Church. Admire the visual art exhibitions and one of the town’s most treasured heirlooms - the ceremonial sword and mace presented by King William III following the Battle of the Boyne.

Stop off at one of the centrally located cafés and restaurants for a spot of lunch and to plan your afternoon. choose one of the following activities:

Afternoon

Kids big and small will love a fun filled afternoon in Funtasia Theme Park with lots of different activities to choose from. Have fun splashing about in the Pirates Cove Waterpark or enjoy climbing, bowling, soft play areas, crazy golf and all the fun of the fairground. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Be sure to book online for savings.
Take a leisurely walk along the Boyne Greenway from St. Dominic’s Park to the site of the Battle of the Boyne at Oldbridge. While here you can enjoy various trails around extensive parkland and visit the beautiful walled garden. Why not book a tour of the Visitor Centre to learn more about this important battle in Irish history (check the Visitor Centre website for admission fees and opening times).
Those looking for a longer stretch of the legs will enjoy the Boyne Valley Camino a self-guided, 25km looped walk, which forms part of the Celtic Camino series. The route is a mixture of riverside, greenway, wood paths, quiet country roads, canal path and green fields on its route from Drogheda to Old Mellifont Abbey and back.

Evening

For dinner, Drogheda has so many fine restaurants serving a variety of cuisines to suit all taste buds. If you are a seafood lover check out the list of Drogheda restaurants participating in the ’sea louth’ Scenic Seafood Trail, where you will be spoiled for choice!

Following dinner, experience Drogheda’s thriving cultural scene with live music and Traditional Irish sessions happening in many of the pubs. Alternatively, why not catch a show at Droichead Arts Centre which offers an extensive theatre and music programme, or check out the impressive list of upcoming live gigs at the TLT Theatre.

DAY 2 - Morning

Download the Drogheda Urban Art Trail map (or pick one up from the Tourist Office) and set off on a self-guided audio trail of the fabulous murals which depict key figures and moments from our mythological past.

Afternoon

Enjoy lunch before choosing one of the following options:

Head up to Drogheda Museum at Millmount. Known locally as the ‘Cup and Saucer’, this well known landmark overlooks the town and has splendid views across Drogheda and the River Boyne. Experienced guides will bring you on a guided tour of the museum which houses a fine collection of Guild Banners, an authentic Irish folk kitchen and various exhibitions covering Drogheda’s past.

Drogheda is lucky to have some lovely beaches right on its doorstep. Make your way to Seapoint beach in Termonfeckin for a leisurely stroll along the strand. Or head to the nearby Blue Flag beach at Clogherhead which is perfect for a picnic and some family fun when the sun shines!

Evening

After working up an appetite return to Drogheda for an evening meal, enjoy the nightlife or relax for the evening.

Accommodation: Drogheda and the surrounding area offers a choice of accommodation, ranging from Four Star hotels to cosy B&Bs and self-catering options. For a list of accommodation in Louth click here (and filter by town).

Note: Opening hours and booking requirements should be confirmed with individual attractions and restaurants in advance of visiting.