The Boyne Valley is situated in the east of Ireland. It is at once Ireland’s ancient capital and its most sacred and mythical landscape. In 1849 William Wilde, father of Oscar, wrote of the Boyne that the history of Ireland may be traced through its monuments. This remains true today. Moreover, its sites and monuments are amongst the best examples of their kind in Europe and are all within a short distance of each other.
Navan, the centre of the Boyne Valley Navan is both a historic town and a vibrant centre of business and tourism, the largest town in Co. Meath in the Boyne Valley. It has numerous cafes, restaurants and luxury accommodation, as well as many activities and events for all ages and interests. Tourism information may be found at the Navan Visitor Information Point, in the Solstice Arts Centre. Navan town has a self-guided, signed walking trail –Navan Points of Pride. Navan is located at the confluence of the River Boyne and the River Blackwater and was an important crossing point in the medieval period. Small remains of the old town wall remain, including a section in Ryan’s Bar. Some of the street names reflect the town’s medieval past; Trimgate St and Watergate St. Across the river is the impressive Athlumney Castle, a fine medieval tower house with a late 16th century or early 17th century mansion attached to it. A key to the castle may be borrowed from the nearby guesthouse Athlumney Manor.
Navan is famous for being the birthplace of Francis Beaufort (1774 - 1857), who developed the Beaufort Scale of wind force. Navan is also the childhood home of Pierce Brosnan, the fifth actor to play the iconic role as James Bond. Comedians Dylan Moran and Tommy Tiernan, and television personality Hector ó hEochagáin also hail from the town.
Navan has achieved the prestigious Purple Flag status for its evening and night-time economy in 2015. Towns awarded the Purple Flag are recognised for providing a vibrant mix of entertainment while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and local residents. Centrally located in the Boyne Valley, Navan is the ideal base from which to explore and learn more about the nearby attractions. For more information on events, activities and attractions click here or download our Boyne Valley 2019 Brochure here. Discover the interactive Boyne Valley Drive Map here.
