Search Results

Discover Louth, Ireland’s smallest county with the biggest heart! From scenic coastal walks to rich heritage sites, vibrant towns, guides and tours and unforgettable experiences, plan your perfect getaway with Visit Louth. Out Here, It's Legendary! From ancient myths to modern adventures, Louth is where legends come to life. Wander the mystical landscapes of the Cooley Peninsula, uncover the secrets of the Boyne Valley, and experience the charm of our historic towns. Whether you're chasing outdoor thrills, indulging in local flavours, or stepping into Ireland's storied past, you'll find something unforgettable. Out here, the stories are real - come write your own! GET OUT HERE Tours & Trails Museums & Heritage Arts, Crafts and Culture DISCOVER MORE Outdoors & Exploring Festivals & Events Activities Explore Discover unique things to do in County Louth BIRTHPLACE OF BRIGID SEA LOUTH GOLF What's on SEE ALL EVENTS 10 Jan 2025 Dundalk Stadium Fixture Listing READ MORE 9 Sept 2025 Film Club | Autumn/Winter 2025 READ MORE 15 Oct 2025 Tranquility Yoga READ MORE 25 Oct 2025 Adventure Lights at Skypark, Carlingford READ MORE 3 Nov 2025 MURAL TOURS | DRAWDA | Drogheda Urban Art Trail 2025 READ MORE 7 Nov 2025 Yin Yoga READ MORE Inspiration FIND YOUR LOUTH ADVENTURE 1 2 3 Breathtaking Trails: Discover Scenic Walkways MAPS & GUIDES Follow us @visitlouthie Load More

Cathedral - A Symphony of Light and Music Start Date Friday 12 December 2025 End Date Sunday 14 December 2025 Roden Pl, Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland +353 42 9352111 VISIT WEBSITE A spectacular symphony of light and music will Illuminate St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dundalk this December ✨🎶💫 ‘Cathedral - A Symphony of Light and Music’ will transform the iconic facade of St Patrick’s Cathedral into a kaleidoscope of colour, imagery, and motion - a vivid celebration of the cathedral’s enduring role as a place of peace and reconciliation in the heart of the community. Not to be missed, this three-night open-air experience showcases the power of music and creativity to inspire peace. Dates & Times The majestic audio-visual shows will take place on Friday 12th (6 - 7pm), Saturday 13th (5 - 6pm) and Sunday 14th of December (4.30 - 5pm and 6.45 - 8pm) . A chance for families and friends to share something magical, meaningful and memorable at Christmas! Audiences of all ages are invited to gather for this free community celebration where light, architecture, and music combine to create an unforgettable festive experience in the centre of Dundalk. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and arrive early to enjoy the atmosphere and secure the best viewing points. Adding to this spectacular visual display, on Sunday a magnificent concert by the internationally acclaimed Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland (CBOI), renowned for its musical excellence and its mission of peace, will take place in the Cathedral. This ticketed event fully sold out in record time, which is a testament to these exceptionally talented young musicians from across the island of Ireland. The event is made possible by the support of main commercial partner Dundalk Credit Union in association with Dundalk BIDS, The Cross Border Orchestra of Ireland and St Patrick's Cathedral. How to find us Next Item Previous Item

Bó Studios Saturday Morning Pottery Wheel Workshops Start Date Saturday 7 February 2026 End Date Saturday 7 March 2026 Townparks, Dundalk, Co. Louth, A91 N1NP, Ireland etaoinceramics14@gmail.com +353 85 204 9529 VISIT WEBSITE In this five-week Pottery Workshop for beginners, you will learn the basics of wheel throwing, focusing on throwing techniques to help you feel more confident using the pottery wheel. The course starts from the 7th of February and will run for 5 weeks on Saturday mornings from 12:00 - 2:00pm in Bó Studios, Dundalk, A91N1NP. Also, for an additional €50, you will get an extra class where you get to hand-paint the pieces you have made on the course. Contact Etaoin if you have any questions about the course, or call into Bó Studios Pop Up Gallery, open every Saturday from 1-5pm. This is a perfect Christmas gift for someone who likes to have fun and be creative. Spaces are limited, so book now. Visit Website to book or email etaoinceramics14@gmail.com to leave a deposit to hold your space. How to find us Next Item Previous Item

Looking to escape the crowds and experience a different side of Ireland’s smallest county? Why not wander off the beaten track and explore Ardee and mid-Louth’s unique blend of natural beauty, local history, and authentic experiences making this a destination not to be missed! Discover Ardee Nestled in County Louth’s rolling countryside, Ardee is a bustling market town filled with local charm and fascinating history. Its name comes from Áth Fhirdhia (the Ford of Ferdia), a legendary crossing on the River Dee, famed in Irish folklore as the site of the epic battle between CúChulainn and Ferdia. The town has a mix of traditional shops, bars and eateries to explore. Spend time discovering its many historic landmarks on the Explore Louth Heritage Trail . Families will love the play park in the charming Fair Green that will delight children of all ages and abilities. Or if you fancy being Sherlock Holmes for a day, check out the Whodunit Hunts self-guided outdoor murder mystery trail of the town. CúChulainn & Ferdia, Ardee, Co. Louth Ardee Golf Club Looking for the perfect golf getaway? Ardee Golf Club offers one of the finest parkland courses in the North East and is open to visitors, groups, and societies! Enjoy the beautifully maintained course with top-class facilities and a welcoming atmosphere. After your round, unwind in the clubhouse bar & restaurant with fresh scones, a full breakfast, or delicious à la carte dining while overlooking the 18th green. Image: Ardee Golf Club Long Acre Alpacas Enjoy a trek through stunning countryside with your very own alpaca at Long Acre Alpacas . These gentle, curious animals make the best walking companions. Whether you choose the Alpaca Trek Experience or the family friendly Farmyard Tour, you’ll get up close with these fluffy friends (and maybe even a few donkeys, sheep, and goats too)! The trek is a relaxing 40-minute stroll, full of photo opportunities and, of course, some alpaca treat time at the end! Image: Long Acre Alpacas Kildemock Jumping Church Visit a heritage site with a difference! Just 4km south of Ardee, the Kildemock Church ruin is a popular attraction and is more famously known as the 'Jumping Church'. Rumour has it that during a storm in 1715, the west gable wall of the church jumped inward, but according to local legend, it leaped to exclude an excommunicated church member buried within its grounds! The Jumping Church, Kildemock (Image: Tourism Ireland) Whiteriver Karting Ready to feel the thrill of real kart racing? Whiteriver Park , just outside Collon is the ultimate destination for speed, adrenaline, and non-stop fun! Ideal whether you're racing solo or planning a day out with friends and family! Image: Whiteriver Park Kart Racing Circuit Historic Collon House Built in 1740, this elegant Irish Long House once belonged to Anthony Foster and his son John “Speaker” Foster, the last Speaker of the Irish House of Commons. The house is brimming with period antiques and early Georgian charm, and the gardens truly steal the show in summer. Guided tours of the house and garden are available by appointment. Image: Collon House Monasterboice High Cross & Round Tower Explore the ancient monastic site at Monasterboice , one of Ireland’s most treasured early Christian landmarks. Founded in the 6th century by Saint Buithe, the site is home to a majestic Round Tower and three incredible High Crosses, including St. Muiredach’s Cross, often hailed as the finest high cross in Ireland. A local guiding service is available during the summer. Monasterboice High Cross & Round Tower Old Mellifont Abbey Founded in 1142 by Saint Malachy, this was Ireland’s first-ever Cistercian monastery and a true landmark in Irish history. Stroll through the ruins and explore impressive medieval architecture, including the unique two-storey octagonal lavabo from the 12th century. Don’t miss the OPW Visitor Centre’s exhibition open during the summer season, featuring carved stone fragments uncovered during excavations. Find out more here . Old Mellifont Abbey (Image: Fáilte Ireland - courtesy Eilish Tierney) Fairy Trees Winery Guided Tours Pioneers in Irish winemaking, this small, family-run vineyard is nestled on the banks of the River Dee close to Dunleer. Enjoy a unique and memorable experience on one of their guided tours offering visitors an insider’s look into their vineyards and winemaking process, followed by a relaxing tutored tasting of their three signature wines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just curious about the craft, these tours are a perfect way to explore, learn, and enjoy. Image: Fairy Trees Winery Vineyard Viking VR Experience Travel back to the Viking Age at The Glyde Inn, Annagassan, a Traditional Irish Pub and restaurant situated right on the beach, boasting stunning sea and mountain views. Immerse yourself in history with their Viking VR Experience and explore Ireland’s Viking capital as ‘Bjorn the Bear’ in cutting-edge virtual reality. After your adventure, feast on a seafood banquet featuring local delights like razor clams, langoustines, mussels, and oysters...all served with a taster of their own Viking Beer! Image: The Glyde Inn, Annagassan Discover Dromiskin’s Heritage Dromiskin village is rich in heritage and history that goes back to the sixth century and includes saints, scholars, primates of Armagh, scientists and investors. Discover places of note on the Dromiskin Heritage Trail including the Round Tower, Celtic Cross, Monastic Ruins and 19th Century St. Margaret's Protestant Church. Round Tower, Dromiskin Corderry Fruit Farm Corderry Farm is a third-generation family run fruit farm less than 15 minutes from Ardee in the historic Corderry Demesne. Producing a wide variety of seasonal fruit including delicious strawberries, raspberries and gooseberries, it’s a great place to pick your own fruit from June to August. Watch out for their special seasonal events, including Farm Walks, Easter Trails, Apple Blossom Walks and Pick your own Sunflowers or Pumpkins to name but a few! Check ‘ What’s On ’ for details of upcoming events. Image: Corderry Fruit Farm Enjoy the Local Hospitality While out and about exploring the beautiful mid-Louth countryside, why not take a break, escape the elements, and recharge your batteries in a cosy café, inviting restaurant or a quaint pub. Sample local flavours with a spot of lunch or treat yourself to a coffee and a freshly baked delight. You’ll find a list of places to choose from here .

Enjoy exploring this legendary county on a shoestring with our list of free things to do in County Louth. There ’ s so much to discover from mountain walks to forest trails, and museums to art galleries…so why not pack a picnic and make a day of it! 1. Take a Trip to the Seaside Enjoy beach walks, rock pooling, or building sandcastles with the kids. Louth has three Blue Flag sandy beaches to choose from located at Templetown, Port and Clogherhead. 2. Uncover the History of Louth Find out more about Louth ’ s history from the Mesolithic era to the modern day on a visit to the County Museum in Dundalk. The museum has three floors of permanent exhibitions and an extensive programme of temporary displays. 3.  Have a Leisurely Walk by the Lough Stroll along the picturesque Carlingford Lough Greenway , a 7km linear pathway following the shoreline between Carlingford Marina and the village of Omeath.  It ’ s a wonderful way to experience the natural landscape and amazing scenery. 4.  Playground Fun No matter where you are, you ’ re not too far from a playground   - there are lots dotted around the county that the little ones will enjoy. 5. Take a Hike The legendary Cooley Mountains provide the perfect terrain for hill walkers and adventure seekers, with various walks and hikes to choose from.  Your efforts will be rewarded with sweeping panoramic views! 6. Marvel at Murals Enjoy a self-guided tour of the fabulous urban artworks in Drogheda and Dundalk. Explore our mythological past on the DRAWDA urban art audio trail , or feast your eyes on the EPSO Dundalk murals depicting aspects of the town's rich heritage and culture. 7. Wander Through Peaceful Woodland Escape to a Coillte Forest Park   - Ravensdale Forest Park is just a short drive from Dundalk, or Townley Hall Woods is close to Drogheda. Facilities include car parking, walking trails and picnic areas. 8.  Visit a Heritage Site Travel back in time and explore the Early Christian monastic sites at Monasterboice , best known for its collection of High Crosses dating from the 9th century, or Old Mellifont Abbey  a short drive away.  This was once one of the wealthiest and most influential monastic houses in medieval Ireland. * 9.  Appreciate Amazing Art Drop into Highlanes Art Gallery , housed in the former Franciscan Church on St. Laurence’s Street, to browse Drogheda’s Municipal Art Collection showcasing a multitude of artist styles and artworks. They also hold a diverse programme of temporary exhibitions. 10. Enjoy the Beauty of the Boyne Discover the Boyne Greenway which runs 4.5km from Drogheda along the Boyne Canal to Oldbridge House, site of the historic Battle of the Boyne , where there are several self-guiding walkways to enjoy through the Oldbridge Estate. * Keep Discovering Why not explore more of County Louth, there is so much to see and do.  Plan your visit  here ,   download a  Visit Louth Map & Guide or check out other Visit Louth itineraries  here . Accommodation   County Louth offers a great range of first-rate accommodation for visitors to choose from, ranging from Four Star hotels to cosy B&Bs and guest houses, as well as self-catering and glamping options.  For a list of accommodation in Louth  click here  (and filter by town).  Restaurants For a list of restaurants 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.  * There is an admission fee to the Visitor Centres at Old Mellifont Abbey and Battle of The Boyne, Oldbridge House, however the grounds may be visited free of charge. Cover image: courtesy of Fáilte Ireland

Looking for the ideal pursuit for a short stay in the historic town of Drogheda? Want to have a day out catching up with friends, or maybe just discover something new near you? Then why not make the most of your day with a fun activity, followed by a coffee and treat right in the heart of town – the perfect way to while away a morning or afternoon! Drogheda boasts an array of independent cafés, all with their own personality and charm, ranging from traditional family bakeries to new trendy café’s - you’ll be spoilt for choice. We’ve put together some suggestions of town centre activities paired with nearby cafés for you to try… An Instagram worthy walk and a coffee! Take a self-guided tour and discover Drogheda’s fantastic murals created by local, national and international artists. Download the DRAWDA audio guide and listen to the fascinating stories of figures from our mythological past, all while snapping pictures of the colourful street art. Stop off for a delicious brew in one of Drogheda’s trendy coffee shops along the way - soak up the atmosphere in Loaf’d on Stockwell Street - the ultimate breakfast destination, try Evalynn Beag - a speciality coffee bar, bakery & retail store in the Town Centre on West Street, or grab your favourite coffee from the Coffee Box on Georges Street – their sign “havin a lovely time” says it all. You’ll be sure to get some insta worthy pics to add a pop of colour to your feed! Laurence Street Gems Spend a relaxing morning or afternoon exploring Laurence Street. Treat yourself to a delicious homemade gelato ice-cream from Izmoo to enjoy as you stroll up the street to one of Drogheda’s most noteworthy landmarks, Saint Laurence’s Gate , a 13th century barbican that was once a gateway to the walled town. Pop into the Design Gallery situated in a charming, listed building over 200 years old, steeped in character with a wonderful array of Irish products to browse in store. Next head into Highlanes Gallery in the beautifully converted Franciscan Friary to view their exhibitions and art selected from the Drogheda Municipal Art Collection. Round off your trip with lunch in their adjoining Five Good Things café , offering scrumptious sandwiches and vibrant salads. Or try Ariosa Café at the bottom of Laurence Street, one of the town’s most popular spots, the inside is tiny and cosy, and their outdoor seating is fab when the sun hits it. Why not buy a bag of their whole bean or ground coffee to enjoy at home – a lovely reminder of your day out! Visit Drogheda’s World-Famous Saint Saint Peter's Church , set in the heart of Drogheda’s main thoroughfare, is a towering Gothic Revival church dating back to the 18th Century. It’s highly decorative interior, featuring beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate mosaics and a splendid marble altar are well worth a visit. But it’s not only the beauty of St. Peters that attracts visitors, it’s also world-famous for the relics of Saint Oliver Plunkett, which are housed in a special shrine on the altar – a must-see when visiting the town! Make the most of your visit with a coffee and baked delight in the nearby Mooreland Café , this traditional bakery has been famous for their cream buns for generations – unmissable if you’ve got a sweet tooth! Or check out The Bare Food Co. for a ‘clean eating’ experience – they’ve got lots of gluten free and vegan options to choose from on their menu. You’ll find them tucked away in a quiet little cul-de-sac off West Street, with plenty of outdoor seating for the warmer days! Explore Historic St. Peter’s Church of Ireland St. Peter's Church of Ireland is a splendid church steeped in heritage, with a cut-stone façade and rich rococo plasterwork, it’s one of the finest 18th-century churches in the country. The magnificent font, which stands by the door at the West end of the church, is a surviving relic of the Medieval church still in use. There are many interesting monuments in the churchyard, of these, perhaps the most interesting and visited is a “cadaver stone” from the tomb of Sir Edmond Goldyng and his wife Elizabeth Fleming which is built into the churchyard wall, and dates back to the first quarter of the 16th century. Another fine tombstone stands over the grave of John Duggan, a Drogheda man and survivor of the Charge of the Light Brigade, he was employed as Sexton in St. Peter’s from c1773 until his death in 1881. Round off your explorations with a brew and some traditional homemade food in The Copper Kettle - one of the oldest family-run coffee shops in Drogheda, or head to the cozy Thirty Eight Café a popular spot for brunch - both are conveniently located nearby on Peter Street. Get your steps in! Enjoy a delightful walk through the very heart of Drogheda along the river Boyne, noted for its history, mythology and natural beauty. This short walk takes you across five of its bridges, and the Drogheda Walks Map & Guide will highlight many points of interest along the way. If you’re looking for a little snack, then North Quay has some lovely options. Here you’ll find the charming Salt House brasserie – offering delicious homemade dishes, desserts and scones, or make for Courtyard Coffee close to Fiddlecase Pier, for speciality coffee, toasties and good vibes. Their outdoor covered area is dog friendly – the perfect pit-stop if you’ve got your furry friend with you! Details of all the café's and coffee shops mentioned above can be found here - Enjoy! Explore More Now we've whet your appetite, why not explore more of Drogheda and County Louth, there is so much to see and do! Check out our other itineraries here .