Where
Various locations LouthEnjoy exploring the wee 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 SEEK Dundalk murals depicting aspects of the town's rich heritage and culture (follow the links to download a map).
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 here 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 Oldbridge House, however the grounds may be visited free of charge.
Cover image: courtesy of Fáilte Ireland