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, where the ‘Gateway to the Boyne Valley’ exhibition showcases 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, before dropping into the nearby Highlanes Municipal Art Gallery located in a beautiful former Franciscan Friary Church on St. Laurence Street.  Here you can admire the visual art exhibitions and one of the town’s most treasured heirlooms - a 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. 

Afternoon

After lunch you can choose from one of the following activities:

• Kids big and small will love a fun filled afternoon in Funtasia Theme Park with over 15 different activities to choose from.   Have fun splashing about in the Pirates Cove Waterpark or enjoy climbing, bowling, crazy golf, soft play areas and all the fun of the fairground. There’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

• 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 25km looped walk which continues on through Townley Hall woods and takes in the OPW site of Mellifont Abbey, the village of Tullyallen, and returns to Drogheda along the Boyne Canal.

• Book a unique guided boat tour on a handcrafted, traditional Irish currach along the Boyne River and Canal with Boyne Boats, where you will connect with nature, see historic landmarks and hear stories about battles, myths and ancient legends! (suitable for all ages)

Evening

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

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 DRAWDA Urban Art Trail map (or pick one up from local businesses) 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 Millmount Museum, 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 beaches at Clogherhead or Port which are perfect for a picnic and some family fun when the sun shines!

• Book a Gin School Experience at Listoke Distillery which is located in Tenure outside Drogheda.  Here you will enjoy a tour of the family run distillery, get to taste their award winning Listoke Gin and create your very own bottle of gin to bring home…a unique, fun and interactive experience.  Check www.listokedistillery.ie for upcoming dates and times (please note you must be over 18 to attend Listoke Gin School).

Evening

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

Accommodation:  Drogheda and the surrounding area offers a great range of first-rate accommodation for visitors to choose from, ranging from Four Star hotels to cosy B&Bs, guest houses and self-catering.  For a listing of accommodation in Louth click here and filter by town.

Restaurants: For a list of restaurants in Drogheda click here and filter by town.

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

Keep Discovering

Why not explore more of County Louth, there is so much to see and do, from outdoor adventures, historic attractions, blue flag beaches and seafood trails to miles of mountain & coastal walks.  Plan your visit here or check out other Visit Louth itineraries here.