Athboy

#1188 among destinations in Ireland

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Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of County Meath, Athboy is a charming town in the Republic of Ireland that offers visitors a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its picturesque landscapes and rich heritage, Athboy is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the true essence of Ireland.

One of the town's most notable attractions is the Hill of Ward, also known as Tlachtga, which is steeped in myth and legend. This ancient site is believed to have been the location of the Samhain festival, an important Celtic celebration that marked the end of the harvest season. Visitors can explore the ruins and soak in the mystical atmosphere while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

For history enthusiasts, Athboy is home to the impressive St. James' Church, a historic landmark that dates back to the 14th century. The church's striking architecture and serene surroundings make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. The nearby Athboy Castle, although now in ruins, also offers a glimpse into the town's medieval past.

Nature lovers will appreciate the tranquil setting of Athboy, with its lush green fields and meandering rivers. The Boyne Valley, just a short drive away, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to an array of stunning natural wonders, including the ancient passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth.

In addition to its rich history and natural beauty, Athboy boasts a vibrant community and a welcoming atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring the town's charming shops, traditional pubs, and friendly eateries, where they can savor authentic Irish cuisine and mingle with the locals.

Alternative names: Population: 2.4 thous.Coordinates: 53°37'21"N, 6°55'11"W

Location

MeathIreland

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Day trips

Athboy – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Trim Castle, The Black Friary, Sheep Gate, St. Mary's Abbey.

7.1 miSE
Ireland's largest Anglo-Norman castle
Trim Castle, Trim
182 min walk • Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, stands proudly in the small town of Trim, situated in County Meath. This formidable medieval fortress was constructed over a period of 30 years by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter, beginning in 1176.
6.9 miSE
Archaeological site
The Black Friary, Trim
175 min walk • The Black Friary, a historical landmark nestled in the heritage town of Trim, Ireland, is an evocative site that offers a glimpse into the country's medieval past. Established in the 13th century, this Dominican friary was named for the black cloaks of the Dominican...
7.1 miSE
City gate
Sheep Gate, Trim
182 min walk • Nestled within the historic fabric of Trim, Ireland, stands the Sheep Gate, a silent sentinel and the last remaining city gate of this medieval town. This modest yet significant structure harks back to an era when city walls and gates were paramount in defending the...
7.2 miSE
Monastery
St. Mary's Abbey, Trim
183 min walk • St. Mary's Abbey in Trim, County Meath, Ireland is a former house of Augustinian canons dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. The abbey was situated on the north bank of the River Boyne, opposite Trim Castle, on land given to St.
2.4 miNE
Archaeological site
Rathmore Church
62 min walk • Rathmore Church is a ruined medieval church and National Monument in County Meath, Ireland. It was constructed by the prominent Plunkett living nearby at Rathmore Castle. A modern church 0.5 km to the north-east serving the area was constructed in 1844.
1.3 miE
Archaeological site
Hill of Ward
33 min walk • The Hill of Ward is a hill in County Meath, Ireland.
4.4 miW
Forts and castles
Ballinlough Castle
113 min walk • Ballinlough Castle is a 17th-century country house situated near the rural town of Clonmellon in County Westmeath, Ireland on a hill overlooking two of the Westmeath lakes. It is the home of Sir Nicholas and Lady Nugent.
6.9 miSE
Church
Trim Cathedral, Trim
176 min walk • The Cathedral Church of St Patrick, Trim is a cathedral of the Church of Ireland in Trim, County Meath, Ireland. Previously the cathedral of the Diocese of Meath, it is now one of two cathedrals in the United Dioceses of Meath and Kildare which is part of the ecclesiastical province of Dublin.
7.3 miSE
Memorial
Porch Fields, Trim
185 min walk • The Porch Fields is an area of medieval farmland outside Trim, Ireland with a medieval roadway that forms a National Monument.
4 miNW
Forts and castles
Killua Castle
103 min walk • Killua Castle, and the nearby Raleigh Obelisk, are situated near Clonmellon, County Westmeath, Ireland. The present house was built in about 1780 by Sir Benjamin Chapman and consisted of a hall, dining room, oval drawing room, breakfast parlour and front and back stairs.
5.8 miNE
Forts and castles
Durhamstown Castle
148 min walk • Durhamstown Castle is a 600-year-old towerhouse in the townland of Durhamstown of the civil parish of Ardbraccan which is in the barony of Lower Navan, in County Meath, Ireland.