Private Boyne Valley, Hill of Tara and Trim Castle Day Tour

Dublin , Ireland

Private Boyne Valley, Hill of Tara and Trim Castle Day Tour

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About this experience

Explore the Boyne valley and Trim Castle on your private small group tour of county Meath. The Boyne Valley is home to the UNESCO heritage sites of Bru na Boinne consisting of 3 major Neolithic sites which are over 5,000 years old, making them older than the Pyramids or Stonehenge. Travel through the lush greens of county Meath and stop and wander around it's numerous world class sites such as Newgrange, Loughcrew, Trim Castle, Slane Castle and Kells Monastic site. Your private guide will work with you to tailor the tour to the interests of your group informing, and providing recommendations for lunch and drinks at the end of the day. The tour takes from 7 to 8 hours depending on the sites which are of most interest to your group. Sit back and relax and let your driver/guide work out the details on your private small group tour.

PLEASE NOTE YOU MUST BOOK TICKETS TO NEWGRANGE IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR GROUP.

Available options

Private Boyne Valley, Hill of Tara and Trim Castle Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private tour

Driver/guide

Local taxes

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Hotel/port pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Leave the hustle and bustle of Dublin city behind for a day and visit the UNESCO world heritage sites of the Boyne Valley home to Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth and Loughcrew Neolithic tombs.

Newgrange was built around 5,200 years ago making it older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids. You can explore the passage and chamber at Newgrange, which is aligned to the rising sun on the mornings around Winter solstice, and illuminates the inner most chamber revealing ancient artwork. It is believed that it took decades to construct by generations of Neolithic people and was used as a burial chamber and for ritual and community gatherings.

Walk around the one acre site containing the tomb of 12m (40 feet) in height and 85m (278 feet) in diameter. It is surrounded by a henge or ring of massive stones and the roof of the structure is still intact and waterproof 5,000 years after construction. In total this monument or tomb contains more than 250,000 tonnes of stone and earth, making it the largest of all the Bru na Boinne sites. Knowth and Dowth passage tombs complete the Bru na Boinne UNESCO heritage site and the passage and chamber at Dowth align to the setting sun around Winter solstice.

After lunch in Slane, continue further into the Boyne valley to the Hill of Tara, the seat of Celtic Kings of Ireland including Brian Boru. The Tara brooch, available to view at the National Museum, is associated with this site.

Travel further inland along the Boyne river route to Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland, immortalised by its use in the movie ‘Braveheart’. The castle is partially restored to its former glory and you can explore the inside taking you up the spiral staircases to the dining halls and sleeping chambers of the De Lacy stronghold. It was constructed over a period of 30 years in 1172, by Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath. The site was chosen because of its commanding position at a fording point on the river Boyne.

Finish up the day with afternoon tea in the luxury Dunboyne Castle on route back to Dublin. This is a suggested Boyne valley tour itinerary with an approximate 8 hour duration. However, it’s your private tour and you are free to customise it in any way you choose. Other major sites of interest in the immediate area are the Monastic settlement of Kells, long associated with the book of Kells held at Trinity College Dublin, and Loughcrew Cairns on the Loughcrew Estate, a lesser known but equally impressive collection of Neolithic monuments known as Cairns. Loughcrew house also has an excellent café and dining area. Meath is an excellent county to visit on a day trip from Dublin because of its wealth of world class sites in close proximity. Your guide will give you further information on the sites and help you to devise the itinerary that most interests your group.

What's not included

Admission Tickets

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

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Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Raincoat for all eventualities

About Dublin

Dublin, the capital of Ireland, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and charm. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, literary heritage, and lively pub scene, Dublin offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, modern amenities, and stunning coastal landscapes.

Top Attractions

Trinity College and the Book of Kells

Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and home to the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript from the 9th century.

Historical 1-2 hours €16 (Book of Kells exhibition)

Guinness Storehouse

The Guinness Storehouse is a seven-story interactive experience dedicated to the history and brewing process of Ireland's most famous beer.

Cultural 2-3 hours €25-€30

Kilmainham Gaol

Kilmainham Gaol is a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the struggle for independence.

Historical 1-2 hours €8

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle has been a symbol of British rule in Ireland for centuries and is now a major government complex and tourist attraction.

Historical 1-2 hours €10-€12

St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of Dublin's most impressive churches, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Religious 1 hour €7.50

Phoenix Park

Phoenix Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush greenery and wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake made with grated and mashed potatoes, flour, and buttermilk.

Side Dish Vegetarian

Coddle

A comforting dish made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, slow-cooked in a rich broth.

Main Course Contains meat

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with flour, baking soda, and buttermilk, known for its dense texture and slightly tangy flavor.

Bread Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Wicklow Mountains Kayaking on the River Liffey Rock climbing at Dublin Rock Climbing Centre Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through St. Stephen's Green Enjoying a pint in a cozy pub Visiting museums and galleries Attending a traditional music session

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather and longest daylight hours. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Irish, English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dublin is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transport.

Getting there

By air

Dublin Airport • 10 km (6 miles) north of the city center

By train

Heuston Station, Connolly Station

By bus

Busáras Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Dublin Bus offers a comprehensive network covering the entire city and surrounding areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Temple Bar Dublin 2 (City Center) Dublin 4 (Ballsbridge and Sandymount) Dublin 7 (Smithfield and Stoneybatter) Dublin 8 (The Liberties)

Day trips

Howth

13 km (8 miles) from Dublin • Half day to full day

A charming coastal village known for its scenic cliffs, fishing harbor, and fresh seafood.

Malahide Castle and Gardens

14 km (9 miles) from Dublin • Half day

A historic castle and beautiful gardens offering a glimpse into Ireland's medieval past.

Glendalough

50 km (31 miles) from Dublin • Full day

A scenic monastic site and glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, known for its ancient ruins and hiking trails.

Festivals

St. Patrick's Festival • March 17 Dublin Theatre Festival • September-October Temple Bar Traditional Music Festival • March

Pro tips

Visit the Guinness Storehouse for a complimentary pint and stunning views of the city
Explore the historic Trinity College and the Book of Kells, but book tickets in advance to avoid long queues
Take a stroll through St. Stephen's Green, a beautiful urban park in the heart of the city
Experience traditional Irish music in a cozy pub, such as The Brazen Head or The Cobblestone
Try Irish stew, a hearty and comforting dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and onions