Drogheda Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Drogheda, Ireland with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, hiking trails, accommodation, food and drinks, local culture, and travel tips.


Introduction to Drogheda

Located on the east coast of Ireland, in the County of Louth, Drogheda is a small medieval town that is rich in history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. The town has a population of about 40,000 people and is famous for its historic abbey, museums, and beautiful landscapes. With its vibrant arts scene, world-class restaurants, and friendly locals, Drogheda is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic Irish experience.

List of Places to Visit in Drogheda

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Millmount Museum and Martello Tower

One of Drogheda’s most iconic landmarks is the Millmount Museum and Martello Tower, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town. The tower was built to defend the town against possible attacks from the sea. Today, the tower is home to the Millmount Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Drogheda’s rich history.

Drogheda’s Old Abbey

Drogheda’s Old Abbey is a beautiful, yet haunting place to visit. The ruins of the abbey sit on the banks of the River Boyne, and the history of this site dates back to the 12th century. The celtic crosses and the intricate stone carvings on the abbey walls are a testament to the incredible craftsmanship of the time.

Natural Attractions of Drogheda: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Boyne Valley Way

The Boyne Valley Way is a 20-mile hiking trail that winds its way through the stunning landscapes of the Boyne Valley, passing through picturesque villages, rolling hills, and serene forests. Along the way, hikers will catch spectacular views of the historic monuments, such as the passage tombs at Newgrange and Knowth.

Bettystown Beach

Bettystown Beach is a popular spot among locals and tourists for its beautiful sand dunes and crystal clear waters. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Drogheda

The Boyne Valley Way

The Boyne Valley Way is the most popular hiking route in Drogheda, stretching for 20 miles along the banks of the River Boyne. There are several access points along the trail, and hikers can choose to complete the entire route or opt for shorter sections.

Best Things to Do in Drogheda: Activities and Tours

Drogheda Ghost Tour

The Drogheda Ghost Tour is a must-do activity for those who love history and the supernatural. The tour takes you through some of the town’s most haunted locations, including a visit to St. Peter’s Church, where you can meet the resident ghost Creaky Joe.

Boyne Boats River Tours

Explore the River Boyne and its historic sites from a different perspective with Boyne Boats River Tours. The tour takes you along the river on traditional Irish boats called ‘currachs’.

Week-Long Itinerary for Drogheda

Day 1

Start your adventure in Drogheda with a visit to the town’s Old Abbey. Take a stroll through the ruins and admire the intricate stone carvings and celtic crosses. Next, head to the Millmount Museum and Martello Tower, where you can learn about the town’s history and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Day 2

Go on a day trip to the ancient sites of Newgrange and Knowth. These sites are believed to be older than the pyramids in Egypt and are a testament to the incredible ingenuity of our ancestors.

Day 3

Embark on a hiking adventure along the Boyne Valley Way trail, taking in the stunning beauty of the Boyne Valley and its historic monuments.

Day 4

Enjoy a leisurely day at Bettystown Beach, soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, and trying your hand at surfing.

Day 5

Take a Drogheda Ghost Tour and explore the town’s spooky side.

Day 6

Explore the River Boyne on a Boyne Boats River Tour, and take in the historic sites from a different perspective.

Day 7

Take a day trip to the nearby town of Trim, which is home to the stunning Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland.

Food and Drink Scene of Drogheda

Must-Try Dishes

Coddle

Coddle is a traditional Irish stew made with pork sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions.

Dublin Coddle

A variation of the classic coddle, Dublin Coddle is made with potatoes, onions, sausages, rashers, and barley.

Local Beverages

Guinness

No trip to Ireland would be complete without trying the country’s most famous export, Guinness.

Irish Whiskey

Ireland is known for its exceptional whiskey, and you’ll find plenty of distilleries and bars offering a range of flavoursome drinks.

Where to Stay in Drogheda: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Grovemore House Bed and Breakfast

Grovemore House Bed and Breakfast is a charming, family-run guesthouse in the heart of Drogheda. The rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated, and the breakfast is a delicious feast.

The d hotel

The d hotel is a stylish, modern hotel that offers stunning views over the River Boyne and the town of Drogheda. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and the hotel offers excellent facilities, including a gym, spa, and restaurant.

What to Buy in Drogheda: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Millmount Craft Centre

The Millmount Craft Centre is a treasure trove of locally produced handicrafts and souvenirs. You’ll find everything from handmade pottery and jewelry to knitwear and paintings.

Local Culture and Customs of Drogheda

Drogheda is a town that is proud of its history and culture. Visitors can expect to encounter friendly locals who are always happy to welcome new visitors and share their love of this beautiful town.

Best Time to Visit Drogheda

The best time to visit Drogheda is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild, and the town is at its liveliest. However, be prepared for crowds and higher prices during these peak travel times.

Do’s and Don’ts of Drogheda

Do:

  • Try traditional Irish dishes like Coddle and Dublin Coddle.
  • Visit the Millmount Museum and Martello Tower.
  • Explore the ancient sites of Newgrange and Knowth.
  • Take a Drogheda Ghost Tour.
  • Sample Irish whiskey and Guinness.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack a raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Don’t cause any damage to the ancient monuments and historical sites.
  • Don’t miss out on Bettystown Beach.
  • Don’t leave without sampling the local food and drink.

Safety and Health

Safety in Drogheda

Drogheda is generally a safe town for tourists. However, it is always essential to take the same safety precautions you would in any new city. Avoid walking alone at night, keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Drogheda

For general health advice and information, visitors can visit the health center in Drogheda. It is advisable to take out comprehensive travel insurance before visiting Drogheda to cover any unforeseen medical expenses.

Getting to Drogheda: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Drogheda

The closest airport to Drogheda is Dublin International Airport, which is approximately 30 minutes away by car or bus.

Bus Stations Near Drogheda

Drogheda Bus Station is located in the town center and is serviced by a range of bus routes from Dublin and other major cities in Ireland.

Other Options

There are plenty of car rental companies located in Drogheda, and hiring a car can be an excellent option for exploring the surrounding area at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Drogheda

Drogheda is a small town that can easily be explored on foot. However, there are also bus routes that connect the town with other nearby destinations, making it easy to explore the rest of County Louth and beyond.

Where to Go Next from Drogheda: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Located a short drive from Drogheda, the town of Navan is home to the beautiful Slane Castle and the nearby Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre, which explores the fascinating history of the Boyne Valley.

Dublin

The vibrant city of Dublin is a short journey from Drogheda and offers an incredible array of attractions, including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College, and the bustling Temple Bar area.

Conclusion

Drogheda is a charming, historic town that is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic Irish experience. With plenty of ancient sites, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultural attractions, Drogheda has something to offer every visitor. Whether you’re exploring the ruins of the Old Abbey, hiking along the Boyne Valley Way, or sampling traditional Irish dishes, Drogheda is a town that will stay with you long after you leave.

Cromwell's troops enter Drogheda Cromwell's troops enter Drogheda View of Drogheda View of Drogheda Shrine with St Oliver Plunkett's head Shrine with St Oliver Plunkett's head Neolithic burial mound at Brú Na Bóinne Neolithic burial mound at Brú Na Bóinne Monasterboice Monasterboice Battle of the Boyne as seen by William: south is up Battle of the Boyne as seen by William: south is up Lavabo of Old Mellifont Abbey Lavabo of Old Mellifont Abbey