Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre

If you’re heading out to see Newgrange, Knowth, and/or Dowth, it’s worth traveling to Oldbridge, Co. Meath, about seven kilometers away from these world-famous Neolithic tombs. The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre is located here at Oldbridge House, on a site surrounded by restored Victorian walled gardens. Traveling to this area, lets you appreciate the beautiful Irish countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of Dublin city center but still accessible if that’s where you’re staying. 

Oldbridge House is a recently restored 18th-century mansion sitting on the banks of the River Boyne. The center gives an insight into one of the most significant battles in Irish history. In 1690, the Battle of the Boyne occurred between King William III (William of Orange) and his Catholic father-in-law King James II. When the Protestant King William III won the battle, this saw the beginning of the Irish Protestant Ascendancy. This mansion was built on the battleground of the war.

Even if it’s an event you’re not familiar with, the life-sized mannequins and remakes of the tents they would have stayed in are interesting for everyone, even young children. After looking at the figurines and genuine 17th-century weapon displays, you can watch a film that tells the story of the battle. Not an ordinary documentary but one that features actors reliving the battle. There’s even a laser model of the battlefield to have a look at. After this, you can walk to the outdoor section, displaying large, impressive replicas of 17th-century weaponry.

You can then go on to enjoy a walk around the surrounding walled gardens. The Townley Hall Forest is nearby if you’d like to take a long walk and enjoy some breathtaking views of the River Boyne. This walk will lead you through ‘King Williams Glen’ where 36,000 troops set up camp during the war, before launching a surprise attack on the troops of King James II.