10 GREAT REASONS TO VISIT IRELAND'S ANCIENT EAST

ME.TUDE - Head to the eastern side of Ireland for an exciting exploration of 5,000 years of history. A journey through Ireland’s Ancient East brings myths and legends, history and heritage, stunning scenery, vivid tales and ancient wonders.​

by Hanan

Need a reason to go? Here are 10.

1. Newgrange, county Meath

Step back a full 5,000 years in time at this World Heritage Site and experience ancient Ireland. This Neolithic tomb is part of the famous Brú na Bóinne complex, one of the world’s most important prehistoric landscapes.

2. Belvedere House, county Westmeath

A world of history and tradition can be explored in this lakeside Georgian villa with an impressive Victorian walled garden and 160-acre parkland scattered with fantastic follies. Enjoy woodland walks, the serene lake shore, the café and visitor shop.

3. Clonmacnoise, county Offaly

This ancient monastic settlement on the banks of the River Shannon dates from 548. Wander among the extensive ruins of a cathedral, castle, several churches, a round tower, two important high crosses and a large set of early Christian grave slabs.

4. Hook Lighthouse, county Wexford

Voted the number one lighthouse in the world, this beacon has been marking the entrance to Waterford Harbour for at least 2,000 years. Climb to its lantern and visitor centre for wonderful views and an insight into its long history.

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ABOVE: Hook Lighthouse.

5. Glendalough, county Wicklow

This remarkable glacial valley is renowned for its extraordinary ‘monastic city’ founded by St Kevin in the sixth century. It is full of great natural beauty, rich history, stunning archaeology, diverse wildlife and the sublime peace of the Irish countryside at its most scenic.

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ABOVE: Glendalough.

6. Rock of Cashel, county Tipperary

One of Ireland's most spectacular heritage sites, 'The Rock' is home to a series of impressive ancient structures and a world of medieval and Celtic history. Set on a prominent green hill, it affords impressive views of the Tipperary countryside.

7. The National Stud and Gardens, county Kildare

Housing some of the most magnificent horses in the world, the beating heart of Ireland's thoroughbred industry is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Watch equine royalty up close, visit the horse museum and enjoy the Japanese Garden, renowned throughout Europe.

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ABOVE: Irish National Stud and Gardens.

8. Kilkenny Castle, county Kilkenny

Over 800 years of history and a complex of architectural styles are wrapped up in this breath-taking castle, one of the most beautiful in Ireland. An integral part of historic Kilkenny city, it sits in impressive, extensive parklands. 

9. Waterford, county Waterford

Ireland’s oldest city was once a Viking settlement and the invaders’ influence can still be appreciated in its narrow streets and medieval walls. Explore the Viking Triangle, encompassing buildings spanning 1,100 years of Irish history and home to three museums.

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ABOVE: Waterford Viking Triangle.

ABOVE: Cobh.

10. Cobh, county Cork

This quintessentially Irish seaside town was the last port of call for RMS Titanic before she set sail on her fated Atlantic journey. Follow in the footsteps of the ship’s last passengers in the Titanic Experience, take a walking tour or drop into the Cobh Heritage Centre.

IRELAND | ME.TUDE | ME.TRAVEL

INFO
Tourism Ireland
​​​www.ireland.com

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POST BY
Thierry Hanan Scheers
With a backpack  and hiking boots Hanan travels around the world. Destination? Somewhere, nowhere and everywhere.
backpacker and storyteller

TEXT
Tourism Ireland
​press release

PHOTO
Tourism Ireland

6 February 2019