Kells on long list for ‘best holiday’

Kells has been named as one of the ‘20 Best Places to Holiday in Ireland 2022’ and is in the running for the overall title following the publication of the long list of contenders at the weekend.

The town was one of hundreds of locations which were nominated by close to 1,200 people from across the 32 counties for the title of ‘Best Place to Holiday in Ireland 2022’. Kells, one of seven towns selected from all over Ireland for the ‘Best 20’ – received one nomination.

The Irish Times ‘Best Place to Holiday in Ireland’ competition, which is being run in association with Fáilte Ireland, began at the end of April when members of the public were invited to nominate their favourite place to holiday for the award. The competition last took place in 2013 with the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare emerging as the eventual winner.

Each of the nominated locations in this year’s competition was considered by a panel of judges on a range of criteria including natural amenities, built environment, sustainability, tourism services, diversity, a welcome for visitors, transport links, accommodation supply, cost and of course the X factor.

In her nomination Kells businesswoman, Geraldine Gaughran described the town in glowing terms.

“Kells is a fantastic base to explore the Boyne Valley, including the monastic town of Kells, Newgrange, Loughcrew, Girley Bog and so much more. It’s also something of a foodie destination, where a number of food producers have come together under the umbrella of Boyne Valley Flavours, and now host a local food tour. There are food markets — Sheridan’s cheesemongers HQ and Clonmellon Food & Craft Market. There’s a choice of friendly, independent shops, restaurants and cafes, and lots of lively pubs. The newly refurbished Courthouse Tourism and Cultural Hub has events throughout the year.”

The panel of five judges which includes Nadia El Ferdaoussi, travel blogger; Trevor White, director of the Little Museum of Dublin; Cillian Murphy, county councillor from Loop Head, the 2013 winner; and Rosita Boland, Irish Times journalist – spent hours debating the entries, before selecting the ‘Best 20’.