River Boyne bursts banks as flooding hits Brú na Bóinne and Oldbridge

Persistent heavy rain has caused the River Boyne to burst its banks, leading to flooding on approach roads to two of Meath’s most popular heritage sites and forcing changes to opening hours.

Management at Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre confirmed that the L1600 road from the N2 towards the site is flooded at the mill following constant rainfall overnight.

In a social media update, the centre urged motorists to exercise caution, warning that the river has “well and truly burst its banks” after the downpour. As a result, Brú na Bóinne closed earlier than usual at 4pm and said it would provide a further update regarding Saturday’s opening hours in light of forecast freezing temperatures and a yellow weather warning.

The flooding comes as Met Éireann has warned of icy conditions overnight, raising concerns about hazardous driving conditions across the county.

Meanwhile, the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre at Oldbridge has announced a delayed opening on Saturday, February 14th, due to consistent heavy rain and expected freezing temperatures.

The Visitor Centre, along with Brambles Tea Pavilion, the Oldbridge parklands and car park, will open later than usual at 10am.

In a notice issued on Friday, management also advised visitors to take care on approach roads due to reports of flooding in the area.

Both sites, located along the River Boyne, are particularly vulnerable during periods of sustained rainfall, with surrounding lands prone to waterlogging when river levels rise.

Motorists travelling in the vicinity of the N2, Donore and Oldbridge areas are being urged to slow down, allow extra travel time and avoid driving through flooded sections of road where possible.

Further updates on opening hours are expected as weather conditions develop.