From Tara to Trim... Meath’s top walking spots to enjoy the sunshine this summer
Irish summer has well and truly arrived this week, and there couldn’t be a better time for some sunshine than on the heels of Mental Health Awareness Week, which wrapped up in mid-May. If you live in the county, you are fortunate to have some of the country’s most beautiful walking trails right on your doorstep.
Here is your one-stop guide to some of the finest walks in the Royal County, helping you make the most of the good weather and slow down the pace of everyday life, while boosting your well-being at the same time.
The Hill of Tara
If you are looking for coffee, scenic views, and a lengthy trek all in one, the Hill of Tara is hard to beat. This peaceful heritage site is perfect for dog walks, as well as catching a sunrise or sunset over the county. Adding to the charm, a baby donkey was recently born in the front paddock, making the visit even more memorable. Visit The Old Book Shop and the ancient well to really immerse yourself in the heritage this magical place holds. Free parking is available in front of the hill, while an additional paid car park is located across from Maguire’s Café.
Trim Castle and the Porchfield Walk
This easy and popular riverside loop offers stunning views of Trim Castle, with plenty of cafés and parking nearby. It is an ideal choice for a relaxed afternoon stroll.
Littlewood Forest
If forest walks are more your style, Slane is home to the beautiful Littlewood Forest. This short woodland trail is teeming with wildlife and offers a peaceful escape into nature. With a free car park at the entrance, it is perfect for a casual summer walk.
Jamestown Bog
Located close to Navan, Jamestown Bog features a scenic boardwalk through tranquil bogland, rich in wildlife and free from steep climbs. It is a great option if you are looking for somewhere peaceful without venturing too far from town.
Loughcrew Cairns
Just 20 minutes from Kells, Loughcrew Cairns is a prehistoric passage tomb complex spread across the rolling Loughcrew Hills. Famous for its Neolithic tombs, older than the pyramids of Egypt, the site rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views stretching across several counties.
Bective Tea Rooms
Tucked away on the outskirts of Navan, Bective Tea Rooms offers an easy 3.5 kilometre woodland trail that winds through beautiful scenery, crosses gentle streams, and overlooks the River Boyne. Before or after your walk, stop into the tea rooms for a coffee and a sweet treat. Free parking is available directly outside the café.
Park Beo Greenway Hub
For those in search of a longer outdoor adventure, Park Beo Greenway Hub is an excellent starting point. Begin your visit with one of the café’s popular toasties or açai bowls before heading out onto the trail. If walking is not your thing, bikes are available to rent on-site, making it easy to explore the stunning 30km Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway stretching into County Cavan.
The Ramparts
For a scenic riverside walk, The Ramparts in Navan takes you on an 8km (16km return) walk along the River Boyne and stretches towards Stackallen/Broadboyne Bridge. Along the walk you pass many historic sites including Blackcastle House ruins, Dunmoe Castle, Ardmulchan Church and old canal locks. It’s a popular place for walking, running, cycling and fishing with lots of nature and wildlife to view along the way.
An Tobar
Nestled in the peaceful countryside just outside of Navan, An Tobar in Ardbraccan offers a calm and reflective walking experience surrounded by nature. The retreat centre features quiet woodland paths, open green spaces and tranquil gardens, making it the perfect place for a gentle stroll. With its serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, An Tobar is an ideal spot to relax, recharge and enjoy the beauty of the countryside.