What to do
Although Drogheda is well known locally for being a popular retreat for many people from Dublin, the town is also acclaimed for its flourishing music scene. One of the key events is the Boyne Music Festival, which takes place at Townley Hall and includes several days of live performances and other exciting cultural activities. Drogheda is also the home of the TLT Concert Hall & Theatre, which contains 900 seats and is one of Ireland's largest entertainment venues.
If you're a fan of medieval landmarks, you won't want to miss a visit to the oldest Cistercian monastery in the country, the Old Mellifont Abbey. Dating back to the mid-12th century, this building features a fascinating collection of medieval artefacts and can be reached via stone stairs. You can also see the imposing Millmount Fort, another unique Norman landmark that is now home to the Millmount Museum, which showcases many intriguing artefacts relating to local and Irish history.
Day trip suggestions:
Near Drogheda hotels is the charming beach resort of Rush, which was once notorious for its smuggling and is now a sought-after living destination for many residents from Dublin. A little further south is the popular coastal town of Balbriggan, which is known for its extensive sandy beach and was once featured in the story 'The Dead' by one of Ireland's most distinguished literary figures, James Joyce.
Dublin
There are far too many attractions in the Irish capital to include in this article, but if you're keen on seeing some thought-provoking exhibitions, visit the National Museum of Ireland and the National Gallery of Ireland. Other impressive landmarks in Dublin include its well-preserved castle, the medieval St Patrick's Cathedral, and the majestic Trinity College Library.
Hotels
For affordable, contemporary accommodation, consider the stylish d Hotel, or opt for the picturesque Scholars Townhouse Hotel, another fantastic value-for-money venue.
