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Ssmall but mighty, irelandCounty Louth is often overlooked by tourists dublin And galwayBut this small area has a lot to offer tourists – from the breathtaking hiking to the thriving local food scene.
Happily, due to the county’s proximity to Dublin Airport, visitors from the UK can sit down to dinner within five hours of departure. For me, this is the best defense whenever London is under pressure.
The UK capital seems so far away when I spend time here. It’s brimming with history and boasts 55 miles of coastline, but County Louth only covers 319 square miles, so it’s a place you might want to know every inch of – the antidote to life in a metropolis.
My favorite way to travel is to fly on a Friday evening. Drogheda, one of irelandThe largest city is just thirty minutes away on the motorway.
From here, I go straight Scholars Townhouse Hotel, A beautiful, family-run boutique in a former grammar school. They only have 16 rooms, so guests are guaranteed a good welcome.
Although dining in a hotel may sound a bit odd, nothing could be further from the truth here – it is a much-loved spot among the locals.
Their bar menu is delightful, but I prefer to book a table in the restaurant, which is painted with scenes from the Battle of the Boyne (more on that later). The best thing on the menu? Carlingford oysters, caught right on the road.
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The next morning, I usually start my Saturday by drinking coffee airyOff West Street. A two-minute walk is St Peter’s Church, famous for housing the embalmed head of Oliver Plunkett, the last Catholic to be martyred at Tyburn in 1681.
The church holds an annual procession in his honor in July, but beware: I have a university lecturer who still claims to have PTSD from the shock of seeing the remains.
The bloody history does not stop here. In fact, Oliver Cromwell fans would do well to keep their opinions to themselves while in Drogheda. The Lord Protector’s most infamous – and deadly – military maneuver took place at Millmount Fort near the city in 1649.
The garrison’s defenders attempted to surrender to the Parliamentarians, but were massacred instead, an incident A memorial was built at the site,
History lovers can also come here Battle of the Boyne Site On the Oldbridge estate, a short distance from the town. Here, there are several walking trails and an excellent information center where visitors can learn all about the battle between King William III and his father-in-law, King James II, for the British throne.
This was the largest deployment of troops ever on an Irish battlefield – and those who want to know more can discover original artefacts such as weapons and artillery.
For something less bloody, nearby Clogherhead has impressive coastal views. After hiking along the headland, reward your virtue with fish and chips on the pier.
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Visitors who enjoy swimming are short on choice: Clogherhead and Termonfeckin beaches are both great choices for a bracing dip, while Salterstown offers views of the Morne Mountains from the sea.
If the water isn’t attractive, head north ravensdale forest Park and take a walk through the Coulee Mountains.
For a challenging trek, try the Slieve Foy Loop, which starts in Carlingford and, after a significant climb, ends at. strandfieldA café in Dundalk. It’s always busy, but that’s testament to the high-quality cooking with a focus on fresh, ultra-local ingredients.
Luckily, Dundalk is the ideal place to spend a lively Saturday night (and a simple Sunday). Visit here for an animated evening mo fodderA community pub founded by three friends. The food is amazing, but even better is the beer, which they brew themselves – something that has been happening in the city for centuries.
carry on the night Spirit StoreA performing arts venue and comedy club. Or explore the city’s thriving music scene – this is the place that made Corse, after all. go towards for the roomWhich can get rowdy on the weekends and that’s where Mary Wallopers comes into play.
If your head is throbbing the next day, you did something right. A visit to Blackrock, a charming village on the outskirts of Dundalk, is ideal for exploring independent shops and hangover-soothing brunch spots. And then it’s back to the airport, revitalized by an authentic Irish experience. Wee County certainly packs a punch.
how to do it
Ryanair, Aer Lingus and British Airways fly to Dublin from UK airports.
Upon arrival, it is advisable to rent a car, although the area is quite well served by public transport. The 101 bus runs from the airport every twenty minutes and will take you directly to Drogheda.
where to stay
The Scholars Townhouse Hotel offers well-decorated rooms and a friendly welcome. From £174 per night.