Things To Do in Louth: The Ultimate Guide to the County’s Activities and Attractions 

Updated On: April 21, 2024 by   Sara Lynch

County Louth is the smallest county in Ireland, but despite its small size, it still has plenty to offer its visitors, from historical sites and coastal landscapes to charming towns and outdoor activities, Louth makes for some great times spent with your family and friends. 

In this article, we’ll talk about some of the things to do in Louth, providing you with a comprehensive guide to the county’s top activities and attractions. 

Where is Louth?

County Louth is located on the east coast of Ireland, sharing its borders with Northern Ireland. It offers dramatic coastal views of the Irish Sea and is known as the “Wee County” due to it being the smallest county in Ireland. 

Things to do in Louth 

County Louth is home to many religious landmarks, ancient sites and medieval buildings. It is a county steeped in history and feels like a world away when visiting. There are a lot of things you can see and do when in Louth, check them out below!

Monasterboice

Monasterboice is an early Christian monastic settlement and is home to an impressive collection of high crosses, including the 5.5-meter (18 feet) Muiredach’s High Cross, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful examples of Celtic art in Ireland.

The site is believed to have been founded in the late 5th century or early 6th century, possibly by Saint Buithe, who was a follower of Saint Patrick. It also homes a well-preserved round tower which historians believe to have been built as a place of refuge for monastic communities during Viking raids

Today, Monasterboice is a National Monument and is open to the public. It’s a place of significant historical and cultural importance, providing a fascinating insight into Ireland’s early Christian past.

Go Golfing

County Louth is home to several top-quality golf courses, such as the Baltray County Louth Golf Club and the Seapoint Golf Club, offering a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience.

Proleek Dolmen

Explore this ancient portal tomb, which dates back to the Neolithic period, around 3000 BC. The impressive capstone is estimated to weigh approximately 40 tons and is one of the most impressive and photogenic dolmens in the country. 

You can visit this megalithic monument which is located on the grounds of the Ballymascanlon Hotel, near Dundalk. Local legends say that anyone who can throw a pebble onto the capstone, and make it stay there, will be married within the year. Another folklore tale associated with the tomb is that it was carried to Ireland by a Scottish giant. 

The Proleek Dolmen is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in archaeology, history, or folklore, offering a tangible connection to Ireland’s distant past.

Things to do in Louth for families

County Louth is the perfect spot to escape with your family, there is a range of outdoor activities available and natural scenery to take advantage of. Check out these things to do in Louth for families below. 

Cooley Peninsula

Discover the Cooley Peninsula’s stunning scenery, including the Mourne Mountains, Carlingford Lough, and the Irish Sea. The area offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.

Omeath

Omeath is nestled in the beautiful area between Carlingford Lough and Slieve Foy Mountain, which is part of the Cooley Mountain range. This scenic location makes Omeath an attractive place for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities and natural beauty.

Omeath also hosts several events throughout the year. The Thomas D’Arcy McGee Summer School is one of the notable annual events that attract visitors from far and wide. The event celebrates the life and works of Thomas D’Arcy McGee, a local emigrant who became one of the founding fathers of Canada.

Drogheda

Stroll through the historic town of Drogheda with your family and visit the attractions such as St. Peter’s Church, Millmount Museum and Tower, and the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre. You can also stop by the charming cafes and restaurants throughout the town, for a tasty bite to eat. 

Things to do in Dundalk, Louth

Dundalk is a lively town in County Louth, with a variety of attractions and activities on offer for its visitors. Some notable attractions and worthwhile visits in Dundalk include: 

St. Patrick’s Church 

This beautiful Gothic Revival church was constructed in the 19th century and remains one of the historic landmarks of Dundalk. Its stunning stained glass windows and impressive interior are well worth a visit.

County Museum Dundalk

This award-winning museum offers a range of exhibits that reveal the history of Dundalk and County Louth, from the Stone Age to the present day, it’s an immersive experience of the County’s past and is set in a charming restored 18th-century warehouse which was once part of Dundalk Distillery.

Ice House Hill Park

This park is one of Dundalk’s most popular green spaces. It offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside from the top of the hill and you can idly stroll alongside the duck pond, observing the inhabiting wildlife. 

Dundalk Stadium

Dundalk Stadium is a popular venue for greyhound racing and horse racing. It’s a great place to experience the excitement and thrill of racing, and with an onsite bar and restaurant, you’ll be sure to have a great time. 

Castletown River Walk

This picturesque walking trail follows the Castletown River and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the town centre. Feel surrounded by the idyllic rural surroundings and watch as nature comes to life. 

Free things to do in Louth

You don’t need a large budget to spend some time enjoying what Louth has to offer. The natural scenery is free to observe and there are many museums that are free to visit. Check out free things to do in Louth below. 

Boyne Valley

Discover the rich history of the Boyne Valley, which is home to ancient sites such as Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth, as well as the Hill of Tara and the Battle of the Boyne site.

Clogherhead Beach

Relax on this beautiful sandy beach or take a refreshing swim in the Irish Sea. The nearby fishing village of Clogherhead is also worth a visit, but you could quite easily spend the whole day chilling on the sandy shores. 

Mellifont Abbey

Explore the ruins of this 12th-century Cistercian abbey, which was the first of its kind in Ireland. Mellifont Abbey also features a unique octagonal lavabo, where the monks once washed their hands. At one point, the abbey was home to over 400 monks, and today it remains a relic of the County’s ancient history. 

Things to do in Carlingford Louth

Carlingford is a picturesque town in County Louth, with lots on offer for its visitors. The medieval town is nestled between Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains, offering views of the stunning natural scenery.

Explore its narrow streets, visit the ancient ruins, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of its pubs and restaurants.

Things to do near Louth

If you’re planning on visiting the county’s surrounding Louth, check out these articles for more things to do, ensuring that you don’t miss out on those worthwhile experiences and activities:

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