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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Newgrange Summary
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| Public website: | heritageireland.ie |
Ireland – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type G
Type G:
 Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Ireland, especially in urban areas. Contactless payments and mobile apps are commonly used. Smaller businesses might still prefer cash.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Ireland, with 10-15% expected in restaurants. Tipping for taxi drivers is usually rounded up or 10-15%. For hotel staff, €1-2 is appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in many places, such as parks and during festivals, but local laws vary in specific areas. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited indoors in public spaces and in most enclosed areas. Designated outdoor smoking areas are common. |
| St. Patrick’s Day (March) |
Expect large crowds and parades, especially in Dublin. Book accommodations well in advance. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Christmas markets and festive events are popular, with busy streets and higher accommodation rates. |
| Easter Monday (March/April) |
Many places close or have limited hours, especially in smaller towns. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Free Now, Bolt |
| Other: | Ireland is known for its scenic landscapes, and rural areas may require more preparation for travellers, especially in terms of accommodation and transport. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
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Additional notes:
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for Newgrange, Ireland
Tours only by shuttle from the Brú na Bóinne visitor centre, tickets sell out in summer, book ahead
Winter solstice sunrise illumination 19 to 23 December, places allocated by annual lottery
Closed 24 to 26 December
Don't miss
- 🌄 Explore Newgrange's ancient passage tomb at sunrise
- 🗺️ Attend the guided tour to learn megalithic history
- 🏞️ Walk through surrounding Boyne Valley landscape and ruins
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Newgrange is a prehistoric monument located in County Meath Ireland. It dates back over five thousand years to the Neolithic era. The site features a large circular mound with a stone passageway leading to a central chamber. The structure aligns with the winter solstice sunrise. Visitors can witness sunlight enter through a roof box and illuminate the inner space for a short time each year.
The design of Newgrange shows advanced knowledge of astronomy and engineering. The builders used large stones covered in intricate carvings. Some symbols include spirals and abstract patterns that may have held cultural or spiritual meaning. The passageway extends twenty meters before reaching the chamber where people once gathered for rituals or ceremonies.
Surrounding Newgrange are other ancient mounds and burial sites. The area forms part of a larger complex known as Brú na Bóinne. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes several monuments that share similar construction methods. Walking paths allow exploration of the landscape while respecting its historical significance.
Today visitors can learn about the site’s history through guided tours and on-site exhibits. Information panels explain theories about its purpose as a tomb or ceremonial space. The winter solstice event draws people from around the world to experience the rare light effect. The combination of ancient craftsmanship and natural surroundings makes Newgrange an important cultural landmark.
Knowledge before you go
- Arrive early; Newgrange opens at sunrise for optimal lighting.
- Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing, as the site is outdoors and weather can change quickly.
- Book a guided tour in advance to access the burial chamber and learn about its Neolithic significance.
- Explore the surrounding Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre for detailed exhibits on Bronze Age artifacts and local folklore.
How to travel to Newgrange
Newgrange, an ancient passage tomb in County Meath, Ireland, is accessible via a 45-minute drive from Dublin along the N2 National Road. The nearest town, Slane, is approximately 10 kilometers away and offers parking facilities for visitors. Public transport options include guided tours departing from Dublin’s Busáras or direct bus services like Citylink and Irish Rail to nearby stations, followed by a short taxi ride. The site is located off the R195 road, with limited on-site parking available. Visitors must book timed entry slots in advance through the official website for archaeological access.
Access summary
- From Dublin Airport (DUB): Bus to Newgrange (45–60 min).
- From Belfast International (BHD): Train to Bangor, then bus to Newgrange (90–110 min).
- By ferry from Dublin to Howth, then taxi to Newgrange (30–40 min).
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay near Newgrange
Near Newgrange, the accommodation landscape blends rural charm with modern comfort. A range of bed‑and‑breakfasts and country cottages offer intimate stays in traditional stone houses, often featuring local décor and homemade breakfasts that highlight regional produce. For those seeking a more upscale experience, boutique hotels in nearby towns provide contemporary amenities while preserving historic character. Camping sites along the Boyne Valley cater to adventurous travelers, offering pitches with scenic views of the river and surrounding woodlands. Many accommodations emphasize sustainability, using renewable energy sources and locally sourced materials. Whether you prefer cozy homestays or stylish lodgings, the area offers diverse options that reflect Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
We couldn't find any nearby hotels for now.
Packing recommendations for Newgrange
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Camera
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Sun cream
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Reusable water bottle
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Energy snacks
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Waterproof jacket
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Sunglasses
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Folding umbrella
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Small rucksack
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Map or GPS device
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Power bank
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Sun hat
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Travel journal
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Warm gloves
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Fleece mid-layer
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Travel eSIM
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Universal travel adaptor
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Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
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To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 8% higher than the average across United States. That means you'll spend more on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to EUR) is 3% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Safety information overview
General safety
Newgrange in County Meath is a very safe destination for travelers. The site is well‑guarded with clear signage and regular patrols and the surrounding area has low crime rates. Visitors should stay on marked paths, avoid night visits and keep valuables secure.
Accessibility
Newgrange welcomes visitors with accessible pathways, ramps and audio guides, making it relatively easy to explore the mound’s interior. However, the steep steps inside remain a challenge for wheelchair users and some surrounding paths are uneven, so careful planning is advised.
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