Drogheda Introduction
As one of Ireland's oldest towns, Drogheda in County Louth has a rich and colourful past that dates back to the prehistoric era. Today it's a hive of commerce and tourism, a popular getaway for the residents of nearby Dublin and visitors from all over the world. In Drogheda, ancient buildings sit beside gleaming shopping centres, and the abundance of pubs and restaurants means there's something new to try out each day. If you arrive in May, you'll be in time for the annual Drogheda Arts Festival, an extravaganza of music, literature, theatre and film.
Hotels in Drogheda
Drogheda has an abundance of accommodations, and there's something to suit every taste and budget. Travellers seeking luxury hotels in Drogheda will find 4-star lodgings, some right by the waterfront, with amazing views of the River Boyne. They offer expansive guestrooms, some with adjoining bedrooms, along with on-site restaurants or patios for al fresco dining and bars with your favourite beer on tap. You could try an upscale B&B or guesthouse, where homey guestrooms and picturesque gardens are the norm. No-frills hostels offering free Wi-Fi and, in some cases, picnic areas, are your best bet if you're looking for cheap Drogheda hotels.
Where to stay in Drogheda
Many tourists stay in the town centre to make their travel in Drogheda a more lively experience. At the town's historic heart, heritage attractions are only a short walk away. Stroll to the shopping centres on West Street and Laurence Street and you'll pass by cafes and restaurants dishing up everything from Irish to Tex-Mex fare. The southern bank of the River Boyne is another good place to stay. It's a hip district with a generous sprinkling of eateries and pubs, and a promenade where you can watch the river's flowing waters. You could also try the tranquil Bryanstown district, where bus stops and the train station are within easy reach.
Things to see in Drogheda
Lovers of history shouldn't miss St Peter's Church (Roman Catholic), not to be confused with the Anglican St Peter's Church of Ireland, though both are notable historical structures with distinctive architectural styles. The Catholic limestone church was completed in 1884, with a Gothic-style facade, a towering west gable and an intricate rose window in the transept. It's also famous for its shrine to Saint Oliver Plunkett, who was martyred at Tyburn in 1681. His preserved head is the shrine's centrepiece, which thousands of pilgrims come to see on his feast day. The 17th-century
Beaulieu House and Gardens is another popular attraction. It's one of Ireland's early unfortified mansions, with a design that's typical of the Caroline period. Its vast walled garden, grassy terraces and original interiors make it worth visiting. For a fun-filled family outing, visit
Funtasia Waterpark. In addition to water slides and fountains, there's a mini-golf course, a video and arcade area and a bowling alley with a futuristic theme.
How to get to Drogheda
Situated close to the M1 motorway, Drogheda is easily accessible by road, air, ferry, bus and rail. Dublin Airport is a mere 20-minute ride away while Belfast International Airport lies about 1.5 hours away. The nearest ports are the Dublin Ferryport and the Dun Laoghaire Ferryport. National carrier Bus Éireann and private operators like Matthews Coaches run services between Drogheda and Dublin Airport, and to other destinations like Belfast, Dundalk, Navan and Galway. If you plan to travel to or from Drogheda by train, you can use Irish Rail's Enterprise, InterCity and regular services that run on the Dublin/Belfast line.
