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Kells Historic Trail
Kells, Co. Meath
Dog friendly
Family friendly
Free to visit
Paid car parking
Kells Historic Town Walk is a self guided walk through the town of Kells, County Meath.

In the 9th century, Kells was known as Áinius Érenn, the splendour of Ireland. The town will be forever associated with the illuminated gospels, the Book of Kells, that originated there over 1,200 years ago. Even then, Kells was a renowned centre of learning and enlightenment thanks to the influence of St Colmcille, who founded a monastic settlement here in the 6th century.

Today, Kells still echoes the boundaries of Colmcille’s long gone monastery with direct links to the past all around. Spend an hour or more exploring the landmarks of the town, which is an inspiring way to reach back over the centuries.

Why we like it
  • Enjoy a historic walk through Kells, known as one of Ireland’s most important monastic sites.
  • See historic sites associated with its monastic past such as St Colmcille’s House and Holy Well.
Contact details
Kells Rd, Maudlin, Navan, Co. Meath, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 1.5 hours here.

More to discover at Kells Historic Trail
Free things to doKells High Crosses

The High Crosses of Kells, County Meath, are fascinating symbols of the historic Boyne Valley and part of one of Ireland’s greatest monastic settlements. Four high crosses with fine historical details survive to this day in the town with the base of a fifth still visible in the grounds of St Columba’s Church.

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