As I mentioned in a previous post I have family visiting from the USA and my mom and I are the designated tour guides for the duration of their stay. Mom and I devised an itinerary for our American guests, so that they could get a real feel for the Emerald Isle and the history of the people. On one of our outings we made a trip to Drogheda, Co. Louth to visit Newgrange. With 2 hours to kill before our tour of the passage tomb we decided to make the most of our time by visiting the nearby, Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre which is only 10 minutes away from the Newgrange Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre.
The family… Kenny, Adrienne (mom), Pops, Leslie and Chris
The fambo were delighted to be at The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre to learn the story behind one of Ireland’s most famous battles.
The visitor centre is an excellent resource with a museum and grounds to explore. There is an Audio Visual Show, original and replica 17th Century weaponry displays, laser battlefield model, Tea Pavillion, walled garden and toilets (of course). You can also enjoy self guided walks through parkland and the battle sites.
What was The Battle of the Boyne?
The Battle of the Boyne is one of the most significant events in Irish history. The battle took place at the River Boyne, a few miles west of Drogheda in 1690. It was fought by 25,000 troops (Jacobites) under King James and 36,000 troops (Williamites) under King William and represented a battle over the British throne, French Dominance in Europe and religious power in Ireland. Both kings commanded their armies in person and it was the largest number of troops ever deployed on an Irish battlefield.
William of Orange won the battle and also captured the cities of Dublin and Cork. King James left Ireland for France. The war was to have a lasting effect on Ireland, confirming British and Protestant rule over the country for over two centuries.
Stephanie and a Williamite.
English, Scottish, Dutch, Danes and Huguenots (French Protestants) made up William’s army, know as the Williamites (Protestants). To identify themselves as Williamites, all the troops wore a sprig of green in their hats. The Jacobites wore white paper in their hats to distinguish themselves from the Williamites.
Approximately 1,500 soldiers were killed at the Boyne.
The modern visitor centre is located in the recently restored Oldbridge House located on the South bank of the River Boyne, 3km north of Donore Village. It’s open all year and well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Admission Prices
Visitor centre: Adult €4 | Group/senior €3 | Child €2 | Family €10
Groups of 10 or more people must pre-book.
Can you recommend any historical sites or interesting things to do in Ireland? Comment below and let us know!
Happy travels X
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[…] as the sound enhanced experience puts you in the heart of the fighting. After the tour, visit The Battle of the Boyne visitor centre which is only two minutes away from Lock keeper’s house (meeting […]