There’s nothing like a nice long stroll in the countryside – it will put colour in your cheeks and (hopefully!) tire everyone out. There are some fantastic places for family walks in Meath, including beaches, woodland, gardens and even a bog!

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Getting out for a family walk is the perfect way to spend an afternoon together for fresh air, experiencing nature, having fun and a chance to create special family memories.

These family-friendly walks in Meath offer plenty of variety, from beaches and bogs to loop trails and famous landmarks!

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Walks in Meath to Enjoy

Girley Eco Bog Walk

A real favourite for family walks in Meath is the Girley Eco Bog Walk, which is located a few miles outside Kells on the Mullingar Road.

Girley Bog is a site of considerable conservation significance as it comprises raised bog – a rare habitat in Europe and one that is becoming increasingly scarce in Ireland. The looped eco walk covers a combination of landscapes, including forest and bogland, with a wonderful variety of birdlife, plants and animals to see.

Remember that it is a bog so old clothes and wellies are the way to go!

Loughcrew Gardens

There is a small charge applicable to visit Loughcrew Gardens, but it is worth it as it’s a lovely place to explore.

The central area of approximately six acres includes a lime avenue, extensive lawns and terraces, a magnificent herbaceous border and physic border. Within the gardens stand a medieval motte and St. Oliver Plunkett’s family church and Tower House.

There is also a longer lake walk around Lough Creeve which takes in a different forest, rockery walk and fairy ring. Don’t miss the interactive fairy trail!

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Loughcrew Cairns

North Meath boasts the magical spot that is Loughcrew Cairns. The Cairns form the largest complex of ancient passage graves in Ireland, much older than the better known Newgrange.

It’s a bit of a steep hike, so it’s not suitable for buggies or small children. Older kids will enjoy the climb – and it is worth it for the great views from the top of the hill!

Balrath Wood

Visit Balrath Wood on the Kentstown Road outside Navan and avail of free car parking, picnic tables and playgrounds at this lovely wooded amenity.

The 50-acre wood was originally part of the larger Somerville Estate, and there are plenty of beautiful wildflowers to enjoy on your woodland walk.

Dalgan Park

The woodland walk at Dalgan Park, just outside Navan on the old Dublin Road, is suitable for all, including buggies.

There’s plenty of space to run around, so bring a picnic and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

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Mornington Beach

Beachcombing is a fun family activity that you can take part in all year around – just dress accordingly for the weather! Why not pop over to East Meath and make the most of the lovely beaches at Bettystown, Laytown or Mornington?

Hill of Tara

Image: Hill of Tara © Government of Ireland National Monuments Service Photographic Unit

One of Meath’s most famous landmarks is the Hill of Tara, a place that is steeped in magic and mystery. There are guided tours available at certain times of the year, but access to the Hill is open all year around. Parking is free and there is a coffee shop and audio-visual facilities on site.

Littlewood Loop Trail

Littlewood is a 70-acre forest with trees originally planted by the Slane estate sometime before 1840.

The 2km Littlewood loop trail takes you through a variety of woodland, including a mix of native trees such as Oak, Ash and Alder and exotics like Sycamore, Beech and Horse Chestnut. You will also spot Hazel, Rowan, Guelder Rose, Birch, Holly, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Elm, so it’s a great opportunity for some nature-spotting!

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Mullaghmeen Forest

Near Oldcastle is the fabulous Mullaghmeen Forest which boasts over 1,000 acres to explore and has walks to suit various abilities and ages.

Mullaghmeen Forest is the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. Along with beech, it also has Sitka spruce, Scots pine and Noble fir and a very interesting native tree collection. The summit of Mullaghmeen provides magnificent views north across Lough Sheelin.

Sonairte Eco Centre and Gardens

Near Laytown, Sonairte is an interactive visitor centre promote ecological awareness and sustainable living.

For your green day out at Sonairte, bring a picnic to eat in the garden or on the banks of the Nanny River. Listen to the birdsong on the Rath and marvel at the biodiversity of woodland, meadow and marshes contained within the 10 acre site.

Trim Castle River Walk

Image: Trim Castle © Tourism Ireland

This tranquil river walk commences at Trim Castle and finishes at the ruins of the 13th century town of Newtown.

Along the way there are interpretative panels to help you learn more about the medieval town; medieval past-times; farming and forestry. The Trim Castle River Walk takes approximately 30 minutes along well marked pathways.

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