There’s nothing quite like a good long stroll in the countryside — it puts colour in everyone’s cheeks and, if you’re lucky, tires the kids out nicely too! Meath has some fantastic spots for a family walk, from beaches and woodland to gardens, ancient hilltops and even a bog.
Getting outdoors together is one of the simplest ways to spend a happy afternoon as a family — fresh air, a bit of nature, some fun, and the kind of memories that stick. These family-friendly walks in Meath offer plenty of variety, so there’s something to suit every age and energy level.
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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, located a few miles outside Kells on the Mullingar road.
Girley Bog is of real conservation importance, as it’s a raised bog — a rare and increasingly scarce habitat in both Europe and Ireland. The looped eco walk takes in a mix of forest and bogland, with plenty of birdlife, plants and wildlife along the way.
Remember, it’s a bog, so old clothes and wellies are the way to go!
Loughcrew Gardens
There’s a small charge to visit Loughcrew Gardens, but it’s well worth it for an afternoon of exploring.
The central area, roughly six acres, includes a lime avenue, wide lawns and terraces, a striking herbaceous border and physic border. Within the grounds you’ll also find a medieval motte and St. Oliver Plunkett’s family church and Tower House.
There’s a longer lake walk around Lough Creeve too, taking in a different stretch of forest, a rockery walk and a fairy ring. Don’t miss the interactive fairy trail!
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Loughcrew Cairns
North Meath is home to the magical Loughcrew Cairns, the largest complex of ancient passage graves in Ireland — older even than the better-known Newgrange.
It’s a fairly steep hike, so it’s not ideal for buggies or small children. Older kids will love the climb though, and the views from the top of the hill make it well worth the effort.
Balrath Wood
Balrath Wood, on the Kentstown Road outside Navan, has free car parking, picnic tables and a playground, making it a lovely spot for a family outing.
The 50-acre wood was originally part of the larger Somerville Estate, and there are beautiful wildflowers to spot along your woodland walk.
Dalgan Park
The woodland walk at Dalgan Park, just outside Navan on the old Dublin road, is suitable for everyone, including buggies.
There’s plenty of space to run around, so bring a picnic and make a full afternoon of it in these stunning surroundings.
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Mornington Beach
Beachcombing is a great family activity all year round — just dress for the weather! Head 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 steeped in magic and mystery. Guided tours run at certain times of the year, but access to the hill itself is open all year round. Parking is free, and there’s 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 before 1840.
The 2km Littlewood loop trail winds through a lovely mix of woodland, including native trees such as oak, ash and alder alongside sycamore, beech and horse chestnut. Keep an eye out for hazel, rowan, guelder rose, birch, holly, hawthorn, blackthorn and elm too — it’s a great spot for a bit of nature-spotting with the kids.
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Mullaghmeen Forest
Near Oldcastle, Mullaghmeen Forest covers over 1,000 acres and has walks to suit all ages and abilities.
It’s the largest planted beech forest in Ireland, and alongside the beech you’ll find Sitka spruce, Scots pine, Noble fir and an interesting native tree collection. The summit offers magnificent views north across Lough Sheelin.
Sonairte Eco Centre and Gardens
Near Laytown, Sonairte is an interactive visitor centre promoting ecological awareness and sustainable living.
For a green day out, bring a picnic to enjoy in the garden or on the banks of the Nanny River. Listen to the birdsong on the Rath and take in the biodiversity of woodland, meadow and marsh across the 10-acre site.
Trim Castle River Walk
Image: Trim Castle © Tourism Ireland
This peaceful river walk starts at Trim Castle and finishes at the ruins of the 13th-century town of Newtown.
Along the way, interpretative panels help bring the medieval town, its past-times, farming and forestry to life. The Trim Castle River Walk takes around 30 minutes along well-marked pathways.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which of these Meath walks is buggy-friendly?
Dalgan Park and the Trim Castle River Walk are both suitable for buggies, along with the lower-level trails at Mullaghmeen Forest and Sonairte. Loughcrew Cairns is not buggy-friendly, as it involves a steep hike.
Are there any beach walks in Meath?
Yes — East Meath has lovely beaches at Bettystown, Laytown and Mornington, all great for a family walk and some beachcombing at any time of year.
Do I need to pay to visit any of these walks?
Most of the walks listed, such as Girley Bog, Balrath Wood and the Hill of Tara, are free to access, though parking or facilities may vary. Loughcrew Gardens has a small entry charge. Check ahead with each site for current details.
Which walk is best for older kids who want a challenge?
Loughcrew Cairns is the one for older, more adventurous children, thanks to its steep climb and the reward of spectacular views from the top.
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Before You Go
Loved exploring Meath on foot? Browse more outdoor adventure ideas on MyKidsTime, or save this page so you’ve got it handy next time you’re planning a family day out.
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