We are interested in the Boyne River Valley area (counties Louth and Meath) just north of Dublin...we will be touring sites including Newgrange, Hill of Tara, Monasterboice, etc. Has anyone ever stayed in Drogheda or this area? Any other interesting sites, pubs, etc. in the area?

I stayed one night in Drogheda, not a particularly nice town, a bit industrial. The Boyne valley is pretty in the summer. Probably the most important place to visit is the Boyne battlefield which is very important in Irish history. Louth and Meath are a nice, non-touristy area. Much cheaper than Dublin.

I can recommend the Boyne View B&B in Slane. Right up the hill by the river.

Sue<BR><BR>If you stay in Slane, stop at the Poets Rest. Good pub food and a classic Irish pub.<BR><BR>Bill

Sue,<BR><BR>You've chosen an attractive, historically significant region to visit. <BR><BR>I've not stayed in Drogheda, but a <BR>B &amp; B to consider is The Old Workhouse, located in Dunshaughlin, County Meath. It's lovely, well-run, and moderately-priced. It also features terrific breakfasts.<BR><BR>Among the sites to see is Newgrange, well worth an effort, with a first-rate visitor center. Do, however, get there early, as crowds can dampen your enthusiasm.<BR><BR>Also worth seeing is Trim Castle. The town of Trim isn't noteworthy, but the castle is nicely situated and well worth an hour's ramble.<BR><BR>Monasterboice features some top-notch high crosses, certainly worth a look.<BR><BR>The town of Carlingford, located in Co. Louth, is quite small, but pretty, ideal for strolling about. It features some good eateries and a castle with views looking across to County Down, Northern Ireland. The Ghan House is a nice place to stay while you're in Carlingford.<BR><BR>Finally, you'll derive much pleasure from simply driving the byways of Counties Meath, Westmeath, and beyond. This is lush country, much of it removed from the tourist trail.<BR><BR>Best of luck.

Sue,<BR><BR>A final note: Should you visit the Hill of Tara, please be aware there's precious little to see. Yes, the Hill is steeped in history, and the views of the Irish countryside are attractive, but there's little that is tangible. Still, it's worth your time should you get a tour from one of the on-site guides. They'll give you details that are &quot;below the Hill's surface&quot; and the proper context.<BR><BR>Finally, consider doing something that's off the tourist route, such as visiting Dunsany Castle. It's just south of Tara, and was originally built in the 12th century. Call ahead for a personal tour (showing up unannounced could lead to diappointment).

Try the Conyngham Arms hotel in Slane... It's small but on the main street (with a lovely garden hidden at the back) and each room is individually decorated with four poster beds etc. From what I can remember it was quite reasonable as well.