Newgrange for Families

Planning a family trip to Newgrange can seem like a lot, but it’s totally doable and can be a really cool experience for everyone. This ancient site, part of the Brú na Bóinne complex, offers a unique look into Ireland’s past. We’ll walk you through everything, making sure your Newgrange family tours are fun and easy. From figuring out tickets to making sure the little ones are happy, we’ve got you covered.

Key Takeaways

Book your Newgrange tickets way ahead of time, especially if you want to go inside the monument.
The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is where you start everything; you can’t just drive right up to Newgrange or Knowth.
Newgrange has a special chamber you can enter, but Knowth is mostly about seeing the outside and its cool art.
If you have really young kids, think about visiting Newgrange Farm for some extra fun, and know that some parts of the sites might be tricky with strollers.
Newgrange is super old and famous for how the sun lights it up during the winter solstice, which is pretty neat to learn about.

Planning Your Newgrange Family Tours

Planning a trip to Newgrange with the family? It’s an awesome idea! But a little prep work can make the experience way smoother, especially with kids in tow. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Booking Your Visit in Advance

Okay, this is the big one. You absolutely MUST book your tickets in advance. I cannot stress this enough. Newgrange is super popular, and tickets sell out, especially during peak season. Imagine promising the kids a cool adventure, only to arrive and find out you can’t get in. Not fun, right? Newgrange bookings open 30 days ahead at midnight Irish time. Set a reminder!

Understanding Tour Options

There are a few different tour options available, so it’s worth understanding what each one offers to pick the best fit for your family. The main tour includes both Newgrange and Knowth, with access to the chamber at Newgrange. There’s also a limited tour option that focuses solely on Newgrange, including chamber access. And finally, you can visit the Visitor Centre exhibition without taking a monument tour. Keep in mind that the full tour is the main option, and the Newgrange-only tour isn’t always available. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Brú na Bóinne Tour and Newgrange Chamber: Includes Knowth and Newgrange, chamber access at Newgrange, and Visitor Centre exhibitions.
Newgrange Tour and Exhibition: Includes Newgrange only, chamber access, and Visitor Centre exhibitions (limited availability).
Visitor Centre Exhibition Only: Self-guided exhibition, no monument access (tickets not available to pre-book).

Best Times to Visit

Timing is everything, right? Newgrange can get crowded, especially during the summer months. If you can swing it, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and milder weather. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Also, keep in mind the opening times vary throughout the year. Check the official website for the most up-to-date information. If you’re happy just to see the outside of the tombs, my advice is to drive there in the late afternoon (we were there at around 4.30) and wait for the moment in between the departure of one group and the arrival of the next: you will not be allowed in, but the view from the entrance is free and spectacular.

Visiting during off-peak times not only means fewer people but also a more relaxed experience. The kids will have more space to explore, and you won’t feel as rushed. Plus, the weather is often more pleasant, making it easier to enjoy the outdoor aspects of the site.

Exploring the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre

The Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is more than just a place to grab tickets; it’s the gateway to understanding the significance of Newgrange and Knowth. Think of it as your launchpad for exploring this ancient landscape. It’s where your journey truly begins, setting the stage for the wonders you’re about to witness. You can purchase tickets online and head to the Visitor Centre.

Interactive Exhibitions for All Ages

The visitor center boasts interactive exhibitions designed to engage visitors of all ages. These aren’t your typical dusty museum displays! Expect hands-on exhibits that bring the Neolithic period to life. Kids will especially enjoy the simulations and models that explain how these massive monuments were built. It’s a great way to get everyone excited about the history before even setting foot on the actual sites. The largest collection of megalithic art in Western Europe is housed here.

Starting Point for Monument Tours

All tours to Newgrange and Knowth begin at the Visitor Centre. This is where you’ll meet your guide, get an overview of what you’re about to see, and board the shuttle bus that takes you to the monuments. Make sure to arrive with plenty of time to spare, especially during peak season, as tours can fill up quickly. It’s also a good idea to double-check your tour time and location upon arrival to avoid any confusion. The cafe offers delicious cakes and hot sandwiches.

Shuttle Bus to the Monuments

Getting to Newgrange and Knowth from the visitor center is easy. A shuttle bus service transports visitors to the monuments. The bus ride itself is short, but it offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The shuttle ensures that the sites are protected from excessive traffic and helps to manage the flow of visitors, preserving the integrity of these ancient places.

The shuttle bus is the only way to access the monuments. This helps protect the area and keeps the experience organized. Be sure to factor in the shuttle schedule when planning your visit, as wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the season.

Newgrange and Knowth: What to Expect

Guided Access to Newgrange Chamber

Okay, so you’re heading to Newgrange. Cool! The main thing to know is that you can’t just wander in. Access to the Newgrange chamber is only through guided tours. You’ll start at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, and from there, a shuttle bus will take you to the monument. The tour guides are pretty good at explaining the history and significance, so listen up! They’ll walk you through the narrow passage into the central chamber, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a little demonstration of what it’s like during the winter solstice. It’s dark, it’s cramped, but it’s also pretty amazing to be inside something so old.

Observing the Exterior of Knowth

Knowth is a bit different. While Newgrange gets all the attention for its chamber access, Knowth is impressive in its own right. You’ll see a large mound surrounded by smaller ones. The outside is really something to behold. You can walk around the exterior and check out the megalithic art. Knowth actually has the largest collection of this kind of art in Western Europe. The tour guides will give you the lowdown on what the carvings mean and the history of the site. It’s worth taking your time to appreciate the details.

Accessibility for Families

Bringing the family? Here’s the deal on accessibility. The visitor center is pretty accessible, but the monuments themselves can be a bit tricky. The paths around Knowth are generally okay, but Newgrange involves walking on uneven ground and going through a narrow passage. Strollers are a no-go inside the monuments. If you have very young kids, you might want to consider if they’ll be okay in a confined space for the duration of the tour. Also, keep an eye on them around the sites, as there can be some steep drops and uneven surfaces. It’s all about managing expectations and making sure everyone has a good time.

Visiting these sites is an experience. It’s not just about seeing old rocks; it’s about connecting with a history that stretches back thousands of years. Take a moment to imagine what life was like when these monuments were built, and you’ll get a lot more out of your visit.

Considerations for Families with Young Children

Stroller Accessibility at the Sites

Navigating Newgrange and Knowth with a stroller presents some challenges. The pathways around the exteriors are generally accessible, but the interior of Newgrange is not. Be prepared to carry young children or use a carrier for the chamber tour. Dowth is not accessible to buggies unless you have an all terrain stroller.

Newgrange Farm for Kids

Just a short drive from the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, Newgrange Farm offers a delightful break for families. It’s a working farm where kids can:

See and interact with farm animals.
Enjoy tractor rides.
Participate in seasonal activities like egg collecting.

It’s a great way to let kids burn off some energy and experience a different side of Irish life after exploring the ancient sites. It provides a hands-on experience that complements the historical aspect of Newgrange.

Managing Expectations for Little Ones

Visiting ancient sites with young children requires some planning. The Newgrange tour involves waiting, a bus ride, and a guided walk, which can test the patience of little ones. Here are a few tips:

Bring snacks and drinks to keep them content.
Explain what they will see in simple terms beforehand.
Consider bringing quiet activities or books for the bus ride.

It’s important to remember that the tour inside Newgrange is relatively short. Focus on making the experience engaging and educational, but also be prepared to step outside if your child becomes restless. The exterior of the monuments offers plenty of space to run around and explore, providing a good balance for families with young children. Consider a luxurious seven day Irish tour for a more relaxed pace.

Understanding Newgrange’s Significance

Ancient Megalithic Passage Tombs

Newgrange isn’t just a pile of rocks; it’s a window into the minds of people who lived thousands of years ago. These megalithic passage tombs, including Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth, are older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. That’s pretty wild to think about! From the outside, they might look like natural hills, but their precise construction gives them away. Inside, narrow passages lead to chambers, revealing the unmistakable work of human hands. These prehistoric monuments are a testament to the ingenuity and skill of our ancestors.

Winter Solstice Phenomenon

Newgrange is most famous for its connection to the winter solstice. On the shortest day of the year, a beam of sunlight enters the tomb through a specially designed roofbox, illuminating the inner chamber. This event only lasts for about 17 minutes, but it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of astronomy and the cycles of nature to the people who built Newgrange. It’s a pretty cool thing to witness, if you can get tickets!

Debates on Purpose and Origin

There’s still a lot of mystery surrounding Newgrange. While it’s clear that these tombs were used for burials, some people think they might have also been temples or places of worship. The exact purpose of the art found inside is also debated. Some think it’s just decoration, while others believe it has a deeper, symbolic meaning. The orientation of the tomb towards the winter solstice suggests a connection to astronomical events, but the full story of Newgrange remains a puzzle. It’s fun to think about all the possibilities.

The debate among experts continues about the exact origin and purpose of these monuments. The burial nature seems clear, but it’s possible they also served as temples or places of worship. This adds to the intrigue and makes visiting even more interesting.

Practical Information for Your Visit

Operating Hours and Closures

Before you head out, it’s a good idea to check the operating hours for the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre and the Newgrange site itself. Hours can change depending on the season, and sometimes there are unexpected closures for special events or maintenance. You can usually find the most up-to-date information on the official website. Keep in mind that access to Newgrange and Knowth is only via the Visitor Centre, so their schedules are linked. It’s also worth noting that certain times of the year, like around the winter solstice, are extremely popular, and access might be even more restricted.

Admission Charges and Ticketing

There are different ticket options available, depending on what you want to see. You can choose from a tour that includes access to both Newgrange and Knowth, a tour that only includes Newgrange, or simply access to the Visitor Centre exhibition. Pre-booking your tickets online is essential, especially if you want to visit the passage tombs. Here’s a general idea of what you might expect:

Ticket Type	Adult Price	Child Price	Family Price
Brú na Bóinne & Newgrange Chamber	€15	€10	€40
Newgrange Tour & Exhibition	€12	€8	€35
Visitor Centre Exhibition Only	€8	€5	€20

Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change. Always check the official website for current pricing.

Contact Information and Directions

If you have any questions or need to confirm details before your visit, here’s how to get in touch:

Address: Donore, Drogheda, Co. Meath, A92 EH5C
Phone: 041 988 0300
Email: brunaboinne@opw.ie

Getting to Brú na Bóinne is pretty straightforward. If you’re driving, just pop the address into your GPS. Public transportation is also an option, with bus services running from Drogheda. Remember that you need to go to the Visitor Centre first, as that’s where the tours to the monuments start. Don’t try to go directly to Newgrange or Knowth, because you won’t be able to get in without going through the center. They have educational resources available to help plan your trip.

Tips for a Smooth Family Experience

Dressing Appropriately for Weather

Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so layering is key. Even on a sunny day, it can get chilly quickly, especially inside the Newgrange chamber. Bringing waterproof jackets and comfortable walking shoes is always a good idea. Think about these points:

Base layers: Start with moisture-wicking fabrics.
Mid-layers: Fleece or sweaters for warmth.
Outer layers: Waterproof and windproof jackets.

Photography Guidelines

Photography inside the Newgrange chamber is restricted to preserve the monument. Flash photography is strictly prohibited as it can damage the ancient stones. You can take photos outside, but be mindful of other visitors. Remember to respect these rules:

No flash photography inside the chamber.
Be considerate of other visitors when taking photos.
Follow any instructions given by the tour guides.

Mobility and Accessibility Notes

While the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre is accessible, the terrain around Newgrange and Knowth can be uneven. Access to the Newgrange chamber involves a narrow passage, which may not be suitable for everyone. Strollers are generally usable on the grounds, but not inside the monuments. It’s a good idea to check the accessibility notes in advance.

If you have any concerns about mobility, contact the visitor center ahead of your visit. They can provide detailed information and assistance to help make your experience as comfortable as possible.

Want to make family time easier and more fun? Our website has tons of great ideas to help you out. Check out our full guide for a super smooth family experience!

Wrapping Up Your Newgrange Trip

So, Newgrange is definitely a unique spot, especially for families. It’s got that ancient vibe, and seeing something so old is pretty cool. Just remember to plan ahead, because it can get busy. Whether you get to go inside or just see it from the outside, it’s a place that makes you think about history. It’s a good day out, and you’ll have some interesting stories to tell afterward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Boyne Valley?

The Boyne Valley is located about an hour north of Dublin, making it an easy drive. If you don’t have a car, many tours are available. Just be sure to pick one that includes Newgrange entry, as tickets sell out fast, especially in summer and around the winter solstice.

Is the Boyne Valley good for families?

Yes, it’s a great place for families! We visited with our two kids, ages 4 and 6, and they had a blast. While the ancient tombs might not be their main interest, the wide-open grassy areas kept them entertained. For an extra kid-friendly stop, check out Newgrange Farm, right near the Newgrange site. It’s a working farm with a petting area, a fantastic sandpit, and play areas made of straw.

Can you visit the Boyne Valley with kids in one day?

You can see a lot in one day, but if you want to explore more, like Trim Castle, we suggest staying for a couple of days.

What’s the best way to visit the Boyne Valley with kids?

We recommend driving yourself to the area. This gives you the most freedom to explore at your own pace. It’s an easy day trip from Dublin if you have your own car.

What is Newgrange?

Newgrange is an ancient burial mound, much older than the pyramids in Egypt or Stonehenge. It’s famous for a special event during the winter solstice, when the sun shines directly into its main chamber. It’s a truly amazing piece of ancient engineering!

Do I need to book my Newgrange tour tickets in advance?

Yes, you need to book your Newgrange tour tickets in advance. This is a very popular spot, and tickets often sell out. Booking ahead ensures you get to experience this incredible place.