Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre, Donore, Ireland
Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre in Donore, Ireland is the starting point for guided tours to the monuments at Bru na Boinne, the passage graves of Knowth and Newgrange. The monuments are collectively declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is open year-round, with longer operating hours during summer. It features an audiovisual presentation, interactive exhibit on Bru na Boinne, and replica of the interior of the Newgrange chamber and passage. A car park, gift shop, picnic area, tea rooms, and tourist office are also available onsite.
A variety of fun things to do in the area include visiting St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church. The first church onsite was designed by Francis Johnston and completed in 1793. It is popular for its rose window and tall west gable, and for being home to the St. Oliver Plunkett national shrine. Tourists should also visit Newgrange. It is a passage tomb established during the Neolithic era, consisting of a huge, circular mound with inner stone chambers and passageway. It is one of Europe’s most significant megalithic structures. Another interesting, nearby site to visit is Highlanes Gallery in Drogheda. Inaugurated in 2006, it features numerous Irish artworks from the early 20th century, with a significant representation of key women painters of the period. It also has a number of 18th-century works. Other interesting places to visit are the Dowth and Battle of Boyne Visitor Centre. One of the best hotels nearby is Aaron Vale B&B. It serves full Irish breakfast every day. Another renowned nearby hotel is The Glenside Hotel. It has a restaurant offering buffet, lunchtime carvery, and a full, 3-course dinner menu.
