Leisure and Activity

Activities in the Boyne Valley

Discover Ireland’s Ancient East from the comfort of a four-star boutique hotel in the heart of County Meath. The Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells is your perfect base to explore the Boyne Valley’s rich heritage, scenic landscapes, and outdoor adventures. From ancient monasteries and Celtic crosses to eco walks, cycling trails, and immersive heritage sites, the Boyne Valley offers something for every traveller. After a day of discovery, return to Headfort for locally inspired dining, spa relaxation, and cosy comfort. Whether you're seeking cultural exploration or peaceful countryside escapes, our central location in historic Kells makes your journey effortless and unforgettable.

Golfing at Headfort

Tee off at Headfort Golf Club, home to two of Ireland’s top 25 parkland courses, just steps from Headfort Arms Hotel. Designed by Christy O’Connor Jr., this 36-hole championship complex is ranked among the top 10 parkland courses in Ireland. Stay with us and enjoy exclusive Headfort Golf Packages—it’s no surprise most golfers rebook before they leave! More great courses nearby: Royal Tara Golf Club – Classic parkland beauty, County Louth Golf Club – Stunning coastal links, Killeen Castle – Championship-level Solheim Course.

Explore the Boyne Valley Greenway

Discover the Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway, a scenic 30km walking and cycling trail following the old railway line from Navan, Co. Meath to Kingscourt, Co. Cavan. Pass through charming villages like Kilberry, Wilkinstown, Castletown Kilpatrick, Nobber, and Kilmainhamwood. Key sections include: Navan to Gibbstown Station – 3.7km || Gibbstown to Wilkinstown – 4.0km || Wilkinstown to Castletown – 4.5km || Castletown to Nobber – 4.3km || Nobber to Kilmainhamwood – 4.4km || Kilmainhamwood to Kingscourt – 7.1km. Perfect for families, leisure cyclists, and walkers exploring the beauty of the Boyne Valley and Ireland’s Ancient East.

Fishing the Blackwater

The Kells Blackwater, the largest tributary of the River Boyne, flows from Lough Ramor in County Cavan to Navan, Co. Meath, passing just north of Kells. Renowned for its limestone-rich waters and seasonal fly hatches -especially sedges and olives - the river offers excellent wild brown trout fishing. The best angling spots are managed by the Kells Angling Club, covering the stretch from Nine-Eyed Bridge to Mabes Bridge. Trout commonly weighs up to 2 lbs, with larger catches between 3–5 lbs. A record trout of over 9 lbs 11 oz was caught here in 2004. Founded in 1893, Kells Anglers Association is one of Ireland’s oldest clubs, dedicated to river conservation and sustainable angling. Fishing Season: March 1st – September 30th.

Walking Trails and Gardens

Explore Loughcrew Estate & Cairns

Discover Loughcrew Estate, a historic 200-acre property featuring elegant gardens, ancient Neolithic cairns, and Saint Oliver Plunkett’s 17th-century church. These sacred lands are home to some of Ireland’s oldest archaeological treasures, set in a landscape rich in spiritual and historical significance. The estate was once home to the Plunkett family before being seized by Oliver Cromwell in 1641, who is believed to have destroyed the church roof.

Girley Bog Eco Walk – A Hidden Natural Gem in Meath

Explore the Girley Bog Eco Walk, a 5.6 km (3.5 mile) waymarked loop through forest trails and rare raised bogland in County Meath. This scenic walk offers flat but uneven terrain - walking boots recommended. Begin your journey through peaceful Coillte forest, then enter Girley Bog, one of Ireland’s few remaining raised bogs and an EU-designated conservation site. Along the way, enjoy interpretive panels, birdsong, and a rich mix of wildlife and native flora. The loop finishes with quiet country lanes, returning you to the starting point - perfect for nature lovers of all ages.

Equestrian Experiences in County Meath

County Meath is a must-visit for horse lovers, boasting four major racecourses and top-class equestrian facilities: Fairyhouse Racecourse in Ratoath, Navan Racecourse Proudstown, Laytown Races – Unique beachside racing, Bellewstown Races – Historic countryside setting. For riding enthusiasts, Kells Equestrian Centre offers lessons, trekking, and fun for all levels—just minutes from Headfort Arms Hotel.

Explore “Ireland in Style” with Ireland’s Chauffeur Tours

Whether arriving by cruise ship, hotel, or airport, Ireland’s Chauffeur Tours offers personalized, luxury travel experiences across Ireland. Travel in comfort with a private Mercedes vehicle and a fully licensed local guide, tailored to your interests. The goal is to deliver more than just sightseeing - we offer authentic cultural immersion, warm Irish hospitality, and a journey you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.

Day Tours to Dublin

Custom Irish Tours is an award-winning company offering chauffeur-driven private tours of Ireland, tailored to your interests. Led by local experts passionate about Irish history, culture, and landscapes, our tours deliver a truly unforgettable experience. From medieval castles to myth-filled landscapes and vibrant cities, you'll explore the best of Ireland at your own pace. Choose from our popular sample itineraries or let us create a completely bespoke tour designed just for you.