Leisure and Activities in Kells | Headfort Arms Hotel

Fishing the Blackwater

The Kells Blackwater is the largest tributary of the River Boyne and it is fed by Lough Ramor in County Cavan. It flows in a south-easterly direction passing north of Kells, Co. Meath to its confluence with the Boyne at Navan.

This river has all the usual fly hatches associated with a limestone river with sedges and olives being important. Presently the best of the brown trout angling on this river is on the waters controlled by Kells Angling Club. This includes the stretches from the Nine-Eyed Bridge at its source to Mabes Bridge, which is located just north of Kells. This river holds good stocks of wild brown trout up to two pounds and over and most of the stretches provide good angling.

In 2004 the Blackwater produced a new record brown trout for the river which weighed in at over 9lbs 11ozs. Kells Anglers In 2004 the Kells Blackwater produced several wild brown trout that weighed 3lbs to 5lbs. This river can fish well from March to September.

Kells Anglers Association is one of the oldest clubs in the country has been in existence since 1893. The club continues to go from strength to strength with club working constantly to restore and maintain the rivers and streams around Kells and protect the species within. The Headfort is delighted to provide Fishing packages in conjunction with this brilliant club.

Golfing at Headfort

Please refer to our golf section for information.

Check a few other wonders of our region in the video below:

Walking Trails and Gardens

Grove Gardens and Tropical Aviary

Grove Gardens consists of four acres of gardens approximately four miles from the hotel and features the clematis walk containing over 300 species of small and large-flowered hybrids and herbaceous climatic. The rose garden has over 400 plants of French, English and modern roses.

The tropical bird garden and the mini zoo are recent additions to Grove Gardens. A large variety of exotic and rare breeds of birds are housed in purpose-built aviaries designed to become part of the gardens and create a unique setting for such a facility. Facilities include tearooms, picnic areas, shop and garden centre. There is full wheelchair access. A perfect family day out.

Fordstown, Kells Tel: 046-9434276

Loughcrew Gardens

Take a walk through centuries of garden and landscape fantasy. The central area of approximately six acres includes a lime avenue, extensive lawns and terraces, magnificent herbaceous border and physic border. Within the gardens stand a medieval mote and St. Oliver Plunkett’s family church and Tower House. A host of enchanting features are displayed in a setting steeped in atmosphere and history.

Meet Alice as she strolls through wonderland, encounter fairies and other creatures on woodland walks. Sculptures by acclaimed artist Ann Meldon Hugh and architectural treasures wait around every corner!

Family Fun

Please refer to our family fun section for information

Equestrian

Meath is home to four major race tracks

Fairyhouse Racecourse, Ratoath, Co. Meath
Tel +353 (0) 1 8256167
Irish Grand National every Easter period

Navan Racecourse, Proudstown, Navan, Co. Meath
Tel +353 (0) 46 9021350

Laytown Races, Laytown, Co. Meath
Tel +353 (0) 41 9842111
Annual strand races - the only official strand races remaining in Europe

Bellewstown Races, Co. Meath
Tel +353 (0) 41 9823614
3-day annual racing festival

And for the horse enthusiasts:

Tattersalls Horse Traders: This is one of Ireland's most famous horse-trading centres. Located right beside Fairyhouse Race Course.

Pelletstown Riding Centre, Tel. +353 (0)1 8259435

Day Trips to Dublin

Our recommended provider: www.beautifulmeath.com

Leisure and Activity