Co Louth
Nestled on Ireland’s east coast, Co Louth is the smallest county in the country, yet it boasts a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a wealth of cultural heritage. The “Wee County,” Co Louth is a must-visit destination filled with charming towns, fascinating historical sites, with plenty of things to see and do.
Towns of Co Louth
- Dundalk – The county town of Louth, Dundalk is a vibrant hub of history and culture. It’s home to the famous Oriel Park, the Dundalk Stadium, and an array of lively pubs and restaurants.
- Drogheda – One of Ireland’s oldest towns, Drogheda is packed with history, including St. Laurence’s Gate, Millmount Museum, and the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Church, which houses the preserved head of St. Oliver Plunkett.
- Ardee – The picturesque market town that dates back to medieval times. Ardee is known for its historic sites including Ardee Castle and Hatch’s Castle.
- Carlingford – This charming medieval town is renowned for its well-preserved ruins. It boasts stunning views of Carlingford Lough. Carlingford offers amazing adventure activities, some activities include hiking and water sports along the coast.
- Collon – A small yet historically significant town, Collon is home to the impressive Collon Church and Mellifont Abbey, Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery.
Interesting Facts About County Louth
- Louth named after the ancient Celtic god Lugh is associated with craftsmanship and skill.
- The famous Battle of the Boyne, a pivotal moment in Irish and British history, took place near Drogheda in 1690.
- Dundalk is referred to as the Gateway to the North, located between Dublin and Belfast.
- The county has strong connections to Irish mythology, including the legendary Táin Bó Cúailnge (The Cattle Raid of Cooley), a famous epic involving the warrior Cú Chulainn.
- U2’s lead guitarist, The Edge, has family roots in County Louth.
- Liam Reilly lead singer of the band Bagatelle was from Dundalk
Top Places to Visit in Co Louth
- Carlingford Lough – A stunning fjord-like estuary that offers breathtaking views, boat trips, and plenty of outdoor activities.
- Carlingford Castle (King John’s Castle) – Overlooking the lough, this medieval fortress dates back to the 12th century.
- Mellifont Abbey – The first Cistercian monastery in Ireland, founded in 1142, and a fascinating site for history lovers.
- Cooley Peninsula – Known for its dramatic landscapes, scenic drives, and walking trails, including the Táin Way.
- St. Peter’s Church, Drogheda – A magnificent church famous for housing the head of St. Oliver Plunkett.
- Slieve Foye – The highest peak in County Louth, offering spectacular hiking routes with panoramic views.
- Templetown Beach – A beautiful and peaceful beach perfect for a relaxing stroll along the shore.
- Drogheda’s Old Town Walls & St. Laurence’s Gate. Remnants of Drogheda’s medieval past remain today.
- Dundalk Bay – A haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, this coastal area is rich in wildlife.
- The Battle of the Boyne Site. Technically just outside Louth, this historic battlefield is a short drive from Drogheda and is well worth a visit.
- Blackrock village. The photograph above was taken in Blackrock. As you see it highlights the beauty of the mountains. I sell my book in a beautiful craft shop. https://thecraftyrock.com/ if you’re looking for something special from Ireland, have a look.
Co Louth and what it’s Known For
- Rich History & Mythology. From Viking invasions to medieval battles, Louth is steeped in historical events and Celtic legends.
- Outdoor Activities – Hiking, water sports, golfing, and birdwatching are all popular activities in the county.
- Lively Culture & Music Scene. Traditional Irish music sessions found in the pubs of Dundalk, Drogheda, and Carlingford. The spirit store Dundalk is a wonderful traditional pub with great artists and shows available.
- Gastronomy – Fresh seafood from Carlingford Lough, locally sourced produce, and renowned restaurants make Louth a food lover’s paradise.
- Easy Access – One of Ireland’s smallest counties, Louth is easy to explore. Its location between Dublin and Belfast makes it a convenient destination for visitors.
Conclusion
Louth exudes charm, history and adventure. It has something to offer everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, don’t forget to include the Wee County on your itinerary. https://www.visitlouth.ie/