Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (Newgrange and Knowth) Visitor Information and Online Booking

Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre

Brú na Bóinne, located on a bend in the River Boyne, is Ireland's most abundant archaeological landscape and a designated World Heritage Site. Renowned for its remarkable prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange, and Dowth, which were constructed around 3200BC, Bru na Boinne holds immense significance as one of the world's paramount Neolithic sites. These ceremonial structures house the largest assemblage of megalithic art in Western Europe.

To access the monuments at Newgrange and Knowth, visitors must commence their journey at the Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre. This centre serves as an interactive gateway, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Neolithic culture, landscape, and monuments found in Bru na Boinne. To access the actual monuments, visitors are transported by shuttle bus, and it is crucial to pre-book tickets in advance. However, pre-booking is not mandatory for the Visitor Centre itself.


Newgrange UNESCO World Heritage Site - Aerial Photograph - More ...

Ireland's rich heritage is punctuated with awe-inspiring ancient sites, but few are as captivating as Newgrange. Nestled in the lush landscape of the Boyne Valley, this enigmatic passage tomb stands as a testament to the extraordinary engineering and astronomical prowess of our ancestors. Dating back over 5,000 years, Newgrange has mystified historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike, leaving an indelible mark on our understanding of prehistoric civilizations.


Kerbstone 67 - More Kerbstones ...

At the heart of the Boyne Valley, Newgrange reigns as one of the most significant Neolithic sites in Europe. Built around 3,200 BCE, it predates both Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Its meticulous construction and alignment with celestial events provide invaluable insights into the ancient people's knowledge of astronomy, architecture, and spirituality.


Stunning images of Newgrange by Robert and Cathy Ardill - More ...

Newgrange's striking design showcases the architectural ingenuity of its builders. The massive mound, composed of thousands of tons of earth and stone, covers a central chamber accessed through a long passage. The exterior is adorned with intricately carved megalithic art, featuring spirals, geometric patterns, and animal motifs. These carvings, rich in symbolism, continue to captivate researchers, sparking debates about their meanings and significance.


Newgrange view from the south bank of the River Boyne - More ...

The true marvel of Newgrange lies in its alignment with the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year. During this astronomical event, a narrow beam of sunlight penetrates the passage and dramatically illuminates the central chamber for a brief period. This spectacle demonstrates the extraordinary precision with which the tomb was constructed, highlighting the deep reverence the ancient people held for celestial cycles and the changing seasons.

Boyne Valley Private Day Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and culture of the Boyne Valley with our full-day private tours. Visit Newgrange World Heritage site, explore the Hill of Slane, where Saint Patrick famously lit the Paschal fire. Discover the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of power for the High Kings of Ireland. Book Now