Steeped in monastic heritage, brimming with creativity, and surrounded by scenic countryside, Kells is a place where history meets hospitality, and where there truly is something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring Ireland’s ancient past, unwinding in a spa, or getting stuck into group adventures, you’ll find plenty to experience in this charming heritage town and its surroundings.
Here are our top recommendations for things to do in and around Kells in 2025:
1. Walk the Kells Historic Trail
Trace the footsteps of monks, saints and scholars along the Kells Historic Trail, where the streetscape still echoes the circular boundaries of Colmcille’s 6th-century monastery.
- Features: Round Tower, High Crosses, St. Columba’s House, Market Cross
- Start Point: Kells Courthouse Tourism & Cultural Hub
- Trail maps available at the Courthouse
Best for: History lovers, solo travellers, and those looking to immerse themselves in Ireland’s early Christian story.
Find out more HERE.
2. Relax at the Headfort Arms Spa
Looking to unwind? The Headfort Spa Treatment Rooms offer a tranquil escape using award-winning spa brands and plant-based ingredients.
- Location: Headfort Arms Hotel, Kells
- Treatments: Environ facials, Repechage therapies, massages & more
- Booking: Advance reservations recommended
Best for: Couples, solo travellers, wellness weekends.
Follow the link HERE for more information.
3. Moynalty Steam Threshing Museum & Parkland (just outside Kells)
Step into Ireland’s agricultural past at this living museum, home to artefacts, vintage machinery, and the site of the renowned Moynalty Steam Threshing Festival.
- Location: Moynalty village (10 mins from Kells)
- Features: Permanent museum site, artefact collection, festival events
- Best visited: During summer or festival season
Best for: Families, heritage enthusiasts, fans of vintage machinery.
Find out more HERE.
4. Experience Irish Traditions at Causey Farm (just outside Kells)
Get hands-on with authentic Irish life, from céilí dancing to turf cutting and sheepdog herding, all in one fun-filled day.
- Location: Girley, just outside Kells
- Activities: Brown bread making, bodhrán lessons, milking cows, hurling demos
- Booking: Pre-booking essential
Best for: Families, school tours, team building, hen parties.
Find out more HERE.
5. Tee Off at Headfort Golf Club
Established in 1928, Headfort Golf Club boasts two championship parkland courses set among ancient trees and rolling countryside.
- Location: On the edge of Kells town
- Courses: Two 18-hole courses on historic estate lands
- Access: Exit 10 off M3 (35 mins from Dublin)
Best for: Golfers of all levels, couples, and active visitors.
Follow the link HERE to find out more.
6. Visit the Toradh 2 Gallery at Kells Courthouse
Housed in the Arts, Tourism and Cultural Hub, Toradh 2 Gallery hosts visual arts exhibitions from local and national artists year-round.
- Location: Kells Courthouse
- Managed by: Meath County Council Arts Office
- Features: Exhibitions, artist talks, Boyne Valley heritage displays
Best for: Art lovers, culture seekers, rainy-day explorers.
Find out more HERE.
7. Step into the Past at Aristochicks, Rockfield House (just outside Kells)
A playful, immersive experience where you step into the shoes of housemaids, butlers, and cooks of a grand country house.
- Activities: Apple cake baking, chamber-pot racing, laundry duty
- Location: Rockfield House, near Kells
- Group bookings only
Best for: Hen parties, friend groups, lovers of fun historic role-play.
Follow the link HERE for more info.
From sacred sites to spa days, and from traditional turf cutting to quirky chambermaid races, Kells is full of character and charm. Whether you're here for a quiet cultural escape or a group getaway, there's something in Kells just for you.
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