Navan lies at the confluence of the Boyne and Blackwater rivers. There are several ways to plan your trip: historic town walks, riverside routes and a longer Greenway route running from Navan to Kingscourt. Cultural events and an outdoor adventure park are also among the things you may wish to consider when choosing your stay.
What cultural offerings can you include in your plans?
The Solstice Arts Centre combines a year-round arts and culture programme with several event spaces. These include a 320-seat theatre and a cinema with a digital 4K Sony projector and Dolby surround sound. Three gallery spaces, a studio area, a foyer and a café complete the facilities. Its international programme covers the performing and visual arts; specific events and current dates may vary.
For a historic town walk, consider the Navan Points of Pride Town Walk. The 4 km route starts at the Solstice Arts Centre. This lets you combine the start of the walk with a visit to the arts centre, without presenting them as a single offering. Check before travelling whether the walk brochure is available.
Riverside walk or Greenway?
The Boyne Ramparts Walk follows an old canal towpath along the river. Kingfishers, moorhens, otters and herons may be seen along the route. The walk therefore combines a riverside route with opportunities to observe nature; the species listed are possible sightings, not guaranteed.
The Boyne Valley to Lakelands Greenway is a 30 km route for walkers and cyclists. It follows the route of a former railway line from Navan in County Meath to Kingscourt in County Cavan. A shorter distance refers to the section from Blackwater Park in Navan to Gibbstown Station: it is 3.7 km long. These two distances give you different options when choosing a route.
Events and activities around the town
Navan Racecourse hosts the Navan Racing Festival every November. The festival includes the Troytown Chase, the Fortria Chase and the Lismullen Hurdle. If you are planning your trip around the races, check the specific dates and programme, as both vary.
Navan Adventure Centre is just outside the town of Navan in the Boyne Valley, County Meath. It is an outdoor adventure park with a wide range of activities. Activities and access conditions may change, so it is advisable to check them before your visit.
At Blackwater Park, the Scéal Trail invites you to read a book, listen to songs and sing along. Taking part is part of the intended experience; check the trail’s current condition before your visit.
Bus services in Navan and to Dublin
The NV1 and NV2 town bus routes operate in Navan: the NV1 runs between Gainstown and Dunville, and the NV2 between Gainstown and Blackcastle. Regional bus route NX connects Navan to Dublin via Blanchardstown. When planning your journeys, you can distinguish between the two town routes and the regional service. Routes and frequencies may change; check the timetable before travelling.
County Meath: a closer look at prehistory
In County Meath, the BrĂş na BĂłinne World Heritage Site lies in a bend of the River Boyne. It includes the prehistoric passage tombs of Knowth, Newgrange and Dowth, built around 3200 BC. These sites give the wider destination of County Meath a distinct archaeological focus.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Dunshaughlin, Kilcloon, Enfield, Laytown, Kilbride, Pelletstown, Stamullin, Ashbourne.
For the wider travel overview: County Meath.
