Drogheda to Monasterboice by Coach or Minibus
Monasterboice is about 15 minutes north of Drogheda, just off the M1. It is an open monastic site with a round tower and three high crosses, including Muiredach's Cross. School groups, history societies and Boyne Valley tours use it as a short stop or add it to a longer heritage day.
Journey
- Drogheda to Monasterboice
- Approximately 15 mins
- Serving Drogheda
About Monasterboice
- An early monastic ruin with a round tower and the magnificent 10th-century Muiredach's High Cross, among the finest in Ireland.
- Nearest base: Drogheda
Getting there
The quickest way is north on the M1 to Junction 11, which is signed for Monasterboice, then a short run on minor roads to the site. This section of motorway lies north of the toll plaza, so there is no toll. The last stretch is a narrow country road, so the driver takes it slowly.
What is on site
Monasterboice is free and open all year. There is no visitor centre, only an information board, and the crosses stand in a historic graveyard, so ask the group to keep to the paths and not to climb on the stones. A free car park with toilets is across the road from the site. The car park is sized mainly for cars, so the driver confirms where a large coach stops and waits. Paths are gravel, with wheelchair access to most of the site.
Guides and add-ons
With no staff on site, a guide makes a big difference to the crosses, whose carved panels tell Bible stories. Guided visits can be arranged through the Drogheda Tourist Office. Most groups need 30 to 45 minutes here. The Cistercian ruins at Old Mellifont and the Newgrange visitor centre at Donore are both close, so Monasterboice slots easily into a half or full day.
Does Monasterboice need to be booked?
No. The site is free and open at all hours, so there is no entry to book. If you want a guide, arrange that ahead through the Drogheda Tourist Office, and tell the operator the meeting time.
Is it suitable in bad weather?
It is entirely outdoors with no shelter apart from the car park toilets. In heavy rain, keep the visit short and pair it with an indoor stop such as Brú na Bóinne or Millmount in Drogheda.
Popular Transfers from Drogheda
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