Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Meath

"Take some time out of your day in Dublin to discover the Dublin Castle, and you’ll find yourself falling for the unique combination of fortified architecture and culture. Steeped in history that includes both Viking and medieval times, the Dublin Castle was the seat of English power until 1922. Today, the space itself is constantly put to use as an immersive teaching tool, to inform locals and visitors alike about the region’s history and continued importance."

"Best described as a wild medley of styles, Dublin Castle is far from your typical castle. It has grown almost organically over the centuries and, due to its sprawling, yet hemmed-in city center location can only be properly viewed from the air. So it's parts of Dublin Castle that have achieved iconic status as Dublin landmarks."

"Dublin Castle can be read as a “living building” which has been adapting for over 1000 years. The center of state ceremony for hundreds of years, the building has hosted Ireland’s presidency of the European Commission, state visits, and the inauguration of Irish presidents."

"The historical urban park is found 2 to 4 km west of the city center, and also known as the largest enclosed park in Dublin. It boasts myriads of features and tourist attractions, including the Papal Cross, which was erected as the backdrop for the outdoor mass of the late Pope John Paul II on September 29, 1979. Grazing deer can be found near the green area."

"Phoenix Park is one of Europe’s biggest walled city parks and is a great place to walk around and explore for the whole family. There is much so to see in Phoenix Park, including its incredible wildlife such as squirrels and wild deer. Plus, it is also home to Dublin Zoo, so it’s another great place to head if you’ve spent the afternoon at the zoo."

"You can spend more time at the prior attractions or alternatively consider sitting down to relax for an afternoon tea or a coffee nearby, visiting Dublin Zoo (fee*) within Phoenix Park, visiting the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland (fee*), or exploring one of the city’s many free museums (see Day 2 list). Traditional Irish Night Out"

"One of the most famous buildings in Dublin City Centre is Trinity College, located at the end of Dame Street. Considered the most prestigious university in Ireland, it is over 400 years old, having been established during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Despite being in the city centre it can be quite a tranquil place among the hustle and bustle of a city centre and is a major draw for tourists in Dublin, mainly thanks to the fact it houses one of the most famous books in the world, the Book of Kells. It is a great place to just wander through and is one of the more interesting things to see in Dublin, Ireland."

"Stop Three: Trinity College, Long Room Library and The Book of Kells Of all the Dublin attractions, visiting Trinty College and The Book of Kells was tops on my wishlist!. There is an optional paid guided tour of Trinity College, which I decided to do. The college is very prestigious and it is difficult for aspiring students to attain acceptance."

"With Christ Church being one of the most historical parts of Dublin, it's no surprise that the area has a market that is just filled with little gems to be discovered. If you visit the market, you're likely to pick up some delicious international street food as well as antiques and vintage bits. It takes place every Saturday from 11am to 5pm."

"The Christ Church Cathedral is a lovely sacred place that stands as a monument in itself. Not only the Christians are welcome here but also those who take interest in Irish culture. The Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest building in the city of Dublin."

"Founded in 1911, the National Cathedral and Collegiate Church of Saint Patrick, Dublin has been a staple of the history and religious affiliations of the country since Saint Patrick baptized the first Christian convert in the makeshift outdoor baptismal. This historical landmark played a significant role in the history of Ireland and is still the largest cathedral in the country. Daily tours permit visitors to walk through hallowed hallways and discover the history of a building that withstood storms, fires, neglect, and even persecution over an 800 year period."

"After visiting Christ Church Cathedral, you may be forgiven for thinking that it can’t get any better in terms of gorgeous churches in Dublin. A short walk from here will lead you to Dublin’s other ‘iconic’ church, St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Many would argue that St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the church to visit if you are considering what to do in Dublin in one day."

"St. Patrick’s Cathedral was founded in the 12th century and is Ireland’s largest church, situated in the heart of Dublin City. There is plenty of history here; Jonathan Swift (author of “Gulliver’s Travels”) who was the dean of the Cathedral from 1713-1745 is buried here. The cathedral regularly hosts choral concerts and is worth experiencing."

"the world's highest free-standing monument resembles a needle and is about as popular with locals as the sewers below O'Connell Street and the Spire. You know they're there, but you don’t stop and admire them. Only artists, architects, and non-Dubliners spare this steel column more than a passing glance."

"A regular meeting point for the locals (At 120metres high you can’t really miss it, can you?!). From the North, the south, the east or west, you’ll soon find a shot that you like!. The Spire is also known by a few other names… we’ll let you ask the locals what they are!"

"The Airfield Farm is located on the Airfield Estate in Dundrum on the southside of the city and is one of the kid’s attractions in Dublin I am eager to bring our son to. Although we are yet to visit, I have heard nothing but great things about this place, with people saying it is one of the best family things to do in Dublin. The Airfield Farm and Gardens is Dublin’s only 38-acre farm which is open to the public all-year round."

"If you have ever wanted to experience farm life, then Airfield Estate is the place to visit with your kids as it is a working farm that allows guests of all ages to learn about farming, food, and nature in a relaxed environment. Address: Overend Ave, Dundrum, Dublin 14, D14 EE77, Ireland"

"Magnificent Castletown House simply has no peer. It is Ireland’s most imposing Georgian estate, and a testament to the vast wealth enjoyed by the Anglo-Irish gentry during the 18th century. Hour-long guided tours begin at noon and 3pm, offering an insight into how the 1% made out in the 18th century; otherwise you can wander at will. Don't miss a stroll down to the river for grand views back to the house. Castletown is signposted from junction 6 on the M4."

"A short walk from St. Audoen’s Church is a much more modern construction dating back to 1874. John’s Lane Church was constructed on the site of a former hospital and today is famous for the towering spire and steeple that rises over 200 feet above the city. The tallest spire in the city of Dublin, this was originally constructed solely as a unique aspect of the church and not to hold bells which were later added."

"Located a short walk from the city centre, John’s Lane Church is nestled in the centre of a bustling high street. Built in 1874, John’s Lane Church is one of Dublin’s younger parishes but still has a rich history. The beautiful structure combines grey and red bricks with a green roof which makes it an ideal spot for Instagrammers."

"Bejeweled with stunning mosaics and stained glass, construction began in 1862 on this French Gothic inspired church. Located in Dublin’s historic neighborhood, The Liberties, you’ll have lots to see around this landmark."

"Malahide Castle dates back to the 12th century when a knight called Richard Talbot was granted “the lands and harbour of Malahide.” Since then, it has seen quite a bloody history over the years. The most notable was during the Battle of the Boyne, when 14 members of the family were killed, having just eaten breakfast together. For these reasons, it’s known as one of the most haunted places in Ireland."

"Malahide Castle is over 800-years-old and is home to brilliant grounds for families to explore together. From the butterfly glasshouse to the fairy trail in the woods, the playground and, of course, the castle itself, there is no shortage of things for kids to do at Malahide Castle. Address: Malahide, Co."

"Malahide Castle, set on 250 acres of park land in the pretty seaside town of Malahide. Malahide Castle is one of the oldest and most historic castles in Ireland. From 1185 until 1975, it was the home of the Talbot family."

"Heavily restored after the heavy shelling of 1916, the General Post Office is just about the only remarkable building on O'Connell Street - but it is far more important for its historical significance. Here Patrick Pearse read out the Proclamation of the Irish Republic (and declared war on the British Empire) at the start of the Easter Rising. A few days later the building was a burnt-out hulk and Pearse stood in front of an execution squad."

"Highlights on and around O'Connell Street include: The historic General Post Office where the 1916 rebellion started, the Hugh Lane Art Gallery, the popular shopping area Henry street and the vibrant market stretch Moore Street, with colourful street traders and ethnic shops. The main drag is very busy, but the best parts are on the side streets surrounding it!"

"Head to the General Post Office to learn about the revolution that happened here in 1916. It’s now the headquarters of the Irish Post Office, but it’s also the place where the Irish and the British got into a battle over Britain’s rule right in the streets of Dublin."

"We’re coming to the end of our first day in Dublin, and what better way to finish off than by watching the sun set over the River Liffey, which runs right through the centre of the city. Of course, the sunset time will vary depending on the time of year you visit, and you have to be lucky with the weather, but sometimes the sky can put on a real show!"

"This is the perfect place to go to if you want to capture water and nature. Moreover, going to this beach is a very fun thing to do when you're in Dublin. So it's not only great for photography, but you'll also have an amazing day if you go here."

"This building once served as the home of James Fitzgerald, the Duke of Leinster and Earl of Kildare. Today, it serves as the home of Ireland’s parliament. Public tours of the building are available when the Dáil and Seanad are not in session."

"Leinster House once served as the home of James Fitzgerald, the Duke of Leinster and Earl of Kildare. Leinster House in Dublin. Photo: Duby Tal for Tourism Ireland."

"At the northern end of Parnell Square is a small, peaceful park, dedicated to the men and women who have died in pursuit of Irish freedom. The Garden of Remembrance marks the spot where several leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were held overnight before being taken to Kilmainham Gaol, and was also where the Irish Volunteers movement was formed in 1913. The central water feature is in the form off a sunken crucifix with the mighty Children of Lir statue at one end."

"A walk around Dublin War Memorial Gardens is a must for anyone planning to visit the Phoenix Park. The gardens are dedicated to the 49,400 Irish soldiers who lost their lives during the first world war.The gardens are home to ‘rose gardens, herbaceous borders and extensive tree-planting’ and are a great place to go for a stroll, relax and reflect."

"These gardens are one of the most famous memorial gardens in Europe. They are dedicated to the memory of 49,400 Irish soldiers who died in the 1914-1918 war. The names of all the soldiers are contained in the granite bookrooms in the Gardens."