The Hill of Uisneach
Description
Are you trying to discover the best things to do with kids in County Westmeath? The Hill of Uisneach is a spectacular prehistoric monument and historic outdoor heritage activity category where families can hike ancient pathways, explore ancient ring forts, and uncover the sacred center of Ireland. Located in the heart of the Irish midlands, this majestic working farm landscape brings old Celtic myths to life for visiting families.
Prices start from €0.00 (approximately £0.00) for children under 12, who can join the standard public walking tours completely free of charge. Standard adult tickets are priced at €15.00 (around £12.50), and specialized family ticket bundles are available for groups with older kids.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that perfectly balances raw green nature with ancient folklore, this landmark historic site is an outstanding choice. It provides youngsters with an active, educational day out where they can stand on the burial sites of ancient gods, see wide open views, and walk in the footsteps of ancient High Kings.
Features
- Paid
- Host birthday parties: No
Features
Key Features
- Educational Day Out: Children can learn about the complex history of Irish High Kings, historic assembly traditions, and early archaeological excavations.
- Interactive Exhibits: The outdoor walking tours transform the green hills into an open-air classroom led by expert guides who share old folklore.
- Sensory Play Elements: Touching ancient limestone monuments, hearing stories of mystical fires, and feeling the fresh midland breeze at the summit provides great sensory feedback.
Detailed Highlights
- The Catstone (Aill na Mireann): A giant, unusual limestone boulder traditionally known as the "Stone of Divisions." Kids will love learning how it marks the exact intersection where the five ancient provinces of Ireland met.
- The High Kings' Ring Fort: A conjoined historic earthwork that once served as a royal residence on the hill. Children can stand inside the old ditches and imagine living like ancient Irish royalty.
- The Summit Fire Mound: The historical site where the massive annual Bealtaine fire is traditionally lit to mark the start of summer. Kids will be fascinated by stories of ancient kings signaling across the entire island from this spot.
- The Sacred Lake (Lough Lugh): A quiet body of water on the hill named after the famous mythological warrior king Lugh. Youngsters can listen to stories about his mythical battles and how he met his end in the water.
- The Restored Cottage Visitor Centre: A traditional Irish cottage sitting at the foot of the hill where tours begin. Children can see what an old country cottage looks like and relax in the courtyard after the walk.
Specific Named Objects & Features
- Aill na Mireann (The Catstone)
- The Conjoined Ring Fort (Royal Residence)
- Lough Lugh (The Sacred Lake)
- Carn Lugdach (Lugh's Resting Place)
- The Bealtaine Summit Fire Mound
- The Restored Cottage Visitor Centre Building
- The Traditional Seated Outdoor Courtyard
Facilities
- Toilets & Changing: Public toilets are accessible inside the main restored cottage visitor building before and after the walking tours.
- Buggy Parking: There is no dedicated pushchair storage, and because the paths cross rough, uneven farm pastures, strollers are not practical for the main hike.
- Food Options: The visitor centre keeps the kettle on for warm drinks, and families can enjoy snacks in the outdoor courtyard spaces.
What to see
What Visitors Love
- The local tour guides are incredibly passionate and do a brilliant job making old history feel fun for children.
- The sweeping 360-degree views from the top of the hill look spectacular on a clear afternoon.
- The atmosphere feels very authentic and calm because group sizes are strictly managed.
- Free entry for children under 12 makes it excellent value for money for younger families.
What Visitors Don't Like
- The uneven grass terrain and steady incline can tire out younger kids who are not used to hill walking.
- The lack of shelter on the hill means you can get very wet if a sudden midland rain shower starts.
Pro-Tips
- Book Everything Early: The venue is a private working farm, meaning the only access to the hill is through pre-booked guided tours.
- Wear Sturdy Boots: The 3 km route takes about 2 hours over natural grass, so waterproof walking shoes or wellies are highly recommended.
- Leave Pets at Home: Because the hill is located on an active farm with livestock, dogs are strictly banned from the site, even on a lead.
Price
Price: Paid
Price Details
- Adults: €15.00 (approx. £12.50)
- Students & Seniors: €12.00 (approx. £10.00)
- Children (Under 12): FREE
- Family Ticket (2 Adults & 2 Children under 12): €25.00 (approx. £21.00)
Birthday Parties
Offer Birthday Parties: No
- Public Tours: Run from January to December on Saturdays and Sundays at 11:00.
- Sunset Tours: Available from May to September on Friday evenings at 18:00.
Address: The Hill of Uisneach, Rathnew, Loughnavalley, Co. Westmeath, N91 R6C9, Ireland
Post Code: N91 R6C9
Council: Westmeath County Cou
County: County Westmeath
- By Car: Located directly off the R390 road between Mullingar and Athlone. Input the Eircode N91 R6C9 for direct navigation.
- By Bus: Take national train or bus links to Mullingar town centre, then take a local 15-minute taxi to the farm gates.
- Parking: Free visitor car parking is located on-site directly next to the cottage welcome centre.
Rating breakdown
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