From epic architecture to indoor fun, here are our top ten best things to do in Louth.
Located just north of Dublin city is County Louth. Sitting on the seaside and rich with things to do and sites to see, Louth makes for a fantastic day trip or weekend away.
Easily accessed via car, bus, or train to Drogheda, this county is an easy and often much-needed escape from the nearby cityscape.
Whether you’re after adventure, history, culture, or cuisine, you’ll find it among the best things to do in Louth.
Top tips for visiting County Louth:
- Consider renting a car when visiting so you can explore the rural towns and villages.
- Check the weather forecast before you visit and ensure you pack appropriate clothing.
- If visiting from outside Ireland, change your money into Euros before you arrive.
- Download offline maps. Phone signal can be very poor in more rural areas.
- Always sort out accommodation before you arrive in County Laois, especially in peak season.
10. Funtasia – for a rainy day
It may be a bit naff, but Funtasia in Drogheda is also heaps of fun and perfect for a rainy day when in the locale.
The family-focused indoor-outdoor amusement centre is ripe with games and activities. Visit the Funtasia Waterpark Drogheda or let the kids get lost at the indoor Atlantic Cove play area; challenge your opponent on one of the dozens of arcade games or enjoy 18 holes of crazy golf!
Address: Unit 1, Donore Road Industrial Estate, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 EVH6
MORE: our guide to the best activities for kids in Drogheda
9. Castle Roche – for castle ruins
This castle is located in Dundalk, County Louth. Sitting on a hillside, majestic and well-preserved, Castle Roche is likely to be of interest to those with a penchant for history and castle architecture.
First built in the 13th century, this ancient ruin makes for a great daytime wander, with stunning scenery, photo-ops, and views over the grasslands. It is definitely one of the best things to do in Louth.
Address: Roche, Co. Louth
8. P.J. O’Hare’s – for Irish pub vibes
If you’re looking for traditional Irish pub vibes when in County Louth, check out P.J. O’Hare’s in Carlingford. Rich in traditional pub vibes with a vibrancy second to none, P.J.s is a go-to regardless of the day or time.
Also, expect fine Irish pub grub, live music, and banter all around! Insider’s tip: try P.J.’s Oyster Bar when you’re there—you can thank us later.
Address: Tholsel St, Liberties of Carlingford, Carlingford, Co. Louth, A91 TC58
READ MORE: IB4UD’s guide to the best pubs in Carlingford
7. Millmount Fort – the obvious choice
Millmount Fort is a hill fort located in the centre of Drogheda town. It is a dominant feature of the town landscape and played a pivotal part in its history too.
Today, this Martello tower is colloquially known as the “The Cup and Saucer,” and the museum that it now houses is open year-round to the public.
Address: Millmount, Drogheda, Co. Louth
MORE: 5 historical sites in Drogheda you need to see
6. Proleek Dolmen – for archaeology
For those of you keen to learn a little more about Ireland’s ancient past, check out Proleek Dolmen in Dundalk, County Louth. This portal dolmen is a fine example of a man-made prehistoric tomb.
Dating to around 3000 BC, this Neolithic site is an impressive example of a portal tomb or, as they are often referred to, a dolmen.
Address: Proleek, Dundalk, Co. Louth
RELATED: check out more of Ireland’s best Neolithic sites
5. Highlanes Gallery – for art lovers
If you happen to be around the neighbourhood of Drogheda, make sure to stop by Highlanes Gallery.
Located in the impressive former Drogheda Franciscan Church, this is the perfect rainy-day activity for art lovers and those with a penchant for visual art and culture.
Address: 36 St Laurence St, Lagavooren, Drogheda, Co. Louth, A92 F7PH
4. St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church – for architecture
Regardless of religion, take a stop by St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church in Drogheda, County Louth, and you’re sure to be in for a treat.
This colossal church is as impressive as they come and towers tall to the sky in a neo-gothic style.
Address: West St, Downtown Drogheda, Drogheda, Co. Louth
3. Carlingford – for a medieval coastal town
Carlingford is a remarkable, scenic little town located between Carlingford Lough and Slieve Foye.
It is ripe with medieval buildings, including King John’s Castle and the Dominican Friary, and it is a popular summer destination due to its waterside setting.
With some great pubs and restaurants as well, Carlingford holds some of the best things to do in Louth, so you really shouldn’t skip it when in the county! This is one of the best Irish towns to visit this year.
Address: Newgrange, Donore, Co. Meath
MORE: our guide to the best things to do in Carlingford
2. Carlingford Adventure Centre – for an ultimate adventure
If you’re looking to really let loose and wonder what to do in Louth, check out the Carlingford Adventure Centre. This is the ultimate destination for groups of friends, stags, hens, families, and, well, just about anyone keen for a good time.
The outdoor adventure centre offers everything from archery and ziplining to rock climbing and water trampolining.
Address: Tholsel St, Liberties of Carlingford, Carlingford, Co. Louth
1. Ravensdale Forest Recreation Area – for hiking and nature
Arguably one of—if not the—best things to do in Louth is to explore Ravensdale Forest Recreation Area. Dense and lush, this wild nature park is open to the public year-round and boasts hikes, trails and nature in full bloom.
Climb to the top of Black Mountain or simply wander the forest paths taking in Ireland’s epic ancient sites and the wild country way.
Address: Mountpleasant, Co. Louth
Your questions answered about the best things to do in County Louth
If you still have questions, we have you covered! In this section, we’ve compiled some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions and popular questions that have been asked online about this topic.
Is Louth worth visiting?
Absolutely. From the pubs and festivals in Carlingford to the endless activities in Drogehda, there is so much to discover in Louth.
What is County Louth known for?
County Louth is known for many things, including being the smallest of the 32 counties in Ireland. Carlingford is a beautiful spot that Louth is famous for, and many people flock here in the summer months.
What is a fun fact about Louth?
The Irish name for Louth is Lú. This is the shortest of all the county names in Irish.
