Nestled within the heart of Ireland lies a treasure trove of cultural heritage, where history and craftsmanship intertwine seamlessly. The Boyne Valley Craft Trail, a route through the picturesque landscape of County Meath and South County Louth, offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of Irish artistry and tradition.
A Journey Through Time:
Stepping onto the Boyne Valley Craft Trail is like stepping back in time. This region has been inhabited for thousands of years, and its history is palpable in every stone, every winding river, and every rolling hill. The trail winds its way through ancient sites such as the Hill of Tara, once the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, and the majestic Trim Castle, one of the finest examples of Anglo-Norman architecture in the country.
Craftsmanship and Creativity:
But it is not just the historical sites that draw visitors to the Boyne Valley; it is also the vibrant community of artisans who call this region home. Along the trail, visitors can explore a diverse array of craft workshops and studios, where skilled craftsmen and women practice their trade with passion and precision. Here are our top crafters to discover.
Boann Irish Felt designs 
A vibrant collection of shawls, scarves, wall hangings & artwork all handmade by Caoimhe Tuthill from her home studio in Slane. Caoimhe's work is made using the ancient craft of wet felting & each piece is unique & one of a kind. Her love of nature, the ancient sites of the Boyne Valley & Ireland's wild & magical land is very much evident in Caoimhe's work. Find out more here.
Boyne Valley Wools
A unique experience in wool craft. Watch the Jacob sheep grazing the fields and see their wool spun into yarn and woven or knit. The whole process is done by hand with demonstrations daily. Family friendly, wheelchair accessible, free of charge. Located less than a 5 minute walk from the ’Brú na Bóinne’ (Newgrange) visitor centre. Find out more here.
Emily McCormack Artist
Emily McCormack is an Irish artist with an art studio and gallery based in Meath. You can now view and buy her original paintings online. She works primarily in oils and loves to paint a variety of subjects including seascapes, landscapes and cityscapes. In her collection, you will also find Irish paintings based on the Wild Atlantic Way and local scenes around Ireland, along with floral, figure and equine. She exhibits in Ireland and the UK and offers oil painting workshops from her studio. Find out more here.
Irish Harps
Jan Muyllaert is a producer of musical instruments including harps, violins, mandolins and guitars. He has over 30 years’ experience in the art of making specialised instruments to suit any clients needs. Find out more here.
Lucy O’Gorman Ceramics
Unique ceramic pieces, drawing inspiration from the rural setting and the historical landmarks that scatter the Boyne Valley. Lucy’s pottery, ranges from functional, dishwasher and microwave safe crockery and tableware to sculptural and commissioned pieces. Find out more here.
Noreen Walsh Art and Photography
Noreen Walshe's professional practice took root in her studio near Navan, between the Hill of Tara and the ancient site of Newgrange. Her work is in private and public collections, notably those of President Michael D Higgins, actor Brendan Gleeson, the estate of the late actress Maureen O’Hara and more. Find out more here.
Pat’s Art Studio
Located in Slane's Arty Quarter, Pat, a local artist, paints and exhibits his work in a friendly, inviting studio. Pieces include a broad selection of oil paintings and drawings. Find out more here.
Skylight Gallery
Skylight Gallery welcomes visitors to view or to purchase from over fifty original paintings in oil and watercolour. On view are landscapes, seascapes, interiors and still life, many of these are of local scenes. Find out more here.
Preserving Tradition, Inspiring Innovation:
While the Boyne Valley Craft Trail celebrates Ireland's rich heritage, it also looks to the future, inspiring innovation and creativity in the next generation of artisans. Many of the workshops along the trail offer educational programs and workshops for both children and adults, ensuring that traditional crafts continue to thrive for generations to come.
Plan Your Visit:
Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the Irish countryside, the Boyne Valley Craft Trail offers something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality, it's no wonder that the Boyne Valley has captured the hearts of visitors from around the world.
So why not plan your visit today? Immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of the Boyne Valley Craft Trail and experience the magic of Ireland's cultural heritage firsthand. We can’t wait to welcome you.
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