Battle of the Boyne Site

Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre: Oldbridge House and Gardens

The Battle of the Boyne (1690) is one of the most significant events in Irish history, part of a wider struggle for power across 17th century Europe.

The Battle of the Boyne was fought between King William III and his father-in-law King James II on 1 July 1690. The kings were rival claimants to the English, Scottish and Irish thrones. Protestant King William (who was also the Dutch Prince of Orange) had deposed Catholic King James in 1688. James went to Ireland where he rallied his mostly Catholic army (know as 'Jacobites' after James' name in Latin, Jacobus), making a stand on the southern banks of the Boyne outside Drogheda. William and his army of 'Williamites' marched to meet them.

Both kings commanded their armies in person. There were 36,000 men on the Williamite side and 25,000 on the Jacobite side. It was the largest number of troops ever deployed on an Irish battlefield. At stake were the British throne, French dominance in Europe and religious power in Ireland. It was an international battles; Irish, English, Scottish and French troops fought on both sides, with contingents of Dutch and Danish troops also fighting for William.

A feint attack by the Williamites west towards Slane and Ross na Rí drew away much of James' army, allowing William and his army to cross the Boyne near the hamlet of Oldbridge. Fierce fighting ensued but by the end of the day the Jacobites were forced into a fighting retreat. James fled to Dublin and then on to France, leaving his army to to retreat west and fight on for another year, before being finally defeated at Aughrim and Limerick in 1691. William was now securely in control of Britain and Ireland.

Oldbridge House and the Battle of the Boyne visitor centre

On the battleground itself, in the recently restored Oldbridge House (built c.1750), is the Battle of the Boyne visitor centre. The centre contains original weapons and a laser model of the battlefield. It is a treasure trove for anyone who wants to find out more about this pivotal episode in Irish and European history, with staff on-hand to answer any questions.

Historic Gardens

Restored Victorian Walled Garden with unique sunken Octagonal Garden, herbaceous borders, Peach House, Dog Kennels and Bothy with exhibition about Walled Gardens in the area. Admission to gardens is free of charge. Dogs and ball games are not permitted in the gardens.

There is a varied programme of events all summer, including childrens' history workshops, Victorian Garden Games and outdoor theatre (see website and social media for details).

Tearoom Pavilion

With its skirt of decking overlooking the Victorian Garden and Octagonal Garden, you can enjoy your refreshments to takeaway (currently).

Heritage Walking Routes

Battle of the Boyne - Oldbridge Estate Walks. Over 5 km of scenic walks on the historic battle site, linking with adjacent Boyne Greenway and Boyne Canal Walk. Free of charge. Dogs must be on leads at all times. No bikes permitted on walks.

Education

The Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre provides Education Packs for both Primary and Secondary School students. For more information, please click here.

Get your water bottle refilled for free! Part of the refill.ie network.
 

Fact

The Battle of the Boyne was the largest ever assembly of troops on an Irish battlefield.

Other Information

Audiovisual Presentation Seating: 51 Duration: 15 minutes Languages: English, Irish, French, German, Italian and Spanish Average Length of visit Visitor Centre: 1 hour approx Self Guiding Walks: 1 hour approx Leaflet/Guidebook OPW leaflets are available in English and other languages. A selection of books, postcards and other souvenirs are for sale in the Tea Pavillion. Tea Pavillion : Capacity 100

For more on the wider Drogheda region, watch the video below.