Nollaig na mBan in the Boyne Valley
In history, the twelfth and final day of Christmas, January 6th, is traditionally celebrated in Ireland as Nollaig na mBan, also known as Women’s Christmas or Little Christmas. This cherished custom gave women a well-deserved break after the busy festive season. While the men of the house took over domestic duties, women would gather together to relax, socialise, and enjoy tea and treats—often the last remnants of the Christmas goodies.
In recent years, Nollaig na mBan has been revived as a day for women to reconnect and celebrate with friends and loved ones, making it the perfect occasion to indulge in afternoon teas, dinners, and spa days. The Boyne Valley offers countless ways to mark this special day in style. Here’s our guide to celebrating Nollaig na mBan in the Boyne Valley this year.
Events to Celebrate Nollaig na mBan
Ardboyne Hotel – Little Christmas Gala
Date: Saturday, 4th January 2025
Gather your friends and celebrate the tradition of Nollaig na mBan at the Ardboyne Hotel’s Little Christmas Gala. Kick off the evening with a Prosecco and Canape Reception, followed by a sumptuous three-course gala dinner in the Boyne Suite. Then, dance the night away with live music from Twist of Fate.
Details:
- Date: 4th January 2025
- Location: Ardboyne Hotel
- Package: Overnight package with B&B and Gala Ticket – €129 per person sharing
Make this celebration one to remember!
Afternoon Tea
If a relaxed catch-up is more your style, treat yourself and the ladies in your life to Afternoon Tea in one of the Boyne Valley’s stunning venues. Sit back, enjoy delicate pastries, freshly baked scones, and a selection of savoury bites in elegant surroundings.
Choose from:
- Ardboyne Hotel
- Bective Tea Rooms
- Bellinter House
- City North Hotel
- Dunboyne Castle Hotel
- Hamlet Court Hotel
- Headfort Arms Hotel
- Knightsbrook Hotel
- Sage and Stone
- Scholars Townhouse Hotel
- The Conyngham Arms Hotel
- The Newgrange Hotel
- The Station House Hotel
- Trim Castle Hotel
Remember to book in advance to secure your table!
Dinner and Drinks with the Girls
For something more low-key, why not gather your friends for a delicious dinner and drinks? The Boyne Valley is home to a variety of fantastic restaurants, offering everything from casual dining to gourmet cuisine.
Some popular choices include:
- The Conyngham Arms Hotel
- Il Forno, Drogheda
- The Balreask Bar and Restaurant
- Brabazon Restaurant, Tankardstown House
- Brogans of Trim
- Khan Spices
- Zucchini’s, Navan
- The Ivy Restaurant, Dunboyne Castle
- The Kilberry Restaurant
- Vanilla Pod, Kells
- The Snailbox
- The Signal Restaurant
- The Royal Meath
- The Kiln, Killeen Castle
- Scholars Restaurant
- Stockhouse Restaurant
- Tara Lounge
- The Central
- The Darnley Restaurant, Darnley Lodge Hotel
- The Glyde Inn
- Jack's Bar and Restaurant
- Monasterboice Inn
- Nelly’s Bar Drogheda
- Preston's Restaurant at Bellinter House Hotel
- Conservatory at the Castle Arch Hotel
- Fifty50 Mediterranean Restaurant
- Henry's Restaurant at the Glenside Hotel
- Hugo's Restaurant at the Ardboyne Hotel
- 79 West Street
- Bistro 61 at the Hamlet Court Hotel
Check out the full list of dining options on our website to find the perfect spot.
Girlie Spa Day
Escape the chaos of everyday life with a relaxing spa day. The Boyne Valley boasts a range of luxurious spas that are perfect for unwinding and treating yourself this Nollaig na mBan.
Options include:
- The Bath House at Bellinter House Hotel and Spa
- Seoid Spa at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa
- The River Spa at Knightsbrook Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
- The Spa Rooms at the Headfort Arms Hotel and
- The Hot Box Sauna In Bective.
Whether you choose a full spa day or just a pampering treatment, you’re guaranteed to feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
Whatever way you decide to celebrate Nollaig na mBan this year, the Boyne Valley is ready to welcome you. From elegant afternoon teas to glamorous gala events, spa escapes, and delicious dinners, there’s something for every group of friends to enjoy.
Plan your perfect celebration and make this Nollaig na mBan unforgettable!
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