The best traffic-free bike rides around The Municipal District of Kells

Footbridge over the Boyne Navigation near the Currach Centre. The towpath west of here is very nice for a walk but to continue east you'll have to use a section of road.

currachs built by Ross van Boyne's Boats. Along the banks of the River Boyne at Oldbridge, you can admire the special currachs, traditional Irish boats that are handcrafted here by Ross van Boyne Boats. These unique vessels – with their distinctive wooden frame and stretched skin – are directly linked to the ancient history of the river. Ross uses his expertise not only to build these boats but also to let visitors experience the river as the inhabitants did back in the Stone Age. If you get the chance to see them on the water, you will witness a beautiful piece of craftsmanship that connects the Boyne Valley to its distant past.

The Boyne River Greenway takes you on a relaxing journey through Ireland's history. This beautifully crafted trail follows the winding River Boyne from the vibrant quays of Drogheda to the historic fields of Oldbridge. You'll cycle through a landscape of lush woodlands and rolling riverbanks, far from traffic. Along the way, you'll pass information boards that tell the story of the legendary Battle of the Boyne. Whether you come for the nature, the fresh air, or the unique heritage of the Boyne Valley; this green artery offers a relaxing and inspiring experience for every cyclist.

This historic lock, officially the Oldbridge Sealock but locally known as Tiernan’s Lock, marks the beginning of the canal section of the Boyne Navigation. It is the only lock on the route that is directly influenced by the river's tide. The robust limestone walls and the associated lock keeper's cottage form a beautiful ensemble of 18th-century hydraulic engineering. For cyclists, this is an iconic point on the Greenway: here you exchange the view of the wide river for the tranquil, green setting of the towpath. An atmospheric place where the history of inland navigation is still tangible.

Take time to enjoy the peaceful stretch of the Boyne River Greenway as it follows the gentle curves of the River Boyne through the historic town of Drogheda. This scenic route also forms part of the Boyne Valley Camino, adding a sense of pilgrimage and heritage to your journey.

Founded by the Cistercian order in 1147, Bective Abbey sits on the River Boyne, just outside Bective in County Meath. A Hollywood favourite, the Abbey have been used three times (so far) in major films. These are Captain Lightfoot in 1955, Braveheart in 1995 and most recently in 2020 by Ridley Scott's The Last Duel. The well-preserved ruin are free to access having been bought by the state in 2011.

Bective Bridge is typical of the old stone bridges that cross the Boyne in this area. Just outside the town of Beative, it is the perfect counterpoint to Ballinter Bridge a bit futher down river, which makes a good walking loop.

Beautiful old stone bridge crossing the River Boyne. Take a momnet to pause in the middle and enjoy the scenic view.