4.4
(38)
389
hikers
31
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around The Municipal District of Navan are characterized by gentle river valleys, ancient woodlands, and open countryside. The region is shaped by the River Boyne and its tributary, the River Blackwater, offering numerous scenic riverside walking opportunities. Trails often feature historical sites and varied natural environments like boglands, providing accessible paths with minimal elevation changes. This landscape makes it suitable for a range of abilities, particularly for families.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
4.9
(10)
41
hikers
12.4km
03:11
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
28
hikers
4.56km
01:09
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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12.6km
03:15
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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.
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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.
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Beautiful old stone bridge crossing the River Boyne. Take a momnet to pause in the middle and enjoy the scenic view.
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Jamestown Bog is a wild national heritage area with a gravelly track around the edge, it makes a nice walk or ride. Popular with dogs so be careful but they are supposed to stay on the lead. There is picnic area and normally a coffee van near the entrance.
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Beautiful old lock and lock-keepers cottage along the River Boyne.
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From here you can enjoy views across the River Boyne of the once mighty Dunmoe Castle. The castle is four storeys and dates back to the 15th-century when it was home to the D'Arcy family.
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Beautiful 18th-century single-arch stone bridge that runs over the canal.
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Good cycle path next to the River Boyne and a great option instead of the busier roads nearby.
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The Municipal District of Navan offers a fantastic selection of over 30 family-friendly hiking trails. Most of these, around 25, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in this region, with an average score of 4.45 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible riverside walks, the rich historical sites, and the diverse natural environments like woodlands and bogs that make for engaging outings.
Yes, there are several easy circular walks. A great option is the Jamestown Bog loop, which is an easy 4.5 km trail offering a unique bog landscape experience. Another easy loop is the Dunmoe Castle Ruins β Boyne Greenway Cycle Path loop from Broadboyne Bridge, which is about 7.5 km and combines history with riverside views.
The region is rich in history! Many trails pass by significant landmarks. For example, the Dunmoe Castle Ruins β Boyne Greenway Cycle Path loop takes you past the impressive Dunmoe Castle Ruins. The Bective Loop is near the historic Bective Abbey, a well-preserved ruin. Other notable sites in the area include Trim Castle and the Hill of Tara.
Many of the trails in The Municipal District of Navan feature minimal elevation changes and accessible paths, making them suitable for strollers or very young children. The riverside walks, such as sections of the Boyne Navigation Towpath, are generally flat and well-maintained. Always check the specific trail details for surface conditions before heading out with a stroller.
Many trails in the Municipal District of Navan are dog-friendly, especially those in open countryside or along river towpaths. However, it's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or near historical sites, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions. Please remember to clean up after your pet.
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for family hikes in The Municipal District of Navan. In spring, ancient woodlands like those along The Ramparts Boyne River walk are carpeted in bluebells. Autumn offers stunning foliage. The mild weather during these seasons is also ideal for comfortable walking. However, the accessible nature of many trails means they can be enjoyed year-round.
Yes, the diverse natural environments provide great opportunities for wildlife spotting. Riverside trails along the Boyne and Blackwater rivers are excellent for birdwatching. The Jamestown Bog loop and Girley Bog Eco Walk offer unique bogland habitats where you might spot specific bog flora and fauna.
For families looking for a slightly longer adventure, the Boyne Navigation Towpath from Navan is a moderate 12.4 km trail that follows the historic navigation, offering picturesque riverside views. Another moderate option is The Bective Loop, also around 12.6 km, which explores the area around Bective Abbey.
Parking is generally available at or near the starting points for many popular family-friendly trails in The Municipal District of Navan. For example, trails along the Boyne Navigation Towpath often have designated parking areas. It's always a good idea to check specific route details on komoot for parking information before you set off.
While many trails are best accessed by car, some routes, particularly those starting or passing through Navan town, may be accessible via local bus services. For example, the Boyne Navigation Towpath from Navan starts directly from the town, which is a hub for public transport. We recommend checking local bus schedules for specific stops near your chosen trailhead.


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