The seaside town less than an hour from Dublin – home to ancient discovery, huge theme park and stunning beaches
SUMMER is just mere months away, and if you are looking for a holiday packed with plenty of activities while still being able to relax by the sea, we have the perfect place for you.
Less than an hour’s drive from Dublin, Bettystown in Co Meath is the ideal staycation location.
The busy seaside town is home to one of Ireland’s most spectacular beaches, with incredible attractions on its doorstep.
Bettystown also gained the attention of international archaeologists after a Celtic brooch was found on its shores in 1850.
Dating back to 710-750 AD, the brooch withstood the test of time, having been crafted by Vikings.
Now known as the Tara Brooch, it sits in the National Museum of Ireland for all to see.
BEACHES
Bettystown is the perfect place for those who enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach.
If you fancy a change of scene, Mornington beach is just a five-minute drive away and has stunning golden sands to be enjoyed, as well as an incredible view of the Maiden Tower and the Lady’s Finger.
The tower dates back to the 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, and was built as a beacon to aid Sailors navigating their way into Drogheda.
While the Lady’s Finger tells a tale of romance and tragedy.
The story goes that a beautiful local woman was in love with a man who was called away to war. Before leaving, they promised that if the man survived, he would return on a ship with white sails.
The young woman kept watch at the top of the Maiden Tower for months until she finally saw her lover’s ship on the horizon with black sails.
Overwhelmed with grief, she threw herself off the top of the tower. The Lady’s Finger, a 13ft obelisk, is said to have been erected in her memory.
THEME PARK
Bettystown is located just 30 minutes from Ireland’s only theme park and zoo, Emerald Park.
Thrill-seekers will love the legendary Cú Chulainn Coaster, while younger adventurers will have the time of their lives on Dino Dash.
Between rollercoaster rides, take a walk on the wild side at Lemur Woods, roll up to Robert Fossett’s Circus Tent or take a spin around the Grand Carousel.
There is an incredible range of attractions, including a petting farm, skywalks, fairy forests, zoo talks, 5D cinema and much more.
If you feel like adding even more adventure to your trip, why not visit Funtasia Theme Park, located just minutes from the town?
The park offers 200 different water-based activities for you and your family to enjoy.
Defy gravity on the thrilling water slides like the Boomerang and Super Bowl. Explore Pirate’s Cove play area just make sure you keep an eye out for the giant pirate’s head, it will dump 500 litres of water on unsuspecting people below.
Visitors can also enjoy over 15 different activities at Funtasia Theme Park, from climbing, bowling, crazy golf or soft play areas to all the fun of the fairground.
There’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
WALKING TRAILS
The Boyne Valley Camino is a self-guided, 25km looped walk from Drogheda, which forms part of the Celtic Camino series and takes you between 6 and 8 hours to complete.
The walk goes along the Boyne, through beautiful Townley Hall woods, via two OPW sites of Mellifont Abbey and Oldbridge House, through the village of Tullyallen, along the Boyne Canal, and returns to Drogheda along the stunning Boyneside Trail.
It was created by the Boyne Valley Walking, and Drogheda Walks teams.
RESTAURANTS
Nothing beats sitting down for a delicious meal following a long day of exploring. Luckily Bettystown has plenty to offer.
Reddans is a wonderful setting for any special occasion if you are seeking a refreshing retreat from a busy day’s schedule, a relaxing drink by an open fire, or simply just to get away from it all.
The pub has plenty to offer, from light bites to steaks and much, much more.
Chans is another great option with various dishes from noodles, pad thai, udon, fried rice and omelettes on offer.
Some of the signature dishes include seafood fried rice, Singapore chow mein and special udon, served with chicken, beef, pork and prawns.