Newgrange is amazing but there are always lots of tourists crammed in... if there is any way you can get into Knowth.... (next chamber grave along).. try that.. my hubby did it years ago........ you go in with torches... he still raves about it.

According to my book (Ireland the complete guide and road atlas.. published by appletree press)used to be several called "what to do in the North/ West/ etc of Ireland".... full of info and places you might not otherwise find... published in Belfast usually in any of the touristy shops or info places.

Hill of Tara, 6m (10km) South of Navan, 1m (1.5km) West of the N# Dublin to Navan Road, or catch number 20, 40, or 43 bus from Dublin or Navan (I'd check the numbers they may have changed).

"One of the most historic places in Ireland, former culture and religious capital. although only simple earthworks remain, it's worth walking to the top to sense the history and sample the stunning view."

according to my map if you head west from Drogheda to get to Newgrange, continue west to Slane, turn south onto the N2 you will come to the village of Ralrath at a cross roads and it's basically there on the R153 just W of the crossroads.

althought there are 2 "Hills of Tara" marked the other being slightly further west .. the one at the cross roads is the historic one.

seeing as you're already close by.. go to Monasterboice 5m (8km) NW of drogheda just off the main road (N1)to Dublin, it has some great Celtic crosses and a round tower in the church yard.

slainte

alison