The Hill of Tara (Teamhair)

The Basics

Begin a visit to the Hill of Tara at the site’s visitor center, located inside a former church, with an audio-visual presentation that provides an overview of the region’s history. Entry to the heritage site is free, and guided tours are available on request. Several day-trip tour options from Dublin include a stop at the Hill of Tara along with other nearby attractions such as Newgrange, Trim Castle, and the Slane Whiskey Distillery.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Hill of Tara is a must-see for travelers interested in archaeology and Irish heritage.

• While exploring the site, be prepared for uneven ground and mud; wear waterproof shoes.

• Uneven terrain means restricted access for visitors in wheelchairs.

• A coffee shop for snacks and drinks is located on-site.

How to Get There

The Hill of Tara is located 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) outside Navan in County Meath, approximately a 45-minute drive from Dublin city center; parking is available on-site. Most visitors arrive by car or with a guided tour from Dublin.

When to Get There

Sunrise or sunset at the Hill of Tara’s summit offers the most dramatic views. During the summer, lectures provide additional insight into the site’s historical significance. Opening hours vary seasonally; check the website for specific times (and remember that the last admission is one hour prior to closing time).

What to See

The Hill of Tara site is spread over 100 acres (40 hectares). While views from the summit are a highlight, there are many other things to see as well. Seek out the passage tomb dating back to the Stone Age; the Stone of Destiny, ancient Ireland’s coronation stone; the Mound of the Hostages, constructed around 2500 BC; and the temple made of over 300 wooden posts.

What is the Hill of Tara, and why is it important?

The Hill of Tara (Teamhair) used to be the site for the inauguration of Ireland’s ancient High Kings. It overlooks the land in County Meath, Ireland. It’s an important cultural site for Irish people not only because it dates back more than 5,000 years but also because it appears in Irish mythology.

What are the main attractions at the Hill of Tara?

The main attractions at the Hill of Tara include its visitor’s center—built inside a beautiful church—the Banqueting Hall, the Rath of Synods, the Mound of the Hostages, the Fort of the Kings, the Royal Seat, Cormac’s House, Lia Fáil (The Stone of Destiny), and St. Patrick’s Statue.

Can visitors climb the hill and explore the site?

Yes, visitors are allowed to go on a self-guided experience at the Hill of Tara (Teamhair), but you would most likely get more from a guided experience if you’re really interested in the site's cultural significance. Also, the ground is uneven, so wear comfortable, waterproof shoes.

Are there guided tours available at the Hill of Tara?

Yes, guided tours are available at the Hill of Tara. They’re free and offered daily but can’t be booked in advance. Once at the site, check with a receptionist if you’d like to join the next available tour. The tour takes you to the main monuments on the hill.

What is the best way to get to the Hill of Tara from Dublin?

The best way to get to the Hill of Tara from Dublin is to drive or take a taxi—the drive takes about 36 minutes from the city. There’s also a direct bus from the Dublin Busáras bus stop to Lismullen, which adds about 10 minutes to your ride.

Is there an entrance fee for visiting the Hill of Tara?

No, there isn’t an entrance fee to visit the Hill of Tara as it’s a heritage site, and you can also join a guided tour free of charge while you’re there. The Hill of Tara also has a free audio-visual show for travelers in its visitor center.