The Millhouse
County Meath, Ireland[view map]
Local restaurants
In Slane, on Main Street, try The Old Post Office for a hearty Sunday lunch of Irish stew or slow-baked lamb shank (+353 (0)41 982 4090). A 15‑minute drive north of Slane in Collon, Forge Gallery Restaurant serves Modern European food in a quirky art‑gallery setting; ring ahead to check opening times and to book a table (+353 (0)41 982 6272). Alternatively, nab a window table or one of the booths at The Russell in Navan and order a simple but tasty steak or plate of pasta (+353 (0)46 903 1607).
Local bars
Join the locals at The Village Inn on Slane's Main Street for a few pints of the black stuff and live music at weekends (+353 (0)41 982 4230).
Local cafes
Francophiles and those who favour sweet treats will relish the expertly made gâteaux, pastries, breads, tisanes and picnic fodder at George’s Patisserie on Slane’s Chapel Street (+353 (0)41 982 4493).
Worth getting out of bed for
Missing urban life? Really? Hit the shops in Navan or Drogheda, if you must. We suggest you concentrate on the goodness under your nose though, and do a little local exploring. Discover the countryside on horseback – try the Kells Equestrian Centre (+353 (0)46 924 6998) – or get the Millhouse to pack you a perfect picnic and stride across the lush green hills until you find a spot that tickles your fancy. The Megalithic Passage Tomb at Newgrange is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; drop in at the Brú na Bóinne visitors centre near the village of Donore for information about Newgrange and its tomb complex. There are several interesting historical sites along the Boyne Valley (visit www.theboynevalley.com for an overview), including Mellifont Abbey, the Hill of Slane, the Hill of Tara and Trim Castle – the largest extant Norman castle in Europe. Time your visit to coincide with one of the big outdoor rock concerts held annually in the grounds of nearby Slane Castle (www.slanecastle.ie); past performers include the Rolling Stones, U2 and REM. Alternatively, soar above the ruins of Trim Castle with Irish Balloon Flights (+353 (0)46 948 3436). For more information, read our County Meath destination guide.