Private Tour of Newgrange and The Hill of Tara

Overview

Step back in time on a private journey to Ireland’s ancient east, where history, myth, and breathtaking landscapes come together. Explore the legendary Hill of Tara, once the seat of Ireland’s High Kings, and uncover the secrets of Newgrange, a 5,200-year-old passage tomb older than the pyramids. Along the way, enjoy scenic countryside drives, local folklore, and the flexibility of a private guide to tailor the experience to your interests.

Key Highlights

Hill of Tara
The ancient ceremonial and political heart of Ireland, with panoramic views across the country
Newgrange Passage Tomb
A 5,200-year-old Neolithic wonder, older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt
Stone of Destiny
The legendary coronation stone said to cry out when touched by the rightful High King
Winter Solstice Illumination
Witness the awe-inspiring alignment of sunlight that enters Newgrange on the shortest day of the year
Trim Castle
Ireland's largest Norman castle and the filming location for Braveheart
Scenic Boyne Valley countryside
Rolling farmland, ancient mounds, and some of Ireland's most historically significant landscapes

Itinerary

Pick-Up & Introduction

Your private driver-guide will collect you from your preferred location in Dublin or nearby areas. As you settle in for the journey, they'll provide an overview of the day's destinations and discuss any particular interests or requests you have. Newgrange and the Boyne Valley are approximately one hour north of Dublin, making this an ideal full-day trip from the city.
1

Hill of Tara: Seat of the High Kings

Our first stop is the Hill of Tara, the ancient ceremonial and political centre of Ireland. This sacred site, dating back thousands of years, was the legendary seat of the High Kings of Ireland. You'll visit key landmarks including the Stone of Destiny (Lia Fáil), the Mound of the Hostages, and the Banqueting Hall, all steeped in myth and legend.
2

Newgrange: Ireland's Ancient Wonder

Next, we journey to Newgrange, one of Europe's most extraordinary prehistoric monuments. Built over 5,200 years ago, this Neolithic passage tomb is older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt. You'll enjoy a guided tour inside the tomb, experiencing a simulated Winter Solstice illumination. The nearby Knowth passage tomb, also part of the Brú na Bóinne complex, is one of the largest megalithic sites in Europe and well worth a visit if time allows.
3

Trim Castle (Optional)

If time allows, consider adding a visit to Trim Castle, Ireland's largest Norman castle and the filming location for Braveheart. Walk the medieval walls, explore the imposing keep, and immerse yourself in Ireland's medieval past.
4

Return to Dublin & Drop-Off

After an unforgettable day exploring Ireland's ancient landmarks, your private driver-guide will return you to your preferred location in Dublin or the surrounding area.
5

What’s Included

Exclusive private experience
Expert storytelling
Fully flexible itinerary
Pickup and drop-off
Bottled water

What’s Not Included

Entry fees
Lunch and refreshments
Gratuities (discretionary)

What Travellers Say

Amazing experience, highly recommend
"Incredible experience. Seeing Newgrange and the surrounding valley with a private guide was amazing. Noel was so knowledgeable of the history and the area, and he was a lot of fun. We moved at our own pace and he kept us on time everywhere without a rush. A great day. Highlight of the trip! Highly recommend."
Jennifer C
Oct 2025
A flawless day in the Boyne valley with Noel
"We had a fantastic day with Noel. We started our day at the Leck Farm and Alison was very nice and welcoming to us. Lambing season had just finished and she had 2 lambs for my daughter and her partners to hold. Noel took us to Newgrange and explained how the tour would work, it was very helpful. We spent the morning touring both sites and then ate lunch at the cafe at the visitor center which was very good and affordable. Noel took us to our final stop at Tom King the Blacksmith which if you are interested in hearing stories about ancient Ireland and immersing yourself in the lore of Ireland this is a must to do. The team helped us with setting up the day and it was flawless."
Charles D
Apr 2026
The perfect trip to the Boyne Valley historical sites
"My guide Miriam was class the entire day, and it was a long one. She was incredibly kind, professional, knowledgeable and genuinely warm and friendly. I had the finest experience on tour with her today and I can not think of one thing she could've been better at. I was as comfortable as I've ever been on a tour and the places she took me to and information she provided at each site was spectacular. I will always remember her wonderful tour today and can honestly say that she made my trip to Ireland worth it."
A C
Oct 2025
BEST Personalized Newgrange Tour Day
"I highly recommend this private tour and cannot say enough about our guide, Noel! He was very personable, communicated with me ahead of our trip, and went out of his way to personalize our tour day and make it work for our family's interests and needs. Pick up and drop off were right at our hotel and, following our fascinating Newgrange tour, Noel personalized the remainder of our day to suit our family. He gave us options and we chose to stop at a castle and a charming seaside town. Truly a perfect day that would not have happened with a big group tour."
Pamela W
Aug 2025
The right guide & tour to kick off our Ireland vacation!
"Noel was a great guide for a group of 3 couples. He showed up on time, was engaging, had a great sense of humor, and was very knowledgeable about our destinations -- which were Newgrange, the Hill of Tara and Slane Abbey. He was always offering to take group photos in each location and he did them well. It was a full-day tour, but we were never bored and so glad to have selected the right guide!"
CB54
Sept 2025

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Explore Your Tour Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour visits the Hill of Tara, the ancient ceremonial seat of the High Kings of Ireland, and Newgrange, a 5,200-year-old Neolithic passage tomb older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt. An optional stop at Trim Castle, Ireland’s largest Norman castle and the filming location for Braveheart, can also be added if time allows.
Yes, pre-booking is strongly recommended for Newgrange. Entry is managed through the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre and timed tickets often sell out well in advance, particularly during summer and around the Winter Solstice. Entry costs approximately €16 per adult and is not included in the tour price.
Newgrange was built over 5,200 years ago, making it older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt. It is one of the finest examples of Neolithic architecture in the world. Its most remarkable feature is the roof box that allows sunlight to illuminate the inner chamber at dawn on the Winter Solstice, a feat of ancient engineering that continues to astonish visitors and archaeologists alike.
The Hill of Tara is one of the most historically and mythologically significant sites in Ireland. Key landmarks include the Stone of Destiny (Lia Fáil), said to cry out when touched by the rightful High King, the Mound of the Hostages (a Neolithic passage tomb), and the Banqueting Hall. From the hilltop you can enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Irish midlands.
Newgrange is approximately one hour north of Dublin in the Boyne Valley, making it an ideal full-day trip from the city. The tour typically runs for a full day, with the exact duration depending on your chosen stops and pace. Your driver-guide will collect you from your accommodation and return you at the end of the day.

Send an Enquiry

Have questions or want to discuss a custom itinerary? We’ll respond within 24 hours.

Starting from
€650
per tour (1–8 people)
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