Navan Centre & Fort
Navan Centre & Fort
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Navan Centre & Fort is a place where myth and reality meet. It is one of Ireland’s most famous and important archaeological sites, the legendary Emain Macha. Legends say that Macha, the ancient goddess of war and fertility, scored the earth with her brooch pin and traced the famous outline of this sacred stronghold of the hero Cu Chulainn, home of the famous Red Branch Knights and Ulster Cycle of tales. Experience life over 2000 years ago, as you walk in the footsteps of warriors to the ancient Navan Fort, site of the great temple of 95BC. Your guide will explain how and why this impressive ceremonial structure was built, as well as highlighting the importance of the surrounding sites in the Navan complex. Immerse yourself in Iron Age life, as you meet the resident Celtic clan & view their period dwelling! During your visit, you may find the Celts regaling you with stories of their past triumphs, cooking, weaving or even preparing their weaponry for battle.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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Address
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
63 within 3 miles
Attractions
30 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Companion230399907651 contributionLiving historyThe actors, guides and staff make history come to life. Very enjoyable tour with our guide Conal McBride who kept us hanging on his every word. The best historical lesson/tour/re-enactment we have experienced. A must see to anyone visiting the Armagh area. It was the highlight of our tripWe are thrilled to hear that your visit to Navan Centre & Fort was the highlight of your trip. Thank you for the fantastic review!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 3, 2023
- Richard NUnited Kingdom3 contributionsFascinating day out with great guidesWe had an absolutely fantastic time at the Fort and the Centre. Didn't realise how much there was to see and I was really pleased with the layout, the explanations, and especially the tour. Aoife and Fiona were informative, enthusiastic, and really well informed. I'd definitely recommend a visit to anyone interested in history, archaeology or mythology, but also to anyone who just wants a nice day out in an interesting place.Thanks for the fantastic review of your tour with Aoife and Fiona! We are delighted to hear you will recommend us to others.Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 11, 2023
- Caron321Dorking, United Kingdom6 contributionsBrilliant tour!We had a wonderful visit here. The architecture of the centre is fantastic and the history and mythology of the site is incredible, but by far the most impressive thing about this attraction was the staff. We were warmly greeted by people who clearly love what they do. We went on a tour led by archaeologists Aoife and Fiona who were incredibly knowledgeable about the site and extremely passionate about their work. Having arrived with no knowledge of what Navan is or its significance, we both left informed and inspired to seek out other Iron Age sites in Ireland. Their enthusiasm was infectious! I would encourage anyone to pay a visit and make sure you go on a tour.We are delighted that you enjoyed your tour with Aoife and Fiona - thank you for visiting!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten October 22, 2023
- Tim MGreater Sydney, Australia16 contributionsGreat place, great experience, great guide!A great day with the tour guide Connell McBride. The place is amazing, Connell brought it to life explaining the folklore and its context within the history/archaeology. Great day, great experience, and a great guide.Thanks for the amazing review of your tour with Connell!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled with familyWritten January 4, 2024
- Rebecca S1 contributionA thoroughly enjoyable and informative tour that's definitely worth the trip!We were greeted by Rosanna who made us feel incredibly welcome and shared a quick overview of the Navan experience. After a short film outlining the various myths and history associated with the site, we were introduced to Connell who would be leading the outdoor section of the tour. His knowledge and enthusiasm were second to none and the quality of his tour is simply fantastic! We joined the 2pm tour and enjoyed a stunning sunset at the top accompanied by live music from our guide. The passion that all the staff had for Navan, it's history, it's folklore, the surrounding areas and the environment is infectious and compliments this beautiful area perfectly. We felt it was definitely worth the trip from Belfast and will be recommending it to our friends who fancy doing something a bit different with their weekend!We are delighted you found your visit both enjoyable & informative, always the things our guides strive for - we will pass on your lovely comments to Rosaleen & Connell.Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 6, 2024
- Dot T3 contributionsBrilliant tour of Navan Centre and FortWe booked a tour on line, just the day before we went. When we arrived we were the only people on the tour, which was great because we got the guides all to ourselves. Rosaleen showed us around the exhibition area, giving us the background to the site. Then we went with Fiona to the fort. We want to especially thank Fiona for her enthusiasm and knowledge which made it so fascinating for us. We highly recommend this visit if you are interested in local history and archeology.Thanks for your fantastic review - we will pass on your lovely comments to Rosaleen & Fiona.Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 9, 2024
- Samdetu C7 contributionsConnell is a great guide!Great site, with lots of interesting history, myth and legend. I recommend going on a tour. I was lucky enough to have Connell show me around and he was brilliant, he really knows his stuff and he was just lovely and so passionate about the history of Armagh.We are delighted that you enjoyed your tour with Connell - thank you for the great review!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled soloWritten January 22, 2024
- Pack your suitcaseNorthern Ireland, United Kingdom1,020 contributionsA really nice brunchWe decided to have brunch in The Navan centre last weekend. The restaurant was buzzing and there was a lot of families and couples enjoying the same idea. The staff are very friendly and keen to help and the food was inexpensive and to a high standard.The staff at Ancient Grounds Coffee Shop are delighted you enjoyed brunch with them and hope to see you back at the Navan Centre & Fort again soon!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten January 29, 2024
- Becky B1 contributionWonderful spot for a family day outReally informative guides and a brilliant mix of archaeology and mythology. The people who work here are so passionate about this incredible site and piece of history. Plenty for kids and adults alike. The kids can dress up in iron age costumes and get their war paint on their faces. The cafe is also really good as well as the gift shop features local artists and craftsmen.Thanks for the lovely feedback - we are glad to hear the whole family enjoyed their day out!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2024Traveled with familyWritten February 4, 2024
- shivstar15 contributions'Ar fheabhas gan amhras'So worth a visit. Myself and my husband had a truly magical experience here. We enjoyed a tasty lunch in the cafe before our pre booked tour. Our guide Connell was just fantastic. His passion and knowledge is remarkable. Don't hesitate in making the trip to Navan, it will be memorable without doubt.We are delighted you enjoyed both your guided tour and your lunch at our coffee shop. Thank you both for visiting!Written April 15, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 4, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
438 reviews
Excellent
336
Very good
69
Average
21
Poor
7
Terrible
5
martin d
3 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
Beautiful location. The centre staff were very friendly and welcoming and the giftshop and cafe is reasonably priced. The tour guide (Connell) was very knowledgeable and took time to answer our questions. The staff in 'character' throughout the site were great fun to interact with. Navan fort has such a rich and fascinating history, i would highly recommend a visit!
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for visiting us and for your fantastic review. We are delighted that you enjoyed every aspect of your visit.
Written August 17, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Peter_Mercer
Belfast, UK54 contributions
Aug 2022
Been meaning to go here for a long time and was not disappointed. The Centre is very informative and this was backed up by very friendly and accommodating staff.There is a good cafe, although there was a reduced menu due to a UNITE strike of council staff. The tour is well worth the money - the guides/actors were terrific - you really felt involved but not embarassingly so. Well worth the visit.
Written August 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter, thanks for taking the time to leave us such a great review. We are delighted that you enjoyed your experience at the Navan Centre and hope to welcome you back again in future.
Written August 23, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pippa-Peita S
2 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
We visited on the 21st as a group of 4 adults. We were welcomed to join in and encouraged to participate throughout. From painting our faces traditionally, dressing up as Celtics to making our own charms to wear and keep using Ogham.
Connell was our tour guide, from start to finish he ensured we had every thing we needed and was probably the highlight of our visit. He was extremely informative and managed to answer every question we threw at him!
There was also Keith on the desk who was friendly and helpful. We met Daire who was one of the live actors. His character worked with wood and kept us entertained. Again, he kept the whole audience captivated and was great with the children and getting them involved!
Seancha was another live actor and his character was a bard, a story teller in Celtic times. His stories were enticing and kept everyone on their toes. He was happy to answer any questions and go that extra mile to make sure the answer is understood.
Overall, one of the best days out I’ve ever had. Every single member or staff, from the tour guide to the cafe staff, were friendly, helpful, kind, and entertaining!
We were concerned going just as a group of adults but it was a lot of fun and there is something for everyone!
There’s so much more to say but I’ll leave it at this. I cannot recommend Navan Fort enough. For all ages, everyone is welcomed in with open arms and all staff seem very passionate about what was being taught.
Connell let me do his face paint in return; here is all of us on top on Navan Fort after a wonderful day!
Thank you so much for our posters and your words of wisdom, Connell. He told us we were capable of anything and will do great things. Just another example of how the staff all made sure we were having a great time and went that step further to make it memorable!
Connell was our tour guide, from start to finish he ensured we had every thing we needed and was probably the highlight of our visit. He was extremely informative and managed to answer every question we threw at him!
There was also Keith on the desk who was friendly and helpful. We met Daire who was one of the live actors. His character worked with wood and kept us entertained. Again, he kept the whole audience captivated and was great with the children and getting them involved!
Seancha was another live actor and his character was a bard, a story teller in Celtic times. His stories were enticing and kept everyone on their toes. He was happy to answer any questions and go that extra mile to make sure the answer is understood.
Overall, one of the best days out I’ve ever had. Every single member or staff, from the tour guide to the cafe staff, were friendly, helpful, kind, and entertaining!
We were concerned going just as a group of adults but it was a lot of fun and there is something for everyone!
There’s so much more to say but I’ll leave it at this. I cannot recommend Navan Fort enough. For all ages, everyone is welcomed in with open arms and all staff seem very passionate about what was being taught.
Connell let me do his face paint in return; here is all of us on top on Navan Fort after a wonderful day!
Thank you so much for our posters and your words of wisdom, Connell. He told us we were capable of anything and will do great things. Just another example of how the staff all made sure we were having a great time and went that step further to make it memorable!
Written August 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are thrilled to hear this was one of the best days out you've ever had! Thanks a lot for leaving us such a fantastic review - we will pass this on to all staff involved. Hopefully we will see you again at the Navan Centre at some point in the future!
Written August 23, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hannah K
2 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
We landed in Dublin on a Sunday morning and, despite significant jet lag, my 3 children (2 teens and an 11 year old) made it to the Navan Centre Fort for the "Legendary Navan Fort" tour. This was a truly special experience. Highly informative and engaging. It is a huge accomplishment to be able to engage teenagers in general, but especially ones who are bedraggled from travel. It was raining, we were outside, it didn't matter -- we were entirely captivated by what we were learning and experiencing. I highly recommend this and am glad we went on our first day as it set a terrific tone for our trip. The Centre itself is a beautiful setting, there is a lot to learn and experience just by visiting. The food was delicious (there's a cafe there and we got toasties). Our guide was so informed and passionate about the meaning and importance of Navan Fort, it was infectious. Incredibly worth it. I look forward to going again.
Written August 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for the amazing review. We are pleased to hear that we were the first stop on your visit and that it was a memorable experience for all of the family!
Written October 2, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amy S
1 contribution
May 2023 • Friends
Arrived just after opening time around 10:10, took the tour from 10:30 - 12:30. Carolyn gave us a fabulous walking tour of the outside grounds and the hill/mounds that makeup the site. She was very knowledgable and the info is fascinating. The last 30 minutes we spent in the hut on the property where there were some fabulous actors who interacted with us as if they were from 2000 years ago. I thought the acting was a little corny as my grandma and I were the only two guests, but it would be entertaining for kids. This was one of the best sites we’ve seen in our week in Ireland and I couldn’t recommend a visit more!
Written May 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your fantastic feedback! We are really pleased to hear that you enjoyed your tour with Carolyn and that we were one of the highlights of your trip.
Written May 22, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Evan Bleasdale
New York City, NY1 contribution
Nov 2022
While the facilities and grounds were excellent, it wouldn't have been the same without our guide Connell. He was personable, hilarious and extremely informative, which elevated the experience beyond measure. We were very lucky as it was just us and two others on the tour due to the time of the year, which allowed us to take the tour at our own pace, and pick Connell's brain, in which he happily obliged. 10/10
Written November 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are always pleased when we exceed customer expectations and are delighted you had such an enjoyable visit. Thank you!
Written December 14, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ciara
2 contributions
May 2023 • Family
We attended the Work like a Celt activity on 1st May , 2 adults and 2 children (one of whom is a teen). It was so enjoyable from start to finish. The experience of being in the dwelling with the Druids was just so fun, and they held their characters well . Our tour guide Connell was amazing . His knowledge was remarkable and he had us hanging on his every word. Connell brought us to visit the Fort afterwards, which was magical. Thank you to all the staff at this wonderful gem in Armagh .
Written May 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your fantastic review - we are delighted that you enjoyed our Work Like A Celt event and your tour with Connell!
Written May 15, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Orlaith McMahon
17 contributions
Feb 2023 • Friends
Absolutely fantastic afternoon at Navan fort, made so by our phenomenal guide Connell. Learned so much about the history and mythology associated with Emain Macha and Armagh as a whole. Connell was entertaining, insightful and informative and was more than happy to share his knowledge with a personal touch. . He invited questions and comments and I learned an incredible amount in the short 2 hours on the tour. The excitement and enthusiasm Connell has for his native Armagh and its' rich history is contagious. His love for learning is evident from his anecdotes from talking history and mythology from archaeologists and historians involved in researching the area.
If you're worried about going as an adult, don't. The tour has something for everyone and I didn't feel at all out of place as part of the group - despite it being very family friendly. It was a nice surprise to have spiritual insights, empowerment and encouragement as a takeaway.
The landscape of Navan fort is also fabulous and a lovely place for a walk. Such a great way to spend half a day.
If you're worried about going as an adult, don't. The tour has something for everyone and I didn't feel at all out of place as part of the group - despite it being very family friendly. It was a nice surprise to have spiritual insights, empowerment and encouragement as a takeaway.
The landscape of Navan fort is also fabulous and a lovely place for a walk. Such a great way to spend half a day.
Written February 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are delighted with your fantastic review of the Navan Centre & that you found Connell's tour so engaging. Hopefully, we can welcome you back again soon!
Written February 16, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lisnagarveylass
6 contributions
Aug 2021
I organised a group visit to Navan for a group over mostly mostly 60+ year olds. We had a memorable experience under the care of our knowledgable and enthusiastic guide. The living history experience was very informative and enjoyable. The walk to the monument was well laid out with information points along the way. The Mound is well maintained and the views from the top are spectacular. Our guide ably informed us about the history of the site and its relationship to the other ancient sites in the area. He also told us about the most recent surveys of the site and how they affect the interpretation of the uses of this and surrounding archaeological feature.
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca S
1 contribution
Jan 2024 • Couples
We were greeted by Rosanna who made us feel incredibly welcome and shared a quick overview of the Navan experience. After a short film outlining the various myths and history associated with the site, we were introduced to Connell who would be leading the outdoor section of the tour. His knowledge and enthusiasm were second to none and the quality of his tour is simply fantastic! We joined the 2pm tour and enjoyed a stunning sunset at the top accompanied by live music from our guide. The passion that all the staff had for Navan, it's history, it's folklore, the surrounding areas and the environment is infectious and compliments this beautiful area perfectly. We felt it was definitely worth the trip from Belfast and will be recommending it to our friends who fancy doing something a bit different with their weekend!
Written January 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are delighted you found your visit both enjoyable & informative, always the things our guides strive for - we will pass on your lovely comments to Rosaleen & Connell.
Written April 15, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is this place suitable for people with disabilities
Written August 1, 2020
Is there a good restaurant on site
Written September 4, 2019
WE went for the Lughnasa festival of fire or my daughters birthday and it was amazing and excellent staff. We had brought our our own night picnic, so i cant say anything about food. but if yo want a great day out, this is the place to go. especially the festival, it was just wonderful. enjoy your visit.
Written January 15, 2020
as long as you like. fantastic venue, both my teenage daughters loved it. would highly recommend.
Written January 15, 2020
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.
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