explore & do

Old Mellifont Abbey Visitors Centre

Mellifont Abbey was one of the wealthiest and most influential monastic houses in medieval Ireland.

Mellifont Abbey is situated in a tranquil valley on the banks of the River Mattock, a tributary of the River Boyne. The Abbey derives its name from the Latin Font Mellis meaning ‘fountain of honey’. Many medieval monasteries founded by continental orders bore Latin names. Mellifont is the only one that survives as a current placename in Ireland.

The visitor centre is completely accessible for guests with disabilities, but the main historical site is reachable only by stone stairway. Guests should wear shoes suitable for uneven terrain, as there are gravel pathways. The centre contains some of the carvings found during excavations of the site. Guided tours are also available from May to October.

Opening Hours

28th April to 28th September; daily 10h00 to 18h00.