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Skreen Church

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Skreen Church, located on the historic Hill of Skreen in County Meath, is a significant ecclesiastical site with roots dating back to the 9th century. The site achieved prominence in 875 AD when the relics of Saint Columba (Columcille) were brought here from Iona to protect them from Viking raids, giving the site its name (derived from the Irish 'Scrin', meaning a shrine). The ruins currently visible on the hill belong primarily to a 15th-century church built under the patronage of the Marward family, the Barons of Skreen at the time. A notable feature of the site is an elaborately carved 15th-century high cross depicting the Crucifixion, which stands as a masterpiece of late medieval stone masonry. Following the Reformation, the church fell into disrepair but continued to serve as an important burial ground for local nobility. The hill commands expansive views over the plains of Meath and is situated close to the Hill of Tara, highlighting the strategic and spiritual importance of this area in Irish heritage.

Location: Ireland
Top sights: Bunnina Castle · Giant's Grave · Longford House
Nearby: Raghly (12 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	5	5	6	8	11	13	15	14	13	10	7	5
Rain mm	123	96	92	76	93	100	111	120	99	119	131	129

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Skreen Church is an abandoned church ruin that is freely accessible at any time. The site is unsecured, so caution is advised.

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Typical hours

As an unmanaged ruin, there are no set opening hours. Visiting during daylight is safest and recommended.

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Photography

Photography is unrestricted here. Use natural light for atmospheric shots of the old stone walls.

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Time needed

A brief visit takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Allow more time if exploring the surrounding landscape.

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Combine with

The ruin is near Sligo and can be combined with Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. Nearby Strandhill beach is also worth a detour.

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Getting there

Skreen Church is off the R292 road, with a small roadside parking area. The final approach is a short walk across a field.

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Insider tip

Visit in late afternoon for soft light. Watch out for loose stones and uneven ground while walking around.

Geography

Coordinates

54.21890, -8.67830

Facts

Named after St. Columba's shrine brought here in 875 AD
Current church ruins date from the 15th century
Features an intricately carved late medieval high cross
Once the religious center for the Barons of Skreen
Located near the Hill of Tara in County Meath
The name Skreen comes from 'Scrin', meaning shrine

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Strandhill8 km · NEExplore →

Raghly12 km · NExplore →

Rosses Point12 km · NEExplore →

Sligo15 km · NEExplore →

Ox Mountains15 km · SWExplore →

Ballymote Castle18 km · SEExplore →

Slieve Gamph19 km · SWExplore →

Lough Gill20 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Skreen Church (4)

Bunnina Castle 🏺 historical

The archaeological remains of an ancient fortification located in the Skreen area.

Giant's Grave 🏺 historical

A prehistoric megalithic tomb site reflecting the ancient heritage of the Skreen region.

Longford House 🏺 historical

A historic manor house situated in the rural countryside near Skreen Church.

St Bridget's Well 📍 landmark

A traditional holy well dedicated to Saint Bridget, used as a site for local pilgrimage.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Skreen historically significant?

Saint Colmcille founded a monastery here in the 6th century.

What does the name Skreen mean?

It comes from 'Scrin Cholm Cille', meaning 'Shrine of Colmcille'.

Is there a high cross there?

Yes, an old stone high cross stands in the graveyard.

Where is Skreen Church located?

On the Hill of Skreen in County Meath, near the Hill of Tara.

What can still be seen today?

The ruins of a medieval church and a stately tower.

Skreen Church: where is it located?

Skreen Church is located in Ireland.

Skreen Church: what is there to see?

Highlights include Bunnina Castle, Giant's Grave, Longford House.

Skreen Church: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Skreen Church: why is it worth visiting?

Skreen Church, located on the historic Hill of Skreen in County Meath, is a significant ecclesiastical site with roots dating back to the 9th century.

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