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Hill of Tara

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Historical site
—°8
Hill of Tara (Ireland)

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The Hill of Tara, located in County Meath, is one of Ireland's most significant archaeological and mythological landscapes. For centuries, it served as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland (Árd Rí na hÉireann) and functioned as the political and religious ceremonial center of the island in pre-Christian times. The site encompasses numerous ancient monuments, including earthen ramparts and burial mounds, with the Mound of the Hostages dating back to the Neolithic period around 3400 BC. At the summit stands the Lia Fáil, or Stone of Destiny, where tradition holds that the High Kings were inaugurated, allegedly roaring when touched by the rightful sovereign. Tara was not merely a center of power but also a sacred space deeply intertwined with the Tuatha Dé Danann of Irish mythology. Even after the rise of Christianity, Tara maintained its symbolic importance, serving as a focal point for national identity and large political rallies in the 19th century.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C666811141515141187
Rain mm86707061677680917610210697

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Hill of Tara is a freely accessible archaeological site outdoors. The entire area can be visited at any time, with no enclosed interiors.
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Typical hours
As an outdoor area, there are no opening hours. The visitor centre typically has seasonal hours from 10 am to 5 pm.
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Photography
Photography is allowed across the entire hill. Drone flights are not permitted out of respect for the historic site.
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Time needed
A walk around the hill takes about an hour. If you explore the entire area and visit the visitor centre, allow two to three hours.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Brú na Bóinne (Newgrange) site. The village of Tara with its traditional pubs is also worth a detour.
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Getting there
The hill is about 2 km from Tara village and accessible via the R147 road. From the parking lot, a short path leads to the hilltop.
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Insider tip
Arrive at sunrise to have the impressive silence of the hill all to yourself. The view over the Irish green landscape is panoramic.

Geography

Coordinates
53.58190, -6.61040

Facts

  • Served as the inauguration site for 142 High Kings of Ireland.
  • The Mound of the Hostages is a passage tomb from 3400 BC.
  • Lia Fáil is the stone that supposedly roared for the true king.
  • Daniel O'Connell held a massive political rally here in 1843.
  • The site includes the Iron Age fort known as Rath na Ríogh.
  • Tara stands at an elevation of 155 meters above sea level.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

NavanNavan9 km · NWExplore →
Trim CastleTrim Castle12 km · WExplore →
Emerald ParkEmerald Park13 km · SEExplore →
River BoyneRiver Boyne13 km · NExplore →
Slane DistillerySlane Distillery15 km · NExplore →
NewgrangeNewgrange15 km · NEExplore →
Ashbourne BattlefieldAshbourne Battlefield16 km · SEExplore →
Battle of the BoyneBattle of the Boyne18 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Hill of Tara (8)

Banqueting Hall

Archaeological site, an elongated earth mound, possibly used for gatherings.

Saint Patrick's Church of Ireland

Former church in Castleboy, County Meath, Ireland, now a ruin.

Rath of the Synods

Archaeological site, a circular earthwork from the Iron Age.

Hill of Tara

Archaeological complex between Navan and Dunshaughlin in County Meath, Leinster, Ireland.

Rath Caelchon

Archaeological site, a small ringfort on the Hill of Tara.

Stone of Destiny

Stone in County Meath, Ireland, traditionally the coronation stone of Irish kings.

Riverstown Castle🏰 castle

15th-century castle ruin, near the River Boyne.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What was the historical significance of the Hill of Tara?
It was the ancient coronation site and seat of the High Kings of Ireland until the 11th century.
Is there an entrance fee to visit the site?
Access to the outdoor grounds is free; fees only apply for the visitor centre and guided tours.
What is the Lia Fáil?
The Stone of Destiny where High Kings were crowned; legend says it roared when the rightful king touched it.
How long does a visit take?
A leisurely walk around the hilltop complex takes about 60 to 90 minutes.
Is there parking available on-site?
Yes, there is a car park near St. Patrick's Church, which often fills up quickly.
Hill of Tara: where is it located?
Hill of Tara is located in Ireland, Ireland.
Hill of Tara: what is there to see?
Highlights include Banqueting Hall, Saint Patrick's Church of Ireland, Tara Open Studio.
Hill of Tara: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hill of Tara: why is it worth visiting?
The Hill of Tara, located in County Meath, is one of Ireland's most significant archaeological and mythological landscapes.
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