Select Image Below To Visit The Photo Gallery: Trim County Meath Christmas 2006

Photographed By William Murphy - Select Image To View Photographs

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I USED A CANON 5D DSLR

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**I spend every second Christmas in Trim County Meath and s few weeks ago my brother who lives in Trim found an old SD card that contained a selection of my photographs from my Christmas 2026 visit. It must have been a back-up card that I left behind.I was surprised by the fact that I could import and process the Canon files. I had used a Canon 5D, which I really liked, and I was shocked to see the amount of sensor dust that was visible. **

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Located on the banks of the historic River Boyne, the town of Trim is a place where Ireland’s medieval past doesn't just sit in a textbook—it towers over you. Known as one of Ireland's most beautiful heritage towns, Trim (from the Irish Áth Truim, meaning ‘the Ford of the Elder Trees’) offers a perfect blend of cinematic history, tranquil riverside walks, and genuine Meath hospitality.

Whether you are a history buff, a film fan, or simply looking for a scenic escape from the bustle of Dublin, here is why Trim should be at the top of your 2026 travel list.

The Jewel of the Boyne: Trim Castle

You cannot speak of Trim without mentioning its crown jewel: Trim Castle. Built in 1172 by Hugh de Lacy, it remains the largest and best-preserved Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland.

Even if you haven't visited before, the massive twenty-sided keep might look familiar; it famously served as a primary filming location for Mel Gibson’s Braveheart.

Top Tip: To truly appreciate the scale of the fortress, take the guided tour of the keep. The view from the top provides a panoramic look at the town’s layout, which has remained largely unchanged since the Middle Ages.

Walking the Medieval Mile

Trim is unique because its ruins are so accessible. A gentle stroll along the Trim Castle River Walk takes you through the "Porchfields"—lush green meadows where you can wander among the remnants of Ireland’s past.

The Yellow Steeple: Once part of St Mary’s Abbey, this jagged ruin glows a distinct golden hue in the evening sun.

The Sheep Gate: The last standing gate of the old town walls, where tolls were once collected for livestock entering the market.

Newtown Trim: A short walk downstream leads you to the ruins of the Cathedral of St Peter and St Paul, a hauntingly beautiful site often quieter than the main castle grounds.

Culture and Contemporary Trim

While the history is ancient, the town’s energy is very much alive. In 2026, the Swift Cultural Centre (named after Gulliver’s Travels author Jonathan Swift, who had strong local ties) hosts a vibrant programme of theatre, music, and comedy.

If you’re visiting in March, the Trim St Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the most traditional and spirited in the region. Later in the year, the town becomes the "Home of Halloween" during the Púca Festival, celebrating the ancient spirits of Samhain with spectacular light shows and storytelling.

Where to Refuel

After a day of exploring "The Ford of the Elder Trees," the local food scene won't disappoint:

Stockhouse Restaurant: Famous for its steaks and located just a stone's throw from the castle.

Brogans of Trim: A classic spot for a hearty lunch or a pint of Guinness by the fire.

Franzinis: Offering a great range of international dishes with a view of the castle walls.

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