Hill of Tara

About Hill of Tara

The Hill of Tara is a gentle ridge in County Meath, but in Irish tradition it was the sacred center of the island, where High Kings were inaugurated in a ritual marriage with the goddess of sovereignty. Earthworks scattered across the hill include the Mound of the Hostages, a Neolithic passage tomb, and ring forts known as the Royal Seat and Cormac's House.

At the center stands the Lia Fáil, the Stone of Destiny, said to roar when touched by the rightful king. Christian legend tells that St. Patrick lit a Paschal fire nearby to challenge the pagan king. Today modern pagans and Druids hold seasonal gatherings here, and the wide views over the plains make it easy to understand why Tara mattered.

What to see

• Lia Fáil, the Stone of Destiny
• Mound of the Hostages passage tomb
• Ráth na Ríogh enclosure
• Rath of the Synods
• St. Patrick's church and visitor centre

Visiting Hill of Tara: practical guide

Best time

May to September

Hours

Site open at all times; visitor centre late May to September

Entry

Site free; small fee for the guided audiovisual tour

Dress code

Waterproof shoes for wet grass

Nearest airport

Dublin Airport (DUB), 40 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Combine with Newgrange in a day
• The ribbon tree near the hill holds cloths left as prayers
• Stay on paths to protect the earthworks

Festivals and special days

• Samhain (31 October)
• Bealtaine (1 May)
• Summer solstice

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Ancient Celtic Religion tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Treat holy wells and clootie trees gently; many are still active devotional sites.
• Do not add modern offerings that damage trees or stones.
• Close farm gates and respect landowners when crossing fields to monuments.
• Avoid climbing on standing stones or burial mounds.
• Check seasonal opening, since many sites have limited winter hours.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions