Mellifont Abbey, Ireland's first Cistercian monastery

Mellifont was the first Cistercian abbey in Ireland, founded in the 12th century. What remains are the foundations of the church and the cloister and, above all, part of the lavabo, an octagonal building of arches where the monks washed before eating. It stands in a quiet valley beside a stream, fifteen minutes by car from Brú na Bóinne and Oldbridge.

The grounds can be visited free all year. The visitor centre, with an exhibition and guided tour, is open only from April to early October.