Once a royal site for the High King of Ireland, Cormac mac Airt, Kells developed as a monastic settlement in the early 9th century. It was established by monks fleeing from a Hebridean monastery dedicated to St Colmcille during a spate of Viking invasions. Kells is associated with the illuminated manuscript, the “Book of Kells”, which was housed at the monastery during the medieval period.
Things to do in Kells
Dominating the townscape is the Kells Round Tower, a National Monument that was constructed in the 10th century as part of Kells’ monastic settlement. It rises 26 metres in height and features five windows, one facing each of the roads leading into town. Surrounding the tower is a collection of Celtic crosses, plus an information board explaining the significance of the monastery site.
Also designated as a National Monument is St. Columb's House, a 10th-century stone building said to have once housed the relics of the Irish missionary, St Colmcille. It is believed to have been constructed as a private chapel where the monks would have recited the Liturgy of the Hours. A 17th-century survey revealed that an underground passage connected the house to a nearby church.
On the eastern outskirts of Kells is the Headfort Golf Club, which boasts two of the finest golf courses in Ireland. In addition to its 18-hole Old Course established in 1930, you can test your skills on the Christy O’Connor-designed Championship Course. Private coaching is available with the club’s PGA professionals, while the clubhouse features a restaurant offering panoramic views.
Getting around Kells
Kells is just under an hour’s drive from Dublin and Dublin Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Kells and the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.