Trim Heritage Town

Fierce Vikings, Fleeing Monks and Fighting Lords

One of Ireland's heritage towns, Trim is situated on the River Boyne. It once had the oldest and largest religious settlements in the country. The town is dominated by the medieval Trim Castle, which was built by Hugh de Lacy in 1173. The largest Norman castle in Europe, it is now restored and visitors can access the 75ft square keep and grounds by guided tour. Sections of the epic film Braveheart were filmed here.

Brief history of  Trim

Soon after proclaiming Christianity in Ireland, St. Patrick built a church here on land granted to him by the son of the High King. He built it near an ancient ford that crossed the river just beyond the bridge and it was from this that Trim got its name.

Surrounding the Castle are fascinating ruins which provide evidence of fervent religious activity. Stone relics abound in St. Patricks Cathedral, its church and porch revealing a number of medieval graveslabs. St. Marys Abbey is the remains of an Augustinian monastery founded in the 12th century and later a focal point for pilgrimage.

The Newtown Monuments consist of a large medieval cathedral, two monasteries and small church which date from 1206. On the walls of the church one will find the late 16th century alter tomb with effigies of Sir Luke Dillon and his wife. The Friary of St. John the Baptist, is the remains of a 13th century Augustinian foundation, which was later converted to a hospital in the 18th century.

The Yellow Steeple is the most prominent of the many ruins in Trim. It overlooks the town from a ridge directly opposite Trim Castle. Originally part of the 13th century St. Mary's Augustinian Abbey, the steeple dates from 1368. The black Friary of the Dominicans was founded by Geoffrey de Geneville, Lord of Meath in 1263.

During the early 1700's Jonathan Swift, author of Gullivers Travels, was presented with the Vicarage of Laracor in Trim and spent some of his happiest times in the area as judged by the 'Journal To Stella' which was published after his death. The Duke of Wellington, Sir Arthur Wellesley was educated in Trim and residents erected the Wellington Column to commemorate on of their past pupils.

Trim Visitor Centre

The Power and the Glory- Multimedia exhibition

This is an exciting multimedia exhibition which paints a vivid picture of the historical background of the magnificent medieval ruins of Trim.

The exhibition portrays the pinnacle of Trim's glorious past coincided with the early period of Norman power in Ireland. It demonstrates how the ruins of  Trim castle and the surrounding abbeys act as a testament to the great bygone era in Royal County Meath. Chroniclers, knights and kings emerge through the mists of time to recount the tale of the coming of the Normans to Trim, and of their astonishing influence which revolutionised Irish towns, farms and government.

The exhibition is available in English, French, German & Italian and is suitable for all ages.
A visit requires 45 minutes approximately. Audio Visual shows start on the hour and half hour from 10am every day.

Trim Visitor Centre, Tourist Office & Coffee Shop
Town Hall,
Castle Street
Tel: 046 943 7227
Fax: 046 943 8053
Email: trimvisitorcenter@eircom.net

Audio Visual: The Power & The Glory

Admission: Adult: 3.20; OAP:   2.20; Student 1.90; Child  1.50

Group rate: Adult: 2.20; OAP    1.90; Student 1.90; Child  1.50

Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 9.30-5.30 Last AV show 4.30
Sunday & Bank Holiday 1.00-5.00 (seasonal) Last AV show 4.00

Open during lunch
Audio Visual available and booking is advisable for groups