Kells Heritage Centre, Kells (Meath County), Ireland

Kells Heritage Centre in Kells, Ireland is housed in a restored Courthouse, featuring a gift shop, tourist information center, and multimedia exhibit The Splendour of Ireland. The exhibit provides a comprehensive insight into monastic Ireland’s crafts and culture. An audiovisual presentation narrated the history of the Monastery of Kells. Housed here as well is a facsimile copy of the Book of Kells, the most decorated, illuminated manuscript surviving from the medieval period in Europe.

A variety of fun things to do in the area include visiting St. Columba’s House. Named after Columba, whose relics are believed to have once been stored in the oratory, is believed to date back to the 10th century. Today, it is a National Monument. Tourists should also visit Castletown House in Celbridge. It is a Palladian country house established for William Conolly in 1722. Today, its parklands host a weekly parkrun every Saturday. Another interesting, nearby site to visit is the National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin. Established in 1854 and inaugurated in 1864, it is home to the national collection of European and Irish art. It has regular tours for the auditory and visually impaired; has an AV room, gallery shop, and lecture theater equipped with a loop system for the auditory impaired; and welcomes visitors with guided dogs. One of the best hotels in town is Headfort Arms Hotel. It has a lounge with an open log fire. Another renowned hotel in town is Teach Cuailgne/Cooley House B&B. Each of the hotel’s rooms has an orthopaedic bed and private bathroom.