Faughart Old Graveyard and St Brigid's Shrine
A serene historical graveyard in County Louth, Ireland, featuring the tomb of Edward Bruce and an ancient St. Brigid's Shrine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Faughart Old Graveyard and St Brigid's Shrine
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer visitors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene historical graveyard in County Louth, Ireland, featuring the tomb of Edward Bruce and an ancient St. Brigid's Shrine.
"Beautiful peaceful graveyard well maintained worth a visit."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ground can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the graveyard. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Site
This is a place of historical and spiritual importance. Please be mindful and respectful of the surroundings. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Edward Bruce's Tomb
Main graveyard area
The tomb of Edward Bruce, High King of Ireland and brother to Robert the Bruce. A pivotal historical figure.
St. Brigid's Shrine & Well
Near the graveyard entrance
Discover the ancient holy well and shrine dedicated to St. Brigid, a site of spiritual significance for centuries.
Ancient Gravestones
Throughout the graveyard
Wander among weathered gravestones, some dating back centuries, each telling a silent story of lives lived.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ground can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the graveyard. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Site
This is a place of historical and spiritual importance. Please be mindful and respectful of the surroundings. :pray:
Explore St. Brigid's Well
Don't miss the ancient holy well and shrine dedicated to St. Brigid, a unique spiritual spot. :sparkles:
Learn the History
Research Edward Bruce's story beforehand to fully appreciate the significance of his tomb. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ground can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the graveyard. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Site
This is a place of historical and spiritual importance. Please be mindful and respectful of the surroundings. :pray:
Explore St. Brigid's Well
Don't miss the ancient holy well and shrine dedicated to St. Brigid, a unique spiritual spot. :sparkles:
Learn the History
Research Edward Bruce's story beforehand to fully appreciate the significance of his tomb. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Faughart Old Graveyard for its beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and significant historical importance, particularly the tomb of Edward Bruce. Many find it a well-maintained and evocative site for reflection and historical exploration. Some note the uneven terrain as a minor consideration.
"Only the remains of Edward Bruce are buried here after he was quartered and his head taken to England for King Edward. The remaining Scots retreated over the Mourne Mountains including the Johnstons who settled in the Barony of Lecale"
Ken Johnston
"The tomb of Edward Bruce, Earl of Carrick, a younger brother of Robert the Bruce, King of Scotland, who supported his brother in the struggle for the Scottish crown, then pursued his own claims in Ireland. He was proclaimed High King of Ireland, but was eventually defeated and killed in the Battle of Faughart by John de Bermingham, 1st Earl of Louth, on 14 October 1318."
JGH Streetview
"Beautiful peaceful graveyard well maintained worth a visit"
Telina Willis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Faughart Old Graveyard is located near Dundalk in County Louth, Ireland. It's best accessed by car. There are local bus services that run near the area, but you may have a walk from the nearest stop. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the entrance to the graveyard, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Faughart Old Graveyard is a feasible day trip from Dublin, especially if you have a car. The drive is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Faughart Old Graveyard and St Brigid's Shrine are generally free to visit. It's an open historical site.
As an outdoor historical site, Faughart Old Graveyard does not have set opening hours and is typically accessible during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee for St Brigid's Shrine; it is part of the historical grounds and open for visitors to explore respectfully.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Faughart is historically significant as the burial site of Edward Bruce, brother of Robert the Bruce, who was proclaimed High King of Ireland. It also features an ancient shrine and holy well dedicated to St. Brigid.
At St. Brigid's Shrine, you can explore the ancient holy well and the remnants of a place of worship and pilgrimage that has been significant for centuries. Some videos mention a 'bed' associated with St. Brigid.
While there may not be official guided tours, you can find a lot of historical information online and through local resources to enhance your visit. Some visitors share their experiences on platforms like TikTok.
Yes, the ancient gravestones, the natural landscape, and the historical structures make Faughart Old Graveyard a picturesque location for photography, especially for those interested in history and heritage.
The 'rag tree' is a tradition often associated with holy wells, where visitors tie ribbons or rags to the branches as offerings or wishes. This practice is sometimes seen at sites like St. Brigid's Well.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Faughart Old Graveyard. You'll find a range of cafes and restaurants in the nearby town of Dundalk.
Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding natural areas, but please ensure you clean up after yourselves and dispose of any waste properly.
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient gravestones, the tomb of Edward Bruce, and the atmospheric St. Brigid's Shrine are excellent subjects. The natural beauty of the graveyard also offers great photographic opportunities.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws or contact the relevant authorities before flying a drone over historical or protected sites.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the graveyard is peaceful, it's important to set expectations for children about respecting the site. The natural surroundings offer space to explore, but always supervise young children closely. Visiting St. Brigid's Well can also add a touch of mystery and wonder to the visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond Bruce, the graveyard itself is a treasure trove of local history. Spend time examining the various gravestones, many of which date back centuries, offering insights into the lives of ordinary people and the evolution of funerary practices. The connection to St. Brigid also adds a layer of religious and cultural history.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Reflective Visitors
Take your time to wander through the grounds, read the inscriptions on the gravestones, and absorb the centuries of history. The site's connection to St. Brigid also lends itself to a more spiritual or mindful visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Edward Bruce
Visitors often remark on the peaceful yet poignant atmosphere surrounding Bruce's tomb. It's a place where history feels tangible, allowing you to connect with a pivotal moment in the struggle for Irish independence. The accounts of his death and burial add a layer of historical depth to the serene surroundings.
While the main focus is often on Edward Bruce, the graveyard itself is a testament to centuries of local history. The weathered gravestones tell stories of generations of families who lived and died in the region, offering a broader glimpse into the past beyond the famous figures.
St. Brigid's Shrine and Holy Well
Travelers often describe the well and shrine as having a unique, serene energy. The tradition of tying 'rags' or ribbons to nearby trees or bushes is a common practice at such holy wells, symbolizing prayers or wishes. While not always explicitly marked, this tradition adds to the mystical atmosphere of the place.
Exploring St. Brigid's Shrine offers a different perspective on Faughart, moving from historical battles to enduring spiritual practices. It's a reminder of the layered history of Ireland, where pagan and Christian traditions often intertwined.
Exploring the Graveyard Landscape
Recent TikTok videos highlight unique aspects like tree pod burials, showcasing modern interpretations of natural interments within the historical context of the graveyard. This blend of ancient and contemporary practices adds another dimension to the site.
Visitors often comment on the well-maintained nature of the graveyard, despite its age. This care ensures that the site remains a pleasant and accessible place for reflection and exploration, allowing the natural beauty to complement the historical elements.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit