Navan Centre & Fort

About the museum

Navan Fort, known in legend as Emain Macha, is one of Ireland's most important archaeological sites. Archaeologists have dated a great ceremonial structure on the hilltop to about 95 BC. In the stories of the Ulster Cycle it was the stronghold of the hero Cú Chulainn and the Red Branch Knights, and it is one of the Royal Sites of Ireland that are on the Tentative List for World Heritage Status.

The Navan Centre & Fort opened in 1993 about two miles from Armagh on the A28. Visitors take a guided tour of the fort, where the guides explain how and why the temple was built and what the surrounding sites show. Back at the centre, a resident clan of Celts shows aspects of Iron Age life such as cooking, weaving or making weapons, an audio-visual show retells the myths of the Ulster Cycle, and an exhibition space displays artefacts found in the Navan complex.

The centre also runs an education service, which has won the Sandford Award for heritage education, and an on-site coffee shop. It is run by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

Highlights

• Guided Legendary Navan Fort Tour of the Iron Age ceremonial site
• Resident Celtic clan showing Iron Age crafts and storytelling
• Audio-visual show on the myths of the Ulster Cycle
• Exhibition of artefacts from the Navan complex
• Archaeology Discovery Room and Celtic dressing up for children

Permanent exhibition

• Legendary Navan Fort Tour and exhibition – A guided tour of the Iron Age ceremonial site, with an exhibition of artefacts from the Navan complex and a meeting with the resident Celtic clan.

Founded

1993

Operated by

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council

Admission & discounts

Prices are those shown in the online booking system for the Legendary Navan Fort Tour (about 1 hour 30 minutes). The centre advises pre-booking tickets online. Tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The centre offers adaptable services for visitors with autism spectrum disorder: staff wear lanyards and have training, there are two appointed Autism Champions, VIP passes are available on request, personal guided walks and a pop-up tent are provided, and relaxed educational visits can be arranged. An online 360-degree tour helps visitors prepare their visit.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Hands-on stations
• Playground / play area

Children can dress up in Celtic costumes, visit the Archaeology Discovery Room and play in an outdoor area built around a large wolfhound sculpture. Seasonal family events such as Halloween workshops are held.

Getting there & parking

The centre is two miles from Armagh city on the A28. Leave the city towards Killylea and Caledon.

Amenities & dining

• Café

Ancient Grounds Coffee Shop serves breakfast and hot lunches and is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 to 16:00.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit