Overview
Kells (Ceannas Mor) is a small Irish market town in County Meath with a population of 6,600, famous for its monastic heritage. For 800 years it housed the Book of Kells, the illuminated manuscript created by Celtic monks around 800 AD; the book was stolen in 1007 and is now displayed at Trinity College Dublin.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Museums · Transit Hub
Before you go
Connectivity
5G available from Eir and Three; 4G from Vodafone. Coverage is good in town.
Culture
The Courthouse Tourism and Cultural Hub provides local heritage information. The spire of Lloyd is a 1790s Doric column with 164 steps to panoramic views.
History
Kells preserves 9th-century monastic ruins including a Round Tower and Celtic High Crosses. The famous Book of Kells was housed here for 800 years before moving to Dublin.
Money
Ireland uses the Euro (€). Card payment is widely accepted; ATMs available in town.
Transport
Bus Éireann routes 109/109X/109A connect Kells to Dublin hourly (90 min-2 hours). No railway; Dublin Airport is 25 km southeast. The town is walkable.