The main Cairns are kept locked. For the key to Cairn T, click here.

Loughcrew Cairns form the largest complex of Passage Graves in Ireland. The Cairns are megalithic structures containing symbolic engravings. Like other passage graves in Ireland, they have clear astrological alignments. There is evidence of many uses during the millenia, but it is generally agreed that they were originally built about 4000 bc as burial chambers. They were excavated by amateurs at the beginning of the twentieth century, when many of the artifacts were removed. A blessing in disguise, perhaps, as recent archaeological scholars have concentrated on despoiling less explored sites, leaving Loughcrew relatively undeveloped and unknown; the best kept secret in archaeological Ireland.

In a landscape of inspiring beauty and intriguing history, Loughcrew is rich in historical and archaeological, religious and natural interest. One of ancient Ireland's major roads passes through Loughcrew, crossing the great Road of the Chariots nearby. The lakes abound with cranógs, and the drumlins are topped with innumerable motte and bailey forts. The remarkable Loughcrew Gardens, partly dating from the seventeenth century, and the Family Church of St Oliver Plunkett are nearby (see Loughcrew Homepage).

The Loughcrew Cairns (prehistoric passage graves), some 5,000 years old, are the oldest feature of this extraordinary area, and, set on the highest hills in this part of Ireland, dominate the area now as they have done for all time. They may be the oldest calendar known, and may even be the world's oldest existing dwellings.

The Loughcrew Cairns have not been exposed, researched and developed like nearby Newgrange. They thus remain relatively unspoilt and unvisited, although the Office of Public Works keeps a Ranger on site in summer months and has improved coach access.

The Cairns are in two groups; Carnbane West, about 15 cairns, including Cairn L which is roofed and contains superb symbolic carvings in good condition. This group is some 2 km walk from the Car Park on gently sloping ground. Carnbane East includes Cairn T, also roofed and with excellent engravings, and is a shorter but steeper walk. The exposed cairns have suffered severely from acid rain erosion, removing much of the relief of the engravings. Keys to both enclosed cairns are available from the Ranger in the Car Park, who also stocks books and leaflets on the sites.

For the layman, the main features of Loughcrew Cairns are the atmosphere, the solitude and serenity, the extraordinary views (of seventeen counties, reputedly). In the foreseeable future, the need to divert visitors from the over-popular Newgrange to Loughcrew may deny us the privilege of experiencing the extraordinary ancient site in solitude.

The Cairns are 3 km from Loughcrew Gardens (see Directions). To avoid the crowds, visit midweek, or in the winter.