Town’s historic walking routes cover 14 local sites

The Kells Historic Trail, which is expected to prove to be a major tourim benefit to the town, was officially launched by the cathaoirleach of Kells Town Council, Cllr Conor Ferguson, recently. The trail guides visitors on a walk around the town to see the various historic sites. Speaking at the launch, Cllr Ferguson expressed his delight at seeing the completion of this project and acknowledged the work of officials from Kells Town Council and Meath Tourism for co-ordinating the project. He also thanked all the local groups and individuals who had made a huge contribution towards the development of the self-guided historical tour of Kells. Kells has a rich history and the walking trail sets out two walking routes that extend over 9km around the town and identifies 14 different historic sites in Kells. All of these sites have orientation panels or plaques providing information about each location. Martina O’Dwyer from Failte Ireland recalled that the historic trail began as an application for funding to Fáilte Ireland by Kells Town Council. The successful application formed part of the Historic Trails Initiative introduced by Fáilte Ireland through the NDP last year. This initiative made funding available to provide a range of tourist signage to develop self-guided historic trails. The trail includes sights such as the old Kells Courthouse, which was designed by renowned Irish architect Francis Johnston; the Market Cross, St John’s Cemetery, St Columba’s Church and grounds and St Columcille’s House, which probably dates from the early 10th century. The trail also takes in the Fair Green, the Spire of Loyd and the Kells Round Tower.