Mining in Ireland

What a huge day! Up early to go to visit Tara Mine near Navn in County Meath. Zinc n lead mine at the moment, it covers a huge area very close to he centre of town, with housing all around the perimeter of the mine, it's amazing it can operate so close to town, with such success. People were great, and we got to eat in the company canteen, feeling quite like a royal visitor today.

On the way home, we called by Monasterboice, Millifont Abbey and then the township of Drogheda. Millifont Abbey is huge, a ruins bow but incredible to aee the workmanship that went into creating those monastories thoysands of years ago. If anyone wants a BnB near all the sites in County Meath, The Lock Keepers Cottage comes highly recommended. 

Did lots of walking again today, up n down coveyor tunnels, up stairs and through the Mill Plant, over hills and up steep steps to find the Millmont Monument. I met the town cat at Magdalene Tower and had a fabulous conversation with an 84 year old man who volunteers to do gardening at Monasterboice, having buried one of his sons in the same parish cemetery. The Celtic Crosses at this cemetery are huge and incredibly detailed. 

Hugo and I are getting quite good at manoeuvring our way around here thin, windy country roads, round blind corners, and all other associated hazards of driving in this land.  We have been lost a couple of times, and have managed very easily to find our way back to where we should be. The Irish are incredibly descriptive when giving directions, pass the green house, through the church gates, over the humpy bridge, it is like bring on the Amazing Race every day, I'm in love with the scenery, the people and their cheerful dispositions. Everyone's do friendly and helpful. 

Off to Bushmills tomorrow... Another early start.. Best get some sleep! 

Photos are of walk along the river Boyne

In the stockpile tunnel

Coffee before meeting! Resisted every cake!