Eight Creative Experiences to crack open in Meath this Easter

The Boyne Valley, the birthplace of Ireland’s Ancient East, is world renowned for its rich heritage and megalithic art works and Meath is blessed to have an abundance of living heritage and wealth of invigorating leisure activities on offer now through a craft tourism development programme organised and funded by Fáilte Ireland and Local Enterprise Office Meath. There are now eight creative experiences for people to enjoy throughout the county.

Fancy learning to weave on a traditional Donegal Loom in the Ráth Chairn Gaeltacht, ever dreamt of making your own piece of sculpture alongside one of Ireland’s master craftsmen, perhaps you fancy a guided stroll through the Boyne Valley countryside to inspire your découpage creation.

Do you want to create a pottery bowl in the foothills of the Hill of Tara or work with wool to make a felt brooch there is something for everyone. Why not stamp a meaningful word onto a clay heart decoration or lean to or felt your own sheep keepsake or work with a needle and wool to make a felt painting at a countryside studio in Bellewstown.

With plenty of gentle activities that are screen free and offer you and your family a chance to slow down and make memories this Springtime- why not give it a go?

For something totally unique, learn the skill of sculpture design and creation with one of Ireland’s top master craftsmen with Shane Holland. Visitors can book a private visit to his workshop and gallery in Duleek, offering a rare opportunity to learn from one of the country’s most renowned artists.

With a strong commitment to sustainability, Shane brilliantly incorporates recycled materials and offcuts to craft pieces that convey emotion through the creative process. Work alongside Shane to create a bespoke copper sculpture, employing techniques such as copper smithing, hammering, soldering, finishing, and assembly, with opportunity to personalise your creation with a special engraving. This Bespoke Sculpture Design with Master Sculptor is a private experience bookable direct with the studio.

Kieran Kehoe, Chief Executive of Meath County Council, says: “I am delighted to see the further development of the tourism offering within the county. These eight experiences give tourists from overseas a chance to slow down and take time out to experience a very hands on visitor offering; we are fortunate to have so many of these creative businesses-owners throughout the county as they connect with visitors in a very special way, which leads to a highly satisfied visitor experience”

“We want tourists from overseas, as well as domestic visitors, to come to Meath and take time out – not just to explore some of the more remote areas of Meath – but to stay longer in the county and make meaningful memories.”

Caoimhe Delany of Local Enterprise Office Meath says: “There is no better time to try a new experience here in Meath, with such a variety of craft experiences on offer, there is something to suit everyone and you might be surprised to find there your inner creative streak!

“It was great to see the passion these creative businesses had during this programme with ourselves and Failte Ireland, and I believe these experiences are some of the very best on offer in the country”

Sally Harding, The Meath Chronicles