Meet the Warriors - Navan Centre and Fort, Armagh

If your children have ever wanted to throw a spear, wear face paint, and hear tales of legendary warriors around a real fire, this is the afternoon for it. Meet the Warriors is the flagship summer programme at Navan Centre and Fort - built on one of the most significant archaeological sites in Ireland - and it runs daily throughout July and August, making it a reliable anchor for a family day out in County Armagh. It suits children from school age upwards, and adults who enjoy living history will get as much from it as the kids.

What to expect

The experience lasts around one hour and forty-five minutes, led by costumed living history characters who stay in role throughout. Families are kitted out in authentic Celtic costumes and have their faces painted before joining the clan.

From there the programme works through storytelling around the fire - tales of CuChulainn and the Red Branch Warriors tied to the actual history of Emain Macha, the legendary seat of the Ulster Kings. A weapons session gives everyone a go at spear-throwing and introduces Iron Age warfare: slings, swords, spears, and shields. There is also an Ogham session where participants spell out their clan name in the ancient Celtic script.

Guides weave in context about daily life 2,000 years ago - food, trade, farming, religion. The visitor centre has exhibition space, an audiovisual show, and a coffee shop serving locally sourced food.

Getting there

Navan Centre and Fort is on the Killylea Road, about 2.5 km west of Armagh city centre on the A28. Driving is the practical choice - parking on site is free. If you are coming by public transport into Armagh, a taxi from the city centre is the straightforward option as there is no direct bus to the fort.

While you’re in Armagh

Armagh is a compact city with the two St Patrick’s Cathedrals - Catholic and Church of Ireland - on opposing hills, and a well-preserved Georgian core worth walking after your visit. There is more to see in Armagh and across Co. Armagh.

Good to know

• Runs daily July and August; weekends in June and September
• Duration: approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
• Price: GBP 8 per person
• Book in advance at visitarmagh.com - no refunds or exchanges
• Free parking on site