Highlanes Gallery is a vibrant municipal art gallery housed within a restored 19th-century Franciscan church and monastery, standing out as one of the best things to do with kids in Drogheda. Operating as a premier contemporary art museum and visual arts hub, it presents rotating exhibitions, historic collection displays, interactive workshops, and family creative sessions.

Prices start from £0.00 (€0.00) as general admission to the gallery exhibitions is completely free for all visitors, though donations are welcomed. Because entry carries no mandatory ticket cost, families can enjoy an enriching cultural day out without stretching their budget.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this public gallery offers a welcoming space to spark young imaginations. Children can admire historical town artifacts, explore modern art installations, participate in hands-on family art workshops, and enjoy food in the open-plan gallery cafe. It is an ideal cultural destination right in the heart of Drogheda town centre.

What are the key features for families?

• Interactive Exhibits: Activity sheets, sketchpads, and regular family craft workshops encourage kids to respond creatively to the artwork on display.
• Educational Day Out: Guided gallery tours and exhibition notes teach children about Irish contemporary art, local history, and traditional painting techniques.
• Sensory Play and Nature: The contrasting acoustics of the high church ceilings, textured sculptural works, and light-filled exhibition rooms offer an engaging visual and sensory experience.
• Outdoor Exploration: Situated within a historic town centre site, the venue is a short stroll from local heritage monuments and riverside walking paths.

What are the main highlights kids will love?

• The Stained Glass Window Displays: Beautiful historic stained glass art preserved from the original Franciscan church structure, casting colourful light across the main hall.
• The Drogheda Civic Collection: Named historical artifacts and ceremonial items on show, including the historic Sword and Mace presented to the town by King William III.
• The Main Franciscan Altar Space: An architectural focal point where modern contemporary art installations contrast with restored 19th-century church masonry.
• Family Art & Craft Workshops: Weekend and holiday art classes led by professional artists where children can create their own paintings, sculptures, and prints.
• The Relics of Saint Oliver Plunkett Connection: Historic artifacts and documents linked to local history that connect the gallery to nearby regional landmarks.

Beyond the Main Attraction

• Laurence Gate: Located 0.2 miles east, a majestic 13th-century barbican gate structure standing at the end of Laurence Street.
• St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church: Situated 0.1 miles west, famous for its gothic architecture and shrine to Saint Oliver Plunkett.
• Millmount Fort & Museum: Positioned 0.5 miles south across the River Boyne, offering panoramic town views and local history exhibits.
• Oldbridge Estate (Battle of the Boyne Site): Located 4 miles west, featuring expansive parkland walks, formal gardens, and a visitor centre.