Overview
Highlanes Gallery stands on the historic High Lane of Drogheda, a former Franciscan church lovingly converted into a contemporary visual‑arts space. Since opening in 2006, the gallery has become one of Ireland’s most important cultural venues, drawing visitors from across the North‑East for its dynamic mix of temporary shows, historic collections and community events. The building itself is a piece of heritage – the original stonework and vaulted ceilings have been retained, giving the exhibition spaces a unique atmosphere where modern art meets centuries‑old architecture.
History
The gallery’s story begins with the Franciscan Friary that dominated this part of town for centuries. In 2000 the Franciscan Order gifted the church to the people of Drogheda, and a careful restoration transformed the sacred space into a municipal art gallery. When the doors opened in 2006, Highlanes instantly positioned itself as a cultural beacon, showcasing works ranging from 18th‑century Irish portraiture to cutting‑edge contemporary installations. Its permanent collection includes the ceremonial sword and silver mace presented by King William III after the Battle of the Boyne – rare artefacts that link the town’s turbulent past with its vibrant present.
What to See & Do
- Rotating Exhibitions – Highlanes programmes a calendar of national and international temporary shows, often featuring emerging Irish artists alongside established global names. The ever‑changing roster ensures that repeat visits feel fresh.
- Drogheda Municipal Art Collection – The gallery houses a fascinating collection dating from the mid‑18th century, offering insight into the artistic tastes of the region over two centuries.
- Historical Heirlooms – The ceremonial sword and the solid‑silver mace are displayed prominently, allowing visitors to connect with the town’s historic role in the Battle of the Boyne.
- Community Events – Workshops, talks and the occasional live performance are listed on the What’s On page. These events deepen the gallery’s role as a community hub.
- Café and Shop – While the main focus is the art, a small café provides a quiet spot to reflect on the exhibitions, and a shop offers locally‑made crafts and art‑related books.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday – Saturday | 10:30 am – 5:00 pm |
| Sunday | Closed (open on selected bank holidays) |
The gallery also opens on key Sunday and Bank Holidays, notably the May Bank Holiday Weekend and the October Bank Holiday Weekend, to coincide with the Annual Drogheda Arts Festival.
Admission
| Visitor | Fee |
|---|---|
| General public | Free (suggested donation €2) |
There is no charge for entry; visitors are welcome to leave a token contribution if they wish to support the gallery’s programmes.
Getting There
- By Train – Drogheda is served by Intercity (Dublin/Belfast) and Suburban services (Dublin‑Drogheda‑Dundalk). Trains run roughly every half‑hour from 07:30 to 23:20. For timetables see Irish Rail or call +353 41 983 8749.
- By Bus – Intercity and suburban bus routes connect Drogheda with Dublin, Dundalk and Belfast, with services from 07:15 to midnight. Details are available at Bus Éireann or by calling +353 41 983 5023.
- By Car – The M1 motorway provides the quickest access. Exit at the N52 /Drogheda off‑ramp (either side of the Boyne bridge) and follow signs to the town centre. Turn onto West Street, continue to St Laurence Street and the gallery sits at the top of the hill on the right. No on‑site parking is available, but several public car parks are located nearby; see the gallery’s website for exact locations.
- By Foot – The gallery is within walking distance of the historic town centre, the Bridge of Peace and the River Boyne promenade.
Contact Details
- Website: https://highlanes.ie/
- Phone: +353 (0)41 980 3311
- Email: info@highlanes.ie
- Google Maps: View location
Accessibility
The gallery’s entrance is level‑access, and the interior spaces have been adapted to accommodate wheelchair users. Assistance desks are available on the ground floor.
Visitor Highlights
- Art lovers will appreciate the blend of historic pieces and cutting‑edge contemporary work.
- Families find the free entry and interactive workshops ideal for a day out.
- History enthusiasts can view the ceremonial sword and mace, rare symbols of Drogheda’s resilience.
- Photographers enjoy the interplay of natural light filtering through the restored nave, creating dramatic shadows for interior shots.
Highlanes Gallery offers a compelling reason to pause in the bustling streets of Drogheda and immerse yourself in Ireland’s artistic heritage. Whether you’re planning a dedicated cultural itinerary or simply looking for a rainy‑day refuge, the gallery’s free admission and central location make it an essential stop on any North‑East Ireland visit.
Opening Hours and Admission details are summarised in the tables above for quick reference.