Soon after proclaiming Christianity in Ireland, St. Patrick built a church here on land granted to him by the son of the High King. He built it near an ancient ford that crossed the river just beyond the bridge and it was from this that Trim got its name.
Surrounding the Castle are fascinating ruins which provide evidence of fervent religious activity. Stone relics abound in St. Patricks Cathedral, its church and porch revealing a number of medieval graveslabs. St. Marys Abbey is the remains of an Augustinian monastery founded in the 12th century and later a focal point for pilgrimage.
The Newtown Monuments consist of a large medieval cathedral, two monasteries and small church which date from 1206. On the walls of the church one will find the late 16th century alter tomb with effigies of Sir Luke Dillon and his wife. The Friary of St. John the Baptist, is the remains of a 13th century Augustinian foundation, which was later converted to a hospital in the 18th century.
The Yellow Steeple is the most prominent of the many ruins in Trim. It overlooks the town from a ridge directly opposite Trim Castle. Originally part of the 13th century St. Mary's Augustinian Abbey, the steeple dates from 1368. The black Friary of the Dominicans was founded by Geoffrey de Geneville, Lord of Meath in 1263.
During the early 1700's Jonathan Swift, author of Gullivers Travels, was presented with the Vicarage of Laracor in Trim and spent some of his happiest times in the area as judged by the 'Journal To Stella' which was published after his death. The Duke of Wellington, Sir Arthur Wellesley was educated in Trim and residents erected the Wellington Column to commemorate on of their past pupils.
In the Art Deco building beside Trim Castle is the Trim Visitor Centre. here is the 'Power & Glory' Multimedia exhibition painting a vivid picture of the historical background of the magnificent medieval ruins of Trim. The audio visual is available in English, French, Italian and German and is suitable for all ages.
The visitor centre offers a wide range of books, gifts, accommodation and tourist guides as well as quality craftwork from Meath and Ireland. The Coffee Shop 'The Ramparts' offers fresh home cooked food and serves lunch, home baking and speciality teas/ coffees and food 7 days.
Ramparts Coffee Shop at Trim Visitor Centre
Bowl of delicious home made soup with a sandwich of your choice with 2 fillings only €5.
Trim Visitor Centre & Tourist Office
Address: Town Hall, Castle Street, Trim, Co. Meath
Tel: +353 (0) 46 943 7227
Fax: +353 (0) 46 943 8053