Slane Castle

The Slane Castle Estate, located in County Meath overlooking the River Boyne, is one of Ireland’s most legendary outdoor concert venues. Set against the stunning backdrop of an 18th-century castle and surrounded by rolling countryside, Slane has been synonymous with world-class live music since 1981, when it hosted its first major rock concert. With a capacity of up to 80,000 people, the natural amphitheatre shape of the castle grounds provides breathtaking acoustics and views, making it one of the most unique and atmospheric concert settings in the world.

Over the decades, Slane Castle has hosted some of the biggest names in rock and pop history, cementing its reputation as a sacred site for live music in Ireland. Among its most famous concerts are U2’s monumental 2001 “Elevation Tour”, immortalized in the U2 Go Home: Live from Slane Castle film, and The Rolling Stones’ 1982 show, which drew massive crowds and global attention. Other legendary performances include Queen (1986), David Bowie (1987), Guns N’ Roses (1992), Red Hot Chili Peppers (2003, 2012), Eminem (2013), and Foo Fighters (2015). Each concert at Slane is treated as a once-in-a-generation event, with only one major show typically held each summer.

Beyond the music, Slane Castle remains an important part of Ireland’s cultural and historic landscape. Owned by the Conyngham family, the castle continues to host tours, weddings, and whiskey tastings through its Slane Distillery, offering visitors a blend of heritage, hospitality, and artistry. But when summer arrives, the estate transforms into a world-famous live music arena — a place where history, rock legends, and unforgettable nights under the Irish sky come together.