Next stop is at Mellifont Abbey, one of the more impressive sights we see on our trip. Mellifont Abbey was the first Cistercian monastery in Ireland created in 1142. It played a big role in history with Peace Treaties being signed here and serving as a camp for William of Orange during the Battle of Boyne. Now there are only ruins left, we are quite happy that we are allowed to explore as we arrive past the posted time.
The ruins are very impressive and we wonder what happened to this major abbey to bring it into ruin. Based on our research post-trip it appears it simply was dissolved in 1539 and afterwards the stones were used to build other fortified houses nearby.
From Mellifont Abbey we drive straight north crossing without even noticing into Northern Ireland where we booked a B&B. It is a great place for the night with our party split in two rooms. It also offers what we assume will be a great breakfast that we have to order the evening before. Afterwards tired we soon fall asleep after a long day of driving and exploring.