The Snailbox

The Snailbox - Kilmoon, Ashbourne, Co. Meath

The Snailbox at Kilmoon, near Ashbourne, is one of County Meath's most distinctive pub and restaurant destinations. A family-run establishment, it combines the atmosphere of a traditional Irish country pub with a renowned restaurant, accommodation, and function venue. It is especially famous for its extraordinary collection of more than 7,000 baseball caps hanging from the ceilings, making it a memorable stop for visitors from Ireland and abroad.

The unusual name dates back to the mid-19th century. Local tradition tells of James ("Jem") Clark, a hedge school teacher who carried all of his possessions on his back and settled on nearby common land around 1846. When landowners attempted to evict him, a judge reportedly remarked that, like a snail carrying its shell, wherever he stopped became his home. The nickname "The Snailbox" endured and eventually became the name of the inn.

The site itself is steeped in history. During construction work in 2000, archaeologists uncovered an early Christian cemetery dating back around 1,500 years beside the premises, revealing burials from one of Ireland's earliest Christian communities.

Today, The Snailbox is known for hearty Irish food, live traditional music, sporting events, and a warm welcome. It has also become a well-known meeting place for the local hunting community and a popular venue for weddings, celebrations, and family gatherings.

Photo from Google Maps (Jorge Morales)

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