Boyne Valley Day Tours - Michael Fox
Boyne Valley Tours was founded by Michael Fox in 2010. Born in Drogheda, on the banks of the River Boyne, Michael grew up in Navan, in the heart of the Boyne Valley.
Michael has always had a strong interest in history and archaeology, although these interests took a back seat during his career in information technology. In the late 1990s, as the internet was becoming an important business tool, he decided to improve his knowledge of internet technology by creating a website. He chose the ancient passage tombs of the Boyne Valley as his subject.
Michael Fox with the key to Fourknocks Megalithic Passage Tomb.
Michael greatly enjoyed researching the Boyne Valley's ancient sites, including Newgrange, Knowth, Dowth, the Hill of Tara, Fourknocks and Loughcrew. What began as a self-teaching project soon took on a life of its own, and he continued to expand the website. He later acquired Newgrange.com and relaunched it as an information resource covering Newgrange, Knowth and Dowth, the principal passage tombs within the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At the time, Michael was employed as Head of Information Technology for a building materials supplier. Following the financial crash of 2008, he was laid off and decided to turn his lifelong interest in the Boyne Valley's history and archaeology into a second career as a tour guide.
Michael completed the Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guiding program and is a fully qualified National Tour Guide. As professional driving is an essential part of providing private tours, he also completed the SPSV (Small Public Service Vehicle) licensing process and became a fully licensed limousine driver.
Michael has operated Boyne Valley Tours since 2010, specializing in private tours of the Boyne Valley. County Wicklow was later added as a destination at the request of guests wishing to explore another area within easy reach of Dublin. Wicklow provides a striking contrast to the Boyne Valley, with mountain scenery, beautiful gardens and historic sites such as Glendalough.
Michael has lived in the Boyne Valley with his wife, Bernadette, for more than 30 years. Bernadette is an artist, and her work is inspired by the history, landscape and natural beauty of the area.
Derek Smith
Derek has 20 years of experience as a driver and guide.
Derek has 20 years of experience as a driver and guide in the Boyne Valley and Wicklow. Growing up in the Boyne Valley and exploring ancient sites such as Newgrange and castles such as Trim Castle, and walking in the footsteps of the High Kings of Ireland at the Hill of Tara, has given Derek a love for Irish history and mythology.
Derek is a fully qualified and licensed limousine driver.
Richard Ball
Richard Ball is a qualified Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide.
Richard is a farmer and native of the Boyne Valley. He has been tour guiding since 2018. He immediately loved it and gained huge experience and some excellent feedback with 5-star reviews. Richard says that "Ireland is an incredible little country especially when you know where to go, and I get huge satisfaction in bringing guests around showing it off in all its beauty."
He has followed his forefathers on the farm, which has been in the family for hundreds of years. Working on a farm for over 20 years, he knows that you are a total hostage to nature and weather and need to always think on your feet and adapt quickly.
Richard is married to Bairbre and they have 3 children. He loves all sport, particularly rugby. He loves music, from Irish ballads to classical to rock to 90s dance.
Richard is a qualified Fáilte Ireland National Tour Guide and a qualified and licensed limousine driver.
Owen Mullan
Owen Mullan is a fully qualified National Tour Guide and licensed limousine driver.
Owen lives in Drogheda on the Boyne Estuary. He is passionate about helping everyone discover the most amazing spots in the Boyne Valley and Wicklow, from stunning scenery and historic places to the best visitor attractions. As a passionate traveler, he truly believes that discovering new places and hidden gems is one of the most enjoyable aspects of life, and he is proud to share his knowledge with his guests.
Owen is a fully qualified National Tour Guide and licensed limousine driver. His passion for Ireland extends to every tour, and he always helps his guests discover the best sights with his friendly, attentive and knowledgeable service.