A rare opportunity to climb to the top of St Laurence’s Gate in Drogheda has sold out almost immediately, as the Office of Public Works confirmed that future access to the historic monument remains under review.

The landmark will open to a limited number of visitors on Sunday, September 20 as part of the Drogheda Festival of Ideas, giving members of the public the chance to climb the internal steps of the medieval gateway and take in panoramic views across Drogheda and the Boyne Valley.

However, places for the event were snapped up almost as soon as bookings went live, underlining the level of public interest in accessing one of Drogheda’s best-known historic landmarks.

St Laurence’s Gate has been closed to through traffic since 2016 following a community campaign aimed at protecting the structure from vehicles, particularly heavy goods traffic.

The monument itself is in the guardianship of the Minister for Heritage and is conserved and monitored by the Office of Public Works’ specialist stonemasons and conservation team.

The OPW said it continues to support occasional access during festivals and special events, including the Seán Corcoran Series and the Festival of Ideas this month.

It also pointed to previous openings during Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2018 and 2019.

“The OPW keeps access to St Laurence’s Gate under continuous review and will continue to consider access options for 2027,” a spokesperson said.

Meanwhile, Louth County Council is progressing plans for a new public realm scheme around the monument which is intended to improve its setting and showcase its historical significance.

The OPW said it will work with the council throughout the planning and delivery of the project.

The proposed works are expected to include improvements to surrounding pavements, interpretative historical features, upgraded public lighting and traffic management measures designed to further protect and highlight the landmark.

Organisers of the September open day said the event is also intended to build community support for future public realm improvements and cultural events around the Gate.

Visitors who secured a place will hear a short history of the monument before being guided by the OPW up its internal steps.

The full experience is expected to last around 75 minutes and, because of the nature of the climb, under-12s are not permitted.

St Laurence’s Gate is one of the most recognisable surviving remnants of Drogheda’s medieval fortifications and remains a National Monument.

With demand for the upcoming open day far exceeding the number of available places, attention will now turn to whether more regular public access can be provided in 2027.