Things to do in Athlone

Athlone

Athlone is a vibrant, cultural town at the crossroads of Ireland and has lots to see and do for the whole family. Whether it’s history or nature, indoor or outdoor, eating, exploring or just having a stroll, Athlone has the answer. Here are some of the most popular sights and activities in and around Athlone town.

Athlone Co Westmeath

AThlone castle

Defensive fortifications have existed in Athlone for the best part of a millennium and many of them are still visible today. Situated right in the centre of the town Athlone Castle now welcomes people in instead of trying to keep them out. A place where history comes alive, the visitor centre narrates the history of the town as well as offering superb views from its ramparts.

Lough Ree

Just to the north of Athlone is one of the most beautiful freshwater areas of Ireland, Lough Ree. Situated on the mighty Shannon and surrounded by rolling green pastures populated by happy sheep Lough Ree is a perfect window into the soul of Ireland. It features a number of islands, several with their own historic tales of wars, ghosts and solitude. Nowadays it’s a highly popular location for boat cruises, kayaking, hiking and golfing. It’s also home to some of the most scenic hotels Athlone has to offer.

Clonmacnoise

One of the most important historical monuments of Ireland, Clonmacnoise is an ancient monastic settlement that was founded by Saint Ciarán in 544. The complex became renowned in its day and was visited by scholars from across Europe, as well as being the burial place of many kings of Connacht and high kings of Ireland. The very well-preserved remains of a cathedral, two roundtowers, several churches, and gravestones are all visible today and give us an insight into what life was like in Ireland centuries ago.

Derryglad Heritage and Visitor Centre

If Clonmacnoise allows visitors to step back in time to Ireland’s ancient past the Derryglad Heritage Centre brings them to a past that may have more resonance. With thousands of artefacts charting rural life in this part of Ireland from the 18th century up to the first half of the 20th century, visitors can imagine how the people lived, worked, entertained themselves and grew their food. Athlone, then as now, was a central location for the rural communities across the Midlands to come together, trading goods and stories, and at Derryglad you can see this life as it moved through the centuries.

Shannon Banks Nature Trail

We’ve taken a look elsewhere at how important the Shannon has been to the development, history and nature of Athlone and with the Shannon Banks Nature Trail you can explore the majestic waterway for yourself. This 5km walk takes visitors on a leisurely stroll from the back of the castle along the riverside and back down by the old canal. The route is perfect to take in the nature of the river, its trees, verges and wildlife and set you up to take in the great entertainment and food Athlone has to offer when you’re back.

Boat Trips

The Shannon is long and beautiful and so a perfect waterway for leisure navigation. Boating is one of the most popular outdoor Athlone activities, with people exploring the river through hiring (or owning) boats or taking tours which run from Athlone town. A popular adventure for all ages is taking a tour with Viking Tours with captain “Viking Mike” which takes visitors from Athlone, up around Lough Ree and back, with the captain guiding people through the history of the river, lake and town as they go.

Exploring the Town

The town of Athlone itself has loads to offer to all ages. There’s plenty to get lost in during the day, whether it’s browsing the two shopping centres in the middle of the town or the stylish boutiques along and off its main street. There’s also the famous neo-Baroque Peter and Paul’s church which towers above the town and the adjoining Luan Gallery among the many sights to visit. Foodies from around the area love Athlone for its mix of traditional Irish, modern international and fusion cuisine at indoor and outdoor eating spaces, the only problem is not having the time, or space, to try all the food Athlone has to offer.

Luan Gallery Athlone

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18 Sean Costello St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 D624

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