Things to do in Athlone

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.

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.

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.

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.