Summary
The town of Athlone is situated at an ancient crossing point on the Shannon River, near the center of Ireland.
During the 1970s, when Sinn Féin proposed the concept of a federal Irish Republic, Athlone was considered as the potential capital for a united federal Ireland due to its central location.
The River Shannon is the longest river in both Ireland and Britain, with its waters flowing from Lough Ree, a vast lake characterized by rugged banks and numerous islands, just a couple of miles upstream.
In the summer, the Shannon and Lough Ree come alive with a myriad of yachts and cruise boats, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls along the shore or rounds of golf at nearby clubs.
In town, the imposing Norman castle and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul dominate the views along the west bank of the Shannon.
Now, let us delve into the must-see attractions in Athlone:
1. Athlone Castle
Athlone Castle was constructed by John de Gray, the Bishop of Norwich, during the Norman Invasion of Ireland under King John in the early 13th century.
This robust fortress was strategically built to safeguard a crossing point on the River Shannon.
The structure has undergone several reinforcements over the years, most recently during the Napoleonic Wars, when the towers were shortened to enhance their resilience to cannon fire.
The latest restoration was completed just a few years ago, and in 2012, a modern exhibition was introduced at the castle, featuring multimedia stations and 3D maps showcasing five thousand years of history in Athlone.
Visitors can assume the roles of historical kings and generals while learning about the significant battles fought over these walls.
A highlight of the experience is a 360° cinematic representation of the Siege of Athlone during the Williamite War in 1690.
2. Lough Ree
Characterized by indented shores and numerous islands, Lough Ree to the north ranks as the second largest lake on the Shannon.
The scenery is breathtaking, set beneath the expansive sky, and the shores provide a habitat for migratory waterfowl amidst diverse landscapes, ranging from woodlands to bogs and meadows used for grazing sheep.
Lough Ree holds a significant place in Ireland’s history as the “Lake of Kings,” where real history and mythical tales intertwine.
Ancient kings governed their domains from these islands, and on Inishcleraun there once existed a remarkable early-Christian monastery established in the 6th century by St Diarmaid the Just, whose resting place is located on the island.
The area is rife with opportunities for various activities, whether one wishes to engage in golfing, birdwatching, hiking alongside the shore, or taking a cruise, kayaking, or renting a boat.
3. Church of Saints Peter and Paul
A prominent landmark in Athlone, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul is a neo-Baroque structure located just inland from the west bank of the Shannon.
This magnificent church, though appearing older, was completed in the 1930s.
Its striking architecture, featuring a grand portico, a dome, and two Italianate towers, serves as a testament to the assertion of Irish Catholicism following independence.
The ground floor of the church is constructed from white limestone sourced from Portland in Dorset, complemented by six stained-glass windows created by the acclaimed artist Harry Clarke.
Visitors should take note of replicas inside, including Michelangelo’s Moses and Pietà, a mosaic by the Fratelli Alinari, and an altar adorned with a Baroque baldachin supported by red and white marble columns.
4. Luan Gallery
Located in front of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul by the Shannon, the Luan Gallery serves as a contemporary art venue that was inaugurated in 2012. The original section of the building, the Fr Matthew Temperance Hall, was constructed in 1897 and has served various purposes, including as a concert hall, cinema, and town library.
The gallery features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the river and marina.
Over the years, it has showcased the works of prominent artists such as Sinéad Ní Mhaonaigh, Catherina Hearne, and James Hanley.
Moreover, the gallery acts as a platform for emerging local and national artists, hosting events such as the RDS Student Art Awards Travelling Exhibition.
5. Sean’s Bar
Not your typical local pub, Sean’s Bar has been providing service since the early 10th century.
It is recognized as the oldest pub in Ireland and was declared the oldest pub in Europe in 2004.
Athlone derives its name from this establishment, which was originally called Luain’s Inn.
The name “Atha Luain” translates to “Ford of Luain”, referencing an early innkeeper located on the west bank of the Shannon who also managed the river crossing.
The pub has documented its ownership history since its inception, providing proof of its origins.
The current facade, dating from the 19th century, was restored in a manner that preserved sections of the structure thought to be constructed from 10th-century wattle, which can be viewed on-site, along with 10th-century coins discovered within the foundation.
6. Clonmacnoise
Traveling down the Shannon leads you to a historical monastic settlement located between the riverbank and Mongan Bog.
Clonmacnoise, a National Monument of Ireland, was founded by St Ciarán of Clonmacnoise in 544 AD, and it evolved into one of Ireland’s most significant centers of education and religious life.
The complex today features the remnants of a cathedral, seven churches, three high crosses, and grave slabs dating back to the early Christian era in Ireland.
The ruins have undergone restoration in recent decades and primarily date from the 10th to the 13th century.
The visitor center showcases an array of intricately carved cross slabs found at the site, with the Cross of the Scriptures being a particular highlight, adorned with biblical motifs carved into its sandstone.
This monument has been referenced in the Annals of the Four Masters, particularly in the years 957 and 1060.
7. Derryglad Heritage and Visitor Centre
The Derryglad Heritage and Visitor Centre offers insight into rural life in the Midlands, functioning as a folk museum with an extensive collection of over 6,000 artifacts.
This collection spans four decades and dates back to the 18th century.
Visitors can examine tools from various traditional trades, horse-drawn machinery, tractors, and household items.
Additionally, artifacts from the first half of the 20th century include gramophones with historic 78 rpm records, cameras, radio equipment, and vintage hurleys (used for playing hurling). The park includes a thatched grocery store that replicates the shopping experience of the 1930s, stocked with authentic bottles, cans, and tin signs.
8. Dean Crowe Theatre
For those seeking live entertainment, the Dean Crowe Theatre, located on Athlone’s left bank, offers an array of performances.
The auditorium is spacious, accommodating up to 460 attendees, making it ideal for a town of Athlone’s size.
Established in 1800, the building originally served as St Aloysius College, and prior to that, it was the parish church until the Church of Saints Peter and Paul was completed in 1937.
The highlight of the schedule is the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival held annually in early May, in addition to various plays, stand-up comedy acts, musical performances ranging from classical to folk, art exhibitions, and events for children throughout the year.
9. Shannon Banks Nature Trail
Commencing just behind Athlone Castle, this looped pathway extends for five kilometers alongside the Shannon and the old Athlone Canal.
Throughout this concise distance, visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems, with wooden footbridges crossing marshy areas adjacent to the river.
For those interested in nature, there are four informational displays describing the waterfowl, plants, fish, and terrestrial wildlife one may encounter during their walk.
10. Old Rail Trail
A 42-kilometer section of the former Midlands Great Western Railway has been converted into a paved path linking Athlone with the town of Mullingar to the east.
This route traverses tranquil farmland, remaining flat and devoid of road traffic, making it an excellent choice for leisurely strolls or cycling with children.
As you travel along the path, you will encounter charming remnants of old railway structures, including a tunnel, bridges, and a former station.
Furthermore, detours every few kilometers lead to picturesque villages or the Hill of Uisneach, rich in Irish mythology and featuring prehistoric barrows and cairns.
11. Meehambee Dolmen
Located near the village of Bellanamullia, just past the western suburbs of Athlone, is the well-concealed megalithic portal tomb that lay hidden for thousands of years.
The Meehambee Dolmen was discovered in the 1960s by local children who stumbled upon a pair of stone axes.
This monument, likely the burial site of a chief or king, dates back 5,500 years.
Approaching the site requires keen observation, as the massive stones are often masked by moss, making them easy to overlook.
The doorstone has collapsed, resulting in the 25-ton capstone slanting at a 45° angle.
12. Golf
On the southern shores of Lough Ree, two golf courses are located: Athlone Golf Club and Glasson Hotel and Golf Club.
For those willing to drive a short distance, an additional six courses can be found in the broader area.
Athlone Golf Club features an 18-hole course that is well-rated yet reasonably priced.
Green fees are capped at €35.00 on weekdays and €40.00 on weekends.
The course boasts large greens, and each hole presents a challenge, complemented by splendid vistas of the lake.
The newer par-73 course at Glasson comes at a higher price, with maximum fees of €65.00 during the week and €70.00 on weekends.
This parkland course is equipped with a full practice area, benefiting from its invigorating lakeside location.
13. Boat Trips
Athlone is home to several companies offering cruises on Lough Ree and down the Shannon.
Typically operating during the summer months, these boats are docked at the quay beneath the castle walls or at the marina located opposite the church.
Viking Tours features a vessel resembling a longboat and operates from March to November, sailing upstream to Hodson Bay on the “Lake of Kings” while sharing interesting insights during the journey.
Other cruise services available in Athlone include Barracuda Boat Trips, which picks up passengers from various town locations, and the River Run Pleasure Cruiser, which shares information about the Shannon and Lough Ree’s wildlife and folklore.
For a more independent experience, companies like Lough Ree Cruisers provide boat rentals, allowing for an unforgettable exploration of the lake, with opportunities for lunch in charming old villages.
14. Glendeer Pet Farm
Families with younger children should consider visiting Glendeer Pet Farm, located near Athlone.
The farm showcases the variety of animals typically found on Irish farms, including pigs, horses, cows, sheep, donkeys, and goats.
Additionally, visitors will encounter unexpected animals such as parrots, emus, wallabies, monkeys, raccoons, meerkats, and alpacas.
Children are often given bags of animal feed to share with friendly animals like donkeys, goats, and sheep, and can hold smaller animals such as guinea pigs and chicks.
Young children can enjoy a “Fairy Trail,” soft play area, and sand barn, while older kids can test their skills on an obstacle course, inclusive of a zip-line.
15. Glasson
A brief ten-minute drive leads to the charming village of Glasson, which is certainly worth the journey.
As you leave Athlone, the road climbs slightly, affording stunning views of the lake surrounding New Forest.
While Glasson is primarily a hamlet, it becomes a popular destination in summer, when boaters dock at one of four nearby marinas and enjoy a scenic walk past sheep herds for lunch at the Wineport Lodge, Glasson Village Restaurant, or Grogan’s Bar and Restaurant.
The Glasson Country House and Golf Club also features its own small harbour, permitting immediate access from the water to the golf course.
