Athlone: An Introduction

Athlone in Ireland s midlands is almost the centre point of Ireland. The name is derived from the Irish Ath and Luan which is the crossing point of the Luain ford. The town provides an important bridging point over the River Shannon for traffic traveling to and from the West of Ireland.

Athlone is a bustling town on the banks of the Shannon in the county of Westmeath offering something for almost everyone from sporting opportunities, to scenic locations or a bit of retail therapy.

Athlone is a lively town offering plenty of accommodation options and a broad range of pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants. It s the main town in the midlands area and is the primary town of Westmeath. The town is ideal for a stopover point to Dublin or Galway or as a weekend break location.

The main tourist office in Athlone is based in Athlone Castle. The Castle and museum is open for tours and provides presentations on Athlone through the ages from its conception in 1129 through the building of the castle in 1210 and the Siege of Athlone of 1691 right up to modern day Athlone.

The Castle also houses pieces belonging to John Count McCormack and military uniforms dating from the 1600 to the present which are related to Athlone s military past as a garrison town.