Athlone Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
town in County Westmeath, Ireland
About Athlone
Inland travel in ancient Ireland was impeded by bogs, but you could travel north-south along the Shannon, and east-west along the eskers, the line of gravel ridges deposited by glaciers. The main east-west route was some 20 km further south, crossing the Shannon at Clonmacnoise, which grew into a great monastic centre. Probably because that area was flood-prone, the Normans when they arrived in the 12th century preferred to cross the Shannon here at Luan's ford (Baile Átha Luain, hence "Athlone"). They built a bridge, and a fortified town and castle on the west bank. Later rulers continued to see the need for a garrison, as any coup or revolt here would strike at the very heart of Ireland. The river formed the boundary between the Gaelic kingdoms of Connacht to the west and of Meath to the
Top Attractions in Athlone
Explore the best things to see and do in Athlone:
- ★Athlone Castle
- ★Church of St Peter & Paul
- ★Luan Gallery
Where to Eat in Athlone
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴1810 Steakhouse
- 🍴Al Mezza
- 🍴Di Bella
- 🍴Fatted Calf
- 🍴Kin Khao Thai
- 🍴Left Bank Bistro
Where to Stay in Athlone
- 🏨Arch House B&B
- 🏨Athlone Springs Hotel
- 🏨Bastion B&B
- 🏨Coosan Cottage Eco Hotel
- 🏨Creggan Court Hotel
- 🏨Hodson Bay Hotel
Athlone Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 11 sections including: