Athlone (/æθˈloʊn/; Irish: Baile Átha Luain, meaning "town of Luan's ford") is a town on the River Shannon near the southern shore of Lough Ree in Ireland. It is the second most populous town in the Midlands Region with a population of 21,349 in the 2016 census, and is considered the commercial capital of the Midlands.
Restaurants in Athlone
4.5 based on 771 reviews
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre is situated in the heart of the Midlands, on the west bank of the river Shannon adjacent to St Peter and Pauls Church and the Luan Gallery. It was reopened in November 2012 following extensive renovations. The 13th century Norman castle now boasts 8 new exhibition spaces that tell the story of the castle, Athlone town, its people and the surrounding area. The spaces have been designed to be very interactive visitor's are encouraged to get hands on and engage with the rooms as they move through them. First built in the 12th century as a timber fort, Athlone Castle evolved into a bold, defensive building. Its most significant architectural features, such as the keep, have now been harnessed to act as a dramatic backdrop to its diverse and fascinating story. The newly designed exhibition spaces pursue both a chronological and thematic sequence combining hands-on and fun experiences such as games and dress-up activities. Learn about the rich history of Athlone from pre-historic settlement right through to the modern town. Athlone was the setting for many battles down through the centuries. The most famous is the siege of Athlone in 1690 and 1691. The story of the siege and the fighting that was ongoing is brought to life at Athlone Castle through illustrations by renowned illustrator Victor Ambrus. During a spectacular 360 degree audio visual presentation, a re-enactment of the siege of Athlone is experienced. Bold sculptural forms help to convey human figures and historical milestones. 3D maps, audio-visual installations and original artifacts combine to bring the stories and characters of Athlone to life. The newest addition to the visitor centre is the display dedicated to the memory of Athlone's famous son, John Count McCormack. Here the world-renowned tenor is honored with artefacts from both his social life and musical career. At Athlone Castle you can sit down and enjoy some refreshments in the cafe area located in the reception. There is seating for 16 with extra seating outside. Visitors can also avail of audio-guides in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Chinese. The Failte Ireland tourist office is also located in the castle courtyard. Take the opportunity to visit our sister property Luan Gallery, located just across the road. It is a modern art gallery that showcases local and national artists in a modern impressive gallery overlooking the river Shannon. Athlone hosts a number of fairs and festivals throughout the year that offer fun-filled activities for all. If you are looking for somewhere central to travel with a lot to offer, from museums and galleries to shopping, then come to Athlone, the heart of the Midlands. This renovated tourist attraction is the perfect stop off point in the heart of the Lakeland's Region of Ireland enroute to the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way and along the exciting and culturally interesting route of Ireland's Ancient East. Athlone Castle Visitor Centre is waiting for you to explore, engage and enjoy!
Please ignore the people complaining that this place is too modern. What Athlone Castle has done is build a very well laid out, informative, and easy to follow exhibition that shows original pieces and tells the storied history of the castle and surrounding area. It's easy to access and get around (my father is 71 with limited mobility) and we had no issues at all. The displays are well laid out and informative without bombarding you with unnecessary information. I would highly recommend a visit.
4.5 based on 247 reviews
Animal interaction at it's best. See all the funny antics of our friendly animals, you will get to feed, pet and even hold some of them. Over 50 species of animals to see, an 1850s cottage, a nature walk and fairy trail, a large outdoor and indoor play area and a soft play toddler area, so there is something for eeryone. Lots to do throughout the year: Summer season runs from March to Sept (please check our website for exact dates), Easter Egg Hunts Easter Sat, Sun and Mon at 3pm, Halloween Spooktastic Event during the mid term break, and foe the month of December the farm is transfered into Ireland's Lapland.
My boyfriend and I went down here for the day and wow! They’ve got so many beautiful animals and you get a bag of feed so you can walk around the farm and feed the animals as you go around! There’s really beautiful animals like alpacas, llama’s, deer, chickens and more! It’s the perfect place to bring kids as there’s a playground and a coffee shop on sight too! Couldn’t highly recommend Glendeer Pet Farm enough!
4.0 based on 2 reviews
4.0 based on 25 reviews
I spent a few days recently with my sister in Athlone and happened upon this lovely new gallery on the bank of the Shannon. It's not large but is a beautifully open and bright space. The light from the windows overlooking the river is amazing. There were two interesting exhibits when we visited and my sister, a Bob Dylan fan, was thrilled to show the very kind, helpful docent that one of the artists entitled his work with Dylan song titles. I believe there are classes or studios on the lower level, and there seems to be a considerable artists' community in the town. A thoroughly delightful space that I highly recommend for anyone spending time in Athlone.
5.0 based on 1 reviews
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