What to do and see in Athlone, Province of Leinster: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do

May 28, 2021 Agatha Simes

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

1. Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum

Derryglad, Curraghboy, Athlone N37 W1K8 Ireland +353 90 648 8192 [email protected] http://www.derrygladfolkmuseum.com
Excellent
91%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 332 reviews

Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum

Open May-Oct incl : No trip to the midlands is complete without a visit to the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum, which is hidden in South Roscommon in a land of lakes and rivers. The collection deals with Farm & Folk life in Ireland from the 18th century to the recent past. The museum is privately owned and run by the Finneran Family and houses a unique 25 year collection of over ,7500 items includes horse-drawn machinery restored to the original working order, tradesmans tools and buttermaking equipment, laundry memorabilia, old and rare washing machines, 1930’s old-style thatched bar & grocery, old-style sheep shears, radios, gramophones , shop dockets and bill-heads, sports display McCormacks photography room where the contents include dark rooms finishing r D & P line, B & W colour processors. as well as much, much more. its an ideal destina­tion for school tours, ICA Guilds, Ladies Clubs, Farming Groups, Vintage Clubs, Historical So­cieties, families,

Reviewed By astokes610 - Dublin, Ireland

Vert enjoyable experience at this museum. Everything so well preserved and presented you can see the owners have so much love and appreciation for the past. Was lovely to speak to the owner and hear how he has been collecting for the past 40 years. A great trip down memory lane.

2. The Malt House

41 Church Street, Athlone Ireland +353 90 647 7728 http://www.facebook.com/pages/the-malt-house
Excellent
88%
Good
9%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 80 reviews

The Malt House

3. EXIT Athlone Escape Rooms

35 Church Street, Athlone N37 X961 Ireland +353 87 149 7724 [email protected] http://www.exitathlone.com
Excellent
98%
Good
2%
Satisfactory
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Poor
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Terrible
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Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 124 reviews

EXIT Athlone Escape Rooms

- Follow the clues - Solve the riddles - Find the keys - Escape the room in only 60 minutes ! EXIT - first in Westmeath room escape game !!! Here in Athlone !!! "Clown Prince of Crime" 10+ - game based on comic books ... Escape the trap-room before the Joker comes back !!! "New World Order" 15+ - conspiracy theories scenario Find and disarm the bomb before time runs out !!! "Red Room" 18+ - Someone murdered a beautiful and young woman. You and your partner are detectives and only you can catch the killer!!! EXIT Athlone room escape game !

Reviewed By travellingblondie00

This was my first ever escape room and I loved It, it was so clever and well thought out and the man doing it was so nice, he even gave us extra time at the end!

4. Athlone Castle Visitor Centre

Athlone Castle Castle Street, Athlone N37 A6D7 Ireland +353 90 644 2130 [email protected] http://www.athlonecastle.ie
Excellent
47%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
2%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 771 reviews

Athlone Castle Visitor Centre

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!

Reviewed By 983richiem

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.

5. Viking Tours

Excellent
78%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 729 reviews

Viking Tours

Step back 1,200 years and join the Vikings on a replica Viking Ship. Cruise up the River Shannon to Lough Ree or down river to the monastic settlement and round towers of Clonmacnoise whilst hearing live commentary on Viking hoards, the beauty of the river, its flora, fauna, bird and fish life. Fun and excitement for all the family. #IrelandsHiddenHeartlands

6. Sean's Bar

13 Main Street, Athlone N37 DW76 Ireland +353 90 649 2358 [email protected] http://www.seansbar.ie/home
Excellent
66%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
1%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,431 reviews

Sean's Bar

Situated in the Heart of Ireland halfway between Dublin and Galway, Sean's Bar plays host to visitors from all around the world. Whether absorbing the history, listening to music, visiting with friends and family or simply enjoying the perfect pint, the appeal is equally strong for everyone. Listed in both "25 of the Most Incredible Bars in the World" and "50 Bars to Blow Your Mind" by Lonely Planet, a visit to Sean's is a must! find out more about why Sean's Bar is not only the oldest, but one of the best-loved pubs in world.

Reviewed By 226nualas

Very quaint little bar sawdust on the floor traditional music most nights very large outdoor space on to the quayside very friendly staff all very good

7. The Snug Bar

3 Fry Place, Athlone Ireland +353 90 649 0971 [email protected]
Excellent
64%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 67 reviews

The Snug Bar

2 Beer Gardens • Live Music• Live Sport • Barbeque’s• All types of Parties catered for• Guaranteed good time!The Snug bar is a traditional cosy warm Irish pub situated in Athlones Left Bank area. It's an ideal place to enjoy a pint and watch a match or party the night away. There is a host of entertainment to be had with live music to suit all tastes. We have a large heated and covered Beer Garden with full bar, Big Screen TV and BBQ which makes an ideal location for you and your friends to wile away an afternoon on sunny days. Drop in if you want to watch Live Sports in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.

Reviewed By Dontblamemeimirish

Friendly atmosphere, good service, good company! Great music, live! All the locals are very welcoming and will chat or leave you alone, whatever you want! Great place to relax, or have the craic!

8. Baysports

Hodson Bay, Athlone Ireland +353 90 649 4801 [email protected] http://www.baysports.ie
Excellent
71%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
5%
Poor
2%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 324 reviews

Baysports

Baysports is home to the largest floating water park in Ireland and one of the largest floating waterslides in the world. Kayaking, sailing rentals or just a picnic by the majestic shores of Lough Ree

Reviewed By karenkH8592BH - Cavan, Ireland

Took the 4 girls to bay sports on Friday for a birthday party they had a great time , the staff are all so friendly and helpful all the wet suits and life jackets are all sterilised after they come off in giant pots , the girls had a ball even though it was very cold in the water , sure it’s August in Ireland ????‍♀️ , nothing more to be said on that , Didn’t here a bad word from anyone coming out of the water so give it a try

9. Glendeer Pet Farm

Curryroe, Drum, Athlone Ireland +353 90 643 7147 [email protected] http://glendeerpetfarm.ie
Excellent
62%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
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Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 247 reviews

Glendeer Pet Farm

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.

Reviewed By orniamh - Dublin, Ireland

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!

10. Gertie Browne's Pub

1 The Strand, Athlone N37 E142 Ireland +353 90 647 4848 [email protected] http://www.hatterslane.ie/gertie-brownes-pub-athlone.php
Excellent
69%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
3%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 105 reviews

Gertie Browne's Pub

Gertie Brownes in Custume Place (formally Victoria Place) has been a hostelry of some sort since the 10th or 11th centuries. Tongue’n’groove walls, pitch pine counters and genuine salvaged memorabilia all give this emporium a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Gertie’s customer base is comprised of a cross section of Athlonians supplemented by a busy river tourist trade in Summer. The staff strive to ensure that the customer is welcomed and made feel at home with a good drink properly presented. Adjacent to its other half Hatters Lane Bistro and other nearby eateries, Gerties is the ideal location to meet before or after a hearty meal and its private library room can cater to family, group or corporate occasions.

Reviewed By db25316

A must visit in Athlone. Dan and all staff working tremendously during Covid, to manage, accommodate, and keep up the superb service as always. Food is great. Staff are attentive and on the ball. You won’t be disappointed!

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