- Sean’s Bar (Athlone): Located at 13 Main St, Athlone, this is Ireland’s oldest pub, dating back over 1,000 years, offering live music and a historic atmosphere. Recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as Ireland’s oldest pub, it’s listed in Lonely Planet’s “25 Most Incredible Bars” and “50 Bars to Blow Your Mind” for its history, trad music, and own-brand whiskey. A quaint, historic pub with a roaring fire, live music seven nights a week (intimate trad sessions Monday-Wednesday), and excellent Guinness. Ideal for history buffs, music lovers, or those seeking a pint by the River Shannon. Note: No food is served, but nearby cafes are available.
- The Auld Shebeen (Moate): On Main St, Moate, this traditional pub has been revamped into a top Midlands venue, offering quality pub grub and a lively atmosphere. Head chef Mac Joseph Karthy’s mastery of pub classics and its modern makeover make it a standout for food and craic in Moate. A vibrant pub with delicious meals (e.g., burgers, fish and chips), creamy pints, and a friendly vibe. Perfect for a bite and a drink while passing through Moate on the N6.
- Druid’s Chair (Mullingar): At 8 Pearse St, Mullingar, this traditional pub offers an extensive drinks menu, quality food, and sports screenings. Hosting 11 gins, vegan and gluten-free ciders, and top-notch Guinness, it’s a sports fan’s haven with two screens for major events. A cozy pub with a wide range of drinks, hearty meals served until 9 PM, and a lively atmosphere during matches. Ideal for sports enthusiasts or those seeking variety in drinks.
- Danny Byrnes (Mullingar): At 27 Pearse St, Mullingar, this pub is a cornerstone of the local nightlife, known for live music and a welcoming vibe. Its emphasis on live bands during the week and DJs on weekends makes it a music hub in Mullingar, perfect for a lively night out. A bustling pub with great pints, live music, and a vibrant crowd. Ideal for those looking to dance or enjoy Mullingar’s nightlife near Lough Ennell.
- The Dog and Duck (Ballykeeran, Athlone): In Ballykeeran, near Athlone, this traditional pub offers pool tables, weekend music, and an adjoined café, The Low Road. Its chilled atmosphere, outdoor tables for sunny days, and simple yet tasty café menu make it a unique spot just outside Athlone. A relaxed pub with creamy pints, pool, and occasional live music. Perfect for a laid-back drink or bite, especially in summer by the Shannon.
- Gertie Browne’s (Athlone): At 9 Custume Place, Athlone, this traditional pub is known for its old-world charm and lively atmosphere. Its historic decor and reputation for quality pints make it a local favorite near Athlone Castle. A cozy pub with great Guinness, friendly service, and a traditional setting. Ideal for a pint after visiting Athlone’s historic sites.
- Peddler Mac’s (Athlone): On Main St, Athlone, this old-world traditional pub offers a warm welcome and quality drinks in the heart of town. Its classic Irish decor and central location make it a go-to spot for visitors exploring Athlone’s vibrant core. A charming pub with good pints, a friendly vibe, and a prime location. Perfect for a casual drink while sightseeing.
- Conroy’s Pub (Athlone): At 17 Mardyke St, Athlone, this traditional pub offers a cozy setting with quality drinks and a community atmosphere. Its reputation for friendly service and central location make it a reliable choice for a classic Irish pub experience. A welcoming pub with great beer, local banter, and a traditional vibe. Ideal for a relaxed pint near the River Shannon.
- Scanlon’s (Kinnegad): On Main St, Kinnegad, Scanlon’s Bar & Restaurant is a well-regarded gastropub offering a modern dining experience alongside a traditional pub atmosphere, popular among locals and travelers on the M4/M6. Rated 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor with 333 reviews and ranked #1 of 8 restaurants in Kinnegad, Scanlon’s is praised for its exceptional food (e.g., steaks, seafood) and friendly service. Its location on a major route makes it a convenient stop for road trippers. A spacious, welcoming pub with a diverse menu featuring high-quality pub classics and fine dining options, paired with craft beers and wines. The atmosphere is lively yet family-friendly, with attentive staff and a clean, modern interior. Perfect for a hearty meal or a pint while passing through Kinnegad.
- Hamrock’s Bar & Lounge (Brideswell, Athlone): In Brideswell, Athlone, this pub offers a traditional setting with a lounge area and quality drinks. Its rural charm and welcoming atmosphere make it a hidden gem for those exploring outside Athlone. A cozy, rural pub with good pints and a friendly vibe. Perfect for a quiet drink in a countryside setting.
- Carey’s Tavern (Athlone): At 38 Mardyke St, Athlone, this traditional pub is known for its warm hospitality and quality drinks. Its central location and reputation for a great pint make it a staple in Athlone’s pub scene. A classic Irish pub with friendly service, good Guinness, and a traditional atmosphere. Ideal for a casual drink in town.
- Charlie Browns Bar (Athlone): On Dublin Rd, Athlone, this pub offers a modern yet cozy setting with quality drinks and a local vibe. Its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to Athlone’s amenities make it a reliable choice for visitors. A friendly pub with good beer, a relaxed setting, and a community feel. Perfect for a low-key pint.
- Conor Murtagh’s Pub (Multyfarnham, Mullingar): In Multyfarnham, this traditional family-run pub, operating for over 30 years, offers a picturesque village setting and quality drinks. Its beautiful location near Multyfarnham Friary and warm hospitality make it a charming rural stop. A cozy pub with great pints, friendly locals, and a scenic vibe. Ideal for a relaxing drink after exploring Westmeath’s countryside.
- Biddy Mulligan’s Pub (Athlone): In Irishtown, Athlone, this traditional pub offers a welcoming atmosphere and quality drinks near the town center. Its central location and reputation for friendly service make it a go-to spot for locals and tourists. A classic pub with good Guinness, a warm welcome, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a casual pint near Athlone Castle.
- The Halfway House (Mullingar): At 40 Oliver Plunkett St, Mullingar, this traditional pub offers a cozy setting with quality drinks and a community vibe. Its central location and welcoming atmosphere make it a reliable choice in Mullingar. A friendly pub with great beer, local banter, and a traditional setting. Ideal for a relaxed drink in Mullingar’s heart.
- The Village Inn (Kinnegad): On Main St, Kinnegad, this traditional pub is a community hub known for its quality pints and welcoming vibe. Its role as a social center in Kinnegad and consistent quality make it a standout for locals and passersby. A cozy pub with good Guinness, friendly service, and a community feel. Perfect for a low-key pint on the N4 route.
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County Westmeath:
Ireland’s county Westmeath offers a blend of lakes and historic charm, with Athlone Castle providing insights into medieval Ireland along the Shannon River. The Belvedere House and Gardens showcase Georgian elegance, while Lough Ree offers boating and fishing opportunities. Other attractions include the ancient Fore Abbey and its monastic ruins and traditional seven wonders. Westmeath is Ireland’s tenth smallest county by size (1,763 square km) and 11th smallest by population (96,221). Population peaked at 141,300 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 52,861 in 1961. In terms of hospitality, Westmeath is Ireland’s 22nd most visited tourist county with around 95,000 international visitors per year.
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