- Athlone Castle: A 13th-century Norman castle on the River Shannon in Athlone, central to the town’s history. Visitors can expect an interactive visitor center with exhibits on the 1691 Siege of Athlone, multimedia displays, and access to the castle’s battlements for river views. The museum covers Viking and medieval history, with family-friendly activities.
- Belvedere House and Gardens: An 18th-century Georgian mansion near Mullingar, set on 160 acres of parkland. Visitors can expect guided tours of the opulent house, known for its “Jealous Wall” folly, and strolls through formal gardens, a Victorian walled garden, and woodland trails. The estate includes a café, fairy garden, and seasonal events, ideal for families.
- Lough Ree and the River Shannon: A large lake and river system near Athlone, part of the Shannon cruising route. Visitors can expect boat tours or rentals for fishing, kayaking, or scenic cruises, with views of islands like Inchcleraun (a monastic site). Lakeside walks, such as at Portlick Castle, and nearby pubs in Glasson offer a relaxed experience.
- Fore Abbey: A 7th-century Benedictine monastery near Fore, known for its “Seven Wonders” (e.g., water flowing uphill). Visitors can expect free access to explore the ruins, including cloisters and a dovecote, with interpretive signs detailing its medieval history. The surrounding valley and nearby Lough Lene provide scenic walks.
- Tullynally Castle and Gardens: A Gothic Revival castle near Castlepollard, home to the Pakenham family, with 12 acres of gardens. Visitors can expect access to the gardens and parkland, featuring lakes, follies, and a grotto, with seasonal guided tours of the castle’s interiors (limited). The tearoom and woodland trails make it a serene historical stop.
- Mullingar and the Royal Canal: Mullingar, the county’s vibrant capital, is a hub for the Royal Canal Greenway. Visitors can expect cycling or walking along the 130km canal path, with scenic stretches through bogs and farmland. Mullingar’s attractions include the Cathedral of Christ the King, lively pubs with traditional music, and the nearby Hill of Uisneach.
- Hill of Uisneach: A sacred ancient site near Mullingar, considered Ireland’s mythological center. Visitors can expect guided tours (seasonal) of ceremonial mounds, a ringfort, and the Catstone, with stories of Celtic festivals like Bealtaine. The hill offers panoramic views, blending history, spirituality, and folklore.
- Lough Ennell: A scenic lake south of Mullingar, popular for angling and outdoor activities. Visitors can expect fishing for trout, kayaking, or walking trails around the lake, with views of rolling countryside. Nearby Belvedere House and the Lilliput Adventure Centre offer boating and family-friendly activities.
- Kilbeggan Distillery: One of Ireland’s oldest working whiskey distilleries, established in 1757, near Kilbeggan. Visitors can expect guided tours of the historic distillery, including a 19th-century waterwheel, with whiskey tastings and insights into the production process. The visitor center has a shop and café, appealing to spirit enthusiasts.
- Dún na Sí Amenity and Heritage Park: A cultural park near Moate, celebrating Irish heritage and biodiversity. Visitors can expect walking trails through wetlands, a reconstructed ringfort, and exhibits on traditional crafts and farming. The park’s genealogy center, playground, and café make it a family-friendly stop with a focus on Gaelic culture.
Attractions
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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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