DESTINATION: Ireland’s county Westmeath

County Westmeath, known as the “Lake County” in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and part of Ireland’s Ancient East, offers a captivating blend of ancient history, scenic lakes, and vibrant cultural experiences. Centrally located in Leinster, with Mullingar as its county town and Athlone as a key hub, Westmeath is renowned for its mythological significance, lush landscapes, and welcoming towns. Westmeath is Ireland’s tenth smallest county by size (1,763 square km) and 11th smallest by population (96,221).

Historical and Cultural Attractions

Athlone Castle Visitor Centre: Overlooking the River Shannon in Athlone, this 12th-century castle, built for England’s King John by Bishop John de Gray, is a must-visit. Renovated in 2012, it offers a multi-sensory experience with eight exhibition spaces, including a 360º cinematic recreation of the 1691 Siege of Athlone. Interactive displays, 3D maps, and audio-visual installations bring its military history to life. The castle’s strategic location makes it a gateway to exploring Athlone’s vibrant Left Bank arts scene.
Hill of Uisneach: Located in Rathconrath, this ancient ceremonial site is considered Ireland’s mythological center, once home to High Kings like Tuathal Teachmar (2nd century). Associated with Bealtaine fires and Druidic rituals, it features over 40 monuments, including the Catstone, and offers panoramic views of up to 20 counties on clear days. Guided tours provide insights into its spiritual and historical significance, including tales of the earth goddess Ériu and sun god Lugh.
Fore Abbey: In the village of Fore, this 7th-century Benedictine monastery, founded by St. Fechin, is Ireland’s largest, known for its “Seven Wonders” (e.g., water that won’t boil, a tree that won’t burn). The free-to-visit ruins, surrounded by lush fields, offer a tranquil setting for history enthusiasts and photographers, with ancient carvings and a medieval ambiance.
Belvedere House, Gardens & Park: Near Mullingar, this 1740 hunting lodge, built for Robert Rochfort (the “Wicked Earl”), overlooks Lough Ennell. Its exquisite interiors feature dragon-themed ceilings, while the Jealous Wall, a Gothic folly, was built to block the view of a rival brother’s estate. The 27-acre parkland includes restored 18th-century gardens, woodland trails, and a fairy garden, ideal for families.
Tullynally Castle and Gardens: Near Castlepollard, this Gothic-style castle, home to the Pakenham family for over 350 years, boasts 120 rooms and 12 acres of gardens with woodland walks, a limestone grotto, and ornamental lakes. Pre-booked guided tours reveal its treasures, while the gardens are open seasonally.
Kilbeggan Distillery: In Kilbeggan, the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery (1757) offers tours showcasing traditional oak mash tuns, a 186-year-old pot still, and a historic waterwheel. Visitors enjoy a masterclass tasting three whiskeys, learning about Ireland’s uisce beatha heritage.
Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park: Near Moate, this 27-acre park features a genealogy center, heritage trail, vintage museum, and reconstructed historical sites. Families love the petting farm, while birdwatchers can use “the hide” to observe lake wildlife.
Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum: Near Athlone, this private museum houses over 4,000 items, from 18th-century farming tools to a 1948–2002 photography collection, offering a deep dive into rural Irish life.
Multyfarnham Franciscan Abbey: This 13th-century abbey, revitalized recently, combines medieval structures with modern stained glass depicting the Children of Lir legend. Its spiritual ambiance and historical significance make it a hidden gem.

Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities

Lakes and Waterways: Westmeath’s moniker, “Lake County,” reflects its abundance of lakes. Lough Ennell and Lough Owel are hotspots for angling (trout, pike) and water sports like kayaking and sailing. Lough Derravaragh, tied to the Children of Lir myth, offers serene walks and birdwatching. Lough Ree, bordering Roscommon, is famous for Viking Tours Ireland’s replica boat cruises and rumored sightings of the Lough Ree Monster.
Royal Canal Greenway: This 130km trail from Dublin to Abbeyshrule, passing through Mullingar, offers cycling and walking along restored 18th-century towpaths. The Old Rail Trail Greenway, a 40km route from Mullingar to Athlone, follows the historic Great Western Railway, showcasing industrial archaeology and scenic countryside.
Mullaghmeen Forest: Near Castlepollard, this is Europe’s largest planted beech forest, with a summit at 258m, the lowest county top in Ireland. Its limestone-rich trails are perfect for leisurely walks, offering views of rolling hills.
Portlick Millennium Forest Walks: Near Lough Ree, these trails on the Winning Peninsula provide access to birdwatching, watersports, and leisurely cruises, immersing visitors in Westmeath’s natural beauty.
Baysports: In Athlone, this water adventure center on Hodson Bay offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark, ideal for families and adrenaline seekers.
Westmeath Way: This 33km linear walking route from Kilbeggan to Mullingar follows the River Brosna and Lough Ennell, offering picnic spots and tranquil countryside views.

Cultural and Culinary Experiences

Sean’s Bar: In Athlone, this 900 AD pub, Ireland’s oldest, features wattle-and-wicker walls from the 10th century and coins from the period, discovered during a 1970 renovation. It’s a lively spot for traditional music and a pint, steeped in history as “Luain’s Inn.”
Mullingar Arts Centre: Adjacent to the County Council offices, this cultural hub offers courses in arts, piano, Irish dancing, and ballet, plus theater events like dramas, concerts, and children’s shows.
Luan Gallery: On Athlone’s River Shannon banks, this contemporary art space showcases local and national artists, complementing smaller galleries like Genesis Gift Gallery in Mullingar and Ballinahown Craft Village.
Food and Drink: Westmeath’s dining scene thrives in Athlone and Mullingar. In Athlone, The Fatted Calf offers modern Irish cuisine with local ingredients, while Kin Khao Thai is a Tripadvisor favorite for Asian flavors. Mullingar’s The Spiced Bean and The Old House Restaurant serve hearty fare, and traditional pubs like Clarkes Bar host music sessions. The county’s markets, such as Athlone’s farmers’ market, feature local produce.

Family-Friendly and Adventure Activities

Glendeer Pet Farm: Near Athlone, this family-friendly farm offers animal interactions, indoor and outdoor play areas, and affordable dining, perfect for young children.
Elevate Athlone: This indoor entertainment center in Athlone, opened recently, features karting, axe-throwing, and mini-golf, catering to all ages.
Mullingar Greyhound Stadium: A fun outing for families or groups, offering evening races and dining options.
Viking Tours Ireland: In Athlone, these replica Viking boat cruises on the River Shannon explore 300 years of history, engaging families and history buffs.

Practical Tips

Accessibility: Westmeath is 1–1.5 hours from Dublin (M4/M6), with frequent Irish Rail and Bus Éireann services to Athlone and Mullingar (€15–€30). Dublin Airport is 90 minutes away. A car is recommended for rural sites like Fore Abbey or Uisneach.
Weather: Westmeath’s climate is mild but wet, with July averaging 63°F and winter months rainiest. Pack waterproof gear for outdoor activities. Spring (April–May) offers fewer crowds and lower costs.
Accommodation: Options include the luxurious Sheraton Athlone Hotel, family-friendly Annebrook House in Mullingar, and budget B&Bs or glamping pods near Lough Ennell. Book early for summer.

What’s New for 2026 in County Westmeath

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations: Westmeath’s 2026 St. Patrick’s Day (March 17) will feature vibrant parades in Athlone and Mullingar, with music, dance, and community events. Tourism Ireland’s global campaign, including a St. Patrick’s Day video featuring Lemoncello’s cover of The Corrs’ Breathless, promotes Westmeath’s lakes and heritage to U.S. and international visitors, capitalizing on the county’s 103,000 overseas visitors in 2017 (18% from North America).
Festival of the Fires at Hill of Uisneach: This Bealtaine festival, marking the start of summer, continues in 2026 (early May) at the Hill of Uisneach, drawing around 5,000 visitors. Expect fire-lighting ceremonies, maypole dances, music, and storytelling, celebrating Westmeath’s ancient heritage. The festival’s growing popularity highlights its status as the Midlands’ biggest cultural event.
Elevate Athlone Expansion: Following its recent opening, Elevate Athlone, an indoor entertainment center, introduces new activities in 2026, such as expanded adventure zones and family workshops, enhancing its appeal as a year-round attraction.
Athlone Bike Week (May 2026): A new highlight for 2026, Athlone Bike Week features a slow bike race, treasure hunts, a vintage bike display, a bike parade, and stunt performances by the Savage Skills crew. This family-friendly event promotes Westmeath’s cycling culture along greenways like the Old Rail Trail.

Visitors to County Westmeath in 2026 can expect a rich tapestry of experiences, from exploring Athlone Castle’s military history and the mythical Hill of Uisneach to wandering the serene ruins of Fore Abbey and the gardens of Belvedere House. The county’s lakes, like Lough Ennell and Derravaragh, offer water sports and mythological allure, while greenways provide scenic cycling. Cultural hubs like the Luan Gallery and Sean’s Bar, Ireland’s oldest pub, add vibrancy. New for 2026, Athlone Bike Week, an expanded Festival of the Fires, and Elevate Athlone’s new activities enhance the county’s appeal, alongside Tourism Ireland’s U.S.-focused campaign and sustainable travel initiatives. Westmeath’s blend of history, nature, and community spirit makes it an unforgettable destination. For more details, visit www.visitwestmeath.ie or www.discoverireland.ie