Mullingar
Cattle country made this market town, and its 1930s cathedral, noted for its mosaics, marks the centre. Mullingar is the county town of County Westmeath, in the lakeland midlands.
Best sites to see in Mullingar
Cathedral of Christ the King
Mullingar's large Catholic cathedral, built in the 1930s, is noted for its interior mosaics. It stands in the centre of town and is the seat of the Bishop of Meath.
Lough Ennell and Belvedere House and Gardens
A short drive south of Mullingar, Belvedere is an 18th-century house on the shore of Lough Ennell with parkland, gardens and follies including the famous Jealous Wall. The lake itself is a place for walks and wildfowl.
Lough Owel
North of the town, Lough Owel is a clear limestone lake known for trout fishing and scenery. It is a quieter counterpoint to busier Ennell and is viewed from roads and shore points around it.
Mullingar Town Centre and the Joe Dolan Statue
Mullingar's main streets centre on its market-town shopping area, where a statue commemorates singer Joe Dolan, the town's most famous musical son. It is a natural photo stop in the middle of town.
Where to stand, and when
- The Cathedral of Christ the King in the town centre: Morning light suits the front of the cathedral; step inside respectfully for the mosaics when no service is on.
- Lough Ennell from Belvedere's parkland: Late afternoon gives long light across the lake and the best views of the Jealous Wall and follies.
- The Joe Dolan statue on Mullingar's main street: Go early in the day for a clear shot before shoppers fill the street.
Mullingar through history
Mullingar is the county town of County Westmeath, in the heart of Ireland's lakeland midlands.
The town developed as a market and administrative centre serving the surrounding cattle and farming country.
Mullingar has a strong musical tradition and in recent years hosted the Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann, Ireland's major traditional music festival, in 2022 and 2023.
Singer Joe Dolan, one of Ireland's best-known entertainers of the 20th century, came from Mullingar and is commemorated in the town.
Practical tips
- Belvedere House is a separate drive from the town with its own admission and hours, so plan it as a half-day rather than a quick add-on.
- The lakes around Mullingar are spread out, so a car is the practical way to combine Ennell and Owel in one day.
- Town-centre parking is easiest outside Saturday peak shopping hours.
What's on
No anchor festival is based here, but the Irish year is full: next up nationally is TradFest (20–24 Jan 2027, Temple Bar, Dublin). See the full events calendar