What is there to do in Athlone in one day?
Work the west bank, where the old town is. Athlone Castle first, at the bridge: the visitor centre tells the story of the sieges of 1690 and 1691 in the place they happened, at the Shannon crossing both armies needed. Sean's Bar stands nearby: go in for the history displayed on its walls, whatever you make of its claim to reach back to around 900. The great 1930s church of St Peter and Paul completes the square of sights, all within a few minutes' walk. Lunch on the west bank. Then cross to the riverfront and take a boat out toward Lough Ree if the season allows. Finish along the quays as the light goes, with the river doing the work.
Useful pages: Where to go · Ready-made itineraries · The Wild Atlantic Way road trip · Dublin · County Cork · County Kerry · County Galway · Northern Ireland · Portrush · Visiting Irish castles · Plan your journey · Heritage · Golf in Ireland · Ireland's cities · Ireland in the movies · Best hiking trails in Ireland · The Southwest in 5 Days · The Great Links golf itinerary · Quieter places
More in Regions and itineraries
- Should I choose the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's Ancient East, Dublin or Northern Ireland first?
- How long do I need to drive the Wild Atlantic Way properly?
- What are the best bases on the Wild Atlantic Way for a seven day trip?
- Which counties give the best first taste of the southwest?
- Dublin or Galway: which city should be my main base?