Athlone

Athlone is a thriving business and shopping town centrally located in the Midlands of Ireland on the banks of the River Shannon. The town has experienced major development in many sectors in recent years and its population has grown to 17,544 (based on the 2006 Census Report). Present day Athlone is a busy and prosperous town with an abundance of interesting tourist attractions and excellent restaurants each with its own distinctive character catering for all the family. Dominating the town is Athlone Castle Visitor Centre - a Norman castle with panoramic views of the Shannon. Athlone is strategically located in the centre of Ireland, on the border of two counties; Roscommon in the province of Connaught and Westmeath in the Province of Leinster.

Given its central location, Athlone is a natural hub for transport. It is easily accessed by both rail and road with frequent bus and rail schedules. The extensive military barracks in Athlone is a particularly interesting complex with a number of buildings dating to the immediate aftermath of the sieges of Athlone in 1690 and 1691. The increased threat of uprising and/or French invasion during the early nineteenth-century resulted in an extensive reconstruction programme at Athlone Barracks and many new buildings were added to the complex at this time. Athlone Castle was also remodelled during the early nineteenth-century to provide additional defence against artillery and a new series of earthen gun enclosures know as 'The Batteries' were laid out on the west bank of the Shannon.

Aerial View of Athlone - Photo John Clarke:

Anglers in Lock:

Athlone Castle - Photo John Daly:

Athlone View of Castle:

Spire of St Peter and Pauls Church - Photo David Walsh:

Back To Top

© 2010 Westmeath County Council | Tel: +353 (0)44 9332000 | Disclaimer