Westmeath County

  • Athlone Castle: Exquisitely restored Norman castle; Athlone Castle is one of the dominant structures on the skyline that pours forth a story from centuries of Irish history embraced in its vaults. “Interactive exhibitions covering military history, ancient civilizations, and the role that the castle played in the Siege of Athlone. Add to that a marvelous view from the battlements, and you have some idea of what awaits visitors to the castle.
  • Belvedere House and Gardens: A beautiful 18th-century country estate set on the lakeshore of Lough Ennell, it is famous for the contrasts of follies, walled gardens, and wide parkland. A name added to call for a slight, interesting story is the jealous Earl of Belvedere and the “Jealous Wall” to the beautiful landscapes of the estate.
  • Clonmacnoise: A great religious importance center, situated on the bank of River Shannon; Clonmacnoise has been the most dominant site related to monastic ruins found in Ireland. Clonmacnoise would be a peaceful and religious site with high crosses, circular towers, and ruins of churches to symbolize early Christian history in Ireland.
  • Lough Ree and River Shannon: Lough Ree is one of the biggest lakes in Ireland, so it offers paradise for water sport lovers, anglers, or simply people longing for tranquility. Cruising along the River Shannon and discovering its islands and wildlife all account for an ideal day out in the lap of nature.
  • Fore Abbey: The haunting beauty of the ruins in Fore Abbey, set in a peaceful valley, speaks of the past hustle of a Benedictine monastery. The “Seven Wonders of Fore” include a tree that will not burn and water that will not boil.
  • Mullingar and the Greenway: The bustling market town in the heart of the Irish midlands, Mullingar, is rich in music heritage, shopping, and dining. It also represents the starting point of the Royal Canal Greenway, Ireland’s longest off-road walking and cycling trail that spans beautiful routes right across the middle of the Westmeath countryside.
  • Tullynally Castle and Gardens: Covering more than twelve acres, both walled and woodland gardens on the Tullynally Castle estate have put the place on the map for the keen gardener. All these are found in the still-inhabited castle, which the Pakenham family calls home.
  • Locke’s Distillery Museum: As the world’s oldest licensed pot-still distillery, Locke’s Distillery at Kilbeggan gives truly interesting insight into traditional Irish whiskey making with samples and guided tours of the premises.

They range from history explorations to outstanding displays of natural beauty and showcase the diversity of experiences available in County Westmeath; this is coupled with full cultural immersion and plenty of recreational activities to make for an unforgettable visit.