Best of Ireland series - Athlone Final Guide

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THE BEST OF IRELAND Series Athlone Guide

Athlone COMPLIMENTARY COPY

At the Heart of the Lakelands

ES INCLUD

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Athlone Guide

Editor: Rachael Finucane Assistant Editor: BrĂ­ana Walsh Contributing Photographers: Dave Gaynor, Athlone Arts &Tourism and others (see individual photos for details).

Contributing Writers: BrĂ­ana Walsh, Aisling Brennan, Cian Meade, Patrick Wall, Jenny Ronan, Louise Harrison, Matthew Faughnan, Rosaleen Regan and Rachael Finucane.

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Athlone Guide Contents © Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

THE BEST OF IRELAND Series

Contents 4.

Athlone: The Natural Centre

6.

History & Heritage

57. Food & Drink

Produced with the support of:

69. Accommodation 79. Further Afield 17. Arts, Culture & Education

82. Useful Information

29. Festivals & Events

83. Feedback

33. Activities

84. Town & County Maps

47. Shopping

Destination Athlone Group

A Tourism and Marketing Initiative from Southern Marketing Design Media For enquiries about inclusion in updated editions of this guide, please contact 061 310286 / info@southern.ie

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No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. © Southern Marketing Design Media 2014.

Every effort has been made in the production of this magazine to ensure accuracy at the time of publication.

The editors cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any alterations made after publication.

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Athlone Guide Welcome to Athlone

Athlone The Natural Centre Nestled between two counties, two provinces and two parishes, Athlone is where the west of Ireland meets the east.

ocated close to the geographical centre of Ireland—which is 8.85 kilometres north-northwest of the town, in the town land of Carnagh East in County Roscommon— Athlone sprang up on the banks of the river Shannon and has grown to become a thriving business and shopping town with a wealth of history, heritage, arts and culture to explore.

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Known in Irish as ‘Ath Luain’, the ‘ford of Luan’, this location has always been a natural gathering place since the first tribes roamed Ireland and a strategic crossing point on the river Shannon. It was not until 1120 that the first wooden bridges and a castle were built here. Due to its significant location, Athlone was designated as the joint seat of administration (with Dublin) of the English administration in Ireland in 1210 and construction of a new castle and bridge commenced.

Athlone was laid siege to twice in the 17th century. The first assault occurred in 1690 as Williamite forces, led by General Douglas attempted to conquer

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the town for King William. But the Williamites didn’t anticipate the spirited defence of the Jacobite forces led by Colonel Richard Grace, a 70 year old veteran of the Confederate War and Governor of Athlone. After a week, the Williamite forces retreated. The following year they returned en masse, this time under the command of Dutch General Godard de Ginkle and captured the town.

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Athlone is not lacking in culture with three theatres taking pride of place in the town

While Athlone Castle still stands guard over the town, Athlone has experienced major development in recent years. Given its central location, the town is easily accessed by rail, road and river. The M6 motorway connects Athlone to Dublin with a travel time of one hour. The

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Athlone Guide Welcome to Athlone

© Ann Hennessy

railway station services the Galway to Dublin and Dublin to Westport/Ballina lines and Bus Éireann offer an hourly service to Dublin and Galway and other destinations throughout the country.

Lough Ree, the largest lake on the Shannon, is located upstream from Athlone and this makes for a popular destination for water enthusiasts, whether cruising, sailing, wind surfing or canoeing. Boats passing through Athlone use the lock and weir constructed by Shannon Navigation Commissioners in the 1840s. The promenade along the river is popular with anglers, birdwatchers and swimmers.

Picturesque villages like Glasson are only a few minutes from the town too.

The foundations of Athlone’s economy lies mainly in state employment with over 3,000 people employed in the Irish Army, the Department of Education, Revenue Commissioners, Electric Ireland and An Post here. Other private industries such as Ericsson, Alkermes Pharma Ireland Ltd and Athlone Extrusions, to

name but a few, help to boost the local economy.

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Athlone sprang up on the banks of the river Shannon and has grown to become a thriving business and shopping town

Athlone has a fantastic educational and sports infrastructure with five secondary schools and Athlone Institute of Technology that caters for over 5,000 students. AIT is also home to Ireland’s first world-class indoor athletics arena with a state-of-the-art indoor running track. Other sports club putting Athlone on the map include Athlone Town Football Club and Buccaneers RFC. There is also a strong GAA tradition in the town. Sports is such an important part of local life, Athlone was awarded the Best Of Ireland Series

title of European Town of Sport in 2013.

Athlone is not lacking in culture either.

Local venues play host to the annual RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival every year and those with an appreciation for the written word won’t want to miss the Athlone Literary Festival. These events are complemented by the presence of the Luan Gallery, Abbey Road Artists’ Studio, Athlone School of Music and more encouraging the artistic and musical heritage of the area.

With a large choice of shops, Athlone is a leading retail destination in the midlands.

Athlone has progressed from medieval stronghold to a vibrant, modern town throughout the centuries. Visitors are spoiled for choice here at the very heart of Ireland.

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Š Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

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Athlone has a rich history and strong heritage, which is still ever present in this riverside gem.

History

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Don’t Miss:

History & Heritage

• Taking a trip back in time to medieval splendour in majestic Athlone Castle Visitor Centre.

• Learning about the past in the Little Museum of Memories and Derryglad Folk & History Museum.

• Basking in the peaceful atmosphere of Athlone’s abbeys and churches.

• Revisiting pivotal moments in Irish history at various heritage sites in Drum.

• Experiencing the great buildings around Athlone, performances at Dún na Sí Heritage Centre & Park and more.

• Calling at magnificent Clonmacnoise, once the site of a large monastic settlement.

Church of Saints Peter & Paul St Peter's Square 090-6492171 www.drum.ie/parish This church, often mistaken for a cathedral due to its imposing appearance overlooking the River Shannon, was completed in 1937.

Designed by Ralph Byrne, it has two towers on its main façade, four huge columns and several stained glass windows by a variety of well-known makers including Harry Clarke studios,

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Earley of Dublin and Sarah Purser.

Dean Crowe set out on a mission to get the church built and negotiated with the military authorities for the site in the late 1920s. The Dean travelled to the artistic capitals of Europe searching for ideas and inspiration as well as materials and artists to decorate the church. The foundation stone was laid in 1932 and extensive funds were raised to build it.

The first Mass and baptism took place on St Patrick's Day 1937, but the official opening was on June 29, the feast of Saints Peter and Paul. There was a large crowd present and the dedication was carried out by the Very Rev. Patrick Beecher, MA, DD, Best Of Ireland Series

Professor of Sacred Eloquence in Maynooth.

In his speech, Reverend Beecher praised Dean Crowe for his efforts and pointed out that the church “is of the same style of architecture as that which stands over the tomb of St Peter at Rome”.

In modern times, it has recently undergone refurbishment and fundraising is ongoing.

The church is still a place of worship and mass takes place at 9.30am Monday to Saturday; 7.30pm on Monday and Friday; vigil mass is at 6.30pm on Saturday and Sunday, masses are at 9am, 10.30am and 12 noon (times subject to change).

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Athlone Castle Athlone Castle Visitor Centre St. Peter's Square 090-6442130 www.athlonecastle.ie From humble beginnings as a timber fort, King John’s Castle, or Athlone Castle as it is most commonly known, evolved to become a bold defensive building that still dominates the town today.

It now stands as a relic to medieval Ireland and houses a modern multimedia exhibition displaying Athlone’s history.

Over 800 years old, the stone castle was built in 1210 for King John by his Irish Justiciar, Bishop John de Gray of Norwich to defend the crossing point of the river and to facilitate a Norman advancement into Connacht. Athlone Castle still retains architectural elements that date from that period.

The castle underwent remodelling during the Napoleonic era to defend against artillery. For 750 years the castle has sheltered many such as rival families the Dillons and O’Kellys, the President of Connacht and the Jacobite forces during the sieges of Athlone. After the siege, the castle became a military barracks and remained so for 300 years.

The Irish Tricolour first flew over the castle in 1922 when Free State Troops took the barracks from the British. In 1967, the Old Athlone Society created a museum within the castle celebrating Athlone’s history and today, the keep is a national monument.

The castle and museum have undergone extensive refurbishment. The museum boasts eight galleries with 3D maps, sculptures, touch screens, audiovideo installations and illustrations to bring Athlone’s story to life. There is a new John Count McCormack Exhibition due to open in Autumn 2014.

The knowledgeable staff is on hand to answer any questions. Kids and adults

alike get the opportunity to try out the weapons of the day and costumes of the time depicted in several of the exhibition areas. Coupled with spectacular views, visitors can soak up the rich history of Athlone town.

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A bold defensive building that still dominates the town today

Athlone Castle is open seven days in June, July and August from 10am-6pm; noon to 6pm on Sunday and September and October, it opens Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-5pm and Sunday 12-5pm (subject to change). Last admission in 1 hour prior to closing.

Admission is as follows: €8 Adult, €6 conc. and €4 for children under 15. A family ticket for two adults and up to four children is €20. Group bookings on request.

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Little Museum of Memories 1 Lloyd’s Lane 089-4080202 www.facebook.com/pages /Athlone-Heritage-Group Run by the dedicated volunteers of the Athlone Heritage Group, the Little Museum of Memories showcases Athlone’s social history.

Featuring old photographs, displays, documents and artefacts, the Little Museum of Memories is a trip down memory lane for bygone times of Athlone town.

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Range of souvenirs and photos of old Athlone too

The museum is compact in size but it is chock full of interesting pieces on the

topic of local history. Athlone Heritage Group is dedicated to maintaining Athlone’s heritage through publishing books, organising tours and events for the public, hosting craft workshops as well as talks for schools and groups.

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The Little Museum of Memories is a trip down memory lane for bygone times of Athlone town

The museum volunteer-led and does not receive any funding so a donation towards the upkeep of the museum is appreciated. Visitors can purchase a range of souvenirs and photos of old Athlone too.

Opening hours are generally Tuesday to Saturday 11am–4pm, but this is subject to seasonal change.

Little Museum of Memories

came to the present site at Friary Lane.

The original friary was constructed in 1812 and today the oldest part of the friary dates back to 1869.

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Franciscan Friary Friary Lane 090-6472095 www.franciscans.ie /friaries/our-friaries/25-athlone The Franciscan order first came to Athlone around 1235 and established

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their first friary on Northgate Street, the present site of the Silver Quay Complex.

There, the friars built a church in honour of St Mary’s Assumption—the only church on the Leinster side for 200 years. The friars were forced to abandon the friary in 1539 with the coming of King Henry VIII’s Reformation, but continued to minister in secret.

It was not until 1723 that the friars Best Of Ireland Series

The Franciscan order first came to Athlone around 1235

The Friars opened an Irish Romanesque Church in 1931 in memory of the Four Masters who started compiling the Annals of the Four Masters in Athlone in 1628. The building is reminiscent of the golden age of Celtic Christianity featuring a round tower belfry, semi-circular recessed doorways, rose window and gable Celtic cross.

The stunning stained-glass windows feature images of St Francis, St Louis of France, St Anthony of Padua, St Elizabeth of Hungary and St Clare of Assisi.

The shrine to St Francis was enhanced with the addition of eight limestone Romanesque arches. It is a working place of worship and mass times can be found on the website.

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Derryglad Folk & History Museum Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon 090-6488192 www.derrygladfolkmuseum.com

Not far from Athlone, on the Roscommon/Westmeath border, you will find a historic gem in the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum.

Privately owned and run by Charlie and Bridie Finnernan, the museum houses their collection of over 6,000 items from Ireland’s 18th century to the

late 20th century. Over 35 years in the making, these items are arranged thematically to reflect how Irish people lived and worked in the years gone by.

Here you will find old and rare washing machines, farmyard machinery, tradesman’s tools, butter making equipment and much much more.

The Finnernan’s recreation of the McCormack Photography Room is a treat for any budding photographer, showcasing how photographs were developed and processed in the years before automatic cameras and digital photography. The most complete photographic studio museum in Ireland, you can also find political photographs and old and rare cameras here.

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Derryglad Folk & History Museum

Burgess of Athlone, Department Store 1-7 Church Street 090-6472005 www.burgessofathlone.ie Burgess of Athlone is famous for being the longest established department store in Ireland.

The store was founded in 1839, 175 years ago by Thomas Burgess of Athlone. Irish owned and family-run, the

store is located in the centre of Athlone town. The landmark department store is well known throughout the midlands for their quality brands and high standard of customer care.

The Burgess family has played a prominent part in Athlone’s history and the land for a riverside park was donated by the family to the town in 1924.

Burgess Park is still popular with citizens today. In previous years, Burgess Department Store even had its own currency.

In 2009, Burgess celebrated 170 years and to mark the occasion took part in the

Collection of over 6,000 items

An ideal destination for families and groups, host, Charlie, regales visitors with tales on history, heritage and folk culture in this well laid-out museum.

The Derryglad Folk and History Museum is wheelchair accessible and there is a picnic area too. It is open 10am-6pm, during the tourist season.

RTÉ series Fergal Quinn’s Retail Therapy, unveiling a complete storefront refurbishment and a fresh ‘new look’ ladies fashions floor.

This sense of heritage and tradition blends effortlessly with the contemporary fashion and modern style.

Burgess strives to constantly improve and expand the range of labels and brands available, by regularly introducing new, exciting, and always quality driven names to each department collection. See page 50 for more details about Burgess of Athlone, Department Store.

Burgess of Athlone

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage Curraghalenn Hedge School

Drum

History & Heritage

Just eight kilometres from Athlone lies the village of Drum, which is a treasure trove of history and heritage with lots to see and explore.

Drum Heritage Centre Drum Heritage Centre (086-1972323/087-9918966) has one of the largest collections of historic documents relating to the local area, as well as numerous well preserved historic monuments of note.

In the impressive 1,000 square foot visitor centre, documents and memorabilia relating to the area such as papers from the 1911 census to the Boston Pilot papers can be found here.

Entry is free so wander in at your own leisure to learn about the people and events that shaped the development of this corner of Ireland.

The centre is open Tuesday-Friday, 10am-2.30pm. Group tours can be arranged by appointment. If the centre is unmanned, call the numbers above.

The following sites around Drum have been carefully restored by Drum Heritage Group and are well worth a visit.

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The Bridle Pathway to the 3500BC Dolmen The Bridle Pathway to the 3500BC Dolmen combines nature with history as the 300 metre walkway has four information panels describing the native birdlife. The dolmen is a fine example of a portal tomb.

In the summer months, the familiar scent of garlic blossoms permeates the air from the garlic patch that was once used for cures in humans and animals.

Drum Monastic site A fascinating site, known locally as “the monastery�, Drum Monastic site boasts a medieval church, living quarters and 350 memorials. It is believed that a community of Patrician monks lived here. The remains of the Romanesque abbey and the church have been recently restored with a limestone altar erected in its original location. Open-air mass is celebrated here every June. This hallowed ground is also home to St Brigid’s Well with a life size statue of the

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St. Brigid’s Well

Drum Heritage Centre

saint added in 2010. The waters in thisholy well were once reputed to have healing powers. An annual Rosary Procession takes place from here.

Wake House Ireland’s only restored Wake House at Nure is located on an ancient funeral route to Clonmacnoise. It was once used by the noble families of the area. A Remembrance Park was created by Drum Heritage Group in the same field that is known to this day as the “Caoinna Marbh” or “crying of the dead” in English.

Thomastown Cemetery Another fine restoration is the Thomastown Cemetery, Church & Mausoleum. Inside there is a limestone plinth in memorial to the Forgotten Dead interred in the cemetery. The mausoleum houses the Naghten family, a prominent family who owned 5,000 acres of land in the area.

The Bridal Pathway

Hedge School

Sean O'Neachtain House

A cultural feature of the many restored heritage sites in Drum, the Curraghalenn Hedge School combines ruin with replica to recreate a 19th century Hedge School. This model depicts a scene recorded in the 1826 Survey of Schools in Ireland that described a wretched cabin with 12 boys and four girls, all barefoot. The interior contains informative wall panels depicting their labour outside of the school tending to flax crops.

The birthplace of one of Ireland’s greatest Gaelic scholars, poet and writer, Sean O'Neachtain House commemorates the life and legacy of this man. Housing a large collection of his literary works, several transcripts of Sean’s work and 54 of his most popular writings have been translated into English for exhibition.

Daniel O’ Connell On the June 18 1843, Daniel O’Connell, the Great Liberator who fought for Catholic rights in Ireland, addressed a crowd of 150,000 people in Drum. The Daniel O'Connell Memorial commemorates this visit as it was one of several meetings where O’Connell expressed his wish to have the Repeal of the Union with England withdrawn. The limestone plinth was erected here in 2006 on the lawn where O’Connell spoke.

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Sean also opened a Gaelic School in the Liberties area of Dublin and the majority of his writings are housed in the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin.

James Tormey Memorial During the War of Independence (19201921) an ambush at Cornafulla between the Black and Tans and the local Republican Brigade resulted in the death of James Tormey. The James Tormey Memorial stands here in his honour and has been lovingly restored by the Drum heritage group.

For more information on all of these sites, see www.drumheritage.ie.

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage © Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

Rock Solid Heritage

Moydrum Castle

There are a number of interesting historical sites around Athlone, wider County Westmeath and just over the border in Offaly. From castles to distilleries, stately homes to forts, these places hold a wealth of information about our heritage.

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The ruin of Moydrum Castle is situated a few kilometres from Athlone in Moydrum. The lands here were granted to the Handcock family in the 17th century plantation of Ireland. In the early 19th century, the MP William Handcock was made a Baron, the 1st Baron Castlemaine. The Baron then hired an architect to remodel and enlarge the existing family house there and the result was gothic-revivalist castle—completed in 1814.

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Burned down by the IRA during the War of Independence

The castle was burned down by the IRA during the War of Independence and completely destroyed, except for the ruin, which still stands. The castle is famous as the cover image for the band, U2’s fourth album, The Unforgettable Fire.

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Portlick Castle is a 12th century stronghold located on the shores of Lough Ree and has 30 acres of walled gardens, woodland and pasture. The castle and subsequent extensions have all been restored to a very high standard and it now serves as a luxury retreat. Other castles around Westmeath include Ballinlough Castle (home of the annual Body & Soul music festival), Tyrrellspass Castle, Clonyn Castle, Tullynally Castle and more.

Moate, near the border with county Offaly, is home to Dњn na S’ Heritage Centre & Park, which is a mix of heritage park, genealogy research centre and cultural centre. Replicas of megalithic monuments, traditional cottages, a hedge school and preserved machinery gives visitors an idea of what life was like in rural Ireland many years ago. In the evenings and weekends, there is often a Folklore Show with song, dance, storytelling and céilí music.

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Dún Na Sí Heritage Centre & Park

Kilbeggan Distillery

Kilbeggan is another town close to the Offaly border. It is famous as the home of Kilbeggan Distillery, the world’s oldest distillery—dating back to 1757.

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Only racecourse in Ireland where races are over jumps following National Hunt rules

The award-winning Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey originated here and visitors can tours learning about how the drink is made. After a single race, organised by a group of gentleman in March of 1840, Kilbeggan Racecourse was founded. It is the only racecourse in Ireland where races are over jumps following National Hunt rules and there are regular meetings.

Clonony Castle

The picturesque village of Shannonbridge is just over the Offaly border. The village has a Special Area of Conservation nearby, the Shannon Callows. The flat land here is home to a diverse assortment of mammals, birds and flora. Shannonbridge has a large fort from the Napoleonic era, which is now a restaurant.

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Home to a diverse assortment of mammals, birds and flora

Around seven kilometres up river lies the monastic settlement, Clonmacnoise (see pg 16). The Clonmacnoise and West Offaly Railway Bog Tour is a fascinating 45 minute train journey giving a guided tour across a working area of preserved peatlands, which boasts over 12,000 years of history, heritage and archaeology.

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© Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

Clonony Castle, an impressive tower house, dates back to 1519. This Tudor castle was built by the MacCoughlan clan, and ceded to Henry VIII and then to Thomas Boleyn when Henry wanted to marry his daughter Anne. Mary and Elizabeth Boleyn, second cousins to Queen Elizabeth I, lived in this castle and their tombstone still stands on the castle grounds. In the 19th century, the castle was converted to a private residence and is still privately owned today. It is located on the R357 Shannonbridge to Cloghan road and can be viewed from the road.

These are just a selection of historical sites around Athlone. Make sure to explore further afield!

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Athlone Guide History & Heritage

Clonmacnoise Clonmacnoise A site that is well worth seeing if you visit Athlone is the Clonmacnoise early Christian monastic site founded by St Ciaran in the 546AD. Located just 21 kilometres from Athlone in Shannonbridge, County Offaly, the site is known in Irish as ‘Cluain Mhic Nóis’, translating as ‘the meadow of the sons of Nós’.

Take a tour through one of the most important ancient monastic sites in Ireland and learn about the architecture and beautiful artwork made here as well as the lives of those who once called Clonmacnoise home.

Today, the site includes the ruins of three high crosses, a cathedral, seven churches (dating from the 10th to 13th centuries), two round towers and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe.

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This church is believed to have housed the scriptorium where many notable illuminated manuscripts were created.

Situated on the eastern bank of the Shannon River, Clonmacnoise was once a great centre of learning.

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Believed to have housed the scriptorium where many notable manuscripts were created

Well known manuscripts written here including the Annals of Tighernach (11th century) and the Book of Dun Cow (12th century).

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The strategic location made Clonmacnoise a major centre of religion and crafts attracting scholars and tradesmen from all over Europe.

Allied with the Kings of Meath from the ninth to eleventh centuries, many kings of Tara and Connacht were buried here. Temple Melaghlin holds seven generations of kings buried underneath.

Most of the ruins have undergone conservation works. In the interpretive centre, cross-slabs and a 9th century Cross of the Scriptures, a masterpiece of metal and stone, are just a taste of the wonders on display. Audiovisual displays and exhibitions showcase the history, archaeological artefacts, flora and fauna of the region.

Guided tours may be booked in advance for groups. Clonmacnoise is open all year round with a restaurant and tea room as well as bathroom facilities for visitors. For more information, call 090-9674195 or see www.heritageireland.ie.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Š Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

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If you’re seeking live entertainment and solace in artistic endeavours, Athlone has a broad cultural offering for all ages as well as fine educational institutions.

Arts, Culture

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education © Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

Culture & Learning Athlone has a rich cultural scene as well as a top class third level institution with innovation and creativity as its core.

hey say that “through the arts one can see the true beauty of humanity” and Athlone has produced and continues to nurture many eminent artists and events.

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John McCormack, an accomplished tenor, is probably the most famous name in Athlone’s artistic history.

He is known to have sung in Covent Gardens and earned the title of Papal Count from Pope Pius XI. Singers such as Louis Brown, another tenor, and Brendan Shine follow in the footsteps of this celebrated and decorated singer.

Other artists of note known to hail from these parts include the novelist John Broderick, after whom John Broderick Street is named, Irish language poet Sean O’Leochain (winner of the Michael Hartnett Poetry award in 2000) and poet and writer, Desmond Egan. Athlone certainly has no shortage of artistic talent.

Today, the arts are celebrated in Athlone with a selection of well-appointed theatres, libraries, galleries and more showcasing the wealth of creative flair in the midlands.

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An array of local, national and international performances grace venues like the Dean Crowe Theatre & Arts Centre, Athlone Little Theatre and local hotels throughout the year showing everything from comedy gigs to musicals and drama.

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The modern campus is a hive of educational and social activity all year round

Each year, Athlone’s love of theatre is celebrated in the RTÉ All Ireland Drama Festival. Held in the Dean Crowe Theatre, this is a week-long competition to crown the best in amateur drama from all over Ireland. The festival is supported by a free fringe event of street theatre, art exhibitions and much more.

Athlone Literary Festival has a plethora of events around the written word every

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

year too. Athlone is home to a number of musical and theatrical societies too.

Westmeath County Council recently established Athlone Arts & Tourism Ltd., to develop, support and promote the arts and cultural tourism in Athlone. The company operates Athlone Castle Visitor Centre & Museum, Luan Gallery, Abbey Road Artists' Studios and the athlone.ie website.

The Luan Gallery and Abbey Road Artists’ Studio work closely together to bring national and international projects and arts programmes to the local audience. Luan Gallery is housed in the newly restored Father Matthew Hall.

There are plans to commemorate Count John McCormack with a permanent exhibit in Athlone Castle Visitor Centre in Autumn 2014.

If you wish to invest in a piece of art or have an interest in hand-made crafts, there are plenty of smaller studios and galleries dotted in and about the town such as the Bastion Gallery and Glasson Craft Gallery. These and more have pieces by local artists on sale and host

exhibitions too. Should you go further afield, the eco-craft village in Ballinahown is worth a visit.

Members of Athlone Photography Club and Midlands Photography Club, as well as other keen amateur snappers document everyday life, the extraordinary beauty of the area and other subjects. Both clubs meet regularly and have occasional exhibitions.

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A selection of well-appointed theatres, arts centres, libraries, studios and galleries

Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) has thousands of undergraduate and postgraduate students enrolled in a variety of courses. From business to nursing, science to humanities, the college encompasses many interesting career paths and attracts a large number of international students annually too.

The modern campus is a hive of educational and social activity all year round.

There is always something to see and do in Athlone in terms of culture and education, whether you are an avid ‘culture vulture’, simply seeking out something different or ready to embark on a new learning experience.

Athlone also has a popular Film Club based in the Dean Crowe Theatre.

Athlone Film Club was established in 2008 to promote world/contemporary and classic films not usually shown in commercial cinemas. It was established under the Dean Crowe Trust.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Arts, Culture & Education

Don’t Miss:

• Being inspired by the artwork on display in Luan Gallery or Abbey Road Artists’ Studio.

• Catching a thrilling performance at the Dean Crowe Theatre & Arts Centre, Athlone Little Theatre or another local venue.

• Seeing artwork and crafts in a variety of galleries and centres in Athlone and the surrounding area.

• Taking a trip to Ballinahown Craft Village to view the spectacular examples of local art and design.

• Learning all about Count John McCormack, the operatic tenor, at Athlone Castle Visitor Centre from autumn 2014.

Luan Gallery Grace Road 090-6442154 www.athloneartandheritage.ie Since 2012, Athlone’s Luan Gallery has showcased both national and international visual art projects, ensuring a varied and engaging arts programme is delivered to the people of Athlone.

The gallery, built at a cost of €3.4 million, extends the well-known 1897 Fr Matthew Temperance Hall, which over the years has held many roles including cinema, town hall, library and concert hall. Luan Gallery has won both the RIAI Best Cultural Building 2013 and the coveted Civic Choice award in 2014.

To date, the gallery has hosted various shows including local, emerging artists such as Paul Quast and Séan Guinan, national upcoming talents as seen in the RDS Student Art Awards Travelling Exhibition, as well as established artists such as Catherina Hearne, Sinéad Ní Mhaonaigh and James Hanley RHA.

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lectures and classes.

Luan Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday from 11am-5pm and from 12-5pm on Sunday.

Showcased both national and international visual art projects

Luan Gallery promotes a strong educational programme throughout the year offering guided tours, workshops,

Luan Gallery

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Dean Crowe Theatre & Arts Centre

Dean Crowe Theatre & Arts Centre Chapel Street 090-6492129 www.deancrowetheatre.com For drama, comedy, musicals, opera, dance, art exhibitions and children’s events the Dean Crowe Theatre and Arts Centre is the talk of Athlone town.

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Uninterrupted views of the stage. The seats are generous and comfortable with ample leg room

A long established theatre with a reputation for entertaining productions, the Dean Crowe Theatre hosts a varied

programme of events throughout the year from professional production companies to amateur dramatics and everything in between; each performance has audiences enthralled.

Located on Athlone’s Left Bank, the theatre is housed in what used to be the SS. Peter and Paul parish church. When the new church was built in 1937, the old building was converted into a parochial hall. This was then used as a dance hall and more recently for performances.

One could not guess at the building’s origins these days as it now sports a cool grey exterior that exudes sophistication and echoes the drama that the theatre houses. The art gallery is the perfect space for exhibitions in any art form.

Bright and airy, with tall windows, it provides a space for the creative mind to breathe and the audience to appreciate the work.

Today, each of the balcony’s 128 seats and the stalls’ 338 seats enjoy fantastic uninterrupted views of the stage. The seats are generous and comfortable with ample leg room.

Patrons can order drinks at the theatre bar in advance of the performances and Best Of Ireland Series

the art gallery is also open for patron’s perusal. Tickets can be ordered online at www.deancrowetheatre.com or through the box office by calling 090-6492129 Monday-Friday, 10.30am-3.30pm.

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Bright and airy, with tall windows, it provides a space for the creative mind to breathe

Gift vouchers can also be purchased as the perfect gift for those who simply cannot get enough theatre in their lives.

The theatre is also home to the Athlone Film Club. The club’s aim is to show contemporary and classic films that are often ignored by commercial cinemas.

You can keep up to date with the film club’s programme on their Facebook and Twitter feeds or download their app.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Athlone Little Theatre St Mary’s Place 090-6474324 www.athlonelittletheatre.ie This community theatre may be small but more than makes up for it in its big heart and enthusiasm.

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Local people whose passion for drama keeps audiences coming year on year

The Little Theatre was founded in 1936 by Captain Michael Cosgrove of the Army Signal Corps and is one of the oldest drama groups in the country.

Seeing as how there was no suitable venue for plays at the time, the group had to rehearse in what is now sometimes referred to as ‘Little’ St Mary’s Hall. The venue, a former school, dates back to 1827.

The first production was the comedy The New Gossoon by George Shields and

Athlone Little Theatre

since then several hundred plays have been performed by many incarnations of the group. Typically, four or five plays are produced throughout the year.

The theatre—which underwent refurbishment last year—seats 100 patrons in very intimate, comfortable surroundings.

The crew and cast of Athlone Little Theatre is made up of local people whose

passion for drama keeps audiences coming year on year.

Regular updates and a wealth of photographs of past productions can be found on its website or for more information on productions/membership, email info@athlonelittletheatre.ie.

Abbey Road Artists’ Studios Abbey Road 090-6442154 www.athloneartandheritage.ie Once a workhouse and then a fire station, the unique building houses the Abbey Road Artists’ Studios since the launch in 2011.

The artists’ studios offer a dedicated space for local and visiting artists to develop their craft. The spirit of the project is to support professional artists and facilitate peer interaction, thereby boosting the creative heritage of Athlone town.

With four non residential studios and a large multipurpose space upstairs, this facility plays hosts to a variety of community cultural events as well as exhibitions, workshops and seminars.

Artists who have completed residencies to date include Geraldine Kretsch, Lawrence O’Neill, Ann

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Abbey Road Artists’ Studio

McGuinness, Lesley Wingfield, Emer O’Connor, Carol Kelly, Lucy KellyBest Of Ireland Series

Desmond, Rosemarie Langtry, Rose Finnerty and Paul Timoney.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Athlone I.T.

Athlone Institute of Technology Dublin Road 090-6468000 www.ait.ie Situated in the heart of Ireland, Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) offers students an education that equips them for career success. With a focus on realworld engagement, AIT’s approach to teaching and learning gives students the knowledge and skills sought by employers. This professional orientation is embedded across all faculties, through placements, project work and an applied research focus.

AIT offers more than 200 programmes on a full- and part-time basis from certificate through to PhD, across its faculties of business, humanities, engineering, science and lifelong learning. Amongst the cutting-edge qualifications offered by AIT are degrees in polymer engineering, cloud computing, civil engineering, sport science, veterinary nursing, nutrition, early years care and education, hotel and leisure management, graphic design, business psychology, digital marketing, and accounting.

This modern higher education institution has a state-of-the-art campus, the benefit of a €115 million investment since 2000. In addition to cutting-edge laboratories and lecture theatres, AIT’s sporting infrastructure boasts Olympicstandard indoor and outdoor facilities.

Students from more than 50 different nationalities call AIT home, small wonder given the personal welcome they

receive and the attention to ensuring that all students receive the very best education possible. Indeed, the institute has relationships with some 200 universities and research institutes around the globe, which creates a world of opportunities for AIT students to spend a semester or longer overseas.

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Modern institution with state-of-the-art facilities and a welcoming community

R&D is a core activity at AIT, particularly in the areas of materials science, bioscience and software. Three dedicated research institutes undertake a wide variety of applied research activity,

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in the process working very closely with industry, ranging from start-ups and SMEs through to multinationals.

In fact, this proximity to industry is recognised in terms of AIT’s leading role in innovation support, whether that be through the Enterprise Ireland-supported innovation voucher scheme, New Frontiers – the entrepreneur development programme offered in collaboration with NUI Maynooth, or AIT’s own innovation academy, known as InnovAIT. While AIT is the only third level institution located in the midlands, it is truly globally focused. That’s evident in terms of the scale of its ambition, and its remit to deliver a world-class service for the communities it serves.

Perhaps, it’s captured most eloquently in the diverse nature of its student population, where people from Ballinasloe and Beijing, Tullamore and Turin mingle easily and collaborate in the creation of fresh ideas and new learning.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Ballinahown Craft Village

The award-winning Ballinahown Eco-Craft Village is a must see for those visiting Athlone, and is located just a 15 minute drive away.

Ballinahown, Co. Westmeath www.ballinahowncraftvillage.com Located in a quaint village on the outskirts of Athlone town, the eco-craft village is a creative hub for Irish designers and makers.

What is unique about this craft village is that the artists are able to capture the essence of the midlands utilising the distinctive natural resources found in this area.

Here, you will find treasures you never imagined. Ballinahown Craft Village won the Cultural Tourism Awards for the Midlands Gateway region 2014.

Celtic Roots Studio 090-6430404 www.celticroots.ie The Celtic Roots Studio in the craft village is renowned for its stunning sculptures and jewellery crafted from Irish bogwood as well as a contemporary range of jewellery designed and made by Helen Conneely.

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Creative hub for Irish designers

Visitors can commission their own bogwood designs. Bogwood is formed from trees that became engulfed in Irish bogs thousands of years ago and the low oxygen atmosphere preserved the wood

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

to this day. The bogwood is slowly dried out over two years before it can be carved and polished, making it as precious as any jewel.

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Crafted from Irish bogwood

Each piece of bogwood jewellery is engraved with a special message connecting the wearer with the 5000 year history contained within the wood.

The studio is also on of seven Irish Économusée and one of 93, internationally.

An Économusée is where you can learn about the tradition and history of the craft, watch the item being made, interact with the artisan, and then buy the product in the artisan's boutique so you'll never forget your visit.

The studio also stocks items from a range of Irish designers and offers a special engraving service.

Core Crafted Designs The Old School 090-6430222 www.corecrafteddesign.com CORE - Offaly Westmeath Craft and Design is a craft project supporting over forty local craft makers who are based primarily in Westmeath & Offaly.

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The best in ceramics, jewellery, artwork, glass, wood, textiles and much more

As a social enterprise project CORE are at the forefront of supporting the professional development of the craft sector in both counties.

Quality, design and originality are paramount so the customer can be guaranteed they are getting the best in ceramics, jewellery, artwork, glass, wood, textiles and much more.

The outlet also hosts demonstrations and craft classes for those interested in developing their creative side.

Ballinahown Craft Village isn’t just for shopping. Enjoy a cup of tea in the Ballinahown Tea Rooms or meander about the playground and picnic area.

A visit provides fun for all the family.

It showcases a large selection of handmade jewellery, accessories, artisan foods and homewares.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education DID YOU KNOW?

Gates of Heaven The street names Northgate Street and Dublingate Street refer to the main points of entry and exit to the town in medieval times. These large gates formed part of the wall defences and were heavily guarded.

DID YOU KNOW?

Royal Visitors Famous visitors to Athlone include Princes Grace of Monaco and Queen Salote of Tonga.

Princess Grace stopped for afternoon tea in the Shamrock Lodge in 1961 while tracing her ancestral roots in Cong, Co. Mayo. The Queen Regent, Queen Salote of Tonga, famed for her height of 6 feet 3 inches, also paid a visit to the Shamrock Lodge in the sixties.

DID YOU KNOW?

Fact not Fiction Distinguished novelist and critic. John Broderick hails from Athlone Born in 1924 he penned 12 novels and wrote for the Irish Times and Hibernia. John Broderick Street is named after him.

Claypipe Centre

Claypipe Centre Knockcroghery, Co. Roscommon 090-666 1923 www.facebook.com/ClaypipeCentre Knockcroghery was renowned for almost 300 years for the production of clay pipes or ‘dúidíns’, and it’s here that Ethel Kelly has revived the tradition.

The history of clay pipes is an interesting one. They were smoked by men and women throughout the country years ago, and were particularly popular at wakes. The pipes often bore inscriptions that served as an indication of the smoker’s political inclination, while other inscriptions were purely decorative.

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Knockcroghery was renowned for almost 300 years for the production of clay pipes or ‘dúidíns’

By the late 1800s the majority of Knockcroghery’s villagers were involved in their manufacture for

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distribution throughout the country.

Production sadly ceased in 1921 when the village was burned during the War of Independence.

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The pipes often bore inscriptions that served as an indication of the smoker’s political inclination

Ethel’s workshop is located on the site of the once famous factory in the village.

She uses original moulds and tools to craft each pipe by hand as did the artisans of old. The result is a unique, authentic Irish craft pipe each and every time, making an excellent gift for anyone interested in Irish culture. The Claypipe Centre also has a limited number of antique pipe heads, framed and individually authenticated, resulting in a really rare piece of Irish history.

Open from 10am-5pm, Monday to Friday and from 11am-1pm on Saturday.

Just a short drive from Athlone town, the journey is well worth it for a truly unique souvenir.

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DID YOU KNOW?

Earl-y Editions The title of the Earls of Athlone was created three times. The first went to Godert de Ginkell, who received the honour for his part in the conquest of Ireland. The title was restored in 1890 and bestowed upon Prince Albert Victor, the eldest son of King Edward VII, and the third went to Alexander Cambridge, who renounced his German Title, Prince of Teck.

DID YOU KNOW?

This ain’t Batman’s Cape The Cape Town suburb of Athlone is named after Lord and Lady Athlone who resided there when the Earl was appointed Governor-General of the Union of South Africa in 1924. Their coastal beach house in Muizenberg still stands today as a treasured monument.

DID YOU KNOW?

He loves his Folk’n Country Folk/country singer and television presenter, Brendan Shine was born in Athlone in 1947. An accomplished accordion player, he has five Irish number 1 singles to his name and is perhaps best known for his songs ‘Do you Want your Old Lobby Washed Down’ and ‘Spuds’.

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education

Glasson Craft Gallery Glasson Village, Co. Westmeath 090-6439760/087-6484368 www.glassoncraft.ie

Home to the best in Irish art and craft, Glasson Craft Gallery is a must see for anyone with an interest in homegrown art.

Showcasing the work of over 50 Irish craft makers and artists in mediums such

as textiles, ceramics, woodcraft, fused glass, stone sculpture, jewellery, candles, soap and local artisan foods, you will be blown away by the quality of work on offer.

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For anyone with an interest in homegrown art

The Glasson Craft Gallery is also home to a small but carefully chosen art collection which features some gorgeous prints, paintings and photographic work

by Irish artists.

Gallery owner, Stephen Mitchell also provides an expert framing service offering advice on a large selection of frames and mount boards.

Stephen is also able to repair damaged frames, reproduce damaged photographs and laminate artwork.

Glasson Craft Gallery is open from 10.30am-6pm Wednesday to Saturday and Monday. You can find additional information on the gallery’s Facebook page.

Glasson Craft Gallery

The Bastion Gallery 6 Bastion Street 086-8437802 www.thebastiongallery.com The Bastion Gallery is an Aladdin’s cave of handmade gifts and jewellery.

Steeped in history, there has been a shop operating here for 180 years. Organist Michael Kilkelly ran a drapery shop here from the 1880s. He discovered and nurtured the voice of John Count McCormack.

Find the perfect gift for any occasion here. It stocks Ogham Treasure jewellery, hand painted Ogham Wishes, Bog Buddies, all handcrafted locally.

They also stock Alan Ardiff jewellery that moves, hand felted wool and silk scarves by Astrid Tomrop, ceramics by Thomas Lynam and Judy Green, prints

by Jill Parkinson and Susie Sullivan, Ursula Celano bags and aprons and photography by Mark Duffy. Samh handmade soap, handmade dolls by Helga Pikal, pearls for girls, costume jewellery with real pearls and Jellycat toys can also be found instore.

You can own a little piece of Irish history when you buy a handcrafted ogham treasure silver pendant in the

form of ancient ogham ,the first written form of Gaelic. Choose from the words “happiness”, “love”, “health”, “music” or “family” or one carved with the word “grá” (the Gaelic for love.)

Browsers are welcome. Michael Jackson and his family spent two hours here in 2006. Open Tuesday to Saturday 12.30 – 6pm in summer. Next day

shipping is available when you buy from the website.

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Aladdin’s cave of handmade gifts and jewellery

The Bastion Gallery

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Athlone Guide Arts, Culture & Education Bust of John McCormack

Athlone’s

Singing Son John McCormack orld-famous tenor, John Francis Count McCormack, was born in Athlone in June 1884.

He was the fourth of 11 children born to Andrew McCormack and Hannah Watson and was baptised in St. Mary's Church, Athlone. His parents were employed at the Athlone Woollen Mills.

McCormack received his early

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Most celebrated lyric tenor of his time

education from the Marist Brothers in Athlone, and he later attended Summerhill College in Sligo. A naturally gifted singer, his first engagements were singing as part of a church choir.

He won a gold medal of the Dublin Feis Ceol in 1903 and after fundraising was done on his behalf, McCormack travelled to Italy in 1905 to receive voice training by Vincenzo Sabatini, who enhanced his technical skill.

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In 1906, he made his operatic début at the Teatro Chiabrera in Savona and the year after, he made his first London stage appearance in Mascagni’s, Cavalleria rusticana, becoming the Royal Opera House’s youngest principal tenor at 23.

He began performing in America in 1909 and travelled all over the world performing. He made his name singing opera—retiring from the operatic stage only in 1923—but he is perhaps better known for his popular music songs.

By 1912, he was starting to do many more concert performances, where he was renowned for his vocal quality and stage presence. He was regarded as the most celebrated lyric tenor of his time.

He started making records in the early 20th century and these would have been played widely on radio.

His well known repertoire included ‘I hear you calling me’, ‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’, ‘Keep the homes fires burning’, ‘Macushla’ and ‘The last rose of summer’ to name but a few.

He appeared in several films as well.

He became a US citizen in 1917 and lived there for much of his life. John McCormack was also a very generous man who performed a lot to benefit charities like The Red Cross and donated a sizeable amount of money to charity.

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In 1928, he received the title of Papal Count from Pope Pius XI in recognition of his work for Catholic charities.

He continued performing into the late 1930s/early 1940s before he was forced to retire due to ill health. Sick with emphysema in his final years, he bought a house near the sea in Booterstown, Dublin. He died on September 16 1945 and is buried in Deansgrange Cemetery, Dublin.

A new exhibition about John McCormack will open in Athlone Castle Visitor Centre in autumn 2014.

John McCormack’s former home

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Athlone Guide Festivals & Events

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Athlone has plenty of festivals and events on all year round and there is something for everyone in the great selection.

Festivals & Events

Š Waterways Ireland Triathlone

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Athlone Guide Festivals & Events © Emilia Krysztofiak RUA Photography

Festival

Fever

The fun never stops in Athlone with a great variety of festivals and events on throughout the year. So whether it is music, drama or literature that you are into, or whether you want a fun day out with the family, there is sure to be a festival in Athlone for you.

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For the last several years, Dubarry Park in Athlone—home of Buccaneers RFC—has hosted the home games for the Ireland team in the prestigious Under 20 Six Nations Tournament in February/March (www.rbs6nations.com/en/u20). Here, some of the country’s up and coming

© Waterways Irelan

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international players fight it out for the coveted trophy.

If fishing is a passion or simply a pastime, check out the Lough Ree Pike Angling Festival in April. It is open to all anglers and is held over three days. The second largest lake on the Shannon, Lough Ree is 16 miles long and offers quality of its pike angling.

In May, amateur dramatics groups from all over the country come to compete in the RTÉ All-Ireland Drama Festival (www.dramafestival.ie) hosted by the Dean Crowe Theatre. Over 60 years old, this festival is the theatrical event of the season as it showcases the very best of Irish amateur theatre. The top nine amdram groups that qualify for a place in this final present a full length production each, spread over nine nights.

Each group will try to outdo one another in the drama stakes to claim the prestigious Festival Trophy as well as other major acting, technical and production awards. But the celebrations are not confined to the stage as you will Best Of Ireland Series

see plenty of street theatre, art exhibitions and workshops for all age groups held throughout the town.

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Groups from all over the country come to compete in the RTÉ AllIreland Drama Festival

Over the June Bank Holiday Weekend, the annual Goldsmith International Literary Festival (www.goldsmithfestival.ie) is held in the South Longford-Westmeath area, mainly in Ballymahon. The poet, Oliver Goldsmith, spent time in the area and some of his walks are thought to refer to it. Events are diverse with lectures, discussions, tours and more.

In June, Athlone Regatta (www.rowingireland.ie) packs a lot into one day. The scenic venue at Coosan

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Athlone Guide Festivals & Events © Waterways Ireland Triathlone

RTE All-Irel and Dram a

Point is perfect and it often caters for nearly 40 different races in various rowing categories.

Arguably, the sporting highlight of the year in Athlone is the Waterways Ireland Triathlone in July (www.triathlone.com).

Whether you are a triathlon veteran or it’s your first tri’, this event is open to all with a triathlon license (special one day passes for this event can be purchased online).

Athlone is the ideal setting for a triathlon with the natural resource of the mighty river Shannon and a state of the art athletics compound in Athlone Institute of Technology. Whether you are going for gold or trying to beat your personal best, there are three difficulty levels of race to challenge you with. The streets and scenery of Athlone town are the perfect backdrop to this summer challenge.

Go back in time with a Medieval Fair, which will take place at Athlone Castle on July 12 & 13 with lots of medieval themed events and fun activities (www.athlonecastle.ie).

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Ideal setting for a triathlon with the natural resource of the mighty river Shannon

Also in July is a race of another sort—the Race of the South Motorcycle Road Race (www.foremcrc.com) in Walderstown, Athlone. This is a round of the Irish Championship Motor Cycle Road Racing and takes place on closed public roads with 11 races on the main race day (Sunday). Competitors from all over Ireland and overseas take part.

Competitors can clock up speeds close to 200 miles an hour and many notable names in motorcycle racing attend.

Festival

to engage in a wide range of sporting and cultural activities. Up to 4,000 children can compete for their area, town, county and province in these national finals.

Originally called the John Broderick Weekend, celebrating the life and work of celebrated Athlone writer John Broderick, the festival has expanded to become the Athlone Literary Festival, held annually in October. Athlone plays host to a series of exhibitions, readings, workshops and more to celebrate literature in all its forms.

There will be creative writing workshops and a range of speakers including academics, poets, novelists and publishers offering advice and telling their stories.

The HSE Community Games Festival (www.communitygames.ie) will be held in Athlone over two weekends in August 2014. The Community Games is independent voluntary organisation and National Governing Body, which provides opportunities for children and young people Best Of Ireland Series

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Athlone Guide Festivals & Events

ram reland D RTE All-I

l a Festiva

Š Wate rways Ir elan

Also in October, the annual Ballinasloe Horse Fair & Festival (www.ballinasloeoctoberfair.com) in Galway attracts up to 100,000 visitors and is one of the oldest horse fairs in Europe.

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Christmas time is a special time and Athlone gets well behind the festive spirit

Christmas time is a special time and Athlone gets well behind the festive spirit. Among many events, the town centre and wider Athlone comes alive for Christmas with an assortment of events

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like fairs, craft workshops and appearances by santa.

For fans of all things equestrian, there are numerous meetings all year round at venues near Athlone the Kilbeggan Races (www.kilbegganraces.com) and Roscommon Races (www.roscommonracecourse.ie).

Aside from large scale events in the town, there are many regular small events like sports of all types, art exhibitions, concerts, plays and much more in places like the AIT International Arena, the Dean Crowe Theatre, Luan Gallery and local hotels.

See www.athlone.ie for more up to date listings.

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Athlone Guide Activities

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There is a lot to see and experience in and around beautiful and scenic Athlone. Make sure to get active, explore and enjoy.

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Athlone Guide Activities

Don’t Miss:

Activities

• Boating, kayaking, rowing, sailing, fishing and enjoying watersports on the River Shannon or nearby Lough Ree. • Seeing the sights or simply enjoying a gentle cruise on a boat tour.

• Letting the kids run free in a variety of safe settings.

• Enjoying indoor fun at the cinema and local leisure and sports centres.

• Getting out in the fresh air for a stroll, a hike or adventure activity in nearby forests and parks.

• Cheering until hoarse at a local sporting event.

• Driving toward perfect game on one of many golf courses.

Athlone Marina

Athlone Marina Abbey Road 090-6478687 One of the prettiest sights on the Shannon in Athlone is the bobbing boats of Athlone Marina and this great facility is very well equipped for mooring boats when visiting or on a more long-term basis.

Located between the town bridge and the railway bridge, it has a mooring capacity of 87 cruisers—within easy

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access of the town centre.

The marina includes a reception area with toilets, showers, baby changing facilities, laundry facilities, a sheltered Best Of Ireland Series

seating area and a private landscaped garden.

The security service operates daily between 8am and midnight.

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Athlone Guide Activities

Viking Tours 7 St Mary’s Place 086-2621136 www.vikingtoursireland.ie

The ship departs from the quayside of Athlone Castle; tickets can be bought on board. Cruise seasons typically run from Easter to October.

History truly comes to life on this Viking Tour, tracing the watery path of Norse warriors.

The tour can take in Athlone Castle on its meander along the Shannon; the great “lake of kings”, Lough Ree or even famous monastic site, Clonmacnoise.

The ship itself is a 21 metre replica of a Viking ‘knarr’ with a covered in area for the comfort of passengers.

While the ship is the perfect blend of undeniable character and homage to the Viking longboats of old, those aboard will also enjoy a few luxuries that Viking warriors certainly didn’t have like a snack shop and free Wi-Fi. Each tour is also led by a professional guide, guaranteed to make sure that your group makes the most out of the cruise. A Viking Tour is also the perfect idea for an unforgettable party forany occasion.

Trips to Lough Ree run daily. The return trip to Clonmacnoise can be by bus or by boat (cost of admission to the monastery is not included in the price of the boat tour but special group rates can be provided upon request).

Viking Tours provide an experience that combines Ireland’s wild beauty with echoes of the exhilarating past.

Viking Tours

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Athlone Guide Activities

Baysports Hodson Bay Boat Training and Watersports Centre, Hodson Bay 090-6494801 www.baysports.ie Fancy kayaking, pier-jumping, boating and biking about the shores of the majestic Lough Ree on the river

Shannon? Look no further than Baysports for seriously dynamic fun in your leisure time.

Baysports is perfectly located at Hodson Bay, offering a world of waterbased events suiting any and all ages or skill levels.

It runs an impressive array of activities available in beautiful surroundings. Against a backdrop of truly breathtaking scenery, groups and

individuals alike can engage in any level of lakeside pursuits.

From the unique and new Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark to kayaking, sailing, raft-building to boat and bike trips, power-boating or simply relaxing on a cruise, Baysports is the place to go.

Stag and hen parties are well catered for but it is also a perfect day out for any special occasion.

Groups with special needs are especially welcome, as are school tours and corporate team-building events.

Baysports' tourist-tailored packages are second to none and located close to all major hotels and accommodation in the Lough Ree area.

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Seriously dynamic fun

For those who fancy something a little different for their holiday time, Baysports offers unmissable opportunities to immerse yourself in the finest of scenery and have an unforgettable time along the way. Email info@baysports.ie for more information.

Baysports

Lakeside Marina Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485479/086-8235197 www.lakesidemarina.ie Family-owned and run, Lakeside Marina on Lough Ree is the ideal place to berth your vessel or purchase a boat.

The facilities here are excellent and include mooring facilities for boats of all sizes, full marina back-up including lift out facilities for up to 50 tonnes or 60 foot, full workshop facilities and marine engineers on site.

There is also indoor storage for up to 50 boats and full chandlery on site as well as a Marina Clubhouse. Each berth has its own power and water supply and is sheltered from the elements.

Your vessel will be safe and secure at Lakeside Marina with a top of the range security system with 16 on-site cameras, the owners living on-site and it has a fine reputation for security.

Any vessels over 60 foot can be drydocked here. Should you get into difficulty, Lakeside Marina has its own tug boat and 22 metre pumping platform.

Boat rescue and salvage are provided in any part of the Shannon. The on-site

engineers and technicians can carry out all manner of repairs.

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Ideal place to berth your vessel

The chandlery carries an extensive range of stock for all your boating needs.

Check out www.lakesidechandlery.com for a full list of stock.

Lakeside Marina also offers boat transport in Ireland or any part of Europe. For more information, contact lakesidemarina@eircom.net.

Lakeside Marina

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Athlone Guide Activities DID YOU KNOW?

Cain on McCormack American crime writer, James M. Cain refers to Athlone in his 1937 book Serenade, in a passage where two characters discuss the tenor John McCormack: "They speak a fine brogue in Athlone, almost as fine as in Belfast"… There's two things a singer can't buy, beg or steal, and that no teacher, coach or conductor can give him. One is his voice, the other is the language that was born in his mouth. When McCormack was singing Handel, he was singing English and he sings it as no American and no Englishman will ever sing English.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Rugby Star Irish rugby union player, Robbie Henshaw, was born in Athlone in 1993. He currently plays for Irish province Connacht, in the Pro12 league and the Heineken Cup. Having represented Ireland at schools, under-18 and under-19 levels, he has been capped for both the senior international squad and Ireland Wolfhounds. Henshaw plays club rugby with Buccaneers RFC.

DID YOU KNOW?

Boxing Clever Athlone is the birthplace of Jimmy Elliot, born in 1838. He was the world heavyweight boxing champion from 1865 to 1868. In 1870, Elliott was arrested for serious crimes and sentenced to nearly 17 years at Eastern State Penitentiary in Philadelphia. He was released in 1879 but was shot in a saloon in Chicago in 1883, dying soon after.

DID YOU KNOW?

Battle Honour An Irish recipient of the Victoria Cross, Thomas Flynn from Athlone received the cross for “conspicuous gallantry, in the charge on the Enemy's guns on the 28th November, 1857, when, being himself wounded, he engaged in a hand to hand encounter two of the Rebel Artillerymen”.

He is one of the youngest people to ever be awarded such an honour.

DID YOU KNOW?

Write On Journalist, writer and playwright Declan Lynch hails from Athlone. He has published eight books with titles such as Ireland on Three Million Pounds a Day, Free Money and other books on the subject of football called Days of Heaven – Italia 90 and the Charlton Years. He currently works as a writer for The Sunday Independent newspaper.

Barracuda Boat Trips

Barracuda Boat Trips Church Street 087-2301981 www.barracudaboattrips.com Cruising the waterways is the perfect opportunity to see the midlands from a unique perspective so for anyone wanting a tour with a difference, Barracuda Boat Trips is the perfect antidote.

Far from something like a walkabout tour, embrace beauty and diversity on the River Shannon, or a 90 minute cruise taking in the sites and inner lakes around Lough Ree. See the world-famous countryside from Ireland's longest river.

Barracuda Boat Trips also offers bespoke tours to suit every type of outing, and is ideal for hen or stag trips with a touch of class. The boat trips can be customised to suit the needs of any group tour, allowing the boat for their sole use for the duration of the trip, making it perfect for private functions, company events or corporate entertainment. Safety and fun are to Best Of Ireland Series

the forefront.

Those with eyes for the more historical aspects of their holiday destination can avail of group bookings to the ancient historical monastic site of Clonmacnoise, established by Saint Ciarån in 545 AD.

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Barracuda Boat Trips also offers bespoke tours to suit every type of outing

Barracuda Boat Trips also offer full or half-day fishing trips for the more active holidaymaker. Cruises to Wineport, Mansred, Glasson Golf and Country Club and Hodson Bay Hotel are available.

With ample pick-up points, it is an accessible and immensely enjoyable way to experience the lush surroundings of Athlone and nearby areas.

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Athlone Guide Activities

Family Fun! Athlone is amazing when it comes to family fun. There are so many family friendly activities suitable for children and adults alike you will be spoiled for choice.

From pet farms to boat tours, adventure centres and flying models, the only problem is what will you do next?

Kids love animals, and a great place to get up close to some beautiful creatures is at Glendeer Pet Farm (090-6437147).

An award-winning 12 acre open farm there are goats, sheep, emu, donkeys, cows, llamas, chicken and deer to see and each child is given a bag of feed to share with the animals. You can even bring a picnic or tire the kids out at the playground.

Viking Boat Tours (086-2621136; see pg 35) and Barracuda Boat Trips (0872301981; see pg 37) are a fun way to enjoy the water, as are the many activities offered by Baysports (0906494801; see pg 36).

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Athlone Regional Sports Centre (0906470975; see pg 39) offers plenty of active pursuits as does The Planet Athlone (090-6494766; see pg 39), where you can play snooker, Laser Quest, 10 pin bowling and more.

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There are so many family friendly activities suitable for children and adults alike you will be spoiled for choice

If the weather is poor, as it sometimes is in Ireland, a trip to the cinema can be in order. Athlone has a six screen IMC Cinema (090-6476655) showing all the latest releases.

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There are two more indoor adventure centres guaranteed to tucker out any child. Jump 4 Joy Adventure Centre (090-6498450) has massive slides, crazy golf, bungee trampolines, air hockey, pool tables and so much more. Krazy Kids (090-6486882) has a basketball court, ball pools, climbing frames, crawling tunnels and more.

Athlone Equestrian Centre (0862433609) provides a safe and fun environment for adults and kids to learn how to ride horses with pony camps, forest treks and pony play sessions.

Lough Key Forest & Activity Park (071-9673122; see pg 41)is a drive away in Boyle, Co. Roscommon but has lots to do in the great outdoors.

There are many other child-friendly activities in Athlone i.e. Athlone Castle has some brilliant interactive exhibits so kids (and parents) have plenty of options, rain or shine.

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Athlone Guide Activities

The Planet Athlone Grace Road 090-6494766 www.planetathlone.ie Looking to jam-pack a day with just about as much fun filled activities as you can handle? The Planet Athlone has it all

under the one roof and just minutes from the town centre.

State of the art facilities can be expected in this all-encompassing fun factory, including the adrenaline pumping, all new Quasar laser game, top class 10 pin bowling lanes and championship standard American pool and snooker tables.

Some of the best and latest computer

games and simulators including shootem-ups, driving carnage games, coin machines and arcade games.

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Jam-pack a day with just about as much fun filled activities as you can handle!

There are special areas just for kids too. The all new Adventureland and soft play area is the perfect space to exert all that excess energy, with slippery slides, rope bridges, a huge ball pit and much more…. and no grown ups allowed!

The Planet Health and Fitness Club boasts top of the line fitness equipment and one on one service from the professional staff whether about nutrition or exercise.

Whatever the occasion or group size, The Planet Athlone offers custom packages to suit all. From birthdays to corporate team building events, you’ll be well looked after.

The Planet Athlone

Athlone Regional Sports Centre Ballymahon Road 090-6470975 www.athlonesportscentre.ie Sports and fitness are part and parcel of life in Athlone and there is no better way to get fit and keep fit than at the Athlone Regional Sports Centre.

Delivering a first class gym, 25m swimming pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi as well as a wide variety of fitness classes in the morning and evening. The membership rates at Athlone Regional Sports Centre are very competitive and there is also a pay and go facility for visits to Athlone.

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There is no better way to get fit and keep fit

Whether you want to get your muscles toned up in the gym, have an

Athlone Regional Sports Centre

invigorating swim in the pool, unwind in the sauna, steam room or Jacuzzi, Athlone Regional Sports Centre caters for all needs.

Parents can breathe easy with an onsite crèche to take care of your little ones while you work out.

Those who love to skate can keep fit Best Of Ireland Series

on the outdoor skate park free of charge or entertain the little ones in the outdoor adventure playground.

The coffee shop offers light refreshments where you can enjoy a well deserved coffee after your workout. The café facility can be booked for functions and parties too.

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Athlone Guide Activities

Parks &

Playgrounds

Parks & Playgrounds Athlone has a great town park, nearby nature areas and a variety of playgrounds to enjoy Burgess Park is a beautiful riverside park, named for Thomas Burgess who founded Burgess of Athlone, Department Store on Church Street in the town.

William Burgess donated the park to the

town in 1924. From the steps in the park, there are fine views of the sweep of the weir, which was built as part of the Shannon navigation works of the 1840s.

Burgess Park also has a kid’s playground area and is an ideal location for a stroll beside the River Shannon.

Athlone Regional Sports Centre has a skatepark and an adventure playground with swings, slides and climbing frames.

There is a small playground near Golden Island Shopping Centre and

others scattered around the town.

Coosan Point, near Athlone, has a playground and its scenic location on the banks of Lough Ree makes it a lovely location for walks and you can feed the ducks here too.

Lough Boora Parkland and Portlick Millennium Forest, both near Athlone, have plenty of soothing walks and green areas for little ones to run around in too.

Cinema in Athlone There is a six screen IMC Cinema in Athlone located in the Golden Island Shopping Centre (090-6476655). This shows all the latest releases, from children’s movies to Hollywood blockbusters.

Athlone also has a popular Film Club based in the Dean Crowe Theatre.

Athlone Film Club was established in 2008 to promote world/contemporary and classic films not usually shown in commercial cinemas. It was established under the Dean Crowe Trust.

The club has a membership price for all its films over an entire season but film fans can also buy tickets for a single film. For information on the club and its programme, see www.facebook.com /AthloneFilmClub.

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Athlone Guide Activities

Lough Key Forest & Activity Park Boyle, Co. Roscommon 071-9673122 www.loughkey.ie Enter a world of adventure that promises to be fun for all the family! It’s the perfect place to do as much or as little as you like.

The park encompasses a landmark cluster of unique attractions offering gentle leisurely pursuits or energetic activities. Lough Key offers great fun, so much so, that once you arrive you will never want to leave!

You can spend fun-filled hours experiencing the quests in Boda Borg, a unique activity to Ireland that is unaffected by the weather and suitable for adults and children over seven years.

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Enter a world of adventure that promises to be fun for all the family

To survive the quests you will need to employ many different skills you may not even be aware you have such as teamwork, ingenuity and trial and error!

Solving one challenge opens the door to the next and another blast of curiosity,

laughter and excitement. The quest requires a minimum of three people and a max of five.

Watch the younger children discover a magical land of stimulating and innovative play equipment in the Adventure Play Kingdom. This dynamic, colourful and safe environment will keep children of all ages entertained for hours.

Go back in time on the Lough Key Experience as you are guided through the old 19th century servant tunnels that once belonged to Rockingham House and experience Ireland’s only Tree Canopy Walk as it gently rises above the forest floor. This is a self-guided tour which allows you get lost in time

and a tour that can be enjoyed at your own pace.

Revive and re-energise in The Lakeside Café, where you can enjoy Fair-trade coffee and tea with sweet delights and savoury snacks overlooking the beautiful vista of Castle Island and Lough Key. Also in the park, Electric Bike Trails, www.electricbiketrails.ie, have conventional bikes, bikes with carriages for family use and electric bikes for hire.

Woodland Segway, www.woodlandsegway.ie, offers guided tours and fun glides through the park – an innovative way to see the wider park area. Other activities include Zipit Forest Adventures and Lough Key Boat Tours.

Lough Key Forest & Activity Park

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Athlone Guide Activities

Sports

in Athlone

thlone has a lot to offer in terms of sports, outdoor pursuits and spectacle—truly earning its designation as the European Town of Sport for 2013.

The town’s location at the foot of Lough Ree, makes it a haven for waterbased activities. From rowing, canoeing, kayaking and sailing to the more adrenalin-fuelled wind surfing, diving and jet skiing, you’ll be inundated with the choice of water sports.

You can take to the water in a more leisurely fashion with yacht hire, a

A “

European Town of Sport for 2013

guided tour by boat or just cruising on the riverbanks. Sailing regattas make for colourful events to watch from the banks and lakeshores.

Athlone is a great base for anglers and Athlone Anglers Association (0872340815) hosts over 20 competitions per year.

If you’d rather remain on dry land, facilities like the Athlone Regional Sports Centre (see pg. 39) and The Planet Health Club (see pg. 37) meet your fitness needs. Athlone has plenty to offer golf enthusiasts (see pgs 44-45).

Over 20 golf courses are located within a 40 minute drive of Athlone town.

Westmeath Sports Partnership (044-

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9390208) is also very active in Athlone.

You can also watch see local sporting talent in action. ‘The pride of the Midlands’, Athlone Town FC (www.athlonetownfc.ie), draws regular crowds to its home games.

Founded in 1887, the team is still going strong. It won the First Division Airtricity League of Ireland Championship in 2013 after a 1-0 win over Waterford United.

The impressive Athlone Town Stadium, known locally as ‘Lissywollen’, was constructed in 2007 and can hold up to 5,000 people (2,024 seated).

Gaelic Games are played widely and you can shout for one of the teams at local club grounds like Athlone GAA club (www.athlone.gaa.ie) which was founded in 1885.

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For rugby, Buccaneers Rugby Club ground (www.buccaneersrfc.com) is the place to go. As well as local competitive matches, the Ireland Under 20s Six Nations Championship games have been hosted here for the last few years.

The Athlone Institute of Technology International Arena (see pg. 43) hosts a range of athletics championships and training courses. Athlone has a strong triathlon club (www.athlonetriathlonclub.com) and the town hosts the large scale Triathlone event (www.triathlone.com) annually.

If you fancy a bet, the nearby Kilbeggan Racecourse (www.kilbegganraces.com) holds numerous meetings throughout the year.

For more information on local sports events, see www.athlone.ie.

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Athlone Guide Activities

AIT International Arena Athlone Institute of Technology, Dublin Road 090-6483018 www.aitsport.ie The “best news story in Irish athletics history”—that is the verdict of Eamonn Coghlan on the AIT International Arena, which opened its doors to the public in February 2013.

The ‘Chairman of the Boards’ isn’t alone in his high praise of the €10m-plus indoor athletics facility situated on the campus of Athlone Institute of Technology.

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Sure to enhance the ability of many Irish athletes to train at a high level

According to Sonia O’Sullivan, herself no stranger to sporting success at the very highest level: “The investment and foresight by AIT will be sure to enhance the ability of many Irish athletes to train at a high level throughout the winter months and also perform at home in front of their friends and family in a world-class facility.”

Anyone who has had the good fortune to visit the Olympic-standard arena and see it in action will realise that this isn’t

mere hyperbole. Walking from the foyer to the six-lane 200m track, the visitor experiences a growing sense of awe, for this is truly a magical sporting venue.

The scale of the arena is genuinely impressive and the magnificent wall of glass, which backs the far side of the track creates a sense of light and space that lives long in the memory.

Of course, the “wows”, “oohs” and “aahs” are not just reserved for the arena as a venue, but for the sporting action it has played host to. In this sense, the AIT International Arena genuinely is a venue for the entire community.

Local primary school children relish running on its boards, while the Olympic decathlon champion and world record holder, Ashton Eaton, declared the inaugural AIT Grand Prix this year “a great event”. “Ireland rules” was his

verdict on Twitter.

Not surprisingly, the arena has hosted the cream of Irish and international athletics talent. West Waterford AC athlete, Joe Gough, set the stadium’s first world record in the M60 800m, and with stadium records falling on a regular basis, the AIT International Arena is cementing its reputation as a fast track.

For now, the focus of the team at AIT is on enhancing the facilities in the arena, with ambitious plans to open an elite gym this autumn well advanced, while the institute’s sport science testing facilities are currently utilised by some of the top sportsmen and women in the region.

The verdict from athletics professional and enthusiastic amateur alike, the AIT International Arena is undoubtedly a theatre of dreams.

A.I.T. International Arena

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Athlone Guide Activities

Golfing Heaven Athlone Golf Club Hodson Bay 090-6492073 www.athlonegolfclub.ie One of the oldest golf clubs in the Midlands (established 1892) Athlone Golf Club is a scenic, parkland gem that attracts over 4500 visitors a year.

The pleasant, rolling fairways set on Lough Ree will set you in a relaxed state of mind for a memorable game of golf on this championship course.

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After your game, you can kick back at the fabulous clubhouse. Rest and enjoy drinks, food and a chat in the Golf Bar and Restaurant where you can expect excellent value for money combined with a warm welcome.

You can also stock up on gear and top golfing brands by visiting the pro shop.

Visitors are welcome seven days a week but it is advised to book ahead. Every

Athlone Golf Club is a scenic, parkland gem

The natural water features and the many deep bunkers provide a challenge for even the most seasoned golfer.

Professional Kevin Grealys is available to book if you want any hints and tips on how to improve your game.

Athlone Golf Club

DID YOU KNOW?

Media Centre Athlone is the capital and commercial centre of the Midlands Region and Co. Westmeath.

Three newspapers are published here including the Athlone Advertiser, Westmeath Independent and Offaly Independent as well as Athlone Community Radio on 88.4FM.

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Wednesday is ‘Open Wednesdays’, which includes 18 hole competitions for ladies and men.

Membership rates for new members are as low as €450. Special rates for families, juniors and weekday members are also available.

A Ladies Golf Taster programme and an expanding range of Gents’ Intro Initiatives are also available.

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Athlone Guide Activities

Glasson Golf Club Killinure, Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485120 www.glassongolfhotel.ie Enjoy a game of golf or three on one of the most challenging and scenic golf courses in Ireland.

Designed by Ryder Cup Star Christy O’Connor Jr, this mature course is crafted to challenge amateurs and pros alike. Glasson has played host to the European Challenge Tour in 2007 and 2008 and has been awarded the IGTOA Golf Resort of the Year award in 2011 in recognition of the superb facilities. There are special offers available for societies and groups.

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Challenges amateurs and pros alike

Mount Temple Golf & Country Club Mount Temple Village, Moate, Co. Westmeath 090-6481841/090-6481545 www.mounttemplegolfclub.com Whether you are a seasoned golfer or new to the game, an unforgettable experience awaits at Mount Temple Golf and Country Club.

This scenic links-style, full 18-hole, par 72 course is set in the natural beauty of the fertile midlands countryside— offering an invigorating challenge to all.

To improve your game, golf lessons from Professionals Philip Murphy and Mel Flanagan can be arranged at a time that suits.

At the charming clubhouse, golfers can unwind after the game and enjoy refreshments. This clubhouse is one of the most striking in Ireland and

Golfing in Athlone at Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club is an experience not to be missed. The course is cleverly crafted, so you can tee off for a relaxing round while soaking up the Glasson atmosphere, or test your game to championship level.

Since its inception in 1993, Glasson golf course has hosted a range of regional and international championship finals highlighting the calibre of the golf course.

The golf course is complemented by a 65 bedroom luxury hotel; the first tee is just a minutes walk from the front door.

It is the ideal location for societies, corporate golf days and mini golf breaks.

See page 75 for details on Glasson Country House Hotel.

comprises of a renovated farmhouse and other farm buildings. The state of the art changing rooms are another highlight.

Located just outside Athlone, the course is in close proximity to various types of accommodation. Its very helpful website gives details of places to stay, with options to suit all.

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Scenic links-style, full 18-hole, par 72 course

Open competitions run on the course throughout the golfing season, with a special green fee offer on Fridays. Green fees for non-members are set at between €20 and €25 per game.

The per annum membership fees vary and enquiries are welcome.

Mount Temple Golf & Country Club

Glasson Golf Club

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Athlone Guide Activities

Get into

Nature in Athlone

Nothing beats the great outdoors when it comes to fitness and relaxation but you don’t have to travel far to find some scenic trails to hike or picturesque spots to picnic in around Athlone.

Those who love being active will find plenty to keep themselves fit in the beautiful Irish countryside.

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Athlone has great marina facilities should you wish to bring your own vessel

The Lough Boora Parkland is a fantastic 2,000 hectare site filled with natural and manmade lakes, wetlands and woodlands with over 50km of walkways. This park was once part of the Boora bog complex and is the oldest

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area of commercial production.

Now transformed into a wildlife haven, Lough Boora is open all year round for wildlife enthusiasts young and old to explore the native flora and fauna.

On the eastern shore of Lough Ree, Portlick Millennium Forest is home to many native tree varieties such as hazel, ash and oak amongst others. The forest comes alive in spring and summer with a host of bluebells, primroses, violets and flowers of all sorts. There are separate trails for walkers and for horses. The Millennium Forests contain trees planted for each family in Ireland. Go to www.millenniumforests.com to find your family’s millenium tree.

If you want more of a challenge, Athlone Walking Club arrange trips both near and far. A good level of fitness is required for their walks and booking is essential. Check out their website for more details on their 2014 programme.

Lough Ree is great for fishing, sailing and other water sports. Lough Ree is also ideal for lakeside strolls, bird watching

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and photography, with many an opportunity of capturing the lake’s stunning summer sunsets.

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Nothing beats the great outdoors when it comes to fitness and relaxation

There are plenty of little islands dotted about the lake which are ripe for exploration on any sunny day. Athlone has great marina facilities should you wish to bring your own vessel.

Along the shore, you may come across Lough Ree Yacht Club. It was founded in 1770 and is the second oldest sailing club in the world. Here you can learn all you need to know about sailing and of course, how to stay safe on the water.

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Athlone Guide Shopping

5

Calling all fashionistas and souvenir hunters alike! Athlone is a haven for shoppers with a great choice of independent stores and big names.

Shopping Best Of Ireland Series

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Athlone Guide Shopping

Shopping Capital

The natural centre of Ireland, Athlone has everything for visitors and natives alike to shop ‘til they drop.

Compact and easy to navigate, it represents a great choice with department stores, independent retailers and shopping centres offering a range of Irish and international brands.

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Midlands’ largest shopping centre, it offers over 60 big brand names conveniently located under one roof

Stylish boutiques are dotted about the town too as well as specialist shops for mums-to-be and babywear, for example.

If you are hunting for a unique gift or something special for your home, there

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are plenty of shops in town or nearby villages stocking best in local and Irish craft and design including ceramics, paintings, jewellery, glasswork, woodwork, textiles and metalwork.

Burgess of Athlone, Department Store on Church Street is something of an institution here. Founded in 1839, it is the longest established department store in Ireland and continues to successfully combine contemporary fashion and style with a sense of heritage.

It offers ladies fashion and accessories, menswear, childrenswear as well as bed and bath linens, soft furnishings and all kinds of cookware and kitchen appliances.

It’s very easy to while the time away shopping for style at the modern Athlone Towncentre, the midlands’ largest shopping centre, it offers over 60 big brand names conveniently located under one roof.

Athlone Towncentre is a leading fashion-focused shopping destination offering the latest style to discerning fashion lovers. Browse the rails of stores Best Of Ireland Series

such as Zara, River Island, H&M, Next, Oasis, Marks & Spencer’s, Warehouse and Coast to name but a few.

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Athlone has everything for visitors and natives alike to shop ‘til they drop

Or why not pop in to the Golden Island Shopping Centre, which offers a quality shopping experience with over 40 different retail outlets? From fashion to flowers, books to beauty, sportswear to giftwear, you can find whatever it is you are looking for, without getting wet.

From fashionistas to gift hunters and everything in between, seek and you shall find in Athlone!

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Athlone Guide Shopping

Athlone Towncentre Shopping Centre Civic Square 090-6484387 www.athlonetowncentre.com There are a lot of big shopping centres across the country but few have struck the balance between quality retail and sheer size like Athlone Towncentre has.

With over 60 of the most popular retail brands and independent stores across its two massive levels, the customer really is spoiled for choice. The ultramodern centre is clean, spacious, bright and easily navigated.

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There is no excuse for not paying a visit and experiencing this shopping Mecca for yourself

Athlone Towncentre is something of a fashion capital in the midlands with brands such as M&S, Zara, H&M, River Island, Next, Topshop, Promod, Oasis, Tommy Hilfiger ... the list goes on!

The centre offers complimentary personal shopper appointments with resident stylist Delilah on selected dates.

Athlone Towncentre

Whether it’s shopping for a special occasion, understanding what best suits your shape or simply availing of expert advice, Delilah offers one hour consultations which will leave you looking and feeling your very best. For details regarding availability and booking, contact the Information Desk on Level 1 or see athlonetowncentre.com Athlone Towncentre offers so much more than fashion. There is also a range of specialist stores including jewellers, sports stores, mobile phone stores, pharmacies, opticians, newsagents, butchers and hobby stores.

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Those feeling a little peckish can enjoy an extensive selection of cafés and restaurants including O’Briens Irish Sandwich Bar, Quigleys Cafe, Harvest Cafe, Mixgreens Restaurant, Café Togo and Jump Juice.

Athlone Towncentre has its own giftcard which can be used in all stores.

There are regular events and competitions run in the centre including styling sessions and fashion shows.

During the summer months and school holidays there is a full kids entertainment programme on selected dates. For full details and dates see athlonetowncentre.com.

Getting to Athlone Towncentre couldn’t be easier as it’s located two minutes from exit 10 on the M6, approximately one hour from Dublin and 45 minutes from Galway.

In terms of disabled access, every floor is wheelchair friendly and there are mobility scooters and wheelchairs available for shoppers who need them.

Adjacent to the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone Towncentre is ideal for shopping breaks and Sheraton guests are given exclusive access to the centres’ Platinum Card which entitles them to a variety of discounts in the centre.

There is also an abundance of hotels and B&Bs all within walking distance of Athlone Towncentre.

Given its central location in the heart of Athlone town, there is no excuse for not paying a visit and experiencing this shopping Mecca for yourself.

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Athlone Guide Shopping their international counterparts. As well as standard sizes, Burgess carry a range of plus and petite sizes too.

You’ll find everything from sexy to comfy, in the lingerie department from the best brands plus latest fashions in lingerie, bras and briefs, nightwear, shape-wear and quality swimwear.

“ Burgess of Athlone

Burgess of Athlone, Department Store 1-7 Church Street 090-6472005 www.burgessofathlone.ie Burgess Department Store was founded in 1839 and is famous for being the longest established department store in Ireland.

Irish owned and family-run, customers can expect a high standard of customer care and a choice of top quality brands in both fashion and homeware departments.

The ladies fashion floor at Burgess offers the best of classic and contemporary fashion. You'll find inspiring looks from well known brands such as Betty Barclay, Gerry Weber, Jacques Vert, Planet, Olsen and Taifun.

Irish fashion labels such as Libra and Peruzzi also take pride of place amongst

A choice of top quality brands

The Burgess menswear department offers everything from crisp suit tailoring and office essentials to the best in contemporary casual wear. The impressive line of brands include Gant, Eden Park, Strellson, Remus, Barker and Rockport shoe collection.

Kids can be equally well dressed with fun and funky fashion for tots to teens including school uniforms and communion wear. Everything for house and home can be found here with a wide range of kitchenware, soft furnishings and bathroom accessories.

Burgess of Athlone is open Monday to Saturday, 9.30am-6pm.

Athlone in Numbers • 20,153 – Population of Athlone from 2011 Census • 17 – Ranking of Athlone Town in Ireland in terms of population • 8.85 – Number of kilometres Athlone is from the geographical centre of Ireland • 123 – Distance in kilometres from Athlone to Dublin • 300 – Number of years there has been a barracks in Athlone • 3 – Number of bridges in Athlone • 540 – Length in feet of the railway bridge • 1999 – Year of the First Athlone Literary Festival • 44 – Size in acres of Athlone Institute of Technology Campus • 1 – Number of towns Athlone is twinned with—Chateaubriant in France • 540 – Length in feet of the railway bridge

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Athlone Guide Shopping DID YOU KNOW?

An Old Pint Sean’s Bar in Athlone was built in 900AD, making it the ‘oldest pub in Ireland’. The honour was verified and is recorded in the Guinness Book of Records. The bar was first a humble wattle-and-wicker walled inn and the original walls along, with a selection of authentic coins minted by warlords and merchants alike can be viewed here still.

DID YOU KNOW?

Wexford Link Luan Gallery was designed by architect of note, Keith Williams, who also designed Wexford Opera House. The gallery was the first purpose-built, modern visual art gallery in the midlands. It opened with a prestigious exhibition from the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) featuring work by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.

DID YOU KNOW?

Coat of Arms The Forgotten Lady

The Forgotten Lady Sean Costello Street, Irishtown 090-6476819 www.forgottenlady.ie One of the best known plus-size boutiques in the country is located right in the heart of Athlone town.

The Forgotten Lady has been in business for over 16 years and has proven to be one of the most popular stores in the midlands for elegant women with a fuller figure.

“

With a warm and friendly staff, they can consult with you on all your style needs—from casual to smart

Stocking many well-known Irish and international designers such as Kirsten Krog, Godske, Rabe, Verpass, Gelco and

many more, there truly is something to suit every taste.

“

Most popular stores in the midlands for elegant women with a fuller figure

With a warm and friendly staff, they can consult with you on all your style needs—from casual to smart, from formal occasion wear to more intimate lingerie designs to flatter any figure.

Clothing is available in sizes 16 to 30 and there is a wide range of accessories to complete your look too.

The Forgotten Lady can help you look your best for any event and offer a more personal, one to one facet to the clothes shopping experience.

For regular updates on collections, sales and more, check out the shop’s page on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/pages/TheForgotten-Lady-Plus-Size-Boutique.

The store opens from 10am-6pm, Monday to Saturday.

Best Of Ireland Series

The coat-of-arms of Athlone a lion passant guardant on chief of the last two roses of the field slipped and leaved vert, with the motto “Urbes stant legibus”, translated as “A city stands by its laws”. The symbolism of a lion passant and roses reflect is thought to reflect the history of 17th century Ireland, when the country was under British rule.

The earliest known use of this coat of arms is thought to date back to 1663 when it first represented the Corporation of Athlone.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ford of Athlone In Early Ireland, the ford of Athlone was strategically important because south of Athlone the Shannon River is impassable until Clonmacnoise where the system of ridges known as the Esker Riada meets the Shannon, and to the north is Lough Ree. In 1001, Brian Bórú is said to have led his army from Kincora into the town, sailing his fleet up the river via Lough Derg, to attend a gathering.

DID YOU KNOW?

Poet’s Progress Oliver Goldsmith (1730-1774), the Irish novelist, playwright and poet was born in either Longford or Roscommon. Goldsmith's father was appointed rector of a parish in Westmeath and the family moved to Lissoy, between Athlone and Ballymahon, Co. Longford in 1732 and lived there until 1747. It is thought Goldsmith drew inspiration from the area, particularly for his pastoral poem, The Deserted Village.

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Athlone Guide Shopping DID YOU KNOW?

Twins Athlone is twinned with Chateaubriant, France since 2010. Not to be confused with Chateaubriand steak, Chateaubriant, located in Brittany retains a lot of its medieval and renaissance architecture.

DID YOU KNOW?

Lough Stock.....

Athlone sits on Lough Ree, the second largest lake on the Shannon. It has a surface area of 105 kilometres squared and contains the island of Inchcleraun. On the island you can find the remains of a monastery and several ancient churches. Legend has it that Queen Maeve died here.

DID YOU KNOW?

Put your Left Arm in.....

The heraldic title of Athlone Pursuivant of Arms, a junior officer of arms, is named after the town and was founded in 1552. Phillip Butler, the illegitimate son of the Ulster King of Arms, first held this title. The last person to hold this title was Thomas Sadlier an Irish genealogist and heraldic expert.

DID YOU KNOW?

Where is Athlone?

There are five Athlones in the world. There is an Athlone in Victoria, Australia and in Alberta, Canada named after the Earl of Athlone, as is Athlone in Cape Town, South Africa. There is another Athlone in California and one more in Zimbabwe.

The Square House Menswear The Square, Castle Street 090-6492189 www.thesquarehouse.net The Square House is a tradition in menswear in Athlone for over 70 years.

Still run by the same family, the shop is synonymous with quality and professionalism over the years.

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Knowledgeable staff on hand to offer an unparalleled standard of customer service

Located beside the Castle in the oldest part of Athlone, The Square House is a must-visit retailer for anyone who wishes to indulge in the finest selection of menswear the heart of the Midlands has to offer.

Also available is a selection of timeless and stylish accessories to ensure you look your best for every occasion including cuff links, tie pins, pocket watches and any other items you might find yourself in need of.

This stylish shop with its spacious and welcoming interior entices the shopper to enter and browse at their leisure. The combination of modern and classic is reflected both in store and in stock, with knowledgeable staff on hand to offer an unparalleled standard of customer service as well as an impeccable passion for quality and style.

You can expect all the latest fashions and top brands in casual and formal wear including iconic brands like Harris Tweed; one of a select number of stockists in Ireland. Other brands include Olymp, Pure, Hatico, Oakman and Sunwill also Mezlan and Bugatti Footwear.

The Square House is open Monday Saturday 9.30am-6pm.

DID YOU KNOW?

Spaceman Internationally renowned astronomer and founding member of the British Astronomical Association, John Ellard Gore (1845-1910) came from Athlone. The Gore crater on the northern hemisphere of the moon is named after him.

DID YOU KNOW?

Barracks, Is FĂŠidir Linn Custume Barracks is the oldest occupied barracks in Europe. The 19th century barrack building was originally constructed as a hospital by French prisoners and was converted to infantry barracks for female soldiers in 1968.

The Square House Menswear

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Athlone Guide Shopping

Grace’s Fashions 4 Mardyke Street 090-6478610 For stylish outfits, full of grace, visit Grace’s Fashions.

This family-run business has graced the streets of Athlone for 25 years providing timeless fashion and style to the ladies of Athlone and further afield.

“

Business has graced the streets of Athlone for 25 years providing timeless fashion and style

At Grace’s you can expect to find a wide range of fashion, footwear and accessories in eclectic styles. Whether you are 22, 62 or 82 an outfit from Grace’s is sure to fit the bill.

Take some time to peruse the rails and

Grace’s Fashions

shelves which carry such brands as Decollage, Sea Salt, Badoo, Erfo, Rino Pelle, Bandelero, Geishe and Hongo, a new brand to these shores and exclusive to Graces. Ellamoda are a new brand and feature easywear over layering tunic styles.

In the footwear department expect to see well known brands Reiker, Gabor, Kate Appleby and Irregular Choice, Poetic Licence as well as handmade accessories from Aine Knitwear. This list

of brands changes seasonally with the new trends and styles expertly selected for the store.

Should you have any queries or are in need of some style advice, a member of staff will oblige and assist. The in store changing rooms offer ample spaces to try on your choices before you buy.

Opening hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 am-6pm. Graces has sister stores in Thurles, Tipperary Town and Nenagh, Co. Tipperary.

Donnellan and Co. Main Street, Roscommon Town 090-6626334 www.donnellan.ie Donnellan and Co. has established itself as one of Ireland’s leading retailers and its new refurbished store has a vast, high quality selection of menswear, footwear, ladieswear and schoolwear.

“

There is something for every taste, age and size

The family-owned store recently collected the Retail Excellence Ireland Award for ‘Store Of The Year’ 2014.

In Menswear, Donnellan and Co. caters for every occasion with a variety of formalwear, casual wear, accessories and shoes. There is something for every taste, age and size. Suits are a specialty.

Donnellan & Co

Experienced, attentive staff can measure you up and advise on styles, cuts and colours.

Menswear brands include Gant, Meyer, André, Ralph Lauren, Olymp, Hilfiger, Lacoste, Levi’s and Superdry to name but a few.

Donnellan & Co offers dress hire too and has an excellent range in suits, shirts, waistcoats and accessories for weddings, debs and other formal occasions.

The ladies department stocks a range of lingerie, hosiery, nightwear, nurses Best Of Ireland Series

and carers’ uniforms.

There is also casual and dressy footwear for men, women and children with a large choice of brands including Barker, Clarks, Tommy Bowe, Lloyd & Price, Bugatti, Dockers, Geox, Gabor, Jose Seibel, Fitflop, The Amy Huberman Collection, Marco Tozzi, Ricosta, Pablosky, Cica and many more.

For a great shopping experience, Donnellan & Co. has everything wrapped up in a stylish package.

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Athlone Guide Shopping

Paul Byron Shoes

Paul Byron Shoes Belhavel, Irishtown 090-6471232 www.paulbyronshoes.com 100% Irish owned, the Paul Byron Shoe store in Athlone is a link in a wider network of 21 stores aiming to provide consumers with high quality fashionable footwear at the right price. If you are unable to call to one of the 21 stores you can shop on-line.

Paul Byron Shoes stock many leading brands with the ethos of “Quality, Value and Fashion”. Styles vary according to

Swarbrigg’s Shoes Golden Island Shopping Centre 090-6479010 Swarbrigg’s Shoes is the stuff of dreams for any girl who loves her shoes, with

season but the selection is always comprehensive, making Paul Byron Shoes the place to go. Brands include Skechers, Birkenstock, Rocket Dog, Converse, Vans, Crocs, Heavenly Feet, Pitillos, New Dress, Dubarry, Rieker, Ecco and much more.

“

For the Right Look at the Right Price

In the Athlone branch, you can expect to see a wide range of his and hers formal and casual footwear. Men’s sizes

everything from knee high boots to stylish flats and sandals.

Swarbrigg's is a family run business that is home to all the latest trends in ladies, men’s and children’s footwear.

They carry brands such as Gabor, Josef Seibel, Reiker, Clarks, Marco Tozzi, Fit Flop, Ecco, Le Babe, Sabrinas, Skechers,

are now available up to size 16 or a European 50.

Having opened its first store in Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon in 1978, Paul Byron Shoes has gone from strength to strength with the opening of its 21st store in 2013.

The chain that is Paul Byron Shoes has expanded to cover the Westmeath, Galway, Kildare, Leitrim, Longford, Mayo, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford regions.

Call in and experience the excellent service with friendly, helpful and trained staff. Opening hours are MondayThursday and Saturday 9.30am-6pm, Friday 9.30am-7pm and Sunday 12pm-6.

Caterpillar and Tommy Bowe as well as many other fashionable labels.

Some of the slickest suit shoes in Ireland can be found here, as well as a wide variety of trendy casual shoes for men.

“

Home to all the latest trends

Kids simply love the great selection of Skechers, Lelli Kelly, Crocs, Geox, Converse and other stylish brands available in the shop making shoe shopping for parents as easy as ABC. The friendly Swarbrigg’s team go out of their way to ensure that each and every customer is attended to in a helpful and efficient manner.

The team is well known in the area for providing an excellent fitting service as well as stocking the latest fashions in footwear.

Swarbrigg’s Shoes

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Athlone Guide Shopping your nail art painted by Zofia Beczala who trained for five years with the best nail designers from Europe and the States.

“ African Sun and Beauty Salon

African Sun & Beauty Salon Pearse Street 086-1270954

African Sun and Beauty Salon can cater for your every need, whether you are a bride to be, or you want to look your best for that special occasion or if you just need a well deserved day of pampering.

Winner of third place in the National Nail Competition in 2009, you can have

African Sun and Beauty should be an essential part of any ladies beauty regime

African Sun has a wide range of services and beauty products including professional make-up artists and stylists who will have you looking glamorous.

Alexandra Nems, creative director of African Sun, is an expert in working with brides and will gently advise and guide them so they enjoy the experience and preparations for their wedding, all the time knowing that they are in experienced hands.

So for that touch of style and sophistication African Sun and Beauty Salon should be an essential part of any ladies beauty regime.

Cunningham’s Pharmacy Dublin Road 090-6477739 www.cunninghamspharmacy.com Established in 2002 by brothers and pharmacists Paul and Enda Cunningham in 2002, their business aims to be a modern progressive pharmacy.

“

Customer service and reliability are the main focus here

With two stores, one on the Dublin road and the other in Monksland, Cunningham’s Pharmacy has gone from strength to strength over the past decade. Customer service and reliability are the main focus here with only the best working treatments recommended by staff.

Some of the many services provided at Cunningham’s include the Athlone Foot Clinic, flu vaccine, cholesterol,

Cunningham’s Pharmacy

haemoglobin and diabetes screening, blood pressure testing, weight management and CO breath tests.

Throughout the year Cunningham’s host special health events inviting asthma nurses, diabetes nurses and dieticians instore.

If you want to print out any of your treasured memories there is a print service available with facilities to print direct from your iphone or ipad.

Cunningham’s carry a great variety of top quality skincare brands including Golden Island Shopping Centre Best Of Ireland Series

Vichy, La Roche-Posay and Aveeno to name a few. Rimmel, Essence, IsaDora, Elizabeth Arden, Maxfactor and Sally Hansen makeup are also stocked here.

There are gifts in store for every occasion ranging from baby gifts, perfume to jewellery and decorative homewares.

The Dublin Road store is open Monday to Friday from 9.30am–7pm and from 10am–6pm on Saturday. The Monksland store opens Monday to Friday from 9.30am–6.30pm and 10am–6pm on Saturday.

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Athlone Guide Shopping bikes, children’s mountain bikes and childseats are available for hire for your little ones. Another fantastic service DB cycles offer is that bikes can be dropped off and picked up at your local hotel or B&B.

“ DB Cycles & Babyland

DB Cycles & Babyland Magazine Road 090-6492280 www.dbcycles.ie For all your biking needs be it buying, repairing or hiring, DB Cycles is your best bet.

A great bike hire service

DB cycles stocks a wide variety of bikes for children, mountain bikes, stunt bikes and much more. But, service does not stop when you roll out the door with a top class after sales service for all customers countrywide. Top quality brands include Giant, Trek, Kellys, Merida, Claud Butler, Falcon and Berg Go-Carts.

Other services include the Bike to Work Scheme and bike repairs.

This family-owned bike shop is run by local couple Dermot and Anne Brennan.

DB Cycles is one of the oldest and largest bike shops in the region and boasts a stellar reputation for quality, expert advice and reliable brands.

The best way to see the scenic beauty of the locality is on a bike and DB cycles provide a great bike hire service. You can choose from gents and ladies hybrid

Cempo Interiors Blyry Industrial Estate 090-6486868 www.cempointeriors.ie Cempo Interiors has everything you need to make a house into a comfortable, stylish haven.

Established in 2004, Cempo Interiors is one of the leading furniture showrooms in the country and a haven for those in search of the latest designs and trends.

“

Make your house into a comfortable, stylish haven

This stylish showroom has everything from comfy sofas, elegant dining ranges, quality leather suites, luxurious beds, sparkling mirrors, sumptuous curtains and lighting stoves. The housing ranges include well known brands such as Parker knoll, Finline Furniture and Baker.

Cempo Interiors also has an interior

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Cempo Interiors

design service. You can choose to visit the interior designer here or at home to hear their recommendations on furniture, fabrics, flooring, colours, lighting and finishing touches to suit your home. The interiors boutique, launched by Neville Knot, showcases fabrics from leading European design houses such as Andrew Martin, Zoffany, Sanderson and much more.

All tastes and budgets are catered for and should you need custom curtains and Best Of Ireland Series

blinds that is no problem with Cempo Interiors curtain and blind making service and expert fitting service.

Cempo Interiors also supply and install a wide range of fireplaces and stoves; a must for the long Irish winter.

Should you wish to see more on stoves, the sister store in Glasson O’Rourke’s Fireplaces and Stoves is the place to visit.

See www.myfire.ie for more information or call 090-6485094.

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink

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Athlone has had a reputation as a fine spot to eat, drink and be merry. Its delectable dining selection includes cafĂŠs and restaurants as well as an array of lively watering holes with pubs and clubs galore.

Food

& Drink

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink

Food & Drink

Don’t Miss:

• Sampling some modern Irish cuisine in one of Athlone’s fine eateries.

• Surprising your senses with an exotic meal influenced by Italian, Chinese, Thai and Lebanese flavours.

• Relaxing with a smooth cup of coffee in the casual surrounds of Athlone’s many cafés.

• Combining good food with a great pint in a fine gastro-pub.

• Sampling your favourite cocktail at one of Athlone’s late bars and nightclubs.

• Dancing the night away to your favourite tunes.

The Left Bank Bistro Fry Place, High Street 090-6494446 www.leftbankbistro.com The elegant and spacious Left Bank Bistro has been a cornerstone in Athlone’s foodie scene ince 1995.

This restaurant has a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere so diners can truly appreciate the innovative, delightful fare being served. The menu combines the best of Irish produce with Mediterranean and Asian influences to create a flavourful fusion.

“

The Left Bank Bistro has been recommended by The Bridgestone Guide

Lunch, served from noon to 5pm, offers a mix of pastas, salads, open sandwiches and noodles. Dinner, from 5pm on, features classics like Irish Angus beef, guinea fowl and pan-fried monkfish medallions. There is a separate fish menu for those who fancy a bit of seafood. Make sure to take note of the daily specials chalked up on the blackboard.

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The Left Bank Bistro

The wine list offers a great choice of half bottles and champagnes to complement any course. Such is the quality of desserts here that they get their own menu offering Mississippi mud pie, coffee mocha Madeira cake and chocolate fudge and biscuit cake to name but a few.

There is a good value early bird menu, which runs from 5-7pm on Saturdays (and all night Tuesday to Friday).

If you don’t have the time to stop by Best Of Ireland Series

for a meal, there is an extensive take away menu, including the homemade desserts, house dressing, pestos, chutneys and antipasti in the deli.

The Left Bank Bistro has been recommended by The Bridgestone Guide, Georgina Campbell, Frommers, The Dublin Foodie, The Lonely Planet and was named as a Fodor’s Choice property in 2012.

The Left Bank Bistro is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am.

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink

The Locke Restaurant St Peters Port, The Docks 090-649517 www.thelockerestaurant.com An evening at the Locke Restaurant is truly a unique dining experience in a sacred setting that will not soon be forgotten.

Diners will as enthralled with the surroundings as they are with the food, eating under the gently sloping roof of a magnificent 150 year old church.

The church’s captivating architecture dates back to the 1800s but the inside has been completely renovated for the comfort of diners with beautiful dim lighting and rich, soft carpets contributing to such an intimate yet elegant atmosphere. Live piano and harp music in the background also adds to the ambiance.

The Locke offers menus with food that is as top-class and elegant as its design with a wide range. From smoked duck breast salad and oven roasted quail to mains like sirloin of Irish Hereford beef, grilled fillet of seabass and risotto of fennel and tomato, the menu is packed with creative dishes.

The dessert menu also boasts a tasty choice of sweet treats with something for

Hatter’s Lane Bistro /Gertie Browne’s Pub Strand Street/Custume Place 090-6473077/090-6474848 www.hatterslane.ie This super combination of restaurant and bar is one of Athlone’s most famous spots for wining and dining.

The two are very different in terms of style and décor but have two other things in common besides location: the recipe for a great time and exceptional service.

Opened in 1999, Hatter’s Lane is a restaurant with the charm of an old-style diner and a high-class bistro. The theme seems to combine old word glamour and the golden era of film. Red and white check cloths cover the tables, monochrome photographs Hollywood legends adorn the walls and red leather seating and shining woodwork abound.

As Sinatra croons in the background and a glowing fire adds to the warm atmosphere, diners can delve into the diverse menu selection.

There is an a la carte and value menu available. Sample dishes include herb

The Locke Restaurant

every palate. Additionally, coeliac options are available.

The restaurant is the perfect spot for a romantic meal but also an apt location for anything from wedding reception to Christmas party. It has been

recommended by food critic, Georgina Campbell.

The Locke Restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 5-9.30pm and the early bird menu is served from 5-7pm.

marinated supreme of chicken, honey & mustard glazed shoulder of pork, sizzling chilli & orange shredded beef, pan-fried hake, wild mushroom & ricotta bake, as well as a selection of burgers and steak and more.

Connected to Hatter’s Lane is Gerties’s Pub, which has allegedly been in business since the 10th or 11th century and still retains all the traditional, rustic

charm of any old Irish inn. Decorated with a collection of historical memorabilia, Gertie’s is the perfect place for a friendly pint with friends.

Visitors to both will feel as though they are taking a step into the past and will definitely receive the star-treatment too.

Hatter’s Lane Bistro/ Gertie Browne’s Pub

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Kin Khao 1 Abbey Lane 090-6498805 www.kinkhaothai.ie “Kin Khao” is an expression from Thailand, meaning an invitation to share.

Recently named as Georgina Campbell’s Ethnic Restaurant of the Year for 2014, Kin Khao has won many other merits in its decade in operation, including Best Restaurant in Westmeath of 2014 and Best Restaurant in Athlone 2014. They have also been awarded an entry in the coveted Michelin Guide since 2009.

The team here is as passionate about providing great customer service as they are about preparing delicious food.

Kin Khao’s kitchen staff is dedicated to providing authentic Thai cuisine with fresh, non-processed ingredients.

The mouth-watering meals include appetisers such as coconut soup, minced chicken salad and for main courses a

wide range of unique regional dishes, delicious curries.

Diners can also enjoy a glass of fine wine from Kin Khao’s wine cellar and if you don’t feel like leaving the comfort of home, all of the restaurant’s best meals can be ordered for collection.

“

Cuisine with fresh, nonprocessed ingredients

Kin Khao has a gorgeous interior with a combination of bright and elegant décor, adding to the friendly atmosphere that the restaurant exudes.

As well as a varied a la carte, Kin Khao Thai provides an Early Bird Menu from 5.30-7.30pm on weekdays and from 5.30-7pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Kin Khao also opens for lunch from 12.30–2.30pm Wednesday to Friday and from 1pm Sundays.

Kin Khao

Corner House Bistro Dublingate Street 090-6470077 www.facebook.com /CornerHouseBistro Fine dining in a casual atmosphere need not be restricted to evening meals. The husband and wife team behind the Corner House Bistro offer fresh and modern cuisine served in elegant surroundings.

Opened in October 2012, you can identify the Corner house Bistro by the warm cinnamon and cream tones outside that lead into a cream coloured interior carefully accented with quirky wall paper.

Both upstairs and downstairs are an eclectic mix of coffee house décor that blends effortlessly together with formal tables and chairs and large leather sofas.

The fresh flowers on the table show a careful attention to detail as does the handsomely dressed waiting staff in crisp black and whites.

“

Fine dining in a casual atmosphere

The food is equally marvellous and stylish with such breakfast offerings as Portobello mushrooms pan-fried and served on toasted brioche with poached egg and béarnaise sauce and the buttermilk pancakes with crispy bacon and maple syrup.

Lunch offerings range from soup, sandwiches and salads to hot meals such as slow roasted lamb shanks, pan fried pork belly and fillet steak baps. Desserts are just as delectable and all are made daily in house. There is no corkage fee if you wish to bring your own wine.

The Corner House Bistro opens Monday to Saturday, 9am-5pm.

Corner House Bistro

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink in any top class restaurant. Owner-chef John Coffey goes to great lengths to source the best local produce. John is a member of Euro-toques, a European community of chefs and cooks, who strive to support local small food producers.

DID YOU KNOW?

Radio Ga Ga Between 1931 and 1975, the main radio transmission centre for Irish radio was located at Moydrum in Athlone. It subsequently became known as ‘Radio Athlone’ and could be heard loud and clear throughout Europe and even as far as the Russian city of Moscow.

“

DID YOU KNOW?

U2 are in Ruins A photograph of the imposing ruins of Moydrum Castle, which is just outside Athlone, is featured on the cover of the rock band, U2’s 1994 album, The Unforgettable Fire. The album features the massive hit, ‘Pride (In the Name of Love)’. The photograph was taken by the music video and film director, Anton Corbijn.

Thyme Restaurant DID YOU KNOW?

Strength in Numbers The population of Athlone town is 20,153 according to the 2011 Census of Ireland—15,558 in the urban area and 4,595 in the rural area. This makes Athlone the most populous town in the Midlands region and the 17th most populous town in the entire state.

DID YOU KNOW?

Custume Place 090-6478850 www.thymerestaurant.ie Winner of the “Best Restaurant” award in both Westmeath and Leinster in 2013 at the RAI Awards, Thyme Restaurant serves delicious food at affordable prices.

The wooden tables and upholstered chairs bring a country kitchen feel to the place, but the food is of a quality found

Winner of the “Best Restaurant” award in both Westmeath and Leinster in 2013

As a result the menu reflects seasonal changes. While you may see traditional dishes on the menu, they come with a fresh contemporary twist. But this type of menu doesn’t come with a hefty price tag and there are value menu options available of €22.95 for two courses and €27.95 for three courses.

Thyme is open Monday to Saturday 510pm and Sunday 12-8pm. Typical dishes include honey and mustard glazed Horan’s ham hock, pea velouté, crispy free range hens egg, fresh peas or slow braised Castlemine lamb shoulder, panfried sweetbreads, spring greens and champ.

Battle of the Bravest Athlone was besieged twice during the Williamite War. In 1690, shortly after victory at the Battle of the Boyne, the Williamites were unsuccessful in their attempt to capture the town. In 1691, having regrouped, they tried again— bombarding Athlone with over 60,000 shots fired into the town over 10 days.

General Godart de Ginkel sent in a 2,000 strong, elite grenadier force which forced the Jacobites to flee their positions. Shortly after, the Jacobite resistance movement was defeated for good.

DID YOU KNOW?

Inland Waterways Athlone was the first branch of the Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and played a large part in its creation.

The IWAI was founded in 1954 and is both a registered charity and a limited company, which campaigns for the conservation and development of the waterways and to preserve them as working navigations. The body has roughly 4,400 members, organised in 20 branches.

Thyme Restaurant

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink vegetarian dishes with dishes such as Djaj malfouf, baked fresh filet of chicken stuffed with onion, tomato and spices; Meshwoui hara, tender lamb cooked in a medium hot chilli sauce or traditional stalwart, Shawarma, cuts of beef marinated with seven spices, garlic Lebanese vinegar served topped with sesame seed paste.

“ Al Mezza

Al Mezza 6 Bastion Street 090-6498765 www.facebook.com/pages /AL-MEZZA-LEBANESE If a taste of the Middle East appeals to the tastebuds when looking to dine out, then look no further than the Al Mezza restaurant.

This culinary gem fuses the finest Lebanese cuisine with the freshest of local

produce, with all meat and fish coming from local butchers and fishmongers in the area.

The name refers to an array of small hot and cold dishes called ‘mezze’, similar to the tapas of Spain, and this is the best way to experience the menu dreamt up by owner/chef, Milad Serhan. Eating this way allows the customer a chance to enjoy as diverse a dining experience as possible, and makes the entire process one of sharing and communal enjoyment.

The menu is a diverse selection including chicken, lamb, beef, fish and

“Beans and Leaves” Lloyd's Lane 090-6433534/086-2584107 www.facebook.com/beans.leaves “Simple Ingredients…Magical Foods” is the motto of Steven and Martina at “Beans & Leaves” and it is one that gives great gastronomic results.

The pair pride themselves on using good quality ingredients, served simply so as to let each element speak for itself. Daily specials are just that…special. Imagine pulled beef, spicy salsa and homemade sweet potato fries or fluffy pancakes and smoked salmon. An all day full Irish breakfast is also available for only €8.75.

For breakfast, brunch or burgers, grab a bite here. For sandwiches, seafood, salads or steaks—seek no further. The selection of dishes offers something for everyone, vegetarians included and all at reasonable prices.

“Beans and Leaves”

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Fuses the finest Lebanese cuisine with the freshest of local produce

The spices used come directly from Lebanon, and it has an extensive world wine list. All food is cooked to order, with children well catered for. All tastes and dietary needs are covered, with a menu free from MSG, dairy products or eggs.

Customers also have the chance to dine ‘al fresco’ when the weather permits. It opens 5pm til late, Wednesday to Monday.

Al Mezza is an unmissable opportunity to enjoy truly authentic Lebanese cuisine served elegantly, in delightful surroundings.

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Simple Ingredients …

Magical Food

Supper is served every Friday and Saturday night with last orders at 8.30pm.

Opening hours are Monday–Thursday 9am-5pm; Friday and Saturday 9am8.30pm and Sunday 10am-5pm.

Groups are welcome and the restaurant is child friendly too, with an outdoor terrace overlooking the castle and River Shannon available for you to make the most of a sunny spells when it arrives.

The “Beans & Leaves” people also do take-away and outside catering so you can be guaranteed their delicious fare for any occasion. “Beans & Leaves” recently received the Tripadvisor 2014 Certificate of Excellence.

Much more than beans and leaves, pop in and discover it for yourself.

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The Fatted Calf Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485208 www.thefattedcalf.ie Located in the picturesque village of Glasson, near Athlone, The Fatted Calf was opened by Feargal and Fiona O’Donnell in April 2010.

Head chef Feargal has extensive experience in the catering industry, having worked in The Cumberland Hotel, the Mayfair Hotel, the Café Flo group in London, Belfast and Roly’s and La Stampa in Dublin. He has also been a commissioner with Eurotoques Ireland for over 15 years. Feargal’s philosophy is to use seasonal, local and artisan produce.

The Fatted Calf has more than earned its title of best gastropub in Westmeath.

Other awards presented to The Fatted Calf include Georgina Campbell’s “Casual dining restaurant 2014”, and the McKenna Guide’s Top 100 places to eat in Ireland in 2013 and 2014.

The Fatted Calf is recommended by the Michelin pubs guide to eat in Great Britain and Ireland since 2011.

Signature dishes include seared king

The Fatted Calf

scallops, confit pork shoulder, pomegranate and pea shoots, or John Stone 16oz 30 day dry aged bone in Irish rib-eye steak served with pan roasted Glasson mushrooms, Bellingham Blue cheese butter and

Glasson Village Restaurant

Glasson Village Restaurant Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485001 www.glassonvillagerestaurant.ie The award-winning Glasson Village Restaurant is based in a picturesque

building set against stunning countryside scenery.

It offers the best of local Irish produce, expertly cooked by the chef and proprietor, Michael Brooks, and comes highly recommended by food critic, Georgina Campbell.

Opened in 1986, the 200 year old listed building is steeped in history and still retains many of its original features Best Of Ireland Series

thrice cooked hand cut chips.

The Fatted Calf is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday to Sunday. The bar is closed on Monday and opens on Tuesday at 4pm.

along with all the modern amenities necessary to make it an idyllic location for relaxation while eating excellent food accompanied by first rate service.

The speciality is fresh local fish like lobster, scallops, Clare Island organic Salmon and the restaurant has achieved a B.I.M. Seafood Circle membership year upon year. However, it caters for all tastes and also serves fare like roast wild rabbit, game, lamb and beef.

Food allergies and special requests are no problem and vegetarians are catered to on request.

There are a variety of menus including an early bird, a la carte and Sunday lunch.

Situated in the beautiful village of Glasson (10 minutes from Athlone) and close to Lough Ree, it is easily accessed and is also wheelchair accessible and child friendly.

Equally suitable for intimate romantic dates, small weddings and parties or family meals, the eatery serves delicious food at reasonable prices in a heavenly location.

Glasson Village Restaurant opens Tuesday to Friday 5.30-9pm; Saturday 69.30pm and Sunday 1-3.30pm.

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Cafés Poppy Fields Café Payne's Lane 090-6479850 The name of this café/sandwich bar brings to mind ‘fresh’ and ‘natural’ and the food ethos here isn’t far off those two words either!

Athlone has truly embraced café culture with numerous casual eateries to sit and watch the world go by.

Opened in 2003 by chef, Geraldine Dolan, Poppy Fields produces homemade meals for breakfast and lunch. The cooked breakfasts are the stuff of local legend but there are other options to start the day too, such as scones and other tasty baked goods.

Lunch ranges from sandwiches and wraps to soups and seafood chowder to hearty casseroles and quiches. Coupled

with combo deals like ‘soup and a sandwich’, there are daily specials too to complement the already packed menu selection. The portions are generous so you won’t be leaving hungry.

If you’re simply after a treat, a Fair Trade tea or coffee matched with a delicious dessert like pavlova or lemon meringue pie. There is a particular emphasis on gluten-free produce too and there is a good range available.

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You won’t be leaving hungry

Ms Dolan has vast experience in the hospitality industry—working for many years as a chef abroad—and her team of staff offer swift and friendly service.

This is central to the appeal of this bustling spot (which is popular with locals) along with the simple, cosy décor and free Wi-Fi. There is also an outside seating for warmer climes.

Poppy Fields opens from 8.30am-6pm, Monday to Saturday.

Poppy Fields Café

Athlone in Numbers • 1924 – Year noted author, John Broderick, was born in Athlone.

• 1210 – Year Athlone Castle was built.

• 2012 – Year the castle got a modern revamp and multi-sensory visitor experience.

• 900 – Year AD Sean’s Bar was founded, making it the oldest pub in Ireland.

• 300 – Number of years there has been a barracks in Athlone.

• 10 – Sum in millions AIT International Arena cost to build.

• 12 – Century that the first bridge was built across the river in Athlone.

• 1650 – Year Athlone was taken from Irish troops by Charles Coote during the Irish Confederate War. • 10,000 – Capacity of Dubarry Park, home ground to Buccaneers RFC and Connacht Eagles.

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink veranda—taking in a spectacular view of the Shannon’s sparking waters and the majestic walls of Athlone Castle.

“ A Slice of Life

A Slice of Life 7 Connaught Street 090-6493970 www.sliceoflifeathlone.webs.com From small beginnings to a wonderful reputation for quality food, A Slice of Life is one of the best restaurants in Athlone.

Offering food from 9am–6pm Monday to Saturday all food is produced using the best of Irish ingredients sourced from local producers.

A visit to the restaurant will impress you with the display of hot and cold foods available to eat in state of the art surroundings or as a take out.

Freshly cooked breakfasts are available from 9am–12noon. Lunchtime offers joint of the day with a choice of additional hot dishes with fresh vegetables, potatoes and house sauces as accompaniment.

For the lighter lunch fresh homemade soup is the order of the day and hot specials serve to complement this hot table.

Moving along one can select from the display of cold dishes including home cooked meats and fish complimented by a wonderful selection of house salads all served with homemade dressings and relishes.

The pastry section is your last port of call and the aim is not to disappoint!

Choose from a selection of delicious desserts to enjoy with fresh coffee, or alternatively breads, scones, tarts, crumbles and home baking are ready to take home.

Occasion cakes are also available from A Slice of Life. From cakes for birthdays to weddings, you won’t be disappointed.

Shannon Crafts and Coffee Dock The Strand 085-1413260/085-1762552 Sitting on the banks of the Shannon, behind shining glass panel doors is this charming and picturesque coffee shop.

Shannon Crafts and Coffee Dock does not only provide a selection of delicious, freshly prepared hot drinks and snacks to suit all tastes but also sells a variety of delightful craft-works.

Customers can choose to enjoy their cappuccino, latte, espresso or herbal tea inside the café or outside on the

Sitting on the banks of the Shannon, behind shining glass panel doors is this charming and picturesque coffee shop

To accompany any hot drink, the Coffee Dock offers a tasty selection of paninis, wraps, hot creamy soups with thick brown bread and made to order sandwiches. For those who’d like something sweeter, the Coffee Dock also stocks a myriad of delicious German cakes.

The Coffee Dock can also prepare cakes on order for any kind of special occasion. Shannon crafts can provide top-quality flower arrangements and garlands too.

During the summer, an array of cute and quirky crafts are on sale, such as miniature lighthouses, sailboats, vases and baskets—all of which make the perfect souvenir or gift for a friend.

Shannon Crafts and Coffee Dock

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Pubs

Athlone has a variety of both quaint old style public houses as well as stylish, modern new age pubs to choose from.

The Snug Bar

The Snug Bar 3 Fry Place, Main Street www.facebook.com/pages /The-SnugBar Known for an exceptional pint of Guinness and foot stomping live music, The Snug Bar is where it is at in Athlone.

A traditional, cosy Irish pub, the Snug Bar is the ideal place to watch a match, indulge in a drink or party the night away. They have a large heated and covered beer garden with full bar, big screen tv for live sport and bbq, ideal for any type of Irish summer.

The comfortable seating and turf stove provides a warm atmosphere to while away the winter nights.

The Snug Bar is a veritable institute in Athlone as the premises date back to 1806 and still contains many of the original features most notably the brick arches and ceiling cornice in the main bar.

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A speciality at the Snug Bar is its ‘whiskey library’ which contains a full range of Jameson Reserve Whiskeys as well as some of the world’s finest whiskeys.

If you are not in to whiskey, the Snug Bar has a full range of beers, wine

cocktails and other choice spirits.

From traditional to rock and contemporary, the Snug hosts live music sessions to suit all tastes. Couple this with a pint and pizza deal for €10 and you are guaranteed a great night’s entertainment.

DID YOU KNOW?

Our Epicentre Lying just a few kilometres north of Athlone, Hodson’s Pillar, located on an island in Hodson Bay in Lough Ree, marks the most central point of Ireland. The stone landmark can be seen by land, boat or air. The exact geographical centre is in the townland of Carnagh East, County Roscommon on the western shore the lake, opposite the Cribby Islands.

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink The pub has been owned and run by the McNeill family for over 100 years, and as any of the regulars in McNeill’s will tell you, this experience is responsible for the perfect pints that are available in the pub.

“ McNeill’s Pub

McNeill’s Pub 65 Connaught Street 090-6492055 Tucked away on a corner of a busy street on Athlone’s west side, this traditional pub is a throwback to simpler times.

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A throwback to simpler times

The friendly staff in McNeill’s ensures that every customer that walks through the doors is greeted with a warm welcome and service of the highest standard.

Whether you are in the mood for a quiet pint in good company or a night out with pals, McNeill’s is the place for you

McNeill’s serves all the major drinks brands in a cosy, tavern style bar. The high ceilings and memorabilia adorning the walls are just a few highlights of the well-appointed décor.

Punters can relax with good company by the warm fire or play a few games of pool on one of the large pool tables in the bar. McNeill’s also plays host to some great live music.

So, whether you are in the mood for a quiet pint in good company or a night out with pals, McNeill’s is the place for you.

The Three Jolly Pigeons Lissoy, Co. Westmeath 090-6485162/087-6189506 This traditional Irish bar is located on the N55, 5km from Glasson and 7km from Ballymahon, in scenic Lissoy, made famous by Oliver Goldsmith’s poem ‘The Deserted Village’.

Some of the features described in the poem are still visible from the bar’s location, most notably, the millstone from the “busy mill”.

The Three Jolly Pigeons itself is a cultural haven. Its walls are full of interesting memorabilia. Musicians are welcomed and patrons enjoy ballad sessions and sing-alongs.

Any old-style Irish bar is judged on its pints first and foremost, and thankfully, The Three Jolly Pigeons does not disappoint. The friendly staff has plenty of experience pouring a tasty cold one.

Teas and coffees are popular with passersby who drop in to avail of free Wi-Fi.

The Three Jolly Pigeons

Outdoor facilities include a gravel yard with picnic benches and an enclosed garden to host bbqs and parties for all occasions. Marquee facilities and caterer are available on request. There is a large off-road enclosed car park adjoining the Best Of Ireland Series

premises.

If you want to enjoy yourself in a friendly atmosphere, The Three Jolly Pigeons is the place for you. Contact them at thethreejollypigeons@eircom.net.

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Athlone Guide Food & Drink sit in the 300-year-old living room, boasting the last remaining fireplace from the reign of Queen Victoria, this is a real gem and an experience not to be missed.

At the rear of the pub is a magnificent beer garden overlooking the river Shannon.

“ Luker’s Pub

Luker’s Pub Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly 090-9674995/087-7415389 www.shannonbridge.ie If you are out to find a real old Irish heritage pub, then a visit to Luker’s Pub

Karma Club Church Street 090-6477152 www.karma.ie In March 2005, Karma first opened its doors with a view to bringing a fresh and new clubbing experience to the people of Athlone.

in Shannonbridge truly is a must.

The old part of Luker’s is practically as it was when it opened all the way back in the 1750′s. Just a few feet behind the beer taps is an old open fireplace where you are sure to find a blazing fire.

Shelves bedeck the walls, brimming with old knick-knacks and crockery.

Drinkers can move through the bar and Nine years on, Karma continues to provide the best in music and entertainment in state of the art surroundings. It has captured the hearts and minds of the local community and has been host to many International DJs and celebrities over the years.

The club has picked up many awards and accolades and has recently been included in The Hot Press Best of Ireland 2014

A great pint in an authentic old Irish pub

They run a coffee shop in summer offering soups, sandwiches and snacks.

Additional quirks include room for campers to pitch their tents at the rear, with facilities to make your own BBQ food.

So for a great pint of Guinness in an authentic old Irish heritage pub, with a good chance of traditional Irish musicians playing a session while you eat and drink, then Luker’s is the place for you. Musicians welcome for an impromptu session at any time.

who claim: “Its extensive cocktail, wine and spirit menu and exceptionally accommodating staff mark it out as one of the best haunts in the country.”

The venue is nationally renowned as a top hen party destination and the many VIP seating areas are available for reservation for any occasion. However prior booking is essential due to high demand.

Karma opens Wednesday through Sunday from 11.30pm and concessions are available nightly from The Prince Bar.

“ Karma Club

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Karma continues to provide the best in music and entertainment in state of the art surroundings

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

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While experiencing the joys of Athlone, a place to lay your head is essential and the range in Athlone is outstanding. From old world to cosmopolitan hotels right down to homely bed & breakfasts, the hospitality never fails to impress.

Accommodation

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

Sheraton Hotel

Sheraton Hotel Athlone Gleeson Street 090-6451060 www.sheratonathlonehotel.com The superior four star Sheraton Athlone Hotel is fast becoming one of Ireland’s premier leisure destinations. Friendly smiles and a warm welcome greet you once you step into this impressive 12 storey glazed tower with breathtaking views of the locality. Centrally located close to the new Athlone Town Centre, the hotel is just a five minute walk from the bus and rail station.

Each of the 167 deluxe guestrooms and two penthouse suites are designed with comfort in mind featuring the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed. This custom designed bed has a plush top

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mattress, plump duvet and cushy pillows so you can sink into sleep.

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the hotel will keep guests connected. Each of the classic rooms is decorated in an elegant contemporary style with walnut and leather furniture, plasma TV as well as a spacious ensuite featuring a separate shower and bath. There is even more comfort to be had in the two magnificent penthouse suites which have private lounge and one has a balcony area to take in the stunning views of Athlone town and the Shannon River.

At La Provence Restaurant hungry guests can choose from a range of contemporary cuisine in a relaxed environment. The Harvest Café and Sheraton Bar offers a more informal dining experience with hot food and snacks served throughout the day.

Guests can work up a sweat in the

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fitness centre and 20 metre swimming pool and hydrotherapy pools. If all this hasn’t eased your aches away, a trip to the Sirana Urban Spa definitely will.

Here, the therapists work their skilled hands applying a range of signature spa treatments.

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Stunning views of Athlone town and the Shannon

The Sheraton Athlone Hotel has a range of superb summer leisure breaks for midweek and weekend getaways. In some summer packages guests receive a free Lakeland and Leisure Activity voucher. You’ll be spoiled for choice with activities such as cruising along the Shannon with Viking Mike or playing in Glendeer Pet Farm plus lots more. The Sheraton Adventure Club is also available for younger VIPs while the parents take a well-earned rest.

Your dream wedding can be a reality at the Sheraton Athlone. With luxurious rooms and world class cuisine, your guests will be talking about this event for years to come. In fact, the entire wedding can be held here as the Sheraton Athlone is a licensed premises for civil partnership ceremonies and blessings.

On selected dates the Sheraton Athlone Hotel runs a wide range of complimentary activities for guests such as cookery demonstrations, skincare talks and wine tastings.

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

Radisson Blu Hotel Northgate Street 090-6442600 www.radissonblu.ie/hotel-athlone The welcoming, modern Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone is ideally located in the heart of the town, with views overlooking the old town, Athlone Castle and the River Shannon that will win you over the moment you step through the door.

The hotel offers 128 guest rooms including business class, junior suites, family suites, executive suites and a presidential suite, all equipped with high-quality amenities and free highspeed wireless internet access, many with calming views over the river.

Guests also have full use of Synergy Health & Leisure Club.

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Overlooking the Marina and the Castle, an amazing backdrop

Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone also has 1,000 square metres of conference space with eight state-of-the-art, flexible meeting rooms. The Marina Suite has a large pre-function area with a capacity of 750 delegates with complimentary car parking.

The Marina Suite is ideal for large and more intimate wedding parties as the room can be divided into three sections.

The hotel can also provide a complimentary private room for your civil ceremony. Brides and grooms also benefit from the special bonus of being able to arrive at their reception venue in true style by boat.

The Quayside Bar & Lounge is open all day and offers a warm, cosy atmosphere with quality bar food, speciality coffees and cocktails to be enjoyed in comfortable seating next to the panoramic windows.

The split-level Elements Bistro has incorporated the elemental themes of water, fire, earth and air to offer evening dining in a contemporary space characterized by clean lines, an octagonal island hearth, bamboo screens

and floor to ceiling windows that flood the room with natural daylight, which also make it an ideal spot for the hotel’s super buffet breakfast and Sunday lunch.

For the summer months, a barbeque on the stunning terrace of Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon or evening, with delectable food that tastes all the better when enjoyed in the fresh air overlooking the River Shannon.

Great for all occasions Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone has the best barbecue spot around with their large outdoor terrace overlooking the Marina and the Castle, an amazing backdrop to sizzling barbecues!

Radisson Blu Hotel

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

The Prince of Wales Hotel

The Prince of Wales Hotel Church Street 090-6476666 www.theprinceofwales.ie The Prince of Wales Hotel has it all with great accommodation, fabulous food, a pub and nightclub under one roof! Treat yourself to a break at one of the best hotels Athlone has to offer.

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Athlone has a great reputation for fantastic nightlife, but with a pub and club on site, why leave?

A part of the Great National Hotels & Resorts group, The Prince of Wales has 46 guestrooms, each reflecting the same standard of comfort and style found in Great National Hotels nationwide. The

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rooms have been recently refurbished to a modern style. Guests can choose from Classic, Executive or Superior bedrooms, ideal for all occasions.

The Prince Bar and The Prince Sandwich Bar are well known for generous and tasty offerings while the Corvus Restaurant is held in high esteem as one of Athlone’s finest eateries. The candlelit interior, wood and glass furnishings and tranquil music of the Corvus creates a soothing dining experience.

The menus cater for all tastes and dietary requirements so every diner is satisfied. The popular Prince Bar is spread out over two floors with a cocktail bar open from Thursday to Saturday night.

Guests can take the in house cocktail training course to learn from experienced mixologists everything needed to make the perfect cocktail; a great way to spend an evening having fun with friends.

Athlone has a great reputation for fantastic nightlife, but with a pub and club on site, why leave? The Prince Bar offers fantastic entertainment every Friday and Saturday night.

If the night is still young you can head to Karma nightclub. Opened in 2005, Karma has become one of Athlone’s Best Of Ireland Series

premier clubs providing a comfortable, warm, enjoyable and safe clubbing environment. The musical philosophy behind Karma is to play “commercial vibes with a slick twist” and with a Buddhist inspired interior, Karma really is something different in the club scene.

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Great accommodation, fabulous food, a pub and nightclub under one roof

The Prince of Wales is also available for weddings and corporate events. With expert staff on hand and an experienced wedding planner you can have the wedding of your dreams. The state of the art Meeting and Conference Venue at the Prince of Wales can cater for every business need, boasting four meeting rooms, complete with air conditioning and fitted with the latest conference technology. The dedicated staff will have your event running like clockwork.

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

Hodson Bay Hotel & Spa Roscommon Road 090-6442004 www.hodsonbayhotel.com In the heart of Ireland’s lakelands, the Hodson Bay Hotel & Spa is stunningly situated on the tranquil shores of Lough Ree. This unique luxury lakeside setting, bordered by Athlone Golf Club, allows you to enjoy the scenic Irish countryside and explore the historic and culturally rich region. Whether you are looking for a family break or a romantic weekend away for two, the hotel is ideally located.

Viking Boat Cruises, water activities at Baysports along with the many treks and trails adjacent to the hotel give an option for everyone.

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top dining destinations and can be experienced throughout the hotel.

Whatever you choose you can be assured that you will enjoy superb quality food made from the best and freshest ingredients - from carvery lunch for the family to casual dining from the bar food menu or the more intimate surroundings of the fine dining award winning L'Escale Restaurant, as recommended by Paulo Tullio.

From the moment you walk through the doors of the award-winning Spa at Hodson Bay Hotel you step into another world. Relax in the spectacular hot tub overlooking Lough Ree, enjoy the distinctive thermal suite or exclusive signature treatments, which will ensure

your spa experience will be like no other.

Hodson Bay Health and Leisure offers an exceptional range of facilities, including a 20m swimming pool with a range of water features housed in a fantastic glass structure, with superb views over Lough Ree. Improve your fitness with one of the many aqua classes or get your heart pumping at our state of the art gym.

You will never be stuck for something to do! Enjoy a wide range of in-house activities which are offered complimentary to all guests. Join aqua aerobics, yoga or tingle your taste buds with wine or whiskey tasting hosted by the international award winning sommelier.

Stunningly situated on the tranquil shores of Lough Ree

Whether you choose one of the spacious family suites, the charm of Hodson Classic or the modern luxury of Hodson Retreat, Hodson Bay Hotel offers a lakeside break in complete comfort.

The hotel’s varied food offering has earned a reputation as one of the region’s

Hodson Bay Hotel & Spa

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Wineport Lodge

Wineport Lodge Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6439010 www.wineport.ie More than a hotel, this is a luxury lodge that bubbles with unique personality.

Nestled on the banks of Lough Ree in an idyllic setting surrounded by native woodland, Wineport Lodge is exceptional in both style and service, wrapped in easy humour and effortless hospitality.

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A space that draws you in and begs your shoulders to drop

size beds, under-floor heating, custom designed furniture, intimate balconies and a bed that faces outwards to wideopen lake views, you won’t want to leave.

Wineport Lodge began life as a restaurant and as the reputation for great food grew, the lodge grew around it.

Rustic in style, unpretentious and always generous on the plate, at Wineport Lodge you’re in for a treat. The aromas from the kitchen and the bright hearty dishes draw you in. Uninterrupted lake views and natural styling beg you to stay a while. Whether for a relaxing break, a lunch to linger over or a dinner that brings the whole gang together, here

Husband and wife, Ray Byrne and Jane English created, a space that draws you in and begs your shoulders to drop.

Sparkling water views and natural wood flows in from the jetty to the exterior and the rooms within. Whether you want to while away a few hours with a good book as open fires flicker or enjoy the finest of food with good friends, here you’ll do it in comfort that is second to none.

The 29 rooms and suites have been designed with individual flourishes destined for relaxation. With super king

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you’ll find food you’ll love.

The treatment suite at Wineport Lodge is nothing short of perfect. Delight in stunning natural surroundings from the outdoor cedar hot tub and a range of therapies guaranteed to help you relax, rejuvenate and renew.

Sometimes getting down to business means getting away from it. At Wineport Lodge you’ll find a place that couldn’t feel further away from the day to day.

With private meeting spaces that accommodate from 30 to 100 people, complimentary Wi-Fi and amid views that can only inspire, Wineport Lodge is the perfect place to think, connect and communicate.

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club Killinure, Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485120 www.glassongolfhotel.ie The Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club has everything you need to work, rest, celebrate and play in the lakeside grounds of this four star hotel.

Located just outside Athlone town in Glasson, this was once an 18th century family farm and manor house.

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Work, rest, celebrate and play in the lakeside grounds of this four star hotel

The spacious, contemporary bedrooms are world-class with large comfortable beds. Guests can choose from classic, deluxe and family rooms or luxury suites. The new master suites come with a lounge area, cosy fire and terraces to take in the air. So whether you have a short break, romantic weekend, family holiday or business trip in mind, there is a room to suit your needs.

The spectacular new glass-fronted Lakeview Bar & Killinure Restaurant offers dining with panoramic views of the lake and countryside. This new glass frontage blends effortlessly with the

period dĂŠcor of the restaurant. There is a strong emphasis on fresh local produce complemented by a carefully selected wine list. The Lakeview Bar offers light snacks and a full bar menu for more casual dining. A particular favourite at the bar are the homemade scones. If you require a private dining area, the Temple Island Room can host up to 24 people. A menu can be designed to suit your group and budget.

The stunning scenery surrounding the period building makes for a unique wedding venue. With over 15 years experience hosting weddings, the dedicated team at Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club will make sure your day goes as planned. The banqueting suite can cater for up to 320

guests. The Dillon suite, an approved HSE venue, has been specifically designed to host civil ceremonies and civil partnerships.

Visitors can get down to business with top quality corporate meeting facilities at Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club. The meeting co-ordinator will ensure that each event goes smoothly for maximum productivity before you hit the course for a well deserved game of golf.

Guests can enjoy complimentary use of the leisure facilities.

A trip to Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club would not be complete without a game of golf. See page 45 for further details on Glasson Golf Club.

Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

Athlone Springs Hotel Monksland 090-6444444 www.athlonespringshotel.com Sleep, relax and refresh yourself at the Athlone Springs Hotel.

Modern and elegant with 68 spacious bedrooms; this four star hotel is among the best in Athlone. The bedrooms are luxuriously furnished in warm tones. All bedrooms have the option of a bath with overhead shower with additional extras such as work desk, TV and free Wi-Fi. If you are feeling extra tired, the lazy checkout is an option, subject to availability of course. Push the boat out with breakfast in bed and room service.

Guests can also avail of the state of the art Zen fitness and leisure centre and free parking.

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The ultimate experience in luxury accommodation

A family friendly hotel, the Athlone Springs Hotel offers excellent facilities for families including kid’s camps and children’s pool at the leisure centre.

Family rooms are available, some with interconnecting rooms. Additional camp beds and cots are available on request.

For the ultimate experience in luxury accommodation, the Manhattan suite comes with two widescreen LCD TVs, a separate sitting room, “his and hers”

bathroom, jacuzzi bath, walk-in shower, bathrobe and slippers. Fresh flowers and champagne can be organized ahead of your arrival to surprise that special someone.

Zen fitness and leisure centre has a 20m swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and steam room as well as all the equipment you would expect in a modern gym. Zen Beauty will have you pampered and preened for a night out or melt away your troubles with a message.

Dining in the Athlone Springs Hotel is a relaxed affair with superb food from both the Cedar Bar and Cedar Restaurant. Offering excellent service from friendly local staff and a locally sourced menu, the award winning chefs like to follow nature’s lead producing food that is in-keeping with the season.

The Athlone Springs Hotel is a choice

destination for events and conferences.

The conference meeting rooms are climate-controlled and include a choice of two boardrooms, five syndicate rooms, executive business centre, integrated audio visual and multimedia equipment as well as ample parking. The Clonellan suite can hold up to 500 people and can be partitioned.

A beautiful venue, superb wedding team, excellent food and service make the Athlone Springs the hotel for your wedding day. The dedicated wedding coordinator will be by your side from start to finish making sure everything goes off without a hitch. No matter what your budget, requirements or aspirations, the Athlone Springs Hotel can fulfill your needs. Private suites are also available for religious blessings or civil ceremonies.

Athlone Springs Hotel

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

The Shamrock Lodge Hotel Clonown Road 090-6492601 www.shamrocklodgehotel.ie Just as the shamrock is the quintessential symbol of Ireland, the hotel bearing its name offers a proper “Céad Míle Fáilte”.

“

Due to its popularity it has a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2013

groups each equipped with fridge and microwave.

Situated on its own private grounds the hotel is the perfect meeting point for business meetings, training and events catering for up to 300 delegates. The beautiful landscaped gardens are the perfect back drop for those all important wedding photographs.

The Shamrock Lodge Hotel is renowned for its traditional local food and also famous for its carvery Sunday lunch with several menu options.

The Ath Luain restaurant will take you back in time when dining was an event and meant to be savoured, it is the perfect place for a quiet and intimate dinner in a historic and charming hotel.

The expert team of chefs create tempting dishes for couples or celebrating big occasions.

The family run Shamrock Lodge Hotel is central in the town of Athlone, making it the ideal location for weddings and events or just a break away from it all to explore the area.

Due to its popularity it has a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2013.

All of the 40 finely styled bedrooms and 12 luxurious suites come with under floor heating in the bathrooms, hairdryer and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Some of the superior rooms boast private balconies so you can take in the views of the well manicured gardens and grounds.

The two bedroom suites contain two separately ensuite bedrooms along with a large living area perfect for families or

A good bar with great staff is the heart of any hotel, whether for regulars or visitors. The Iona Bar & Brassiere meets these needs with comfortable seating and an unhurried, sophisticated atmosphere.

You can also order food here from the brassiere menu of classic dishes perfect for light lunches, pre and post theatre dinners, quick bites between meetings or simply just lunch or dinner.

If a weekend of pampering and relaxing is on the cards, Mingala Rooms at the Shamrock Lodge can help soothe and relieve tension, stress and fatigue.

Offering hot stone therapy, massage, facials and makeup, you will look as good as you feel after an afternoon here.

The Shamrock Lodge guarantees the highest level of hospitality and service, and invites you to “Let our family look after yours”.

The Shamrock Lodge Hotel

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Athlone Guide Accommodation

Accommodation FEATURED HOTELS

ATHLONE BED & BREAKFASTS

Sheraton Hotel Athlone (Pg. 70) Gleeson Street 090-6451060 www.sheratonathlonehotel.com

Burren Lodge B&B Creggan, Dublin Road 090-6475157

Radisson Blu Hotel (Pg. 71) Northgate Street 090-6442600 www.radissonblu.ie/hotel-athlone

Cornamagh House B&B Cornamagh 090-6474171 www.facebook.com/pages/Cornam agh-House-B-B

The Prince of Wales Hotel (Pg. 72) Church Street 090-6476666 www.theprinceofwales.ie

Corraclor Lodge B&B Barrybeg, Roscommon Road 090-6493307 www.corraclorlodgeathlone.com

Hodson Bay Hotel & Spa (Pg. 73) Roscommon Road, Athlone 090-6442004 www.hodsonbayhotel.com

Four Seasons B&B Annagh, Ballykeeran 090-6474470 www.fourseasons.ie

Wineport Lodge (Pg. 74) Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6439010 www.wineport.ie

Inny Bay B&B Annagh, The Pigeons 090-6485284/087-6370237 www.innybay.com

Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club (Pg. 75) Killinure, Glasson, Athlone 090-6485120 www.glassongolfhotel.ie

Riverview House B&B Old Galway Road 090-6494532 www.riverviewhousebandb.com

Athlone Springs Hotel (Pg. 76) Monksland, Athlone 090-6444444 www.athlonespringshotel.com The Shamrock Lodge Hotel (Pg. 77) Clonown Road, Athlone 090-6492601 www.shamrocklodgehotel.ie HOTELS Creggan Court Hotel N6 Centre, Athlone 090-6477777 www.creggancourt.com

Shelmalier House B&B Cartontroy, Retreat Road 090-6472245 www.shelmalierhouse.com Villa St. John B&B Roscommon Road 090-6492490/086-3363836 www.villastjohn.ie Benown House B&B Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485406 Glasson Stone Lodge Glasson, Co. Westmeath 090-6485004 www.glassonstonelodge.com

Grand Hotel Main Street, Moate, Co. Westmeath 090-6481104 www.grandhotelmoate.com

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Athlone Guide Further Afield

8

After enjoying the hustle and bustle of Athlone, broaden your horizons and travel around Westmeath and to some of the neighbouring counties.

Further Afield

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Athlone Guide Further Afield Belvedere House & Gardens

All around

Athlone While there is plenty to keep you entertained in and around Athlone, there are several notable places around wider County Westmeath and in the neighbouring counties if you fancy a short drive.

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Located between the villages of Ballymore and Loughanavally, the Hill of Uisneach stands. This was the ancient seat of the Kings of Meath and its history stretches back to the Iron Age. There are --nearly 20 monuments such as ring forts and tumuli scattered around and upon the hill. A renowned feature is the six metre high limestone boulder known as the ‘Cat Stone’.

The capital of Westmeath is Mullingar.

The Cathedral of Christ the King is an impressive fixture in the town and the opulent Georgian estate, Belvedere House Gardens & Park, is well worth a visit. Once the home of the Wicked Earl Robert Rochfort, the restored residence sits on 160 acres of parkland beside Lough Ennell and features include a Victorian Walled Garden. Lough Owel and Lough Derravaragh are two other lakes near Mullingar, which are wellknown for angling and a section of the Royal Canal also runs through the town.

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Travelling south to Tullamore in Offaly, another stop on the whiskey trail awaits.

Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre is the original home of Tullamore Dew in Ireland. The distillery shut down in the 1950s but the visitor experience the process back to life.

“

Finest example of gothic-revival architecture

Also in Tullamore, Charleville Castle is said to be one of the most haunted houses and the finest example of gothicrevival architecture in the country. Along with the castle, Charleville estate has the King Oak on it, one of the biggest and oldest oak trees in Ireland. Birr Castle in Offally is another fine architectural example and features the Great Telescope—a world famous engineering and astronomical artefact.

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Athlone Guide Further Afield

Roscommon Castle

Roscommon, Meath and Longford also border Westmeath. The ruins of Roscommon Castle are located on a hillside just outside Roscommon Town.

Other attractions in and around the town are the Old Gaol, Roscommon Abbey and the County Museum. The Irish National Famine Museum is also in Roscommon, at Strokestown House Park & Gardens.

“

One of the most important Megalithic sites in Europe

Meath’s attractions include the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site Brú na Bóinne. It is the largest and one of the most important Megalithic sites in Europe and dates back to the Neolithic period. The ancient Hill of Tara, Trim Castle and Kells Abbey, where The Book of Kells takes its name from, are other items of interest here.

In Longford, St Mel’s Cathedral in the town features several stained glass windows by Harry Clarke studios and there are numerous portal dolmens scattered around the county. The Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre is located near in the village of Keenagh and houses an Iron Age road dating back to 148 BC. Galway is not an immediate neighbour but the city less than an hour away from Athlone and the county can be reached in just 20 mins. Ballinasloe is a large town offering a host of leisure pursuits but it is most famous for the Ballinasloe Horse Fair held every October.

Attracting up to 100,000 visitors from all over the world; this fair dates back to the 1700s making it one of the oldest fairs in Ireland. Visitors can expect to see equestrian events, fireworks, pig racing, dog show, international craft and food market, bakery and craft competitions and much more.

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Galway City is a compact and bustling city with a wealth of great shops, pubs and restaurants. It is famous for its nightlife and its vibrant festival season with the Galway Arts Festival and the main Galways Raceweek attracting large crowds in the summer. Salthill, within walking distance of the city, has a lovely beach and promenade.

“

Most famous for the Ballinasloe Horse Fair held every October.

Attracting up to 100,000 visitors

These are just a small selection of places of interest in Westmeath and the neighbouring counties. You might come across a few more hidden gems on your travels.

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Athlone Guide Useful Information

Athlone

Useful Information Getting Here /Co-op Taxi

Useful Information

EMERGENCY: General Emergency Services (fire, ambulance etc.,) 999

TOURISM: Athlone Tourist Information Office, Athlone Castle.

090-6494630/044-9348650 athlone@failteireland.ie

Athlone Garda Station, Barrack Street.

090-6498550/090-6498557

Waterways Ireland, The Docks.

090-6494232 WEBSITES: www.athlone.ie www.discoverireland.ie www.midlandsireland.ie www.waterwaysireland.org

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See www.garda.ie for a full list of Garda stations in Co. Westmeath and Co. Roscommon.

Athlone District Hospital, Coosan Road.

090-6475301 See www.hse.ie for a full list of medical practitioners in Athlone and Co. Westmeath.

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MEDIA: www.advertiser.ie/athlone www.westmeathindependent.ie www.athlonecommunityradio.ie www.midlandsradio.fm OTHER: Athlone Post Office, Barrack Street.

090-6435000

Athlone Towncentre Post Office, Athlone Towncentre, 090-6472046 See www.anpost.ie for a full list of post offices and services in Co. Westmeath.

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Athlone Guide Feedback

Feedback

We hope you enjoyed your visit to Athlone. Perhaps you could take a few moments to give us your feedback on this guide.

Visitors Is this an accurate representation of Athlone?

People of Athlone Have we left something out?

Would you like to see anything else in this guide?

Feel free to send a photo of your visit to be included in the Athlone Guide Facebook page.Email your pictures with a description to: bestofireland@southern.ie

We want to represent your Athlone so if you think something should be added, be it a business or an image, to the next edition of the Athlone guide, please contact us at : bestofireland@southern.ie

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Business Owners What do you think of the guide?

What improvements can we make to showcase your business and town?

If you would like your business to be included in the next edition, please contact us at: bestofireland@southern.ie

www.facebook.com/pages/ The-Best-Of-Ireland-Series

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Athlone Guide Town Map

F

E

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il Ra

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Chu rch Stre et

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Northgate St

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Athlone Castle

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Burgess Park

History & Heritage Athlone Castle Visitor Centre- D2 Church of St Peter and Paul- D2 Clonmacnoise- C1 (Follow R446-N6-M6-R357; towards Shannonbridge).

Derryglad Folk & History Museum- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Drum Heritage Centre etc.- C1 (Follow R446; towards Roscommon).

Franciscan Friary- F3 Little Museum of Memories- E2

Athlone Little Theatre- I2 Ballinahown Craft Village- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards R446-N62, Ballinahown).

Bastion Gallery- D3 Claypipe Centre- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Dean Crowe Theatre & Arts Centre- C3 Glasson Craft Gallery- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Glasson).

Luan Gallery- D2

Arts, Culture & Education Abbey Road Artists’ Studios- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards Abbey Rd).

Aidan Heavey Public Library- G2 Athlone Institute of Technology- L5 (Follow R446; see cut-out box).

Activities AIT International Sports Arena- L5 (Follow R446; see cut-out box).

Athlone Golf Club- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Athlone Marina- D2

Please note: This map indicates approximate locations only.

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Athlone Regional Sports Centre- H1 (Follow Gleeson St.; towards Ballymahon Rd).

Barracuda Boat Trips- E2 Baysports- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Glasson Golf Club- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Glasson).

Lakeside Marina & Boat Transport- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Lough Key Forest Park- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Mount Temple Golf & Country Club- (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Mount Temple).

The Planet Athlone- C1 (Follow R446; towards Grace Rd).

Viking Tours- D3 for departures (Based in J2).

S

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Gr

Connaught Gardens

3

5

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Gri th S tre et

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Athlone Guide Town Map

I

J

Gleeson Street

R446

ugh Ave.

St. Ma ry ’s

ua re

Irishtown

Payne’s Lane

rick Pl c.

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Shopping African Sun & Beauty Salon- C3 Athlone Towncentre- G2 Burgess of Athlone, Department Store- E2 Cempo Interiors- L5 (Follow R446; see cutout box).

Cunningham’s Pharmacy- L5 (Follow R446; see cut-out box).

DB Cycles & Babyland- A3 Donnellan & Co.- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Grace’s Fashions- G3 Paul Byron Shoes- H4 Swarbrigg’s Shoes- G2 The Forgotten Lady- H3 The Square House Menswear- D2

Golden Island

ess k

Food & Drink “Beans & Leaves”- E2

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oad

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Islan Golden

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Athlone Institute of Technology

St .

Cunningham’s Pharmacy

Sea nC ost ello Str ee t The Stra nd

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Bride swel l

R916

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Athlone Towncentre

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Grace Par k Road

Civic Square

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A Slice of Life- B3 Al Mezza- D3 Corner House Bistro- F2 Glasson Village Restaurant- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Glasson).

Hatter's Lane Restaurant/Gertie Brownes Pub- E2 Karma Club- F2 Kin Khao- D3 Luker’s Pub-C1 (Follow R446-N6-M6-R357; towards Shannonbridge).

McNeill's Pub- B3 Poppy Fields- H4 Shannon Crafts & Coffee Dock- G3 The Fatted Calf- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Glasson).

The Left Bank Bistro- D3 The Locke Restaurant- D3 The Snug Bar- D3

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swe ll St reet

Cut-out Box (See above)

The Three Jolly Pigeons- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Lissoy).

Thyme Restaurant- E3 Accommodation Athlone Springs Hotel-C1 (Follow R446; towards R362,Tuam Rd).

Glasson Country House Hotel & Golf Club - E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Glasson).

Hodson Bay Hotel & Spa- C1 (Follow R446; towards N61, Roscommon Rd).

Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone- E2 Shamrock Lodge Hotel- A4 Sheraton Athlone Hotel- H2 The Prince of Wales Hotel- F2 Wineport Lodge- E1 (Follow Northgate St.; towards N55, Glasson Rd).

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Athlone Guide County Map

To Boyle (20)

N61

Roscommon Town

Streete

16

Rathowen

Ballinalack

Longford

Roscommon

N4

Collinstown L. O

19

2

Hodson Bay

Lough Ree

18

8&9

Glasson

1 5

4 10 6

Ballykeeran Mount Temple

Athlone Drum

N6

15

12

14

on

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Shannonbridge

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Killkare Castletown

11

13

Mulli

17

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N5 5

Moyvore

Roy al

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Kilbegga

Offaly

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Athlone Guide County Map

Finea

Coole Fore

Clonmellon

L. Lene

Castlepollard

Collinstown

L. Derravaragh

2 N5 N51

Multifarnham Crookedwood

Delvin

wn

Athlone County Map Key

L. Owel 2 N5

ullingar Royal Can al

Raharney Killucan Rathwire N4

Kinnegad N52

L. Ennell

Ballinagore

Milltownpass N6

Tyrellspass

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Hodson Bay Hotel & Spa Athlone Golf Club Baysports Glasson Craft Gallery Lakeside Marina & Boat Transport Wineport Lodge Mount Temple Golf Club Glasson Country House Hotel Glasson Golf Club The Fatted Calf Glasson Village Restaurant Ballinahown Craft Village (Celtic Roots/Core Crafted Design) 13. Clonmacnoise 14. Luker’s Pub 15. Drum Heritage Centre etc.

16. Donnellan & Co. 17. The Three Jolly Pigeons 18. Claypipe Centre 19. Derryglad Folk & History Museum 20. Lough Key Forest Park

lbeggan Please note: This map indicates approximate locations only and does not illustrate all minor roads.

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