Shannon Banks Nature Trail Walk (Green Route)
Discover Athlone's natural beauty on this scenic riverside trail, perfect for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting along the River Shannon.
Escape into nature along the scenic Shannon Banks Nature Trail in Athlone, a 5km looped walk along the River Shannon and the historic Athlone Canal. Perfect for leisurely strolls and observing local wildlife, the trail offers a peaceful retreat with informative boards detailing the area's flora and fauna.
A brief summary to Shannon Banks Nature Trail Walk (Green Route)
- Old, Canal Banks, Athlone, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, IE
- +35316057700
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and to enjoy the sunrise over the river.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; you might spot some rare species along the trail.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trail can be uneven in some sections.
Getting There
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Walking
From Athlone Castle, walk towards the riverfront and follow the path along the River Shannon. The trail starts to the left of the dock. Follow the signs for the Shannon Banks Nature Trail. The walk to the trail entrance is approximately 5-10 minutes from the castle.
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Public Transport
From Athlone town centre, take a bus towards the Athlone Railway Station. From the station, walk east along the canal path for approximately 15 minutes until you see the signs for the Shannon Banks Nature Trail on your left. Bus fare is approximately €2-€3.
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Parking
Parking is available in Athlone town. From the town centre, walk towards Athlone Castle and then follow the walking directions to the trail. APCOA operates two car parks in Athlone. Parking fees vary, with hourly rates around €2.50 and daily rates around €10.
Discover more about Shannon Banks Nature Trail Walk (Green Route)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Riverdale House B&B
1.0 km
Experience Irish hospitality in a beautifully restored B&B, steps from Athlone's cultural heart and historic sites. Free parking & WiFi!
O'Hehirs Bakery & Cafe
1.0 km
Experience traditional Irish baking at O'Hehirs Bakery & Cafe in Athlone, offering fresh artisan breads, pastries, and a cozy atmosphere in Golden Island Shopping Centre.
Bastion Kitchen
1.1 km
Athlone's beloved café serving fresh, healthy meals with locally-sourced ingredients in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Left Bank Bistro
1.1 km
A vibrant dining experience in Athlone's Left Bank Quarter, offering innovative cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
Loaves and Fishes
1.1 km
A charming Athlone café serving fresh breakfasts, lunches, and coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing meal.
Athlone Memorials & Headstones
1.2 km
Discover the artistry of remembrance at Athlone Memorials & Headstones, where heartfelt tributes come to life through beautifully crafted memorials.
Flynns Funeral Directors Athlone
1.2 km
Discover the compassionate services of Flynns Funeral Directors in Athlone, a heartfelt tribute to honoring loved ones with dignity and care.
Shamrock Lodge Hotel
1.2 km
Experience warm Irish hospitality at Athlone's Shamrock Lodge Hotel, a family-run gem with a rich history and beautiful gardens.
Poppy Fields Cafe
1.2 km
A charming Athlone cafe serving homemade treats, daily specials, and healthy options in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Open for breakfast and lunch.
Adamson Castle
1.2 km
Explore Athlone Castle: a historic fortress in the heart of Ireland, offering a blend of medieval architecture and captivating stories of the past.
1810 Signature Cuisine -STEAKs - SEAFOOD - HOMEMADE PASTA-
1.2 km
Experience Argentina in Ireland: Charcoal-grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and homemade pasta in the heart of Athlone. A culinary journey awaits!
The Bailey Bar & Lounge, Athlone
1.2 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at The Bailey Bar & Lounge in Athlone, offering hearty food, lively music, and comfortable B&B accommodation.
Viking Tours Ireland
1.2 km
Discover Ireland's Hidden Heartlands with Viking Tours Ireland: Scenic river cruises from Athlone Castle to Lough Ree and Clonmacnoise.
Athlone Guided Tours
1.2 km
Explore Athlone's vibrant history and culture with expert-guided tours that bring the town's stories and landmarks to life.
Thyme Restaurant
1.2 km
Award-winning Athlone restaurant serving innovative Irish cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients from the heart of the Midlands.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Big Meadow Walkway
0.7 km
Discover Athlone's hidden gem: a scenic walkway through lush meadows and tranquil waters, perfect for a refreshing escape into nature.
Shannon Banks Nature Trail Walk (Brown Route)
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting Shannon Banks Nature Trail in Athlone – a serene escape along the River Shannon, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Burgess Park (Páirc Burgess)
0.9 km
Discover the tranquility of Burgess Park in Athlone, where nature meets community in a beautiful green setting perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Sean's Bar
1.1 km
Discover the charm of Sean's Bar, a historic Irish pub in Athlone, where warmth, culture, and great food await every traveler.
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
1.2 km
Explore the historic Athlone Castle Visitor Centre, a captivating blend of heritage, stunning views, and engaging exhibitions along the River Shannon.
Luan Gallery
1.3 km
Athlone's premier visual art gallery, showcasing contemporary Irish and international art with free admission and stunning river views.
Church of Saints Peter & Paul
1.3 km
Athlone's iconic church: a stunning blend of Renaissance architecture, Harry Clarke-style stained glass, and rich religious history.
Riverside tours
1.3 km
Discover Athlone's riverside charm: scenic cruises, historic sites, and tranquil beauty on the majestic River Shannon in Ireland's Hidden Heartlands.
Hidden Heartlands Tours
1.4 km
Explore Athlone and the Hidden Heartlands with guided boat tours and a unique water taxi service on the River Shannon and Lough Ree.
Old Rail Trail - Athlone.
1.5 km
Explore Ireland's heartland on this scenic 43km greenway, following the path of a historic railway line from Athlone to Mullingar.
The Golden Mile
1.7 km
Explore The Golden Mile, a breathtaking nature trail in Athlone, Co. Westmeath, and immerse yourself in Ireland's stunning landscapes and serene riverside atmosphere.
The Silver Mile
1.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of The Silver Mile in Athlone, a picturesque waterfront pathway along the River Shannon, perfect for relaxation and scenic strolls.
Old Rail Trail (Whitegates, Athlone)
1.9 km
Explore Ireland's heartlands on this scenic 43km greenway, tracing a historic railway line from Athlone to Mullingar.
Garrycastle
3.2 km
Escape to Garrycastle in Athlone: a charming city park with lush greenery, walking paths, and a peaceful atmosphere for all ages.
Meehambee Dolmen
5.2 km
Explore the ancient Meehambee Dolmen, a historical landmark in County Roscommon, Ireland, offering a glimpse into prehistoric burial practices.
Essential places to dine
Red Sea Bistro
1.0 km
Experience the rich flavors and warm hospitality at Red Sea Bistro in Athlone – where culinary delights await every visitor.
Kin Khao Thai
1.1 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine at Kin Khao Thai in Athlone – a vibrant Asian restaurant with flavorful dishes and warm hospitality.
Spice India
1.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors at Spice India in Athlone—where every dish tells a story.
AL MEZZA Lebanese restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Al Mezza in Athlone - where every dish tells a story of rich flavors and tradition.
Pavarotti's Italian Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Pavarotti's Italian Restaurant in Athlone—perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Di Bella
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Di Bella in Athlone—where every dish tells a story.
CHARCOAL GRILL
1.1 km
Discover mouthwatering grilled delights at Charcoal Grill in Athlone - where flavor meets comfort in every bite.
River View Bistro
1.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine and delightful desserts at River View Bistro in Athlone, where scenic views enhance every meal.
Savoury Fare
1.2 km
Discover Savoury Fare in Athlone: A delightful restaurant offering exquisite local flavors in a cozy atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Beans And Leaves
1.2 km
Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at Beans And Leaves - your perfect café experience in Athlone.
The Dark Horse Bar & Kitchen
1.2 km
Discover The Dark Horse Bar & Kitchen in Athlone: A vibrant gastropub serving delicious local cuisine amidst lively sports and entertainment.
Eddie Rocket's
1.2 km
Experience authentic American diner vibes at Eddie Rocket's in Athlone with delicious burgers and shakes in a nostalgic setting.
Bambini’s Café Shop Takeaway (Boom Biryani)
1.2 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors at Bambini's Café Shop Takeaway in Athlone, specializing in delicious biryani and takeout delights.
Coffee Haven
1.2 km
Discover Coffee Haven in Athlone: Your go-to destination for delicious brews and cozy breakfasts.
The Cellar Bistro
1.2 km
Experience the best of Irish cuisine at The Cellar Bistro in Athlone, where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Penneys
1.0 km
Discover affordable fashion and unique finds at Penneys in Athlone's Golden Island Shopping Centre, a must-visit for every traveler.
Dealz
1.0 km
Explore diverse savings at Dealz, Athlone's destination for budget-friendly shopping across various categories.
Dead Fresh Original
1.0 km
Explore unique fashion and vibrant styles at Dead Fresh Original - the ultimate clothing and sunglasses destination for trend-savvy travelers.
F&F Clothing
1.0 km
Explore stylish and affordable fashion for the whole family at F&F Clothing in Golden Island Shopping Centre, Athlone.
Golden Island Shopping Centre
1.0 km
Explore Athlone’s Golden Island Shopping Centre: a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment in Co. Westmeath.
Card Factory Athlone
1.0 km
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Carraig Donn (Gift Store)
1.0 km
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Paraffin Store
1.0 km
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Clothes Line
1.1 km
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Ogham Treasure
1.1 km
Explore Ogham Treasure in Athlone for unique handcrafted jewelry inspired by ancient Irish symbols, perfect for meaningful souvenirs.
Bastion Gallery
1.1 km
Explore Bastion Gallery in Athlone for unique gifts, artisanal jewelry, and a collection of books that celebrate Irish creativity and craftsmanship.
Left Bank Antiques
1.1 km
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Dunnes Stores
1.1 km
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Athlone Hampers (Gift Hampers & Baskets)
1.1 km
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Sephoria
1.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Fiddlers
1.1 km
Discover The Fiddlers in Athlone, a vibrant bar offering traditional Irish music, local drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
The Snug Bar
1.1 km
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The Castle Inn
1.1 km
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Seery's Bar Athlone
1.2 km
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Flannery's Bar
1.2 km
Discover the lively Flannery's Bar in Athlone, where locals and tourists gather for great drinks, food, and unforgettable nights out.
Biddy O'Dowd's
1.2 km
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Nuts Corner
1.2 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Nuts Corner, a beloved bar in Athlone, Co. Westmeath, where Irish hospitality shines through.
The Piano Bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Piano Bar in Athlone, where live music and exquisite cocktails create unforgettable memories.
The Brazen Monkey
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at The Brazen Monkey, the perfect bar for relaxation and socializing in Athlone.
The Prince Bar
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Prince Bar in Athlone, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy great drinks and live music.
Carey's Tavern
1.3 km
Discover the charm of Carey's Tavern in Athlone, where great food, drinks, and live music create the perfect Irish pub experience.
Lord Bellamys
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant energy and local charm of Lord Bellamys, a premier bar in Athlone, where great drinks and live music await.
Coosan Tavern
2.1 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Coosan Tavern, the vibrant bar in Athlone offering a great selection of drinks and local flavors.
The Tack Room
2.2 km
Experience the warmth and charm of The Tack Room, a cozy bar in Athlone, offering a delightful selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Olive Bar
2.2 km
Discover the charm of The Olive Bar in Athlone, a cozy bar known for its local beers and welcoming ambiance, ideal for tourists seeking an authentic Irish experience.
