Athlone Castle: A Bastion Through Time
Explore centuries of Irish history at Athlone Castle, a Norman fortress transformed into an interactive museum on the banks of the River Shannon.
Athlone Castle, dating back to the 12th century, stands as a powerful reminder of Athlone's strategic importance in Irish history. Originally a wooden fort, it evolved into a formidable stone structure that witnessed countless battles and sieges, most notably the Siege of Athlone in 1690 and 1691. Today, the castle is a captivating visitor center that brings history to life through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays.
A brief summary to Adamson Castle
- CASTLE MUSEUM, ATHLONE CASTLE, Castle St, Athlone, Athlone And Bigmeadow, Co. Westmeath, N37 E9K2, IE
- +353906442130
- Visit website
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid queues and ensure entry.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the castle and its exhibits.
- Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages for a more immersive experience.
- Visit the nearby Luan Gallery, a modern art gallery located just across the road from the castle.
- Enjoy a pint at Sean's Bar, officially recognized as Ireland's oldest pub, located near the castle.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Athlone Train Station or Bus Éireann station, the castle is approximately a 10-minute walk. Head south on Southern Station Road, then turn left onto Church Street. Continue onto St. Peter's Square, where you'll find the castle on your left. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
From the Athlone Train Station or Bus Éireann station, take the A1 or A2 bus towards Bealnamulla. The bus stops directly beside the castle on Castle Street. The fare is approximately €3-€5.
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Driving
From the M6 motorway, take the Athlone exit and follow the signs to the town center. Once in the town center, follow the signs to Athlone Castle. Paid parking is available in St Peter's Square and Connolly Street Car Park, both within easy walking distance of the castle. APCOA's Inish car park is about a 13-minute walk away. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around €2-€3 per hour.
Discover more about Adamson Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Adamson Castle
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Explore Athlone Castle: a historic fortress in the heart of Ireland, offering a blend of medieval architecture and captivating stories of the past.
Athlone Guided Tours
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Viking Tours Ireland
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Discover Ireland's Hidden Heartlands with Viking Tours Ireland: Scenic river cruises from Athlone Castle to Lough Ree and Clonmacnoise.
The Left Bank Bistro
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A vibrant dining experience in Athlone's Left Bank Quarter, offering innovative cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
The Bailey Bar & Lounge, Athlone
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Bastion Kitchen
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Athlone's beloved café serving fresh, healthy meals with locally-sourced ingredients in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
1810 Signature Cuisine -STEAKs - SEAFOOD - HOMEMADE PASTA-
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Loaves and Fishes
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A charming Athlone café serving fresh breakfasts, lunches, and coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for a quick bite or a relaxing meal.
Bacchus Restaurant
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Dead Centre Brewing
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Thyme Restaurant
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Award-winning Athlone restaurant serving innovative Irish cuisine crafted with locally sourced ingredients from the heart of the Midlands.
Athlone Brigade IRA Memorial
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A solemn tribute to the Athlone Brigade IRA, honoring their fight for Irish independence on Athlone's Custume Place. A place for reflection and remembrance.
Hatters Lane Bistro @ Gertie Brownes
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Athlone Memorials & Headstones
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Flynns Funeral Directors Athlone
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sean's Bar
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Luan Gallery
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Athlone's premier visual art gallery, showcasing contemporary Irish and international art with free admission and stunning river views.
Church of Saints Peter & Paul
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Athlone's iconic church: a stunning blend of Renaissance architecture, Harry Clarke-style stained glass, and rich religious history.
Riverside tours
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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
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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.
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Explore Ireland's heartland on this scenic 43km greenway, following the path of a historic railway line from Athlone to Mullingar.
Burgess Park (Páirc Burgess)
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Shannon Banks Nature Trail Walk (Brown Route)
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The Golden Mile
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The Big Meadow Walkway
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The Silver Mile
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Old Rail Trail (Whitegates, Athlone)
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Shannon Banks Nature Trail Walk (Green Route)
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Garrycastle
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Meehambee Dolmen
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Essential places to dine
River View Bistro
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Di Bella
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Pavarotti's Italian Restaurant
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AL MEZZA Lebanese restaurant
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Kin Khao Thai
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Gertie Brownes Bar & Bistro
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The Cellar Bistro
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The Brasserie
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Genoa Cafe
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Peddler Mac's Bar & Beer Garden
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Elements Bistro
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Beans And Leaves
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Spice India
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Bonne Bouche Restaurant
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Craft Bistro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Left Bank Antiques
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Ogham Treasure
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Bastion Gallery
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Athlone Hampers (Gift Hampers & Baskets)
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Original Original
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Nell's Athlone
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Burgess Department Store
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Olivia Danielle Boutique
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The Gift & Design Centre
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Treasures
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Healing Earth
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Icon Boutique Athlone
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KSO Corp
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Graces Ladies Fashion
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Jack Wills
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Castle Inn
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The Snug Bar
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Seery's Bar Athlone
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The Fiddlers
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The Prince Bar
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The Brazen Monkey
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Lord Bellamys
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The Piano Bar
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Biddy O'Dowd's
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Nuts Corner
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Flannery's Bar
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Carey's Tavern
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Coosan Tavern
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The Olive Bar
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The Tack Room
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