County Westmeath, Ireland Travel Guide

Discover County Westmeath, Ireland's heartland of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore ancient sites, serene lakes, and lively festivals.

Home
Travel Guides
Ireland
County Westmeath

Nestled in the heart of Ireland, County Westmeath is a tranquil blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. This enchanting destination offers an array of experiences, from exploring ancient castles to enjoying serene lakes, making it a perfect getaway for any traveler. The lush green landscapes and picturesque villages are a sight to behold, while the friendly locals provide a warm welcome. One of the county's highlights is the magnificent Belvedere House and Gardens. This 18th-century estate, set on the shores of Lough Ennell, boasts stunning parklands, follies, and a fascinating history. A visit here is not complete without a leisurely stroll through its enchanting gardens and a tour of the exquisitely preserved house. For those with a penchant for history, the Hill of Uisneach is a must-visit. Known as the spiritual center of Ireland, this ancient ceremonial site offers panoramic views and a deep connection to Ireland's past. The hill is dotted with historical remnants, including ancient ruins and the famous Ail na Míreann, or the Stone of Divisions. Nature lovers will find solace in County Westmeath's scenic lakes. Lough Lene, with its crystal-clear waters, is perfect for a peaceful day of fishing or kayaking. Meanwhile, the Royal Canal Greenway offers a scenic route for cycling and walking, stretching through the heart of the county and showcasing its natural beauty. County Westmeath is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The town of Mullingar, in particular, hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to literature. The local pubs are a great place to experience traditional Irish music and dance, offering a lively atmosphere and a chance to mingle with the locals.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring County Westmeath.

Visit Belvedere House early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful tour of the gardens.
Wear sturdy shoes when visiting the Hill of Uisneach as the terrain can be uneven.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the lakeside at Lough Lene for a relaxing afternoon.
Check the local events calendar in Mullingar to catch a festival or live music performance.
Rent a bike to explore the Royal Canal Greenway for an active and scenic day out.

Top City Travel Guides in County Westmeath

The cities of County Westmeath, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Athlone

Explore County Westmeath: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in County Westmeath

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Belvedere House Gardens & Park

Explore the stunning Belvedere House Gardens & Park, a historical estate combining beautiful landscapes with rich Irish heritage.

4.6

Athlone Castle Visitor Centre

Explore the historic Athlone Castle Visitor Centre, a captivating blend of heritage, stunning views, and engaging exhibitions along the River Shannon.

4.4

Fore Abbey

Explore the rich history and stunning ruins of Fore Abbey, an essential destination for tourists in County Westmeath, Ireland.

4.7

Tullynally Castle & Gardens

Experience the charm and history of Tullynally Castle & Gardens, a captivating landmark in County Westmeath, Ireland, surrounded by stunning gardens.

4.7

Best landmarks in County Westmeath

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Belvedere House Gardens & Park

Explore the enchanting beauty of Belvedere House Gardens & Park, a serene escape in Co. Westmeath filled with history, nature, and stunning landscapes.

4.6

Fore Abbey

Explore the enchanting ruins of Fore Abbey, a historical gem in Co. Westmeath, where Ireland's rich monastic heritage comes alive amidst stunning landscapes.

4.7

Tullynally Castle & Gardens

Experience the beauty and history of Tullynally Castle & Gardens, a captivating tourist attraction in County Westmeath, Ireland.

4.7

Dún Na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park

Explore the enchanting Dún Na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park, where nature meets culture in the heart of Westmeath, Ireland.

4.7

Best restaurants in County Westmeath

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Sean's Bar

Experience timeless charm at Sean's Bar - Ireland's oldest pub in Athlone offering traditional music, hearty food, and unforgettable moments.

4.7

Bloomfield House Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa

Discover luxury and tranquility at Bloomfield House Hotel, Leisure Club & Spa – your gateway to the heart of Westmeath's beauty.

4.4

Annebrook House Hotel

Discover the charm of Mullingar at Annebrook House Hotel—your perfect blend of comfort, fine dining, and local culture.

4.5

Greville Arms Hotel

Discover comfort and charm at Greville Arms Hotel in Mullingar - your perfect base for exploring Ireland's scenic midlands.

4.3

Best bars in County Westmeath

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Gertie Brownes Bar & Bistro

Discover the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of Gertie Brownes Bar & Bistro, a must-visit gastropub in Athlone, Ireland.

4.6

The Dark Horse Bar & Kitchen

Experience the best of Irish hospitality at The Dark Horse Bar & Kitchen, a perfect blend of pub charm and gourmet cuisine in Athlone.

4.5

The Chambers Bar Mullingar

Discover the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Chambers Bar in Mullingar, where great drinks and local culture come together.

4.5

Clarkes Bar

Experience the heart of Mullingar's nightlife at Clarkes Bar, a beloved local pub offering great drinks and live Irish music.

4.8

Best nightclubs in County Westmeath

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Dolan's Bar / Mojo's Niteclub

Dolan's Bar / Mojo's Niteclub: Mullingar's ultimate fusion of traditional bar charm and electrifying nightlife, perfect for tourists seeking vibrant entertainment.

4.3

The Fence Nightclub & Cocktail Bar

Unleash your night at The Fence Nightclub & Cocktail Bar, where live music, crafted cocktails, and vibrant energy await in Mullingar's nightlife scene.

4.2

The Final Fence Mullingar

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Mullingar at The Final Fence, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.

2.5

Ozone Nightclub

Experience the electric nightlife of Athlone at Ozone Nightclub, where dance and music unite for an unforgettable night out.

3.7

Best shops in County Westmeath

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Athlone Towncentre

Explore Athlone Towncentre, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse retail options, dining experiences, and community events in the heart of Athlone.

4.4

Golden Island Shopping Centre

Experience the ultimate shopping and dining adventure at Golden Island Shopping Centre in Athlone, Co. Westmeath.

4.4

Harbour Place Shopping Centre

Explore Mullingar's Harbour Place Shopping Centre for an exciting shopping experience with diverse shops, dining, and a lively atmosphere.

4.2

FairGreen Shopping Centre

Explore the FairGreen Shopping Centre in Mullingar, a vibrant shopping oasis with diverse stores, delightful dining, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

4.3

Explore County Westmeath on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in County Westmeath, mapped for you.

County Westmeath Essentials

County Westmeath is located in the heart of Ireland, approximately 85 kilometers west of Dublin. The nearest international airport is Dublin Airport, which is well connected to major cities around the world. From Dublin Airport, you can take a direct bus or train to Mullingar, the county town of Westmeath, or Athlone, another major town in the county. The journey by train from Dublin to Mullingar takes about 1 hour, while the bus ride can take approximately 1.5 hours.
Public transportation in County Westmeath includes buses and trains that connect major towns and surrounding areas. Bus Éireann operates regular services throughout the county, and Irish Rail provides train services to key locations such as Mullingar and Athlone. Taxis are also available and can be booked in advance or hailed on the street. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available at Dublin Airport and in major towns. Cycling is another popular way to explore the scenic countryside.
The official currency of Ireland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops throughout County Westmeath. ATMs are plentiful in major towns like Mullingar and Athlone, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially if you plan to visit smaller villages and rural areas where card payments might not be accepted.
County Westmeath is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists, but remaining vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 999 or 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Mullingar and Athlone both have hospitals equipped to handle emergencies. Pharmacies are available in all major towns for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies during your stay.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual attire when dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Silence your phone and dress modestly. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers and avoid loud conversations. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to trying traditional Irish cuisine. Don't forget to tip, generally around 10-15% in restaurants.
To experience County Westmeath like a local, take a stroll through the Mullingar Farmers Market to sample fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with the locals who are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don't miss visiting the ancient sites such as the Hill of Uisneach, considered the mythological and sacred center of Ireland. Enjoy a boat trip on Lough Ree or the River Shannon for beautiful landscapes and a unique perspective of the county.

When is the best time to visit County Westmeath?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for County Westmeath

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in County Westmeath. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHello
  [Helo]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Guhd-bye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/You're welcome
  [Pleez/Yer welcum]
- Thank youThank you
  [Thank yew]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Ex-kyoos mee/Sor-ee]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How ar yew?]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. An yew?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Doo yew speek English?]
- I don't understandI don't understand
  [I don't undurstand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [Id laik to see the meny, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheerz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I wud laik to pay, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [Help]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go awey]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Call the Po-lees]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a dok-tor]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [Im lost]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [Im il]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [Id laik to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [Im just luking]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much iz it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [Thats too expensiv]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Can yew lower the pryce?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What tym iz it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [Its wun o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (ten)]
- MorningMorning
  [Mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Aftur-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [Eve-ning]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesturday]
- TodayToday
  [Tuday]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorow]
- 11
  [Wun]
- 22
  [Too]
- 33
  [Three]
- 44
  [Four]
- 55
  [Five]
- 66
  [Six]
- 77
  [Seven]
- 88
  [Eight]
- 99
  [Nine]
- 1010
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Wher's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can yew sho mee (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [Wen's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A tik-it (to ....)]

History of County Westmeath

The Hill of Uisneach is often referred to as the 'mythological navel' of Ireland. This ancient site was considered the center of the island and holds significant mythological and ritual importance. It was believed to be the meeting point of the five provinces of ancient Ireland and is associated with the sun god Lugh. Uisneach was a ceremonial site where the Bealtaine fire festival was celebrated, marking the beginning of summer.
Founded by Saint Ciarán in the mid-6th century, Clonmacnoise became one of the most important centers of religion and learning in Ireland. Situated along the River Shannon, it attracted scholars from all over Europe. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, several churches, two round towers, and numerous high crosses. Viking raids in the 9th and 10th centuries marked its decline, but it remains a significant historical and archaeological site.
Athlone Castle stands as a testament to the Norman influence in Ireland. Originally constructed in the 12th century by the Anglo-Norman invader Hugh de Lacy, the castle was strategically located on the banks of the River Shannon. It played a crucial role during the Siege of Athlone in the Williamite War in 1691, when it was fiercely contested between the Jacobite and Williamite forces. The castle has undergone several renovations and now houses a museum.
The Great Famine of the 1840s had a profound impact on County Westmeath, as it did on the rest of Ireland. The population of the county dwindled due to starvation, disease, and emigration. Workhouses in towns like Mullingar and Delvin became overcrowded as people sought relief from the devastating conditions. The famine left a lasting legacy on the landscape and society of Westmeath, which is still remembered today.
County Westmeath played a role in Ireland's struggle for independence from British rule. During the War of Independence (1919–1921), the Irish Republican Army (IRA) was active in the region, engaging in guerrilla warfare against British forces. The subsequent Civil War (1922–1923) also saw divisions within the county as pro-Treaty and anti-Treaty forces clashed. The period was marked by violence and upheaval, but it ultimately led to the establishment of the Irish Free State.
County Westmeath is rich in cultural heritage, particularly in traditional Irish music and festivals. The town of Mullingar is known for its vibrant music scene, hosting events such as the Fleadh Cheoil, an annual festival that celebrates Irish traditional music, dance, and culture. The county is also home to numerous local festivals that showcase traditional crafts, storytelling, and folklore, preserving the cultural identity of the region.