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>Heritage

The Glasson Trail and Oliver Goldsmith
Enjoy picturesque Glasson and follow in the footsteps of its most famous son.

Clonmacnoise
Founded by St. Ciaran in 545 AD this monastic complex is one of the most important in Ireland and one of the highlights of any trip to the Irish midlands.

Inchclearun Island and the islands of Lough Ree
St. Diarmuid founded a monastery here in 500 AD. Queen Maeve, the ancient ruler of Connaught, is said to have been slain here as she bathed in the tranquil waters of the east shore, by a slingshot thrown from over a mile away.

Birr Castle/Gardens and Telescope
These beautiful gardens boast the largest box hedges in the world. The famous telescope is now restored.

Knockcroghery Claypipe workshop
Experience the art of Claypipe making as carried out in this village for over two hundred years. They use the original iron moulds to shape the clay.

Strokestown House and Famine Museum
Experience life at the "big house" and learn about the famine of the 1840's and of the lives of the unfortunate who endured it.

Clonfert Cathedral
World Heritage Site Founded by St. Brendan The Navigator and once the home to over 3000 monks. This hidden gem is easily included on a visit to Clonmacnoise.

Mediaeval Rindoon
Once one of the royal fortresses guarding the line of the Shannon it can be approached by land or water. Close to Inchcleraun Island.

Uisneach
Home of kings, druids and saints this is the ancient centre of Ireland.

Coralea Prehistoric Bog Roadway
This perfectly preserved iron age oak roadway is the largest uncovered in Europe, dating from 140 BC, it's 40 minutes drive from Athlone.

>Outdoor activities     top of page

The River Shannon
Hire a boat or just relax and watch this majestic river roll lazily by. The Viking Ship Travels up to Lough Ree daily and to Clonmacnoise weekly.

Town Walks
Every day from the castle at 3pm.

Cycling routes
Through the bog, by the lake or for the brave - Clonmacnoise.

Bogs and Corncrakes
Visit this fast disappearing habitat and maybe see or hear the elusive Corncrake.

Horse Riding Available locally
We can make necessary arrangements.

Golf
There are numerous excellent courses. All welcome visitors.

Sailing
Athlone Yacht Club is the second oldest in the world.

>Shopping     top of page

There is excellent shopping in Athlone, in particular there are many interesting independent shops in the left bank area. These range from antiquarian books and antiques to funky clothes and gifts.

>Entertainment     top of page

Athlone LeisureWorld and Bowling; Athlone CinePlex.