What to do and see in County Westmeath, Province of Leinster: The Best Budget-friendly Things to do

Open May-Oct incl : No trip to the midlands is complete without a visit to the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum, which is hidden in South Roscommon in a land of lakes and rivers. The collection deals with Farm & Folk life in Ireland from the 18th century to the recent past. The museum is privately owned and run by the Finneran Family and houses a unique 25 year collection of over ,7500 items includes horse-drawn machinery restored to the original working order, tradesmans tools and buttermaking equipment, laundry memorabilia, old and rare washing machines, 1930’s old-style thatched bar & grocery, old-style sheep shears, radios, gramophones , shop dockets and bill-heads, sports display McCormacks photography room where the contents include dark rooms finishing r D & P line, B & W colour processors. as well as much, much more. its an ideal destina­tion for school tours, ICA Guilds, Ladies Clubs, Farming Groups, Vintage Clubs, Historical So­cieties, families,

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Follow in the footsteps of High-Kings, Gods and Goddesses. Let us lead you through the myths and legends of Uisneach, the Sacred Centre of Ireland... ...It’s a curious thing to climb a hill on an apparently ordinary working farm in the Irish midlands and find yourself standing at a gateway to the mythical “otherworld”. Here on the sacred Hill of Uisneach, the thin veil between myth and reality disappears... Located in the heart of Ireland’s midlands, The Hill of Uisneach in Co. Westmeath has featured in every significant Irish Event - be it political, cultural, religious, mythological or geographical. The centre of Ireland in many ways, the enigmatic hill is one of the most sacred and historic sanctuaries in the world. Re-engage with Irish ancient heritage and walk the ancient landscape. Connect with our experts who will take you back in time for a fun-filled, enjoyable and unforgettable experience. See you soon !

- Follow the clues - Solve the riddles - Find the keys - Escape the room in only 60 minutes ! EXIT - first in Westmeath room escape game !!! Here in Athlone !!! "Clown Prince of Crime" 10+ - game based on comic books ... Escape the trap-room before the Joker comes back !!! "New World Order" 15+ - conspiracy theories scenario Find and disarm the bomb before time runs out !!! "Red Room" 18+ - Someone murdered a beautiful and young woman. You and your partner are detectives and only you can catch the killer!!! EXIT Athlone room escape game !

Take a leisurely cycle along the beautiful scenic Traffic free Royal Canal Greenway to Enfield or Longford or why not try the Old Rail Trail to Athlone and New Lake Cycle to Lough Owel .We have bikes and accessories to suit all ages and fitness levels Hybrids,Electric Bikes,Road Bikes, Kids Bikes,Fun Tandams, Trailers , and Child Seats with our extensive fleet of new alloy bikes, we cater for all Familys , work Groups , Hen Partys and we have packages to suit all, At our brand new Waterways Ireland Location at ROYAL CANAL Harbour HUB we have direct access to Royal Canal Greenway and Old Rail Trail Greenway ,free parking on site,toilets and showers, helmets and hi viz jacket ,locks supplied with detailed Maps of our local Cycle Greenways

Athlone Castle Visitor Centre is situated in the heart of the Midlands, on the west bank of the river Shannon adjacent to St Peter and Pauls Church and the Luan Gallery. It was reopened in November 2012 following extensive renovations. The 13th century Norman castle now boasts 8 new exhibition spaces that tell the story of the castle, Athlone town, its people and the surrounding area. The spaces have been designed to be very interactive visitor's are encouraged to get hands on and engage with the rooms as they move through them. First built in the 12th century as a timber fort, Athlone Castle evolved into a bold, defensive building. Its most significant architectural features, such as the keep, have now been harnessed to act as a dramatic backdrop to its diverse and fascinating story. The newly designed exhibition spaces pursue both a chronological and thematic sequence combining hands-on and fun experiences such as games and dress-up activities. Learn about the rich history of Athlone from pre-historic settlement right through to the modern town. Athlone was the setting for many battles down through the centuries. The most famous is the siege of Athlone in 1690 and 1691. The story of the siege and the fighting that was ongoing is brought to life at Athlone Castle through illustrations by renowned illustrator Victor Ambrus. During a spectacular 360 degree audio visual presentation, a re-enactment of the siege of Athlone is experienced. Bold sculptural forms help to convey human figures and historical milestones. 3D maps, audio-visual installations and original artifacts combine to bring the stories and characters of Athlone to life. The newest addition to the visitor centre is the display dedicated to the memory of Athlone's famous son, John Count McCormack. Here the world-renowned tenor is honored with artefacts from both his social life and musical career. At Athlone Castle you can sit down and enjoy some refreshments in the cafe area located in the reception. There is seating for 16 with extra seating outside. Visitors can also avail of audio-guides in English, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese and Chinese. The Failte Ireland tourist office is also located in the castle courtyard. Take the opportunity to visit our sister property Luan Gallery, located just across the road. It is a modern art gallery that showcases local and national artists in a modern impressive gallery overlooking the river Shannon. Athlone hosts a number of fairs and festivals throughout the year that offer fun-filled activities for all. If you are looking for somewhere central to travel with a lot to offer, from museums and galleries to shopping, then come to Athlone, the heart of the Midlands. This renovated tourist attraction is the perfect stop off point in the heart of the Lakeland's Region of Ireland enroute to the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way and along the exciting and culturally interesting route of Ireland's Ancient East. Athlone Castle Visitor Centre is waiting for you to explore, engage and enjoy!

Step back 1,200 years and join the Vikings on a replica Viking Ship. Cruise up the River Shannon to Lough Ree or down river to the monastic settlement and round towers of Clonmacnoise whilst hearing live commentary on Viking hoards, the beauty of the river, its flora, fauna, bird and fish life. Fun and excitement for all the family. #IrelandsHiddenHeartlands

In the heart of Ireland, just over 1 hour from Dublin lies the town of Kilbeggan, home to the world's oldest distillery, established in 1757. It is the quintessential Irish whiskey distillery - whitewashed walls, weathered slate roof, brick chimney stack, creaking timber water wheel, even regular ghost sightings. This is no mere "visitor centre" but a real working distillery run by a team of young enthusiastic craftspeople (and a few wise old heads too), skilled in the traditional ways of making Irish whiskey. Open 7 days (except during Christmas and New Year). Whiskey Bar. Gift Shop. Free parking.