Athlone Castle
A riverside castle built by the Normans in the 13th century, where multimedia displays recreate the 1691 siege of Athlone. It is the town's landmark.
Athlone Castle was built around 1210 to guard a crossing of the Shannon River. For centuries, it was a contested stronghold in central-western Ireland. In 1690-1691, Jacobite and Williamite forces fought here twice. The castle now serves as a visitor center, with interactive galleries, films and artifacts that tell the story of the siege and local figures such as the tenor John McCormack. Climbing the walls offers views of the Shannon, the bridge and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul across the river. Admission is charged, and it takes about an hour to see everything. The castle stands in the old town on the west bank, within walking distance of Sean's Bar and the left-bank streets.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–17:00 (fewer open days in winter; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Sean's Bar
- Luan Gallery
- SS Peter and Paul's Church
- Lough Ree
- Clonmacnoise
- Corlea Trackway
- Lough Boora Discovery Park
- Clara Bog Nature Reserve