Athlone Castle
About
Athlone Castle began as a wooden fortress raised by Turlough O'Connor in the 12th century to guard the Shannon crossing, rebuilt in stone soon after, and it was the scene of the pivotal 1691 Siege of Athlone during the Williamite War. Its keep and visitor centre exhibitions, run by Westmeath County Council, have told that story for years. As of this research, the visitor centre is closed to the public for a Fáilte Ireland-funded redevelopment that began in October 2025; reopening was originally planned for autumn 2026 but has been pushed back to spring 2027. The keep and the public realm around St Peter's Square remain visible from outside in the meantime, but the interior exhibitions are not currently accessible.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓A 12th-century Anglo-Norman castle guarding the Shannon crossing
- ✓Site of the pivotal 1691 Siege of Athlone
- ✓Currently closed for a major redevelopment, reopening expected spring 2027
- ✓The keep and grounds remain part of the Left Bank streetscape
Tips
- →Confirm the visitor centre's reopening status before planning a visit around it; as of this research it remains closed.
- →The exterior and St Peter's Square are still visible and free to view.
- →Pair a Left Bank wander with Sean's Bar and the Luan Gallery while the castle interior is closed.
Best Season
More Attraction Activities
Sean's Bar
Ireland's oldest pub, dated to around 900 AD by the National Museum and Guinness World Records. A working pub on the Left Bank, not a museum.
Church of Saints Peter and Paul
A monumental 1937 Catholic church on the east bank, often mistaken for a cathedral, with six Harry Clarke Studio stained-glass windows inside.