What is Athlone Castle used for now?
The castle which had been part of the defences of Athlone for 750 years became the home of a museum run by the Old Athlone Society in 1967 and of a modern visitor centre developed by Athlone Urban District Council in 1991. Since 2012 it is managed by Athlone Arts and Tourism.
Is Athlone Castle free?
Entrance Fee: Adult Single €9.00. OAP/Student €6.50. Children/U15 €4.50.
Why is Athlone Castle historically significant?
Over the centuries it has been the nucleus of the Anglo-Norman settlement; a stronghold of the rival local families the Dillons and the O’Kelly’s; the seat of the Court of Claims; the residence of the President of Connaught and the Jacobite stronghold during the sieges of Athlone.
How old is Athlone Castle?
12th century
Athlone Castle in Westmeath is a 12th century castle and family-friendly attraction in the heart of Ireland.
Is Athlone worth visiting?
Athlone’s not really a vacation destination, but it’s well worth a visit as there’s loads of great history, food, views and more. Being located in the center of the country, it’s also only a 2-3 hour drive from most other towns and cities in Ireland.
When was the Athlone castle built?
1210
Introduction to Athlone Castle The Anglo-Normans built the first stone castle here in 1210, parts of which are incorporated into the present structure. It was built by Bishop John de Grey of Norwich, for King John of England. From 1569-1672 it was the headquarters of the President of Connacht.
Is Athlone a county?
Athlone, Irish Baile Átha Luain, town, County Westmeath, Ireland. It lies on the River Shannon just south of Lough (lake) Ree. Located at a major east-west crossing of the Shannon, it has always been an important garrison town.
What is Athlone Ireland known for?
Athlone is a popular stop for pleasure craft along the River Shannon. Lough Ree, the largest lake on the Shannon, is a short distance upstream from Athlone, and many boat companies are based out of the town.
Is Athlone a nice town?
What is the name of the bridge in Athlone?
The Athlone Railway Bridge, also known as the White Bridge, is a railway bridge over the River Shannon at Athlone, Ireland.
Is Athlone a good place to live?
Family Life. Family life in Athlone is perfect. Childcare costs are significantly lower than in Dublin and evenings can be spent in a multitude of ways. At weekends, you are just a short trip away from some of Ireland’s most famous counties and towns.
What is the name of the oldest bar in Ireland?
Sean’s Bar
Sean’s Bar has been researched thoroughly by the Guinness Book of Records and proudly holds the record for “The Oldest Pub in Ireland” with an official dating of 900AD. Research is ongoing into the title of “The Oldest Pub in the World”; so far, nothing older has been found.
Is it safe to live in Athlone?
Re: Athlone-Safe? Athlone is not a city, it’s a really small town and been there before I didn’t see any problems. If you are going to have any issues in Ireland 99% of the time it will be in Dublin and even at that 99% of tourists don’t have any problems.
Is Athlone good place to live?
Family life in Athlone is perfect. Childcare costs are significantly lower than in Dublin and evenings can be spent in a multitude of ways. At weekends, you are just a short trip away from some of Ireland’s most famous counties and towns.
What does Athlone mean?
the town of Luain
Athlone, translated into Irish is ‘Atha Luain’, which means the town of Luain or the ford of Luain. Luain was a man who used to guide people across the treacherous waters of the River Shannon long before the first bridges were built.
Who founded Athlone?
Bishop John de Gray
In 1210 Bishop John de Gray, of Norwich, King John’s Irish justiciar, constructed a new bridge and commenced the building of Athlone Castle on the western side of the river.
Is Athlone town safe?
Crime rates in Athlone, Ireland
| Level of crime | 44.56 | Moderate |
|---|---|---|
| Crime increasing in the past 3 years | 61.23 | High |
| Worries home broken and things stolen | 41.44 | Moderate |
| Worries being mugged or robbed | 37.27 | Low |
| Worries car stolen | 34.15 | Low |
How is life in Athlone?
Athlone is a large town in the heart of Ireland, serving as a mid-point between Dublin and Galway. With a population of roughly 20,000 people and an economy driven by investment from major multinational IT companies like Ericsson and Tyco, Athlone has one of the highest concentrations of developers in the country.
What is the history of Athlone Castle?
HISTORY OF ATHLONE CASTLE The first real signs of settlement at Athlone grew up in Anglo-Norman times around the castle which was built for King John of England by his Irish justiciar Bishop John De Gray of Norwich. Though not the first castle to be built at Athlone this castle has endured like no other.
Is Athlone worth a visit?
“If you’re interested in the history of Athlone, specifically the Siege of Athlone in 1690-1691 then it is a must-see. Tickets can be purchased online or in the visitors centre and then there are eight different “rooms” with different exhibits and activities.
What is the famous Siege of Athlone?
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.