Athlone Day Trips: Top 5 Must-See Spots

So, you find yourself kicking around Athlone, that pretty interesting spot right in the middle of Ireland? That is to say, it’s a fantastic jumping-off point to loads of seriously awesome places perfect for a day of adventure. We will talk about ditching the everyday for scenic landscapes, historical sites that really tell stories, and downright enjoyable experiences. So, get your gear, and let’s check out five awesome day trip ideas near Athlone that will almost give you memories to talk about.

1. Clonmacnoise: A Journey Back in Time

Okay, so, first up, just a short drive south of Athlone, there’s Clonmacnoise, the really famous early Christian monastic site. Actually, founded way back in the 6th century by St. Ciarán, this place is basically packed with history. Think about wandering through the atmospheric ruins of churches, high crosses that are really intricate, and round towers; it’s almost like stepping directly into Ireland’s early Christian past. As a matter of fact, you can see the impressive craftsmanship of the stonemasons. Arguably, this place provides an amazing insight into what the monastic life looked like all those centuries ago. Plus, a great museum explains the history of the site very, very well and what its significance really was, linking it all in a pretty accessible way.

The views on offer here really are spectacular. Looking out over the calm River Shannon it feels almost timeless. Honestly, taking your time, strolling through the graveyard, looking at the details on the crosses…it’s just a little inspiring, sort of! Really, you should get there relatively early. That is to say, it gets quite crowded, especially during the tourist season. That is to say, give yourself at least two to three hours so you really get to absorb the full atmosphere and the stories that it might hold.

2. Lough Boora Discovery Park: Nature’s Playground

Okay, how about a really cool natural getaway? Right, then Lough Boora Discovery Park is actually the perfect choice. Now, it might be pretty tricky to imagine, but this super place that has transformed from its previous life. Actually, a commercial peat harvesting site has turned into a wildlife oasis; it also shows us very neatly that with a bit of creativity and thought, we really can make a damaged spot into something worthwhile. What’s more, Lough Boora presents vast expanses with trails for walkers, bikers, so you will probably spot loads of different kinds of birds that you were unaware of; moreover, with all sorts of sculpted artworks to stumble across when out and about! Just a little like blending a passion for nature and expressing creativity and fun, isn’t it?

Okay, let me tell you something – Lough Boora is not only for the really active types, you know? Actually, families love it too, given there is so much room for children to actually explore and really play! You might find it an amazing space for quiet contemplation if you really get yourself there relatively early. The park hosts various events as well, from guided nature tours and photographic meet-ups, too! It’s almost important to just check out the park’s schedule to coincide a visit with whatever event interests you the very most.

3. Birr Castle Gardens & Science Centre: A Blend of Beauty and Innovation

Right, maybe you’re the kind of person who likes seeing beautiful gardens but equally you enjoy science and discovery? Just a little perfect then, is that the amazing Birr Castle Gardens & Science Centre should obviously be added to your list. Well, what’s here that sets it apart from most stately homes you might stumble across in Ireland? Not only is Birr Castle home to truly exquisite gardens. That is to say, imagine acres of vibrant flora and landscaping. In fact, the center has a science section that almost showcases the groundbreaking astronomical and engineering accomplishments. That is, well, made right there on the spot!

A great thing you will notice, once here is the really giant Great Telescope dating back from the 1840’s, now I’d say that is a very important historical bit of engineering! That aside, it actually gives an idea of what Victorian era innovation and brilliance was about. But it’s almost not only about the science. Birr Castle is great spot just for families and whoever who loves history or nature. Actually, allow the time just to wander around, really soak up the atmosphere, and have a little picnic within what are stunning gardens, arguably, some of the best in the Ireland, you know?

4. Sean’s Bar: The Oldest Pub in Ireland (and Possibly the World!)

What’s that? Looking for something really relaxing where you can really enjoy your afternoon or early evening? A visit, very, very much indeed, to Sean’s Bar in Athlone itself is apparently one that you really must make! Often promoted as the absolute oldest pub in all of Ireland, it could even be, just a little, the most ancient watering hole anywhere in all the globe! If it makes one of the best, or one of the longest lived, that would depend. Arguably, however, stepping through the entrance feels very, very much indeed as if going to one back, to almost anytime! Well, there is very great chat flowing freely.

A bit cramped, certainly really very historic in feel, Sean’s is also very well known for its music as a hub where people love trad sessions as and whenever so much as there are people around, I mean, to perform that really love trad sessions as as and whenever are free about!. Now, while getting down to Athlone you might be lucky in your timing if trad music is actually something which is great for that to you. Anyway, do take the occasion while supping away here too it’s almost worth finding out more, regarding what have actually even being an archaeologist’s excavation spot also to learn that is really a part the whole Sean’s atmosphere as much.

5. Fore Abbey: A Place of Miracles and History

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