Step back 1,200 years and join Viking Mike on his themed timber vessel. 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. Tickets can be purchased onboard.
Things to do in Athlone 2024
A blend of land and water trails, secret spots, and undiscovered gems, a unique place of warmth and charm.
Viking Tours
Viking Mike's recommendations for Athlone
Attractions
Culture & Heritage
Athlone Castle
Despite the rumours, Viking Mike is not as old as Athlone Castle. First built in 1210, Athlone Castle is now a family friendly tourist attraction in the heart of Ireland. Filled with modern exhibitions, Athlone’s history, people, castle and battles are explored and brought to life. Child friendly multimedia displays and interactive games guide the visitor through the castle.
Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum
Experience life in rural Ireland back to the nineteenth century. At the award-winning Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum you can explore our collection of 7,500+ objects. Their guided tours take you back in time, through the village shops, the school room and kitchen as you learn the stories and traditions of long ago.
Dún na Sí Amenity & Heritage Park
Travel through time and experience a unique outdoor adventure exploring tradition, heritage, nature, and activity! Meet the ancient Irish warrior Lugh, explore the roots of Irish music, or journey through the past and discover how rural communities lived throughout time. And don’t miss the annual Viking Festival with reenactors, all in traditional costume, crafts people and traders with authentic hand made goods from all over Ireland and Europe. There is battle re-enactments throughout the day to shock and entertain.
Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre
The Kilbeggan Distillery in County Westmeath is the oldest distillery in the world, dating back to 1757. A trip to this well-known County Westmeath attraction will enable you to discover the history of authentic artisan Irish whiskey, as well as sample it for yourself.
The Arts
Athlone Little Theatre
This theatre boasts an intimate atmosphere that combines a high standard of acting and production to deliver a unique theatre experience. It seats 100 patrons in intimate surroundings. Athlone Little Theatre are always on the lookout for new talent, either on stage or as a member of the crew. Viking Mike has loved seeing memorable performances of The Taming of the Shrew, The Field and Philadelphia, Here I Come!
Celtic Roots Studio
This amazing studio, led by lead sculptor Helen Conneely, is a cooperative studio representing artists who sculpt exclusively in bogwood. See the process of how the beautiful sculptures are made on a tour and create your own work of art to bring home. Learn about the history of bogwood and get a gift for someone special in the shop. Choose from incredible sculptures, wish stones and jewellery.
Dean Crowe Theatre
The Dean Crowe Theatre’s spacious auditorium has a seating capacity of 460, with 338 parterre and 128 balcony seats. Viking Mike is a great fan and active member of the local Film Club that was established under the Dean Crowe Trust to promote Irish, world, and contemporary film. Last, but not least, Viking Tours is a sponsor of the annual All Ireland Drama Festival showcasing the best of amateur Irish drama for over 70 years.
Luan Gallery
Stroll across the bridge in Athlone and nestling on the right hand bank you’ll find the stunning Luan Gallery. A showcase for the most interesting artists from the midlands, Ireland and abroad, the building itself is a modern work of art in its own right. With floor to ceiling windows offering uninterrupted views across the majestic Shannon water, it’s a space that gives the work real room to breath.
Family Fun
Baysports Waterpark
Baysports is located outside Athlone on the west shore of Lough Ree at the heart of the mighty River Shannon. Here you will find one of Ireland’s largest inflatable waterparks. There is also kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, pedal boating, rafting and dragon boating. Wetsuits are available to hire but it is recommended to bring a towel, spare socks, a swimsuit, and a wetsuit if you have one. Booking is via their website.
Elevate Entertainment Centre
This is the largest indoor entertainment centre in Ireland. The entertainment centre covers an area of 100,00 sq. ft. There is so much to do here: Ireland’s first electric Go Kart track, a roller disco rink, Lazer Tag, a Nerf Gun Arena, Nerf Shooting Gallery, a Playstation 5 room, quasar, mini golf and many other virtual reality and augmented reality pods.
Glendeer Pet Farm
Glendeer Pet Farm is an award-winning open farm. It is an unforgettable, interactive experience where you can pet baby animals such as bearded dragons, chicks, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs. This centre is in Strokestown, County Roscommon and is run by a community-owned company, affiliated to the Irish Family History Foundation. Fun Fact: Viking Mike is scared of goats.
The Planet Athlone
This has been a popular family entertainment centre since 1986 and has something for all the family. Facilities include ten-pin bowling, Laser Quest, an Adventureland soft play arena, Astroturf football pitches, American pool tables, snooker, and the very latest in games. The Planet serves Apache pizza and mega platters of chicken goujons, onion rings, garlic mushrooms, cocktail sausages, and wedges. Adults can grab a beer while bowling with the bar being open until late.
Eat & Drink
Breakfast
Beans & Leaves
An all-day healthy breakfast is available at this café that also has delicious sandwiches, salads and hot meals made on the premises. Beans and Leaves is very close to the strand and when the weather is good you can bring your dog and sit outside while overlooking the mighty River Shannon while eating your avocados on toast. As a bonus, Beans & Leaves is a supplier of local handmade chocolates by Bon Chocolatiers.
Bonne Bouche
The Bonne Bouche or “The Bon Bon” has been a staple diner to locals for decades. Here you will find plenty of wholesome meals and an attentive service that has warmed the hearts of its many patrons. Their dishes include the traditional Irish Breakfast of bacon, sausages, pudding, baked beans, eggs, mushrooms, grilled tomatoes, toast, butter, marmalade, and lots of tea to drink.
KAFE U ATHLONE
This is the local eatery for students and staff of the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) with all the meals being very wallet friendly! There is a wide range of options from all-day breakfast, to pancakes and fresh omelettes. There is also great choices for the “egg heads” or anyone who is looking for a light and healthy meal.
Loaves and Fishes
Located in the stylish Left Bank Mall this simple and modern daytime cafe offers breakfast, sandwiches, wraps and coffee to eat in or take away. Their signature breakfast bap is a big hit with the kids! If you are organising an event, Loaves and Fishes has an extensive Catering Menu including seafood chowder, vegetation lasagne, sandwich platters, scones, and salads. Drop in and say Hi to the very chatty and accommodating owner Mary.
Your coffee fix
Fine
There is nothing more fine than FINE! At this centrally located café you will find coffee beans that are ethically sourced and transparently traded. This includes coffee from Farm Land and the Mullingar based roastery Bell Lane. FINE runs coffee classes where you can learn basic barista training, espresso making and filter coffee processes. Every Friday evening FINE becomes an atmospheric wine bar serving cheese and charcuterie boards. For the wine bar evening it is advised to book in advance.
Harvest Homemade
Take a break from all the shopping and sample freshly baked goods with your coffee at Harvest Homemade. Situated inside Athlone Towncentre, they also offer a wide selection of wholesome and homemade tasty carvery dishes, soups, gourmet sandwiches and most importantly sweet treats. A great place to catch up with an old friend! If it’s too busy you can always pop down to the elegant Sheraton Hotel and visit The S Bar & Bistro.
Rustic Roots
Inside this café the walls are decorated with pictures of Ireland and maps of Athlone town. They serve refreshing drinks such as smoothies, milkshakes and juices. The ‘Tropicana’ is a delicious option with mango, pineapple, banana, pineapple juice and natural yogurt. Caffeinated drinks include an Iced Latte or Mocha with vanilla, caramel or hazelnut syrup. If you decide to stay longer they have a full Al La Carte menu.
Spill the Beans
Spill the Beans is a small speciality coffee shop with their beans supplied by the local Coffee Perfection in Co.Meath. Here there is delicious coffee and great customer service that is within a stone throw of Athlone Castle and SS Peter & Pauls Church. The café decor is lovely and fresh with a great vibe. Spill the Beans has delicious baked goods supplied by Jammy Rodgers that are great after a busy day of sightseeing. Open 7 days a week.
Lunch time
Bastion Kitchen
Made with lots of fresh, local, organic and seasonal ingredients, the owner Ann serves hot dishes such as Organic Red Lentil Dahl, Ribollita with Organic Canillini Beans, Moroccan Spiced Chickpea & Vegetable Tagine and Sweet Potato & Chickpea Coconut Curry. There are takeaway deals and a Click & Collect service when you order online. Instore and on their website, there is also many eco-friendly products including thermal bottles, beeswax candles and handmade soaps.
Poppy Fields
Poppy Fields menu boasts a widely acclaimed ‘Today’s Specials’ option, with four Hot Specials available every day, to compliment the regular menu. They also offer healthy options every day including char grilled chicken with quinoa, Kale salad with fresh pineapple salsa. Vegetarian options include roast Mediterranean vegetables with Five Mile Town goat’s cheese & homemade basil pesto. Poppy Fields also has an outdoor seating area with heaters for chilly days.
Savoury Fare at Fernhill Garden Centre
Why not have your lunch, coffee or cake while being surrounded by greenery. All desserts are home-made and are produced by of their in-house pastry chef. Their Garden Centre location is an ideal spot for relaxing and entertaining and is a great way to spend an afternoon. You must try their pavlova! Savoury Fare was established in 1996 by current owners Des Hennelly and Rory Currid, both chefs, each with over 30 years industry experience.
The Brasserie & The Pergola
The Brasserie at the Radisson Blu Hotel has great local and Irish produce simply prepared and cooked by their team of talented chefs. It is the perfect place to meet up and enjoy a superb meal with family, friends or colleagues. Meanwhile, The Pergola is a picturesque venue that enhances the allure of riverside dining by captivating guests with an unobstructed view of the River Shannon. As an extension of the renowned Brasserie, you will be introduced to bistro-style furniture and exquisite views, creating an ambience that invites guests to savour every moment.
Fine Dining
Bacchus Restaurant
From cooking in his mom’s kitchen to a flourishing chef career, Jasim has been doing this his whole life. His rich experience shows through beautiful, flavourful, and unpretentious food with a focus on local ingredients. Bacchus, the home of modern Mediterranean and European cuisine where menus are thoughtfully tailored to meet their guests’ tastes and expectations. Their aim is to ensure that you have a memorable experience, with impeccable service and great food.
Left Bank Bistro
Located on a sunny corner in Athlone’s most vibrant food and drink quarter Left Bank Bistro is well regarded as one of the most vibrant dining experiences in Athlone, a favourite of visitors & locals alike. Founded in 1995 by Annie McNamara and Mary McCullagh, it’s why this neighbourhood is now called The Left Bank Quarter. Their philosophy is to serve food that looks great on a plate and flavours that speak for themselves. Put simply, the Left Bank Bistro has a love for honest food, good coffee, great wine and the simple pleasure of sharing time with friends.
The Fatted Calf
Run by husband-and-wife team, Feargal and Fiona O’Donnell, the restaurant’s focus is on finding and working with the best, fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients that the Midlands has to offer. Feargal’s menu is carefully designed with his take on modern Irish food, served in a relaxed, and comfortable setting. Dinner is served Tuesday – Saturday and every Saturday the restaurant opens for lunch from 12:30 – 2:45pm.
Thyme Restaurant
Thyme was opened in November 2007 by John Coffey and his wife Tara with the idea of showcasing the fabulous producers the Midlands region has to offer in a relaxed and comfortable setting. Thyme has gone from strength to strength over the years garnering many awards along the way. The food is best described as Modern Irish and is based on the seasons so menus will change accordingly. Situated in the heart of Athlone it’s only a stone’s throw from many wonderful local attractions.
Casual Dining
Al Mezza Lebanese Restaurant
As soon as you enter Al Mezza restaurant you know your taste buds are in for a real treat, with authentic surroundings, a real fire and excellent service. Lebanese cuisine or foods from Lebanon are considered a Mediterranean delicacy of fresh vegetarian recipes, salads and stews all seasoned with a flavoursome combination of herbs and spices. One of the most World renowned Lebanese specialties is called the ‘maza’, also written as ‘mezza’, which is a selection of appetizers olives, cheeses or small portions known as mugabbilat.
Il Colosseo
This restaurant takes pride in its causal atmosphere and family friendly welcome by their experienced staff in an elegant premises that offers you an exceptional dining experience. With their extensive menu they have something for everyone, be it a fussy child or a meat lover. They specialise in an authentic Italian cuisine of pasta and pizza, but also have a scrumptious selection of food that includes fresh seafood, succulent steaks, light salads, and indulgent desserts.
Pavarotti’s
Run by Claude, this restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet meal for two, a family gathering or large party. Pavarotti’s serves pizza and pasta using the finest of ingredients made to order. Their pizzas are noted locally for their fresh handmade base and flavoursome toppings. The restaurants dishes use high-quality, seasonal ingredients, presented in elegant simplicity. Pavarotti’s serves an extensive range of wines, beers and indulgent desserts to complement each meal. Viking Mike’s favourite is the Pizza Napoletana with pizza sauce, black olives, anchovies, and cheese.
The Bailey Bar & Lounge
A traditional Irish welcome awaits, when you enter their friendly, clean, relaxed and inviting space right in the heart of Athlone. Whether you are stopping in while travelling through Athlone or grabbing a bite having stepping out from one of the many local attractions. Food includes the Bailey’s signature ‘Roast Joint of the Day’ and the lemon pepper beer battered fillet of fresh Atlantic pollock with Marie Rose tarter – Have it all with a great pint of Guinness.
Drinks
Castle Inn
The Castle Inn is well known for its character and atmosphere. It’s one of the pubs you have to visit in Athlone and you can be guaranteed friendly banter and a great pint! A tradition of a genuinely warm welcome and first-rate friendly service is the hallmark of one of the friendliest watering holes in Athlone. They pride ourselves on our various Music sessions, Open Mic Nights, Pool Competitions and Sporting Coverage.
Dead Centre Brewery
Featuring copper clad brewing tanks, Dead Centre Brewing Company offers a hands on, interactive brewery tour as well as a full bar and dining options. With great views of the River Shannon from the entire building you can enjoy craft brews like Maroon Oatmeal IPA, made using Kilbeggan Organic Oats, and Seeking Sunshine Pale Ale, as well as several taproom exclusives brewed just for the brew pub. These exclusives have included DIPAs, American amber ales, lagers, fruit beers and last, but not least, Viking Mike’s Ale.
Nut’s Corner
Situated in the Heart of Ireland, Nut’s Corner is a real locals’ pub that welcomes all. Whether you are visiting Ireland from overseas and would like to see what a real Irish Pub is like, or you are just looking for a quality pint in a friendly atmosphere, well Nut’s is the place for you. The Sheraton Hotel, The Prince of Wales Hotel and The Radisson Blu Hotel are all within a few minutes walk with Nut’s Corner being directly across the road from Athlone Town Centre. Call in to hear local musicians and bands.
Sean’s Bar
Sean’s plays host to visitors from all around the world. Whether absorbing the history, listening to music, visiting with friends and family, or simply enjoying the perfect pint, the appeal is equally strong for everyone. Listed in both “25 of the Most Incredible Bars in the World” and “50 Bars to Blow Your Mind” by Lonely Planet, a visit to Sean’s is a must! Even more amazing, Sean’s Bar was officially recognised by the Guinness Book of Records as Ireland’s Oldest Pub. With music 7 nights a week, live bands, flowing pints, electric atmosphere, and that Good Ol’ Irish Craic, no wonder Sean’s Bar has been the chosen destination for many.
Places to Stay
Hotels
Athlone Springs Hotel and Leisure Club
Boasting 68 bright and spacious bedrooms, extensive leisure facilities, ample free car parking on site and complimentary high speed WIFI, the Athlone Springs Hotel & Leisure Club is your ideal base for your next getaway. Their bedrooms feature smart TV’s with Netflix, while our state of the art gym features a new fitness studio. Enjoy our indoor 20 metre swimming pool while you are staying with us. Their newly refurbished Cedar Brasserie & Bistro and lobby area are the perfect places to catch up, relax and unwind. Outdoor dining can be enjoyed in their Secret Garden, a great place to dine alfresco in Athlone.
Hodson Bay Hotel
This is a well renowned lakeside resort in the town. When you stay with them you can make the most of the hotel’s peaceful setting and central location in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, 5 minutes from the heart of Athlone Town. Hodson Bay Hotel offers great accommodation, fine dining, casual restaurants, multi-purpose-built conferencing suites, a state-of-the-art leisure centre and luxurious spa. Their sister site is the Sheraton Hotel in Athlone centre.
Radisson Blu Hotel
The perfect place to enjoy your well-earned break, these beautiful rooms feature king-sized beds, large plasma-screen TVs and sizeable en suite bathrooms. If you’re visiting with children, you’ll feel right at home in the Family Suite, which is furnished with two single beds and a separate sleeping area with a king-sized bed. With 128 rooms and suites offering stunning views of the marina and an endless selection of activities, the Radisson is the perfect choice for all the family.
Shamrock Lodge Hotel
The team at the Shamrock Lodge Hotel pride themselves in offering a unique setting with warm hospitality and excellent food. Offering the very best in hotel accommodation, the Shamrock Lodge Hotel offers 40 deluxe and superior bedrooms with garden views and balconies in some rooms and seven unique two-bedroom suites and four self-catering apartments. For the little VIPs, there is a fairy garden to explore and our very own bug hotel. Comfortable tones and modern elegance provide the perfect backdrop for your stay at our family run hotel.
Bed & Breakfast
Arch House
Arch House B&B and Apartments we offers a warm friendly welcome and ensure a pleasant and memorable stay. With modern comfortable bedrooms and fully fitted modern self-catering Apartments we are ideal for the corporate guest, tourist, family breaks, events, and group bookings. And just 100m from the Sheraton Hotel and 500m from the Radisson Hotel they offer the perfect stopover for the wedding guest.
Bastion
With its stylish interior and relaxed atmosphere, The Bastion is a traveller’s respite. Wooden floorboards, crisp white linen and freshly ground coffee await you. The comfortable guest lounge is a place to relax and unwind after a day touring and before sampling the many excellent restaurants the area boasts. They are currently not serving breakfast in the house, but a full breakfast menu is available right next door at the excellent Bastion Kitchen.
Home Inn
This is not a B&B but is very comfortable and convenient because it is within walking distance of the train and bus station in Athlone town. Their guest accommodation offers six different room types to accommodate your needs. This style of accommodation is perfect for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families. Included in the rooms is Free Wifi, Flatscreen TV, Ensuite Shower, Bed Linen, Desk and Heating.
Riverview House
This B&B has lovely big comfortable beds, very friendly, attentive and welcoming hosts. Lots of onsite parking with a great. The location is very close to Athlone centre. They are Irish Tourist Board approved with 4* classification and Michelin guide recommended. The B&B is not far from shops, restaurants and bars, so you can enjoy good food, drink, entertainment and shopping.
Pampering
Brooks & Co. Spa at Glasson Lakehouse
At this spa they offer a holistic approach to the overall spa experience by considering the entire body, mind and soul with the aim of achieving and maintaining balance and harmony of the vital energy that runs through our body. They provide the ultimate self-care journey by using specific Aromatherapy scents to enhance your treatment experience, promote a sense of relaxation and improve mood with every treatment being tailored to suit your individual needs.
Cedarwood Spa at the Wineport Lodge
Spa Manager, Christine Mannion and her team have created a spa experience like no other, featuring luxuriant signature treatments using Irish skincare brand Voya, and the premium French skincare brand Yon-ka. Cedarwood Spa is a natural addition to Wineport Lodge’s existing array of relaxing, wellness experiences for guests to enjoy during their stay from sunrise yoga and lake swimming, to bike hire, boat hire and paddleboarding. As soon as you arrive at Cedarwood Spa your shoulders will drop and as soon as you leave, you’ll yearn to return!
glo Skin Clinic
Clinic director and skin professional Paula Fitzpatrick, specialises in non-surgical skin treatments, digestive health treatments and nutrition. At glo Skin Clinic, their philosophy in achieving good skin health is to take a targeted 360 approach and address the skin and body as a whole. Paula is the only practitioner in the Midlands to offer colon hydrotherapy and nutrition to address digestive issues, IBS, food intolerances, skin problems and overall health.
Sirana Spa at the Sheraton Hotel
The Sirana Spa boasts seven contemporary treatment suites, a rustic tepidarium, Arabian Rasul Chamber and a spacious, tranquil relaxation suite. Their therapists ensure that every treatment is prescribed for your needs. Sirana Spa is a healing hub where touch and technology are turbo-charged by the power of minerals, plants and active natural fragrances. All the treatments developed by ELEMIS are designed to support great skin health; to respect that skin is alive. No two skins are the same, and no two bodies are the same shape. Every spa therapy is shaped and moulded around you.
Golfing
Athlone Golf Club
Athlone Golf Club is a championship course playable all year round and hosted the Golf Ireland Series of Finals in 2022. They welcome all visitors to play their ‘Lough Ree Challenge Course’. Their 16th signature hole sits right on the lake of Lough Ree with an elevated Clubhouse Restaurant being an ideal location to dine after your round. Situated only an hour from Dublin on the M4 or Galway on the M6. Furthermore, this golf course is ideal for guests of the nearby Hodson Bay Hotel.
Glasson Lakehouse
Glasson Golf Club is a premier golf course located in Athlone, Ireland. Open to members, hotel guests, societies and groups alike, this 18-hole championship course was designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr. and offers spectacular views of Lough Ree. Whether you are a beginner or experienced golfer looking for a challenging yet enjoyable game, you will have it all at Glasson Golf Club. With its well-manicured fairways, greens, and guaranteed tee times all year round, the Glasson Golf Club is the ideal destination for your next golfing adventure.
Moate Golf Club
The village of Moate is situated just off the M6 Motorway, less than an hour from Dublin and Galway City. The course can be accessed conveniently from the Main Street of Moate, just beside the entrance to the Greenway and the old Railway Station. Moate Golf Club is an 18-Hole Parkland Golf Course and was founded in 1900. They have been part of the community in Westmeath for over 123 years, and Moate has a proud of the reputation for the Club. Membership is always open and visitors/societies are welcome. Their course offers a fair challenge to golfers of all ages and abilities, and the friendliness of staff are on hand.
Roscommon Golf Club
The club was established in 1904 with a nine hole course set on the old Mote Park Estate. In 1991 the members bought an additional 58 acres of land to extend the course to the current 18 holes. Over the years members have endeavoured to enhance the course and facilities and today this 18 hole championship course offers members and visitors an enjoyable and challenging round of golf. Mature trees, which once graced Lord Crofton’s estate, have been retained and new trees have been strategically planted, which not only add to the scenic beauty but challenge the golfer to plan their route from tee to green.
Nightlife
Masie's
Pop into this large and spacious venue for Masie’s signature cocktails that are prepared with fresh ingredients by their team of mixologists – They have a Late Bar Fridays and Saturdays – Viking Mike’s recommends their Old Fashioned Cocktail which is made of Bulleit Bourbon, black walnut bitters & Maisie’s homemade date sugar. Masie’s can also host your corparate events such as, after-work drinks, team-building events, Christmas or retirement parties. They can cater for events of all types for groups of 5 to 500 with delicious catering options, bespoke cocktails and semi/fully private spaces for your occasion.
Peddler's Mac's
After an impressive refurbishment this Olde Worlde Irish Pub is a great place for a late drink and is centrally located with a large outdoor seating area and beer garden named “Evelyn’s Arcade”. Peddler Mac’s often has Live Music that goes well with their tasty pints of Guinness. Their speciality cocktail is the Flat White Martini which is a delicious blend of fresh espresso, creamy baileys and a dash of sweetness. During the Summer months there is also on-street seating facing the main shop street in Athlone.
The Piano Bar
The Piano Bar is a premium late night venue. Set over three floors each room is unique and offers a diverse range of music options to suit all tastes. Exquisite decor, comfortable furnishings, state of the art acoustics & lighting, high quality drinks & sumptuous cocktails all make for a great night out. The Piano Bar Athlone is a sophisticated bar which denotes elegance & style from the moment you walk in. Experience expertly mixed cocktails and specially designed Gin Menu’s to suit any taste palete. The Piano Bar often hosts their resident DJ’s that covers everything from charts to 70s/80s/90s floor-fillers.
Karma Athlone
Karma Athlone has established itself as one of the most renowned nightclubs in the heart of the Midlands since opening their doors in 2005. They are a popular destination for hosting special occasions, such as, hen and stag parties, fundraising initiatives, birthday celebrations and much more. Whether you’re in search of a nightclub or just some after-work cocktails and a fun night out in Athlone town, Karma is the place to be seen every weekend. Karma Athlone also has many Party Packages you can choose from for groups of 8 to 20.
Day Trip
Historic Science Centre at Birr Castle Co.Offaly
The science story is revealed through the wonders of early photography, engineering and astronomy with a special emphasis on the brilliant design and assembly of the world famous Great Telescope. As you visit the Historic Science Centre you will discover astronomical instruments, cameras, photographs and photographic equipment used by the Third and Fourth Earls and Mary, Countess of Rosse, in the middle and late 1800s. Also on display is electrical and engineering equipment originally belonging to Charles Parsons and used in his experiments as well as a large area devoted to the botanical work carried out in the Demesne.
Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre Co.Longford
Hidden away in the boglands of Longford, not far from Kenagh village, is an inspiring relic of prehistory: a togher – an Iron Age road – built in 148 BC. Known locally as the Danes’ Road, it is the largest of its kind to have been uncovered in Europe.Inside the interpretive centre, an 18-metre stretch of the ancient wooden structure is on permanent display in a hall specially designed to preserve it. Don’t miss this amazing remnant of our ancient past. Make sure to check their website before you visit because this site is seasonal!
Dartfield Equestrian and Heritage Centre Co.Galway
Dartfield Equestrian and Heritage Centre is set in 350 acres of parkland just outside of Loughrea, County Galway and visitors are welcome to explore walking trails, see the farm animals, and take part in the many activities available, which include horse riding, sheepdog demonstrations, and clay pigeon shooting. The museum is dedicated to Irish horses, Connemara ponies and Irish dogs, Dartfield Equestrian and Heritage Centre is an ideal venue for coach parties, school tours, corporate days out, exhibitions, and meetings. Pre-booking is essential.
King House Co.Roscommon
It is a unique visitor centre that not only tells the story of this important house as a home to the King family and later a barracks to the Connaught Rangers, but also displays important cultural collections and Irish history exhibitions. Visitors of all ages are enthralled by stories of medieval Ireland, the fascinating King family and the history of the highly respected Connaught Rangers. Set in this magnificent, sensitively restored Georgian Mansion, our exhibitions really bring the past to life. Life sized figures, interactive displays and activities all serve to tell the varied role this intriguing house has played over the centuries. King House is also just a two minute walk to the magnificent Boyle Abbey
Mining Experience Arigna Co.Roscommon
Coal was mined in the Arigna Valley from the 1700s through to 1990 when the mines closed. With massive community and Government support, the Derreenavoggy Mine reopened as a visitor attraction in 2003. Since then, over 400,000 people have enjoyed the Arigna Mining Experience, making this community-inspired initiative one of the most popular attractions in Co.Roscommon.Here is a place where they bring history to life, telling the story of Ireland’s coal mining industry and exploring the themes of energy – past, present and future. At Arigna, they don’t just take you on a journey back in time, they also bring you underground!
Strokestown Park House, Gardens & National Famine Museum Co.Roscommon
Go here to discover the intimate and intriguing links between dramatically different Irish lives. Explore the parallel lives of Strokestown Park’s aristocratic landlords and their tenants during the Great Irish Famine at our state-of-the-art National Famine Museum. In this compelling, highly interactive new museum, breath-taking local and national stories from this tragic period in Ireland’s past are brought dramatically to life. A mixture of imaginative scene-setting and innovative audio, audio-visual, and touchscreen resources – as well as our family activity guide – help to make a museum visit a fascinating, immersive experience for people of all ages. Their audio-guides are available in six languages: English, Irish, French, Spanish, German and Mandarin.