See pages 81 - 88: - Where to stay - Eating Out - Taxis - Hair & Beauty - Important Numbers

VIKING TOURS
ATHLONE
TEL: 086-2621136 FAX: 090-6473383

E-mail: vikingtours@ireland.com
Website: www.vikingtoursireland.com

Contact: Michael McDonnell Daily trips depart: Below Town Bridge

Come Back 1,200 years and join the Viking Hordes roaming and pillaging in these waters

Cruises from April To October

Become a viking as we experience some of the 300 years of viking history on a voyage into Lough Ree or down river to Clonmacnois. A variety of helmets, swords and shields on board. Free viking scroll for each child.

Fun and Excitement for All the Family

Failte Romhat Welcome Bienvenu Willkommen Benvenuto

I would like to extend a very warm welcome to you, however long or short your stay with us here in Athlone. I am delighted that you have chosen to visit our wonderful town and I sincerely hope that you enjoy every minute of it. Athlone is located in the centre of Ireland and is the thriving heart of the Magical Irish Midlands. Irelands longest river, The Shannon, flows through the centre of our town which gives Athlone a unique dimension. There are many ways to enjoy the river: cruising, fishing, sailing, diving and many more water based activities. However, if you would prefer to stay dry you can enjoy the river view from many of Athlones fine pubs and restaurants. As a destination Athlone has many advantages over other towns in Ireland. In terms of accommodation Athlone offers superb choice and value, whether you are camping or luxuriating we have it all! We consider Athlone to be the Gourmet Capital of Ireland , we have some of the finest award winning restaurants in the country, offering great value for money - every possible taste is catered for. I hope you find this book, together with our '101 Things To Do in Athlone' Guide, to be of use in assisting you to make the most of your time in Athlone. Further local information can be accessed on www.athlone.ie, in local papers or the local visitors information centre. On behalf of Athlone Chamber, I would also like to thank all the advertisers & local businesses that have supported the production of this guide. Finally & most importantly, I sincerely wish that you, our guest, have an enjoyable visit. Please do take the time to visit some of the many attractions in the area & soak up our unique atmosphere. As you decide on your next holiday or business destination please think of Athlone. Best wishes and safe travelling. Carmel Connolly
1

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE - PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS

MAYORS ADDRESS

Cuireann s thas mor orm mar Mheara Athluain, cead mile filte a chur romhaibh. T sil agam go mbanfidh sibh sult agus sasamh as bhur gcuairt agus go dtochfaidh sibh ar ais go thuain sar i bhd. In welcoming you to Athlone I hope that your stay will be enjoyable and that you will want you to come back and indeed advise your friends and family about our town. Athlone's position on the River Shannon at the foot of Lough Ree has made it very popular for water enthusiasts including those who participate in sailing, cruising, wind surfing and canoeing. Angling enthusiasts come to fish the Shannon and the many lakes located in the Midlands Region. Athlone and District boasts a wide variety of visitor attractions and historical sites of note including the instantly recognisable Athlone Castle and down river the Clonmacnois Monastic Site. Many walking, cycling and driving trails have been developed in recent years for both locals and visitors to enjoy. Athlone apart from being an important tourism centre, has a 3rd level Education centre catering for over 5,000 students and there is a growing number of students coming from abroad, especially from the Far East to study in the Athlone Institute of Technology. All the new retailing outlets developed in Athlone over the past decade has brought an increased choice and opportunity for local shoppers and visitors and the town is now considered to have a catchment population of over a quarter of a million people. The shopping precincts within the town are all very compact and in close proximity to each other with excellent pedestrian permeability and access to parking and public transport nodes. I congratulate Lough Ree Publishing Company for this excellent publication and I am very pleased that it can be downloaded in its entirety in any place in the world. I wish them well with the venture. Cllr. Mark Cooney - Mayor of Athlone
2

24 HOUR PROMT FRIENDLY RELIABLE SERVICE

E LONusCITY CABS H & B Hire AT

TEL: TEL:

090-6474888 090-6474884

MOBILE: 087-8207820

Fleet of Mercedes Taxis & Hackneys 8, 16, 25, 55 Seater Busses

Driving you safely in comfort on time into the 21st Century
3

Athlone a potted history

By Gearid OBrien

he name Athlone (in Irish Ath Lain) literally means The ford of Lain. There are several versions of how Athlone got its name, they may be steeped in romance but they all agree on one vital component the importance, from time immemorial, of this ancient ford. It is generally agreed that Lan was a person, though one source claims that the ford was a centre for moon worship and that Lan is derived from the Latin word for the moon. The generally accepted version of the story concerns Luan the son of Lewy who may well have been the towns first entrepreneur. It is said that he kept an inn or hostelry on the banks of the river and acted as guide for those who wished to cross the rapid torrent. In time the ford became known as Lans Ford.

Regardless of who Lan was we do know that the ford has been an important crossing point on the Shannon from the earliest times before it was ever known as Athlone the crossing point was known as An sean ath mor or the great ford of antiquity. The town itself developed as an Anglo-Norman settlement around a castle built for King John in 1210. The castle was built on land belonging to the Cluniac priory of SS Peter & Paul which stood on the west bank of the Shannon. Today Athlone is regarded as the Capital of the Irish Midlands and
4

Glendeer Farm

Glendeer Pet Farm is a 6 acre open farm with: 50 species of domestic & exotic animals & birds. Coffee Shop with homemade sandwiches, scones etc. A large outdoor picnic & play area suitable for all ages. Indoor picnic & play area, suitable for any weather. Self-catering accommodation for the summer season. Opening times for summer season: Mon - Sat..................11am - 6pm Sunday......................12pm - 6pm School Tours, Birthday Parties & other groups by appointment. Glendeer Farm, Curryroe, Drum, Athlone 090 6437147 glendeer@glendeer.com www.glendeer.com (Admission 7 pp)
5

the Gateway to the West. The river Shannon divides the town into two parishes, two dioceses, two counties and indeed two provinces. St. Marys parish, to the east, is in the Catholic diocese of Ardagh and Clonmacnois while St. Peters, to the west, is in the diocese of Elphin. Prior to 1899 the west side of Athlone was in County Roscommon but since that time the whole town, for administrative purposes, is regarded as part of Westmeath.

The Bridges of Athlone

A man-made causeway across the Shannon existed at Athlone since the year 1000 AD at least, while the earliest recorded bridge was built in 1210. The earliest bridges (and indeed the first castle) were or wicker and wooden construction and thus tended to be shortlived. The first stone castle was erected in 1210 while a permanent bridge was not constructed until Elizabethan times. The Cluniac order (which was a reformed Benedictine order) had its only Irish priory on the west bank of the Shannon at Athlone (from c1150) while the Franciscans built their first friary on the east bank (c1240). The Cluniacs perished with the dissolution of the monasteries whereas the Franciscans survived despite the vicissitudes and still have a presence in Athlone today.

Town Fortifications
From the mid-thirteenth century Athlone was a walled town. In Elizabethan times two gatehouses were added to the defences of the Leinster town. Following the destruction of the town-walls
6

during the Confederate Wars a major renewal of the urban fortifications was carried out. The Connaught town was defended by a series of earthen ramparts while the wall on the Leinster side was repaired and strengthened. The townwalls came under heavy fire during the sieges of Athlone in 1690 and 1691 and today only fragments survive. Part of a bastion survives behind St. Marys Church of Ireland and immediately in front of the Civic Centre this has been the subject of much conservation work and is worthy of inspection. The line of the old town wall is preserved by a stainless steel track both outside and inside the new Civic Centre.

The Sieges of Athlone

The most important events in the history of Athlone were the two sieges which took place in 1690 and 1691. The sieges of Athlone were part of the infamous Williamite and Jacobite Wars in Ireland. In 1690 the then Governor of Athlone, Col Richard Grace, successfully defended the town against the might of a 10,000 strong Williamite force. In 1691 the Williamites returned to Athlone with a force of 25,000 men under the command of a Dutch General, Godard de Ginkle, and captured the town. Ironically they discovered the very ford which had given Athlone its name and in a surprise attack, while the Jacobite leaders were said to be feasting, they took the town and the castle by storm. For his services to King William, Godard de Ginkle was created Earl of Athlone.

KENS
ORIENTAL RESTAURANT

Specialise in Chinese, Malaysian & Thai Cuisine

Telephone 090 6491119 / 090 6477940

Opening Hours Monday to Friday - Dinner:......... 4.00pm - 11.30pm Saturday & Bank Holiday.........5.00pm - 12.00am Sunday Buffet 1:00pm - 4:30pm Dinner 3.00pm - 11.30pm Delivery Hours 5.00pm - 11.00pm John Broderick Street, Irishtown Central, Athlone
9

In the aftermath of the second Siege a military barracks was constructed at Athlone. The town retained a strong British garrison until 1922 when the Free State Army took over the military barracks. It was re-named Custume Barracks in honour of Sgt Custume a hero of the second Siege of Athlone. Today the military tradition is still live and well in Athlone where Custume Barracks is one of the major employers in the town the military have contributed to every sphere of life in Athlone and the barracks is, possibly, the oldest occupied barracks in Europe with its history dating back to 1697.

The Eighteenth Century

The first attempt to improve the navigational potential of Athlone came in 1757 when a canal was built to the west of the town creating a virtual island between itself and the Shannon. This was necessitated because of the rapids and eel weirs which abounded in the area of the natural ford even the Vikings who went on pillaging outings between Clonmacnois and Athlone were forced to carry their long ships through Athlone. Following the outbreak of war with the French Republic and the attempted landing of the French at Bantry Bay a total of eight defensive batteries (or gun emplacements) were constructed on the western perimeter of the town. These Napoleonic fortifications gave rise to the modern place-name The Batteries. All but a small portion of the No 1 Battery have been destroyed the surviving fragment is built on high ground at Ranelagh between the mouth of the canal and the Shannon.

10

THE CREGGAN COURT

M
MULCAHY HOTEL GROUP

HOTEL

The Granary Bar & Restaurant An Extensive Carvery Lunch l A La Carte Menu Nightly l The Lemon Tree Restaurant

(ideal for breakfast, lunch and dinner)

Less than 1 mile from athlone l 75 Bedrooms l Cable TV l Direct Telephone l Hairdryer l Tea/Coffee facilities l Laundry l Car Parking facilities
l

N6 Centre, Athlone.
Tel: (090) 6477777 Fax: (090) 64 77111 Email: info@creggancourt.com web: www.mulcahyhotelgroup.com
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The Nineteenth Century

Several great milestones in the history and development of Athlone occurred during the nineteenth century. The first of these was the Shannon navigation works of the 1840s which endowed Athlone with a fine quay wall, lock gates and weir as well as a major road-bridge across the Shannon. These works also fulfilled their aim to make the Shannon fully navigable through Athlone. By 1851 the first of two rival railway firms had reached Athlone in their race to the West. The second had arrived within a decade thus opening up a new era in public transport for Athlone. The opening of Athlone Woollen Mills in 1859 was a major boost to the industrial development of the town. These Mills acquired a world-wide reputation for the quality of the tweeds produced and the company received many gold-medals at international fairs. Athlone Woollen Mills was destroyed by fire on the night of November 11th, 1940 putting hundreds of people out of work. Though re-built they never regained their status as a major employer. Fortunately during the 1930s General Textiles (Gentex) had opened a new factory on the site of the Ranelagh School. Among the products produced by Gentex were their famous Constellation Sheets. Gentex eventually closed twenty-one years ago but by that time Athlone had a diversity of smaller manufacturing industries ready to take up the slack. Today Athlone is surrounded by industrial estates where a number of factories provide excellent employment opportunities to workers from Athlone and its hinterland as well as to suitably qualified personnel from abroad.

Glendeer Farm Self - Catering Apartments

Self-Catering apartments with balcony overlooking the open farm with over 50 species of animals and birds, coffee shop, play area and picnic areas. Restored 1850s cottage - Nature walk Free access to open farm and playground. Each apartment is equipped with all modern conveniences. Washing machine and dryer on site. Contact us on: +353 906 437 147
12

grogans
and Nannie Murphs Sea Food and Steak Bar
Glasson, County Westmeath Tel:- (090) 6485158

Award Winning Pub & Restaurant

In the beautiful village of Glasson, just 5 minutes from Athlone town is this quaint family-run Pub. The cosy low-ceilinged front bar is divided in a traditional manner and has a lovely open fire, flag floor and a mix of wood and brass furnishings. Grogans is renowned for its excellent Homemade Food and good value. Traditional music every Wednesday.

Beer Garden for Parties Weddings, etc.

13

Shopping Guide
The completed motorway to Galway means Athlone is now a comfortable, bottleneck-free 120km journey from Dublin. Located at the centre of the longest network of inland waterways in Europe, it has long been a destination for waterborne tourism and offers extensive marina facilities in both the town centre and at nearby Lough Ree. But landlubbers would also enjoy a break here.The eastern outskirts, which need not detain you, are dominated by Athlone Institute of Technology, which attracts almost 5,000 full- and part-time students, who give the place a youthful air. Farther in, Athlone Town Centre is a gleaming shopping mall built on a three-hectare brownfield site.To its credit, it has prevented the death-knell drift to edge-of-town retailing and revitalised the centre of town. Over 70 stores and a variety of cafes and restaurants catering for all tastes. Shops include Zara, H&M, River Island, Next, Bernard John, M&S, Promod, Tommy Hilfiger, Eason, Monsoon, Warehouse, Fields, Principles ... and many more! But there's much more to the scheme than just retail: it ticks all the mixed-use boxes with a new Sheraton 161-bedroom four-star hotel and leisure complex of 12 storeys, 163 new tax-incentivised apartments. It will also provide much-needed car parking for the town centre with 1,400 spaces in three underground levels.The scheme occupies a 3.5 ha site behind the existing main shopping street, Mardyke Street, and opens out onto a square facing the new civic centre. Golden Island Shopping Centre located in Athlone, offers a quality shopping experience. Over 40 Quality Stores. Fashion, Fashion Accessories, Health & Beauty, Food, Flowers, Jewellery, Music, Books, Sports Equipment, Photography, Giftwear and Household Furnishings. A daily Bus Service operates to and from Golden Island Shopping Centre. There is some unique handcrafted giftware at Wood B Designs at Sean Costelloe Street opposite Dunnes stores and Athlone Crystal & Gift Gallery at St. Marys Square. Athlone Crystals new and innovative product development means shoppers can select from several new ranges of glassware, vases, bowls, etc. In the centre of town, are Allens giftware, located across the street from Burgess department store, they offer good value in crystal, pottery, belleck china and a variety of Irish gifts. 14

PIZZA MAMA
Pizzeria - Restaurant - Takeaway
4 Pearse Street, Athlone Tel: 090 - 64 44 009 Mob: 086 8652145

Open 7 days a week 5pm til late A large Lunch & Dinner Menu You are welcome at any time

bring your own wine

2 Local, 1 per mile after that

Takeaway Menu Now at Pizza Mama

Delivery from 6pm - 11pm Meal Deal: 1 Starter, 1 Main, 1 Drink, 1 Dessert - 21
Opening Hours Mon - Fri............................4pm - 11pm Saturday............................4pm - 12pm Sunday...............................4pm - 11pm

Your satisfaction is our challenge, your pleasure is our satisfaction

15

Famous Athlonians
Athlone has had several famous residents from Luain who gave his name to the town to Donna and Joseph McCaul who represented Ireland in the 2005 Eurovision Song Contest. Among the most famous Athlonians are: John Count McCormack the world famous tenor who was born here in 1884 and died in Dublin in 1946; T.P. OConnor politician, author and newspaper editor who is commemorated by a piece of sculpture in Londons Fleet Street and has a street called after him in Athens; John Broderick the novelist who was born in Athlone in 1924 and died in Bath in 1989 he has a street named after him in his native town. Famous Athlonians of today include Sean OLeochain an Irish language poet; Desmond Egan poet and writer, Senator Mary ORourke, politician and a member of the famous Lenihan political dynasty, the tenor Louis Brown and popular singer Brendan Shine.
16

John Count McCormack

Athlone Author John Broderick

Al Mezza
Lebanese Restaurant, 6 Bastion, Athlone

Early Bird -

14.95

available from 4.30 - 7.00pm Opening Hours Wed - Mon...............4.30pm til late (Closed Tuesday) Tel: 090 6498765 Mobile: 087 2336656

Portaneena Marina Ltd.

Boat Sales & Repairs Mooring & Lifting Facilities

Ballykeeran, Athlone
Tel: 090-6485116 Fax: 090-6485533 Mobile: 087- 2501504
17

The Left Bank Mall includes restaurants, coffee shops, bridal and fashion shops, interior design, hairdressing, sports shop, photography, beauty and health care and a solicitor's office. This broad range of activities brings new life to the area and a welcome increase in employment. The Mall has significantly added to the critical mass and attractiveness of the West Side as a shopping and business destination. The shops on Main Street would absorb antique hunters and bookworms for many happy hours. Dubliner John Donohoe, who moved to Athlone 14 years ago, runs Na Linte, the only antiquarian bookshop between Dublin and Galway. Its a joy to visit and is filled with delights signed first editions by leading Irish writers, an original letter by Yeats, a rare copy of a play for schoolchildren by Sinead de Valera and much more. Booklovers would also enjoy a visit to the nearby premises of one of the few surviving Irish bookbinders. Watch master craftsman Declan Browne and his apprentice Orla Corrigan as they restore rare and beautiful tomes for collectors, libraries, universities and dioceses. At Left Bank Antiques, where finds include a very rare Irish silver asparagus tongs and a Victorian rocking cradle, owner Brian Kelly says visitors like the fact that everything is priced, unlike in many antiques shops, which makes browsing more relaxed. Celebrate your purchases next door at Irelands oldest pub. Seans Bar, which once revelled in the rather more romantic name the Three Blackamoor Heads, is popular with locals and visitors alike. Charles PZrukel and Hans Snoeks, early-bird tourists from the Netherlands who were soaking up the atmosphere and Guinness, described the surroundings - rough-hewn wooden benches, a turf fire and sawduststrewn floor - as like coming home.

Log on to: www.athlone.ie for Athlone and District Tourist Guide on the web.
18

GLASSON VILLAGE RESTAURANT

Fresh Sea Food

Highest Quality Local Produce
Glasson, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090-6485001 Email: michaelrosebrooks@gmail.com

Member of a Seafood Circle

Excellent Value Early Bird Menu

Chef/Proprietor Michael Brooks

Lakeside Self-catering Accommodation

German Spoken

KILLINURE CHALETS
GLASSON, ATHLONE
TEL: 090- 6485155 E-mail: manfred@eircom.net * * * * 65 Deluxe Bedrooms Lakeside Bar & Restaurant 18 Hole Championship Golf Course Friendly & Professional Service

LICENCED RESTAURANT,
BOATS, FISHING TACKLE

Call Manfred or Geraldine

19

Tel: 00 353 (0) 90 6485120 www.glassongolf.ie

restaurant & bar

20

restaurant & bar

- Stunning waterside location opposite the castle - Open every day for lunch & dinner - Cocktails, beer & wine served on the riverside deck - Value menu all evening excluding Saturday Brunch Saturday & Sunday - Recommended by Bridgestone Guide 2010 & Georgina Campbells Guide - Private dining room available for all family / party occasions with great river views - Restaurant also available for wedding & funeral parties -

i Bella D

Custume Pier, Coffees & Scones from 10.30am Athlone Lunch 12- 4pm Tel: 090 6476946 Early bird 5.30- 7.30pm www. theolivegrove.ie Dinner 5.30- 10.00 pm www.facebook.com/theolivegroverestaurant

Open 12 noon til Late

Despite the arrival of so many restaurants in the area, DiBella is the best Italian in the town. With very friendly & enthusiastic staff, the restaurant offers a great ambiance . The food is truly wonderful with so many choices of meat, pasta and pizza dishes to choose from.

HIGH STREET, ATHLONE - TEL: 090 6444830

21

The

Dean Crowe Theatre

& Arts Centre
This Theatre started life as a parish church for St. Peter's parish. The old church appears to have been built in two phases, the first as early as 1795 when it would have been no more than a small chapel. It was then enlarged in 1809 and served as the parish church until the completion of SS Peter& Paul's in 1937. The novelist John Broderick described the church "The inside of this old building was most unusual", and in many ways pre-dated today's idea of gathering a congregation close about an altar. In St. Peter's this was achieved by means of galleries. The altar, raised high with some eight or ten steps leading to it, was placed against the wall in the middle of the church instead of the end. The seats were arranged in three sections, in front and at both sides of the altar; and over these were the galleries. The young John McCormack sang in this church in the 1890s, under the direction of the Choirmaster Michael Kilkelly. When the new church of SS Peter & Paul was built this building became a parochial hall for St. Peter's parish. It was a favourite venue for dancing and other forms of entertainment. In 1959 it was renovated and renamed The Dean Crowe Memorial Hall and soon became a venue for a multitude of local and national events, ranging from the annual production of Athlone Musical Society to The All-Ireland Drama Festival. It was the All-Ireland Drama Festival in 1959 that John B. Keane first came to prominence when the Listowel Drama Group won the Esso Trophy for their production of "Sive". Over the years many of our most talented actors, musician, comedians and singers have appeared on this stage. In 1992 a decision was taken to refurbish and extend the old Hall to create a modern theatre. After a successful fundraising appeal it was completed in 2002. The Dean Crowe Theatre and Arts Centre is situated at Chapel Street, Athlone on the West/Connaught side of town, just off Bastion Street. Tel: 090 6492129/6498414 Email: deancrowetheatre@eircom.net - www.deancrowetheatre.ie
22

Shannonbridge Area Festival/Events

A Visit to Shannonbridge at night the picturesque village of Shannonbridge turns into a buzzing hive of chat and good humour with the various pubs offering music, mirth, banter and much-loved traditional Irish stout. Many tourists come to Shannonbridge by cruiser on the River Shannon, a mere stonesthrow from the Main Street. A tourist office is located at the west end of the Main Street. The renowned monastic settlement of Clonmacnoise is some 7 km upriver and attracts approximately 100,000 visitors per annum. One pub of note in the village is Lukers.The front bar is modern yet distinctive, and the cosy back room has barely changed since the 18th century when it was built, with the table set in front of the traditional turf fire at a Victorian Fireplace. John Ryan, proprietor is opening a coffee shop this summer to cater for the visitors, so if you are a little hungry- lukers will have some home made soup, Sandwiches, scones etc to help you along. Vintage Club - Sunday May 9th, - Road Run, Shannonbridge, Banagher area Bike Rally. An Ri Dubh R.C. - 15th may 2010 Lukers, Shannonbridge was a Mecca for motorbike enthusiasts last weekend when over 350 bikers attended a rally organised by the local An Ri Dubh Motorcycle Club. The night, complete with live bands was a great success and it is hoped to make it an annual event. Will this year be even better! Shannonbridge & Clonmacnoise Midsummer Music Festival Start Date: Thu 24/Jun/2010 End Date: Sun 27/Jun/2010 Intimate Music Festival set in wonderful indoor and outdoor locations. Lots of concerts, kids workshops, and great entertainment. Now in its 5th year, this years programme will include an outdoor concert in the ancient ruins of Clonmacnoise, indoor concerts at the Old Fort on the banks of the River Shannon and lots of other good things to do and see!
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LUKERS PUB
Tel: 090 9674995 / 087 7415389

SHANNONBRIDGE

www.shannonbridge.ie
Relive the Past in one of the

Oldest Pubs
in the country dating back to

1700
Ceol agus Craic and a Great pint of Guinness

Coffee Shop for Summer Months

Homemade soup, Sandwiches, snacks etc. Barbeque Make your own Bring your own Pitch your tent at the rear Traditional Musicians welcome

25

Sporting / Leisure Facilities

hether indoors or outdoors, Athlone provides a variety of sports and leisure pursuits for all tastes and ages.

Athlone Regional Sports Centre offers a superb six lane 25m heated pool with separate childrens pool and poolside jacuzzi, sauna and steam room.The Centre has a magnificent FIFA size astro- turf pitch and an excellent Fitness suite. Leisure World at Grace Road is known as the all weather family recreation centre where one can try out their skills in snooker and pool, ten pin bowling, Quasar 2000 etc. the kids can have a wonderful time at the Kiddies adventureland Athlone Equestrian Centre was established in October 2006 by Claire Gaffey to provide the best equestrian facilities available in the midlands. Ideally situated in a quiet country setting yet only three miles from Athlone town, Athlone Equestrian Centre prides itself in providing a safe and funlearning experience to both adults and kids. Athlone Equestrian Centre, Moydrum, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 086-2433609 E-mail: info@athloneequestrian.ie
26

Higgins Bar
& Guest Accommodation

Pearse Street, Athlone. Tel: 090 6492519

All Rooms En-Suite Bar Food Served Daily

NEW LUNCH MENU

WOODVIEW COUNTRY CLUB

( 5 minute drive from Athlone)

Country Club

18-Hole * Par 3 * Mini Golf

* Award Winning Par 3 Course * 1122 yds long- a challenge for all players * Superbly Maintained in a picturesque setting * Ladies Competition every Monday Contact, Clubhouse, Bealnamulla, Athlone
( on the Tuam Road R362)

Tel: 090-6492196 or 086-3575219

Club Hire Available
27

VISITOR ATTRACTIONS
thlone and District boasts a wide variety of visitor attractions and historical sites of note including the instantly recognisable Athlone Castle and Clonmacnois Monastic Site. Athlone is hidden in the heartland's of Ireland in a land of lakes, rivers and unexplored treasures of beauty. It is one of few ideal touring bases for a holiday in Ireland because of its central location and easy accessibility. A host of visitor attractions, heritage sites, walking, cycling and driving trails are located within a thirty mile radius of the town. In this guide you will find greater details about many of these attractions.

Athlone Castle
Dating from the 13th Century, the Castle dominates the town and was central to the Siege of Athlone in 1691. Built in 1210 by John de Gray Bishop of Norwich, for King John of England. The Castle served for almost 300 years as an extension of the military barracks. Now a focal point for visitors, it features exhibitions and audio visual presentations on the Siege of athlone, River Shannon, folk and Military Museum and the Life of John Count McCormack.
28

Leisure World Athlone

T h e A l l We a t h e r F a m i l y Recreation Centre
NEW IMPROVED KIDDIES ADVENTURELAND HUGE BLUE SPIRAL TUBE SLIDE WAVY board slide, Bouncy Castle and lots more

* Cosmic Ten Pin Bowling * Quasar 2000 A Laser Game * The latest video pursuits * Snooker Tables * Super League Pool Tables * NEW AMERICAN POOL TABLE * Restaurant and beverages * Wheelchair accessible throughout
Birthday Parties, First Communion&Confirmations

PARTIES are better In Athlone Leisure World

Where the Sun always shines

Athlone Leisure World Grace Road, Athlone

Tel: 090 6494766 Email: info@leisureworld.ie Web: www.leisureworld.ie
29

The Tourist Information Office and a coffee shop are also located in the Castle courtyard. It is open daily from May to September and on request.For further information and group bookings contact: Athlone Castle Visitor's Centre (0)90 64 92912

Clonmacnois
Clonmacnois (the Irish Cluain Mhic Nois means the meadow of the sons of Nos) was founded in 548 by St. Ciaran the son of a wright or master craftsman.The pivotal location contributed to the development of Clonmacnois as a major centre of religion, learning, trade, craftsmanship and political influence. As the burial place of St. Ciaran, it has attracted pilgrims for nearly 1500 years. Situated on an esker ridge overlooking a large area of bog through which the river Shannon flows, its location in earlier times was literally at the crossroads of Ireland where the north/south artery of communication, the Shannon, crossed the major east/west routeway along the gravel ridges of the glacial eskers. Clonmacnois has been a national Monument since 1877 and is now under the care of Duchas, The Heritage Service of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands. The site now offers exhibitions, audio-visual show, guided tours, tearooms, car/coach parking and tourist information services. For further details or reservations contact: Tel: (0)90 96 74195

30

31

Derryglad Folk Museum

This award winning museum is situated in a rural setting where you can enjoy a friendly relaxed atmosphere and view a 25 year collection dealing with the farm and folk life in Ireland from the 18th Century. Here you can view over 5000 items in the heartland of Irelands unspoiled and unexplored countryside. Including horse drawn farm machinery, household utensils, old style 1930's thatched bar and grocery, laundry and dairy memorabilia, radio's, gramophones and a wide range of indoor and outdoor rural artifacts, and recently opened: the most complete photographic studio museum in Ireland.
Opening Times: May - September inclusive, Mon - Sat 10.00 a.m. - 6.00p.m. For further details contact:The Finneran family, Derryglad Folk Museum, Curraghboy Athlone. Tel: (0)90 6488192 Email: info@derrygladfolkmuseum.com www.derrygladfolfmuseum.com

Mother Indian
Restaurant & Take Away
Best Indian Restaurant

The Docks, Athlone. Tel: 090 6498658/6492571 Email: motherindia@yahoo.com

32

Serving Times Mon - Sun: 5pm - 11pm Open Bank Holidays Delivery on Request

Athlones Finest Restaurants

LEscale Restaurant at Hodson Bay Hotel La Provence Fine Cuisine Restaurant at Sheraton Athlone Hotel

090 6442000
33

090 6451000

Locke's Distillery
Locke's Distillery in Kilbeggan is believed to be the oldest licensed pot still distillery in the world in 2007, we celebrated our 250th anniversary! To mark this occasion, we have started to distill Irish Whiskey again in Kilbeggan. Today, our visitors can see and smell the whiskey being distilled in copper pot stills, just like it was in the old days a real treat for the senses! The Museum is now one of Irelands premier tourist attractions and certainly one of the Midlands most famous. Our experienced guides tell the story of how whiskey was produced in Kilbeggan and the restored buildings and machinery bring this story to life. Visitors are treated to a complimentary sample of Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey at the end of their tour. Open daily all year round. Tel: 057 9332134 or email: info@lockesdistillerymuseum.ie for more information.

34

GERTIE BROWNE

HATTERS LANE

Old World Pub

Restaurant

Where the Pint & Craic is very good

Traditional Music in summer months

Good Food & Wine in an Old World Ambience Irish Mediterranean Cuisine
Tel: 6473077

Tel: 6474848

Custume Place, Athlone

Mount Temple Golf & Country Club with Golf Academy

Superb 18-Hole Championship Golf Course in the hearth of Ireland.

Built by God, polished by man

Playable all year around with panoramic views of the midlands. Renowned for its natural links type greens and undulating fairways. Catering facilities, farmhouse cuisine daily, wine licence, village pub 100 yards away.

10 minutes from Athlone Town

Full Memberships available. Men ?600. Ladies ?450 Mount Temple, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 353 90 6481841 E-mail: mttemple@iol.ie wwwmounttemplegolfclub.com
35

Suggested Tours From Athlone

Contact details for each of the attractions mentioned below can be found by clicking on the following link: http://www.athlone.ie/VisitingAthlone/VisitorAttractions.aspx Athlone Castle + Lough Ree Boat Trip with River Run + Derryglad Folk Museum Viking Boat Trip + Glendeer Pet Farm, Drum, Athlone + Athlone Leisure World Athlone Castle + Clonmacnois + West Offaly Bog Rail Tour Athlone Castle + Drum Heritage, Athlone + Derryglad Folk Museum, Curraghboy, Athlone An Dun Transport Museum + Clonmacnois + West Offaly Bog Rail Tour Celtic Roots Studio, Ballinahown + Clonmacnois + An Dun Transport Museum Lockes Distillery Museum + Moate Museum + Dun na Si Folk Park,Moate Belvedere House & Gardens + Lockes Distillery Museum, Kilbeggan + Athlone Castle Birr Castle + An Dun Transport Museum + Celtic Roots Studio, Ballinahown Drum Heritage + Derryglad Folk Museum, Curraghboy, Athlone + Claypipe Visitors Museum Knockcroghery Lockes Distillery Museum, Kilbeggan + Tullamore Heritage + Athlone Castle

Daily tours to Local Attractions web: midlandstours.com Tel: 090 6430000

36

THE BONNE BOUCHE

Athlones Oldest Established - Fully Licensed.

Coffee House and Restaurant ideally located in Church Street, - the very Hearth of the Town This traditional style relaxing premises offers a wide choice of good quality home cooked fare and home bakery at very affordable prices
OPEN DAILY MONDAY- SATURDAY : 9.30AM - 6PM TEL: 090-6472112

FLYNNS BAR & RESTAURANT

Quality Food Served All Day Banagher, Co Offaly Tel: 057 9151312
37

Kilbeggan Races
Kilbeggan Races a truly Irish occasion An evening of fun at Kilbeggan Races is one of the most enjoyable experiences. It mingles the heart stopping spectacle of racing over jumps with the laid back charm of a genuine rural meeting.The Kilbeggan formula is made for fun, friendship and atmosphere for the thousands who return meeting after meeting giving Kilbeggan the edge over other events. An evening to remember at Kilbeggan Races The quiet midlands town is transformed on race evenings into a festival of social and sporting pleasure, drawing admirers from every corner of Ireland. You can meet friends, circulate freely; you can eat, drink or cheer without restriction; you can bring the family or whoever; where for a few pounds the odds are much better than a lottery ticket; and where you can boast afterwards that it was sheer skill that made you pick the winner! If you are bright, witty and rich you will enjoy Kilbeggan Races and if you are not, you will enjoy it just the same. Catering Facilities The facilities at Kilbeggan now include the Pavilion bar overlooking the winning post, self-service restaurant, snack bar and of course the tented bar with live music on the hill overlooking the entire racecourse. The bars are a popular meeting place with visitors and locals alike, and are the ideal place for post race analysis as well as a nice relaxing pint. the social event of the year in the midlands. Fixtures for Kilbeggan Racecourse Irelands Only all National Hunt Racecourse 2010 Fixture Date: Sat......... 1st May (E) at 5.30p.m. Sat ........ 15th May (E) at 5.40p.m. Sun ....... 6th June at 2.45p.m. Mon...... 21st. June (E) at 6.00p.m Fri .......... 16th July (E) at 6.00p.m. Sat ........ 7th August (E) at 5.30p.m. Fri .......... 20th. August (E) at 5.05p.m. Fri .......... 3rd. Sept (E) at 4.35p.m. Evening Meeting (E)

Please note that race times may be subject to change For Further details on Group Bookings & Corporate Entertainment please contact: For further information contact Paddy Dunican, Manager, The Racecourse, Kilbeggan, Co.Westmeath. Phone (057) 9332176 or Fax (057) 9332125. E-mail:Kilbeggan
38

Arcadia Centre, Athlone.

094 6477620
Open: 12pm - 12am

Pizza ss e Madn

McSharrys Pharmacy
24 Mardyke Street, Athlone T/A Colemans Pharmacy Tel: 090 6472568/6471647 Fax: 090 6476161 4/6 Belhavel, Golden Island, Athlone Tel: 090 6476767 Fax: 090 6476766

The Honey Pot - Natural Health Products Store

Athlone became the nineteenth fairtrade town in March 2007.

You can buy many fairtrade products like tea,sugar honey, wine coffee chocolate and many more in your local shops around the town. Just look out for the fairtrade logo when you shop.To find out more about fairtrade visit www.fairtrade.ie or to get involved contact Athlone fairtrade on 087 6933811. 39

E IC RS PRST E U

Prop: Ray McSharry

FAST & FRIENDLY DELIVERY

Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub

Nitelife - San Oiche

hatever you idea of a good night, Athlones social scene has something to cater for all tastes. Sample the unique atmosphere of Athlones pubs, Seans Bar is the oldest bar in Ireland , with great pints and the craic is unbelievable. Has the best beer garden in town and would be recommended for any night out. Have a typical Cornwall tea/coffee with scones, cream and jam at Higgins, located opposite Athlone Garda Station in Pearse Street or try their Crispy Bacon Bagel with Black Pudding and wholegrain mustard cream for lunch. In the evening join the crowd and try out one of the four bars at The Prince Bar.

Gerties Brownes. A Great Old fashioned pub with friendly staff and you are always guaranteed a smile. It is close to the bridge and has an excellent restaurant Hatters Lane downstairs.

40

ATHLONE CASTLE VISITOR CENTRE

Dating from the 13th Century, the Castle dominates the town and was central to the Siege of Athlone in 1691. Built in 1210 by John de Gray Bishop of Norwich, for King John of England. The Castle served for almost 300 years as an extension of the military barracks. Now a focal point for visitors, it features exhibitions and audio visual presentations on the Siege of Athlone, River Shannon, folk and Military Museum and the Life of John Count McCormack. The Tourist Information Office and a coffee shop are also located in the Castle courtyard. It is open daily from May to September and on request. For further information and group bookings contact: Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
at Tel: +353 (0)90 64 92912 6472100 Fax: + 353 (0)90 64 72100 www.athlone.ie
41

Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub

The Palace The pub that has three floors with a black and white theme. This is a great place for a class night out and great talent all round with late bar. This is definitely a spot not to be missed. Bounty Bar at the Rugby Club is the place to be when a big match is played there. A great place for parties.. Food served each day. Olive Bar Great atmosphere and a great pint from Eamon. Traditional Music Session each Wednesday night. It is advisable to come early. Shack: Words can't describe how nice the shack is. Everything is top standard. The shack is also a great place for coming with friends as it is such a chilled and relaxed pub. Biddy Mulligans. Live music and pool playing make it very popular. It is situated beside Texas Shopping Centre. Nuts Corner. Bang in the middle to town... Great location... Great live sessions. Small pub with a super atmosphere. Can't be missed. The Prince Great place to go and relax with some friends, have a few pints and then head into the new night club Karma which is part of the prince.The cocktail menu is one of the best in town and they provide nice food to. Sean's Bar It is the oldest bar in Ireland , with great pints and the craic is unbelievable. Has the best beer garden in town and would be recommended for any night out.
42

We offer the following services: Athlone

Group and private lessons

Equestrian
Centre

Stable and Grass livery for your horse/pony

2006 by Claire Gaffey to provide the best equestrian facilities available in the midlands. Summer camps Ideally situated in a quiet country setting yet only three miles from Treks ideal for families orcentre prides itself in providing Athlone town, Athlone equestrian groups a safe and fun learning experience to both adults and kids. Hiring out ofashowjumping arenasimply want to relax on Whether youre seasoned campaigner or horseback and enjoy a quiet forest trek, Athlone Equestrian Centre will meet your requirements. Athlone equestrian centre was programme Student/teenager summerestablished in October

Our facilities include:

120ft x 260ft show Lungeing arena

We offer individual, group and corporate bookings to suit everyone from the beginner jumping arena to the advanced. www.athloneequestrian.ie info@athloneequestrian.ie Phone: 090 6465850 / 086-2433609

70ft x 160ft sand arena

Ideal countryside and forest

Open: Tuesday to Sunday Forest Treks daily during summer period

43

Leisure World

Map courtesy of Athlone Chamber of Commerce

44

45

Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub

Music Sessions in the locals

The Shack, Seans Sunday session, Brideswell, Flannerys, Shines, Olive Bar (The Green Olive), The Bounty and even Bar Metro. If youre visiting the Irish midlands you should definitely stop in to The Brideswell Session for trad on a Thursday and stick the head into Flannerys to hear some songs on a Friday. Between those, you should get a picture of what a real Irish session is like. Most of the sessions are traditional Irish music sessions, although most will allow bluegrass and popular music for the occasional song. The Shack is the exception, being an almost entirely modern music session. For the unindoctrinated, here are some basic rules for attending an Irish music session: The first thing you should know is Irish sessions are not a performance in the traditional sense, they are more of a social gathering. Concerts are things performed on a stage facing ones audience; Irish sessions are not a concert. Irish musicians sit in a circle facing each other at their sessions. The idea is that those in the circle have been invited to be there and are focused on each other and the music theyre making. If it pleases those nearby, all the better! But the musicians only hope is that the music theyre all focused on in the midst of themselves will burn as bright and clear as possible, spreading a bit of crac and joy out into the world. How that world responds is entirely out of their hands - their job is done amongst themselves. Understanding this, its also easy to understand that all the musicians in the circle know the same tunes.This is not amateur hour, an open mic or a jam session; if a member of the circle does not know how to play the
46

The Motte and Bailey Restaurant

Wed - Sat.....5.30 - 10.00 Sunday Lunch.....12.00 - 4.00 Sunday Evening......5.30 - 9.00 The Motte & Bailey Restaurant is located in the picturesque village of Mount Temple along side Egan's Bar & Lounge & Directly adjacent to Mount Temple Golf Course. Only 10 minutes from Athlone Town and Glasson Village. We pride ourselves in offering a wide range of traditional dishes including Irish Steaks, Fresh Seafood and Vegetarian Specials. We cater for customers of all ages and children are always welcome.

Value Menu runs all night 2 Courses....... 21.50 3 Courses....... 25.00

Large groups catered for at group rates. In house Hackney service available (call for more details)

Mount Temple Village, Moate. Tel: 090 6448731 www.themotteandbaileyrestaurant.ie

47

Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub - - - Going to the pub

tune, he or she simply does not play. Most sessions have a leader or core players who dictate the flow of the session. It may not seem like it sometimes, but if you watch a session youll see that the players will usually take their cue from the same place. If you wish to participate, so should you. Irish music is focused on the melody. In a reversal of other types of music, Irish rhythm instruments provide variation to back the melody, not the other way around. Therefore rhythm instruments are almost never doubled. One guitar, bouzouki, spoons/bones or bodhrn to a session, please! Imagine in a rock and roll song if two lead guitarists started playing different solos over each other - itd sound awful! Same thing with rhythm in Irish music - two guitarists playing different backing rhythms or different chords at the same time is going to sound terrible. On the other hand, there is almost no limit to the number of melody players. You will often find many fiddles, flutes, whistles, banjos, mandolins and other instruments playing simultaneous melody. This is why there is little or no jam aspect, all the melody players must be in sync. There is also very rarely a solo except by very skilled players in familiar sessions where such a thing is anticipated by all involved. Irish sessions often play a few tunes and then a invite a vocalist to sing a song. The ratio of tunes to songs is usually something like 4 to 1. The rules of participation are somewhat relaxed for songs, but the overall rule of subtlety in an Irish session still applies - never overpower the melody. Most human voices cannot compete with the volume of multiple instruments, so take care not to overwhelm the poor singer! Finally, if you are a visitor and wish to participate in an Irish session, your best best is to be courteous and listen to see if the session is welcome to participants. Most Irish people are pretty relaxed and glad to see visitors in their neck of the woods. In rural Ireland, you the visitor may be asked to give us a song even if you display no outward signs of being musical.

48

Along these lines, there is no reason as a foreigner to feel you must sing an Irish song just because its an Irish session. If youre from the states, sing an American song. If youre French, sing a French song. Polish? Thats great. Mexican? Theyd love to hear that, I guarantee it. Youll get a hugely favourable response if, when invited to sing, you produce some local song from your homeland. Not all Irish sessions are traditional. Some traditional sessions are more strict than others. Most sessions around the midlands are pretty open to just about anything, and a few are almost entirely focused on singing and modern music. The basic two rules for any Irish session are as follows: 1. Wait for some sort of an invitation lest you intrude on a session. 2. Be subtle; never overpower the melody.

Going to the pub

Relax and cruise the River Shannon on a replica

Viking boat to historic Clonmacnois or into magnificent Lough Ree where Viking warbands plundered and pillaged its many islands steeped in religious history. Viking Tours, live commentary on Viking battles, tales of buried treasure on Hare Island, refreshments on board, Daily trips depart below town bridge. Contact Michael Mobile: 086 2621136 Fax: +353 (0)90 647 3383

Viking Tours

Email: :vikingtours@ireland.com Web: www.vikingtoursireland.com

49

Athlone Walks
Two Athlone Walks recommended by Gearoid OBrien editor of the Athlone Tourist Trail.
Athlone Workhouse Buildings
CE. IS T NC FRA ST.

ST. FRANCIS

Radisson Hotel
GATE STREET

t
t
t COURT DEV ENI

Bus & Rail Stations

NORTH

t
NE LA t S YD LO L
RY IA FR
CH UR CH

t
t

>
ST RE ET

GA RD EN VA LE

NE LA t

St. Marys Church of Ireland

MA RD YK ES T.

>
The Friary
t

Walk One The Leinster Walk

Commence your walk from the Castle and cross the bridge looking towards Church Street. The bridge built in 1844 replaced the old Elizabethan bridge which had served during the Sieges of Athlone.

Start Here

>

SH

Athlone Civic Centre

TCE.

t t

iv r Ri ver n S a Shan o on

St. Marys R. C. Church

>

50

Dublin Road, Athlone. Tel: 090-6470808

Tasty Sides, Freshly Prepared Salad, Crunchy Herb & Spice coating

Distillery Museum
Kilbeggan
This former whiskey distillery is now open to the public as a Museum, telling the fascinating story of whiskey-making in Kilbeggan. Your visit ends with a complimentary sample of Kilbeggan Irish Whiskey .
Located 25 minutes from Athlone on the N6 or take the M6 and exit at Kilbeggan. The Pantry Restaurant. Gift Shop. Whiskey Bar. Free Car & Coach Parking.

Lockes

Open daily all year round. April Oct: 9am to 6pm. Nov March: 10am to 4pm. For more information call 057 9332134 or visit www.lockesdistillerymuseum.ie
51

Turn left into Northgate Street (so called because it was the site of a gatehouse in the town defences); opposite the Methodist church take a right turn into Court Devenish. Here view (through a large gateway) the remains of Court Devenish House built c1620. The area of Court Devenish once boasted several private schools and a number of church meeting houses. Continue through this L shaped lane and emerge at Church Street via the archway. Now proceed diagonally across Church Street and continue to the waterfront via Lloyds Lane. From the Strand there is a fine view of the Castle and the Bridge of Athlone. Note, also, the eel-weirs on the Shannon evidence of the towns oldest commercial activity. Eel fishing has been carried out in Athlone for 800 years, at least. Continue to the junction with Friary Lane. St. Anthonys Franciscan Church was built in the 1930s in the Hiberno-Romanesque style. It is well worth a visit both as an oasis of peace and prayer and for the quality of its stained-glass some of which is quite exceptional. The Franciscan community has had an association with Athlone since the year 1240 they are, perhaps, Athlones oldest family. When you get to the top of Friary Lane cross Church Street to admire St. Marys Church of Ireland. The square bell-tower is a relic of an earlier church and dates to 1622; the church itself dates to 1827. The church contains several fine memorial tablets as well as the Mearing Stone which is built into a wall in the porch. This stone stood in the centre of the Elizabethan bridge and marked the ancient
52

La Strada Restaurant
Italian Cuisine

Custume Place, Athlone 0906450433 www.lastrada.ie www.lastrada@europe.com

FOODIES
Deli & Sandwich Bar
Catering Specialists
Tel: 086 1717187 Church Street, Athlone,

Looking forward to hearing from you

53

division between the counties of Westmeath and Roscommon. There is a story told, perhaps an apocryphal one, that claims that another stone proclaimed "Here civilisation ends and barbarism begins". Behind St. Marys is Athlone Civic Centre one of the architectural gems of modern Athlone and in front of the new building is preserved part of a bastion of the old town-wall. From the Civic Centre heading back towards Church Street take the small pedestrian route through the Bawn. This was once an ancient enclosure inside the town-walls where cattle and other goods were kept securely. It was here in a humble house that John Count McCormack was born in 1884. Continue towards Athlones second St. Marys, the Catholic Church built in 1862 to the design of John Burke. This graceful Gothic building is also worth visiting the dedication plaque in the church porch is the work of John Hogan Junior. After visiting St. Marys retrace your steps and turn right to go down Garden Vale, through Gleeson Street (called after Dr Edward Maloney Gleeson, founder of Athlone Woollen Mills). Garden Vale is a fine late Victorian Terrace which was, once, the Harley Street of Athlone and across from it is the old Fair Green, now a public car-park. At the end of Garden Vale you reach a roundabout. Straight ahead are the Bus and Rail stations. At the roundabout take a left turn into St. Francis Terrace. Continue through this residential area. Before you exit into Northgate Street you will see another portion of the old town-wall. The point at which you exit is the site of the
54

The Laser and Skin Clinic

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Laser Hair Removal

Call now for - Men & Wome Laser Vein Removal free Consultation - Face & Legs on Laser Resurfacing - Skin Rejuvenat Lines & Wrink 044 9347800 Acne Scars, Sk or 090 6498839 - Redness, Rosa Intense Pulse Light Pigmentation or for more information visit our website - Cellulite Redu Triactive Laser www.laserandskin.ieLeg Veins Sclerotherapy

Medical Mall No.6 The Left BankMicrodermabrasion - Skin Revitalisat No.1 Millmount Terrace CALL Pearse St, Athlone, Co Westmeath Mullingar, Co Westmeath NOW FOR FREE Skin Peels - TCA, Glycolic, CONSULATION ON T:090 6498839 E:athlone@laserandskin.ie T:044 9347800 E: info@laserandskin.ie

044 93 47800 OR 090 6498839 OR FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.laserandskin.ie

Anti-Wrinkle Injections Dermal Fillers/Mesotherapy Sculptra, Radiesse, Evolence Micropigmentation

- Frown Lines, C

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- Face, Body, Ha Lip Enhancem

- Eyes, Brows, Li

Inis Corraig Business Centre Exclusive researched based range of skin-care products : Golden Island, Athlone.
SkinMedica, SkinCeuticals,AgeraRX, SkinTech, Neostrata, Glominerals We also offer a full range of Beauty Treatments

We provide an extensive range of non-surgical treatments including the very latest techniques and tech

No. 1 Millmount Terrace Mullingar, Co.Westmeath T: 044 9347800 E: info@laserandskin.ie

No. 6 The Left Bank Mall Pearse St,Athlone, Co.Westmeath T: 090 6498839 E: athlone@lasera

Tel: 090 - 6474909

Enjoy Real American with Free Delivery your Door or avail of Our Dine-In / Carry-out Specials
55

North Gate. Once back on Northgate Street you will be able to see the old Workhouse complex (to your right) this complex was built to house 800 paupers but at the height of the Famine in 1847 was overfull necessitating two auxiliary workhouses to be called into service. Instead of turning right to go towards the Workhouse take a left turn to bring you back through Northgate Street to your starting point at the bridge. On your right is the Radisson SAS Hotel Athlones newest hotel where you might like to reward yourself with lunch or light refreshments before embarking on your second walk or deciding to visit Athlone Castle.

Walk Two The Connaught Walk

Cross the Bridge of Athlone and visit the Castle which was built in 1210 by Bishop John de Gray of Norwich, King Johns Irish Justiciar. You could easily while away an hour or two in the Visitor Centre and Museum. Also located in the Castle is the Tourist Information Office. From the Castle proceed to the waterfront and walk along the

56

<< GALWAY / ROSCOMMON

ATION MMOD / ACCO ROAD GRACE

Old Railway Station

Ri ve Ri ver

Cu s t u m e B a rr a c k s
Father Mathew Hall
MAGAZINE ROAD

n S an Shan o on

ROAD

St Peter & Pauls Church Post Office Garda Station

>
CONNAUGHT G DN S
M AR K

Start Here
t
SQ .

ST .

SE AR PE

FRY PLACE

docks. The spacious lock and graceful weir-wall are evidence of the Shannon Navigation Works of the 1840s. Take a right turn through St. Peters Port, to the left is Excise Street so called because in earlier times taxes were paid here on goods brought to Athlone by barge. Straight ahead is Fry Place and Main Street which are part of Athlones Left Bank area. Continue up through High Street and Bastion Street which was once the outer limit of the towns
57

DOCKS

Dean Crowe Theatre & Art Centre

t
. ST

CO NN AU GH T

>

ST. ACK RR BA

ET

CASTLE ST.

Castle
t
MAIN ST.

OCONN ELL ST.

HIGH ST.

PETERS PORT

defences. At the top of Bastion Street take a short diversion to the left to admire the Dean Crowe Theatre which started life as the parish church for St. Peters parish. Continue on through OConnell Street the house with the columns was built as the first branch of the National Bank in Athlone, it later served as a bishops palace and later still as an income tax office. Ahead is Connaught Street a street which has several literary connections. It was here that John Broderick (19241989) a novelist who now has an Athlone street named after him was born, so too was the contemporary poet Desmond Egan. Much of this street is to be rejuvenated as part of an urban renewal scheme. If you have time you could walk the length of Connaught Street and return to Pearse Street via Connaught Gardens. Otherwise from OConnell Street turn right into Pearse Street. The premises occupied by Higgins Lounge was the birthplace of Hanna Greally, a tragic figure who spent much of her life in a mental hospital. In her later years she wrote a best-selling book Birds Nest Soup based on her experiences. Arriving back at the market square take time to admire the church of SS Peter and Paul, which despite its cathedral-like proportions is in fact the parish church. It has several beautiful stained glass windows from the Harry Clarke Studios. In the square the premises occupied by Tormey & Co. solicitors stands on the site of the birthplace of T.P. OConnor, author, journalist and politician. The Father Mathew Hall, the long low building on the waterfront on the corner of the town bridge, was the location for some of John McCormacks earliest concerts Percy French also appeared on stage here. It was recently vacated by the county library service and
58

awaits a new chapter in its chequered history. On the promenade stands a bronze bust of John McCormack by the Cork-born sculptor Seamus Murphy. Custume Barracks is the oldest occupied barracks in Europe. It was built in the aftermath of the Siege of Athlone in 1691 and continues to serve as an important military barracks to the present day. A leisurely walk along the waterfront can be taken by following the path along the promenade, beneath the railway bridge and around by "No 1" (so called because it was the site of the No 1 Battery built to protect the crossing point of the Shannon during the threat of a Napoleonic invasion) and coming back on to the main Galway Road at the canal. Turn left and past the old Midland Great Western Railway station to return to the promenade.

2009

kiin khhao

thai

Abbey Lane, Athlone Phone 090 6498805 Fax 090 6494194 Email: kinkhaothai@eircom.net

2009

2007- 2009

200

I thought it was one of the best Thai meals I have eaten outside the Far East. The salad had Tom (Doorley) making little grunting noises of pleasure Paulo Tullio, Irish Independent, January 2007 Kin Khao Thai is the real thing...just with the soft peddle down when it comes to the heat. It was bloody brilliant Tom Doorley, Irish Times, February 2007 59

Kids Stuff

Kids Stuff
Glendeer Open Farm 6 acre award winning open farm with over 50 species of animals and birds. coffee shop, Play ground, picnic areas - indoor and outdoor. Restored 1850s cottage. Nature walk, Souvenir and Tuck shop. Free car & coach parking. Glendeer is transformed into Irelands Lapland for the month of December. Self-catering accommodation on the farm. Free access to farm while staying at the farm. Take a break at Glendeer Open Pet Farm, signposted on the N6, just west of Athlone. Stretch your legs along the unspoilt nature walk where old horse drawn farm machinery can be viewed. Feed the Pet Animals, which include deer, Llama, Emu, Ostrich, Vietnamese pot belly pigs, ponies, donkeys, Jersey cows, sheep, goats, peacocks and other rare birds and domestic fowl. The children can play on the slide, swings, seesaws and very popular glider swing, while adults enjoy a refreshing cup of tea or coffee with freshly made sandwiches and home-made cakes. the Proprietors, O'Connell Family. cater for adult groups, farming and secondary school field study groups, national school tours, playschools, birthday parties, boyscouts, etc. Opening Times: Summer Season: Easter W/E to end of Sept. Mon- Sat:11am- 6pm Sun: 12pm-6pm Irelands Lapland: 1st Weekend in Dec to 23rd: Mon-Fri 5pm- 8pm Sat & Sun: 3pm- 8pm Drum, Athlone Tel: 090- 6437147 Web: www.glendeer.com E-mail: glendeer@glendeer.com
60

Kids Stuff

Athlone Leisure World There is new improved kiddies Adventureland huge blue spiral tube slide, Wavy board slide, Bouncy castle and lots more. Athlone Leisure World can design the party to give your children non-stop fun and of course lots of goodies to make it a day to remember for no stress, no headaches and no clean up... Let Athlone Leisure World arrange your next event function room, bar & cater facilities, ten pin bowling, new american pool table and much more. Peak Physique Athlone is the best value dry gym facility in the midlands. They have a full range of cardio vascular and resistance equipment together with free weights and olympic press. Peak Physique also offers both lie down and Stand up Sun Beds, Tone up and loose weight with our new vibroplates. Ph 090 6493184. Athlone Regional Sports Centre At Athlone Regional Sports Centre they offer a very high standard of children's activities such as Birthday Parties, Halloween, Easter and Summer Camps and the acclaimed Athlone Sports Academy (ASA) for kids. Each activity is allocated two instructors who run the activities in a very professional manner.The target age group for the activities is between five and twelve years. Contact: Tel 090- 6470975 Web: athlonesportscentre.ie Hodson Bay Hotel Renowned for its family friendly atmosphere, the Hodson Bay Hotel has something for all the family. A range of family and interconnection rooms are available for your comfort and convenience. During the summer months, bank holiday weekends and midterm breaks they run the popular "Penguin Kids Activity Camp" for children between the ages of 4 and 12 years from 10am to 1pm & 6pm to 10.pm
61

Kids Stuff Kids Stuff

Tullamore Adventure Centre

Jumpin Jacks Fun factory is the midlands largest indoor soft play centre, with separate areas for kids up to 5 years and 5 to 12. Activities in the three tier play area include ball pools, straight and spiral slides, robe bridges and a mix of sound activated characters, with a full coffee shop and restaurant facilities for adults to relax and watch their children at play. Our restaurant can cater for large groups including school tours and group outings. JumpinJack adventure Golf which opened in June 08 is Irelands largest indoor 18 hole adventure golf centre and this activity provides great challenge and entertainment from 5 years of age upwards. You can enjoy a round of adventure golf at Jumpin Jacks and complete the evening with a game or two of bowling at Cosmic Bowl which also has an extensive games area including Air Hockey, Pool and Video Game attractions. Jumpin Jacks and Cosmic Bowl is the midlands largest activity centre for kids parties, school tours, corporate and group night outs and also a great place to hold fundraising events for sporting, community and charitable organisations. Jumpin Jacks is situated at Sragh Business Park, Tullamore and is well worth a visit. Tullamore Adventure Centre, Sragh Business Park, Telephone: 057-9322453 / 9360973

Kids Stuff Kids Stuff

Athlone Equestrian Centre was established in October 2006 by Claire Gaffey to provide the best equestrian facilities available in the midlands. Ideally situated in a quiet country setting yet only three miles from Athlone town, Athlone Equestrian Centre prides itself in providing a safe and funlearning experience to both adults and kids. Athlone Equestrian Centre, Moydrum, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 086-2433609 E-mail: info@athloneequestrian.ie

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63

Golf in the Midlands

This midland location offers a choice of 9 superb courses, from the Christy O'Connor designed Glasson and Esker Hills courses to highly acclaimed ones at Athlone, Mount Temple, Moate, Roscommon, Castle Barna, Tullamore and Mullingar. Glasson Golf Hotel & Country Club Ranked in the Top 10 New Irish Courses 2004 by Dermot Gilleece (Golf Journalist) This majestic golf setting is snuggled down in the heart of Ireland. A Christy O'Connor Jnr. masterpiece that has all golfers talking. Every hole is breathtaking and measuring over 7000 yds from the championship tees it is a true test for all golfing standards. Glasson Golf and Country Club must be seen to be believed. Set on a peninsula bordering Lough Ree, it is set to become the subject of many an oil painting. It has 29 luxury Bedrooms, Central Location, Full Catering Facilities, Purpose Built Conference Centre, Private Jetty on Lough Ree. Tel: 090- 6485120

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Esker Hills Golf Club is a Christy O'Connor Jnr. designed masterpiece, built on unique terrain where no two holes are remotely alike. Spend some time here exploring the ultimate golfing test - it's well worth the effort! "Esker Hills is one of Ireland's finest golf courses. Irish amateur Shane Lowry capped off his remarkable debut on the European Tour by winning the Irish Open title at Baltray on Sunday, 17th May 2009. The twenty two -year old, amateur made history and is a member of Esker Hills Golf Club. If you are a golfer never ever pass this place" David Walsh, The Sunday Times Tel: 057- 9355999

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New Forest Golf With New Forest, Peter McEvoy has crafted a true parkland masterpiece. New Forest is set to take its place amongst the great Irish parkland courses.We invite you to experience a golf course that is both a joy to the eye and a pleasure to experience. At New Forest, Architect, Peter McEvoy, has crafted a truly spectacular course that he describes as the best course I have yet designed.The undulating, natural forested surroundings bring an outstanding quality to the course, with some of the finest putting surfaces, tees and fairways in the region. Mount Temple Golf & Country Club is an Irish traditional Championship Golf Course, sculpted from a dry esker site and is renowned for its large links type greens and undulating fairways. It lies in the heart of the Irish midlands just a short distance from Athlone town. Being situated on an esker gives the course the advantage of being playable practically all year round. This course is a mixture of parkland and links type landscape which will offer all levels of golfers a demanding but fair challenge. New Golf Academy including Driving Range now open! Tel: 090/6481841

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Seans Bar
Main Street, Athlone Tel. 6492358 Irelands Oldest Pub

Craic agus Ceol

B e e r Ga r d e n a t re a r According to the Guinness Book of Records 2004, S e a n ' s B a r i s n o t o n l y t h e o l d e s t p u b i n I re l a n d , b u t a l s o t h e B r it i s h Is l e s . if its a traditional Irish pu b y ou r af te r then this is a must see.
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Banagher/Shannonbridge/Ballinasloe
The riverside town of Banagher, which means, "Ford of the Rocks" is located in the Shannon crossing and was originally a small port in the 18th century. It was once home to such literary greats as Anthony Trollope and Charlotte Bronte & also William Wilde the father of Oscar Wilde. Banagher is an ideal base for touring Ireland. Its main attractiveness is it's complete nature made up of beautiful rivers. A fisherman's paradise with the River Shannon, Brosna, Lough Derg, Lough Allen and the Grand Canal. Offaly's unpolluted waters is home to all types of fish-salmon, perch, pike, brown trout, bream, eels, roach and rudd. Banagher is home to the Course Angling Centre, which holds annual competitions for clubs in April and May as well as September and October each year. A visit to Ray Duthic at the Old Forge Fishing Tackle shop is a must for all your fishing needs. He supplies live and ground bait and can provide boats at very reasonable rates The picturesque little village of Shannonbridge offers the potential for the angling holiday of a lifetime. For many years now, anglers from all over the world have been returning to once again plunder the incredible array of waters that ebb and flow a mere stone's throw from our front door. The river Shannon is Ireland's major waterway, and as a fishery, boasts bountiful stocks of bream, rudd, rudd/bream hybrids, tench, perch, pike and also stocks of trout, eel and salmon. In addition, excellent fishing can be enjoyed in the rivers Suck and Brosna and in the Grand Canal. All of which can be found within a ten mile radius of Shannonbridge. For evening entertainment Shannonbridge offers a selection of pubs and restaurants. The impressive Old Fort is a fascinating place in which to enjoy a good meal. It has an open fire and comfortable seating in the large brick-floored reception/ bar area. Upstairs you will find a pair of pleasantly furnished candle-lit dining rooms and good food to enjoy the evening.The Old Fort is included in the May edition of Gerrgina Cambells Food and Wine 2004 as Six of the Waterways Best.
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Custume Place, Athlone Tel: 090 6478850 E: thymerestaurant@live.ie www.thymerestaurant.ie Lunch Daily: 12pm - 3pm A La Carte Daily: 5pm - 10pm Value Menu Daily: 5 - 10pm (Fri & Sat: 5 - 7pm)
Cosy atmospheric restaurant in the heart of Athlone serving Modern Irish Cuisine

A Slice of Life
Fine Food Restaurant
Open 9 to 6 Monday to Saturday

Quality Professional Caterers

Home cooked food to enjoy - Eat in or Take out. Hearty breakfasts, carvery lunches and delicious cakes !! Specialising in Home baking, novelty, special occasion and wedding cakes.

Connaught Street Athlone

Tel: 090-64 93970 Mobile: 086- 2461986
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Down the road lies Lukers Pub, an old store and hotel that began business not long after the bridge over the Shannon was built in the 1700s. After the Napoleonic scare, the town sort of drifted off into peaceful slumber from which Down Memory Lane it now appears to be rising. The pub still has the grocery and pharmacy shelving and bare light bulbs. In an adjoining room, a musician with an electric guitar is belting out pop and country and western tunes, an unusual counterpoint to the picturesque town and its history. Fishing at Lough Cloghan. There are excellent facilities on the lake including a number of fishing stands constructed by the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board. Other facilities include a car park, access paths to the stands and an information board located at the venue. Frequent stocking is carried out by Cloghan Angling Club, which is assisted by the Shannon Board. SPECIES: Stocked with Brown & Rainbow Trout Ballinasloe, Co. Galway has a population of approximately 6,000. The town is famous for the great October Fair, attended by nearly 80,000 over a four day event. This fair has been conducted under Letters of Patent since the early 18th century and is steeped in tradition and history. The River Suck in Ballinasloe is deep and slow - it is probably Ireland's most productive coarse fishing river. There are great shoals of bream to 8Ibs everywhere and throughout the summer bags in excess of 100Ibs are common. For evening entertainment Ballinasloe offers a good selection of pubs and restaurants. The new 4 star Carlton Shearwater Hotel is situated beside the Marina in Ballinasloe, Co Galway. This beautifully designed hotel incorporates 104 deluxe bedrooms, a choice of Bistro or Fine dining in Marengo's Restaurant, the Canal Bar is a contemporary style bar with a traditional pub.
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Left Bank Antiques

Hodson Bay Radisson Hotel Seans Bar Wineport Glasson Golf Club Manfreds Athlone Golf Club The Strand

Pick-Up-Points

1 Hr Trip Lough Ree

Takes in the Sites and Inner Lakes

(Beside Seans Bar)

15 Main Street, Athlone Tel: 090- 6493377 Mobile: 086 8325616

Antiques Bought and Sold Brian & Mary Kelly

Trips to Clonmacnois
available for booking

Contact Terry - 087 2301 981 baracudaboattrips@gmail.com

AWARD WINNING

Derryglad Folk Museum

Member of the Irish Museums Association.
Curraghboy, Athlone As seen on Nationwide Tel: 090 6488192 info@derrygladfolkmuseum.com www.derrygladfolkmuseum.com
The Museum deals with farm and folk life in Ireland. Including horse drawn machinery, household utensils, old style 1930s thatched bar and grocery, laundry and dairy memorabilia, radios, gramaphones and a wide range of indoor and rural artifacts. New Photography section which includes Black and White and Colour production lines from the 1940s. Opening hours: May-Sept, inclusive Monday - Saturday: 10.00-18.00. Wheelchair accessible throughout.

Opening Hrs: 10am - 6pm Mon - Fri Tel: 090 6661923 Fax: 090 6661872 Email: ethelkelly@eircom.net See the countries old tradition brought to life as you watch the pipes being made in the workshop using tools from the 1890s. Admission Free 71

Roscommon
Roscommon offers much to the holiday traveller and the more active-minded. The county is three-quarters bounded by water and has the longest stretch of the River Shannon of all the ten counties through which it passes. Angling is excellent in most areas while golf enthusiasts can enjoy the sport on many splendid courses. Walkers and cyclists have thousands of miles of undisturbed roads. There are many suggested routes available. Finally, there will be no shortage of festivals and events to add to the colour and excitement of any holiday It is a town rich in historical associations and contains many impressive buildings and a pleasant day could easily be spent just looking around the town. In the spacious main street is the beautiful renovated Bank of Ireland which was once the courthouse and afterwards served as the Catholic church until 1903. There is an excellent 18-hole Golf Course adjacent to Roscommon town with a fine new club house, where visitors are welcome. Roscommon Race Course hosts many important meetings during Summer and Autumn. Places to visit in the town include: County Museum and Tourist Office; Roscommon Jail; Roscommon Castle; Sacred Heart Church; Roscommon Abbey; Library - Old Infirmary Building. Strokestown Park House King House Roscommon Arts Centre, Circular Road, Roscommon.Visit this multidisciplinary arts centre and experience the best of local, national and international artists and performers in Theatre, Film, Dance, Music and Visual Arts.

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The Yew Tree

Restaurant
Outside Catering Services Available @ www.getstuffed.ie
Prop: Ger Aherne Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon Tel.: (090) 66 61255 Opening Hours: Wednesday - Sunday Lunch .................................12.00 - 5.00 Dinner..................................5.30 - 9.00 Early Bird ............................5.30 - 7.00 Summer Open 7 Days - June, July & August
Sunday Lunch - Booking Advisable

PAYNES LANE ATHLONE Tel: 090 6479850 087 8759530 Opening Hours Monday- Saturday 8.30am- 6.00pm
Hot Food Specials Every Day til 5.30pm All Day Breakfast - including Omelettes Healthy Option Combo (Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice/Muesli) All Homemade Desserts, Breads, Cakes & Scones Gluten Free - Speciality Wine & Beers Served
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Roscommon Races
Roscommon races takes place on the Lenabane Course, just outside Roscommon Town on the Castlebar Road. It is now well established as one of the most popular racecourses in Ireland. It attracts top class flat and national hunt horses and jockeys each year. The first meeting took place in 1837. Roscommon racecourse is now recognised as a true test of a hoses's ability. The course is proud of having a Cheltenham Gold Cup Winner Imperial Call and Ascot Gold Winner - Enzeli ran at Roscommon in the last few years. Also last year top rated 2 year old filly called Again, winner of The Moyglare Stakes (Group 1) had her first race in July, 2008 in Roscommon. The atmosphere at Roscommon Races and indeed in Roscommon town after a meeting makes the whole experience very special and one that visitors should not miss if at all possible. Good parking is provided. The old stand was demolished in 1981 and was replaced by a new stand which was extended in 1997 to include a second bar called after Montelado, the locally owned horse who was a dual winner at the Cheltenham Festival in the 1990's

ROSCOMMON RACE FIXTURES 2010

Monday .........................17th May (E) Sunday ................................13th June Monday ........................14th June (E) Monday ............................5th July (E) Tuesday ............................6th July (E) All Enquiries: 087 2203288 Email: roscommonracecourse@eircom.net Discount on all group bookings. Catering supplied by Lydon House Catering.
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Tuesday......................3rd August (E) Monday ...................16th August (E) Monday..............6th September (E) Monday..................27th September

Great food, great atmosphere and friendly service makes this one of the top dining establishments in Athlone

Open Monday to Saturday 5 - 10pm Sunday 4.30 - 9pm Early Bird Monday - Friday 5 - 7 pm

Early Bird Menu - 5.30pm - 7.30pm...................... 16.95 Value Meal Deal for 2 with Complimentary Bottle of Wine........ 40 Dinner 7 Days - 5.30pm - 11.00pm Free Basmati Rice or Naan or Chips with Main Course for Take Away orders only Free Delivery Service Available Lloyds Lane, Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090 6470011/70022 Fax: 090 6470033
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RTE All ireland Drama Festival

Start Date: Fri 30.Apr.2010 End Date: Sat 08.May.2010 Held under the auspices of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland, the RT All Ireland Drama Festival is the biggest event of its kind in Ireland. The Athlone festival comes at the end of a gruelling circuit in which over thirty drama groups from all over Ireland compete at 35 local festivals held nationwide from late February to early April. Dean Crowe Theatre & Arts Centre, Athlone, County Westmeath, Telephone: +353 (0)90 6474596 09064 74596 E-mail: harryksmith@gmail.com Web: www.dramafestival.ie HSE Community Games National Finals, Athlone HSE Community Games National Finals Weekend 1 Date: 28th - 30th May 2010 Venue: Athlone Institute of Technology, Athlone, Co Westmeath HSE Community Games National Finals Weekend 2 Date: 13th - 15th August 2010 Venue: Athlone Institute of Technology, Athlone, Co Westmeath HSE Community Games National Finals Weekend 3 Date: 20th - 23rd August 2010 Contact: Gillian Brosnan HSE Community Games13 Joyce WaySport HQPark WestDublin 12 Tel: 01 625 1188 Email: gillian@communitygames.ie Web: www.communitygames.ie Goldsmith Summer School - June 4- 6th. Athlone, County Westmeath, Republic of Ireland Telephone: +353 (0)90 6485162 E-mail: goldsmithfestival@eircom.net Web: www.goldsmithfestival.ie Description: This festival has grown significantly over the years and has attracted participants and visitors from around the world It is promoted on the basis of culture and craic.It is held annually on
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LAKESIDE MARINA AND BOAT TRANSPORT

The Lakeside marina has been developed to include 150 moorings, full modern workshop facilities, full winter hardstand, winter inside storage. All repair work carried out on site. We transport boats to and from IRELAND - UK - ALL POINTS OF EUROPE and we can cater for all types of craft...cruisers, yachts and barges.

www.lakesidemarina.ie

090 6485479 087 823597

ottage C oosan
Eco Guesthouse

IRELANDS FIRST ECO GUESTHOUSE

www.ecoguesthouse.com info@ecoguesthouse.com Tel: 090 6473468 LICENCED PREMISES
Featured in Lonely Planet & Michelin Guides Filte Ireland Approved

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the Whit-Bank-holiday week-end. It consists of lectures, talks, debates, music, poetry readings and a literary tour of goldsmith country. Athlone is hosting the 2010 European triathlon championships as part of triAthlone . The European triathlon championships will take place on the weekend of the 3rd and 4th of July 2010. The course of the weekend will see over 5000 athletes from around Ireland and Europe will compete in over 12 different triathlon events. The races are as follows: With 25 people allowed per age group per sex for the host country, Ireland could have an Irish team of over 600 athletes across all events. The European People's Festival The European People's Festival July 24 to July 31 This unique festival for Ireland was last held in Athlone in 1996. Hosted by Athlone Town Council over seven days, under the name Euro Festival 2010, it promises to bring a unique flavour of the diverse and distinctive culture and language of our European colleagues to the town. Almost 900 participants from 15 European countries including Finland, Portugal and Greece will be Athlone's guests for the week as they compete in sport, art, photography and street theatre events. Cultural performances, each evening and at lunchtime, cookery demonstrations and the Euro-village where countries will serve up their traditional food and drink and you can learn more about their homelands. The Shannon Rally The Shannon Rally July 23 to August 1 2010 is the 50th anniversary of the Shannon Rally. This year the event starts in Carrick on Shannon and concludes in Athlone.The rally is designed as a fun, family event, with a competitive element, and showcases the wider Shannon region to legions of boating enthusiasts.
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Where to Stay
Hotels: Many hotels to choose from, all with excellent conference facilities and the capacity to accommodate large numbers.
u u u u u u u u

Sh e r a t o n Ho t e l Hodson Bay Hotel The Prince of Wales Hotel R adisson SAS Sh a m r o c k L o dg e Creggan Cour t Hotel Ca r l t o n S h e a r w a t e r H o t e l Glasson Golf and C o u n t r y Club Co o s a n C o t t a g e E c o Guesthouse

Let your mouse do the searching Log on to:

www.athlone.ie

(See also the following pages for all kinds of accommodation).

3* Self-catering apartments available to rent. These fully furnished tastefully decorated apartments come with modern appliances and are located close to all amenities. www.propertymatters.ie Sean Costello Street, Irishtown, Athlone Tel: 090 6491531 E: info@propertymatters.ie
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The Athlone Music Festival The Athlone Music Festival July 31 to August 1 This is the first time for the Athlone Music Festival and was only announced last week. Derry band The Undertones and English singer-songwriter Hazel O'Connor have been confirmed for the festival, and organisers are currently in advanced negotiations with other well-known performers. Some 25 to 30 acts are to perform at the two-day event and a total of 5,000 two-day tickets are expected to go on sale for the festival, which will be staged inside a large tent at Dubarry Park. The festival will be held on Saturday 31st July and Sunday 1st August 2010 at the Athlone Town Football Club. There will be 2 Big Music Marquee's featuring over 25 Music, Comedy and Cabaret acts. The Line up includes SHARON SHANNON AND THE BIG BAND, SHANE MACGOWAN, MUNDY, THE UNDERTONES, HAZEL O CONNOR AND THE SUBTERRANEANS Featuring Clare Hirst,BIG GENERATOR, Mad Dog Mcrea, Hogan, Two Spot Gobi, The Fabulous Bonker Boys Renegades of Funk, Michelle Slattery, The Woodbines, Hickory Wind Liam Byrne (Christy Moore Tribute), The Aftermath, Saccade Ever27, Creamy Goodness, Deep Speed, The Wireless, Plus Many More To be Announced Athlone Literary Festival 24 September 2010 - 26 September 2010 The Athlone Literary Festival has its origins in the John Broderick Weekend held in May 1999. The festival is aimed at readers and writers and all those who enjoy good conversation and good literature. An annual event in a town with many literary associations. Speakers include academics, wits, writers, poets, novelists, biographers, publishers and literary agents from time to time. Telephone:+353 (0)90 647 3173 Email: literaryathlone@gmail.com
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WHERE TO STAY IN ATHLONE - B & B

Arch House B & B and Apartments
Sean Costello St, Athlone Town Centre Tel: 090 64 77222 E-mail: archhousebnb.ie Web: www.archhouse.ie Excellent town centre location with private parking. All rooms ensuite with tea + Coffee. Colour TV and Hairdryer. Also well appointed modern apartments, ideal for families + groups. Nightly and Weekly lettings.

Cornamagh House B & B (5th March - 5th October)

BED AND BREAKFAST

Cornamagh, Athlone. Enjoy the tranquillity of the family country home. Located just out side Athlone. Grade Approved. En-suite rooms, Car Parking, Guide Dogs Welcome. Open from 15th March to 15th October - Internet Access Price reduction for children. Tel: 090 6474171. Web: cornamaghhouse.com E-mail: fagg@indigo.ie

Athlone

Higgins Bar & Guest Accommodation

Pearse St, Athlone Tel: 090 6492519 All Rooms En-Suite Bar Food Served Daily

St. Johns House

Lakeside B &B Lough Ree Lecarrow, Co roscommon Tel: (00) 353 906661748 E-mail: stjohnshouse@eircom.net web: www stjphnshouse.biz

Coosan Cottage
Eco Guesthouse Ireland's first Eco Guesthouse Coosan Point Road, Athlone Licensed Bar, Rooms Ensuite www.ecoguesthouse.com E.mail: info@ecoguesthouse.com Tele + 353096473468 Mob + 353 868339116 Rated no 1 by Tripadvisor. 81

WHERE TO STAY IN ATHLONE - B & B

Oak View Lodge B & B
Barrymore, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon Family run B & B, Quite Location.Private Parking, Rooms Ensuite 5mins drive to Hudson Bay Hotel. 5mins from the N6(Dublin/Galway) Tele: 090 64 44350 Mob: 086 373 1808 E Mail: p.walsh46@gmail.com.

Shannonside House B & B

BED AND BREAKFAST

Westlodge, Athlone( Beside Shamrock Lodge Hotel) Internet Access - Visa Accepted Tel: 090-6494773 E-mail: info@shannonsidehouse.ie www. shannonsidehouse.ie

Athlone / Ballinasloe

HEATHER VIEW Bed and Breakfast

Ireland country code +353 Tel: 090 6472710 Mob: 087 6672309 Location: Auburn Dublin Road Athlone County Westmeath Eamil: heather.view@unison.ie

St. Mark's Lakeshore accommodation

Glasson ,Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090- 6485125. In this quaint village, you will find a truly tranquil and scenic setting on the shores of Lough Ree, a fisherman's paradise. Ensuite Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in their lovely-restored farmhouse. www.stmarksaccommodation.com Email: stmarksaccom@eircom.net 82

WHERE TO STAY SELF CATERING

IN ATHLONE / WEST OFFALY AREA

BALLYCUMBER HOUSE
Charming period mansion set in its own mature gardens and woodlands with private access to the tranquil River Brosna. Built as a castle in 1627 and later converted to a dwelling. Three large reception rooms and an elegant hallway.

Athlone / West Offaly / Roscommon Area

Close to all amenities. Fully fitted games room and gym for use of guests. Library, patio and barbeque. Jacuzzi and sauna. Childrens Play room. Tennis Court. Ballycumber,North Offaly, Republic Of Ireland Tele: +353 (0)90 6430106 Tel: +353 00800 66866866 Fax: +353 (0)90 6430057 www.holiday-rentals.com

St. Mark's Lakeshore Accommodation

Glasson ,Athlone, Co. Westmeath Tel: 090- 6485125.
In this quaint village, you will find a truly tranquil and scenic setting on the shores of Lough Ree, a fisherman's paradise. Ensuite Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in their lovely-restored farmhouse.

SELF CATERING

www.stmarksaccommodation.com Email: stmarksaccom@eircom.net

Shannon-Holiday .com
Carnakilla cottages, unique timber built cottages, are situated on the shores of Lough Ree/River shannon adjoining the vast and wonderful Portlick woodland walks area. Tel: 353 9064 85389 Fax: 00 353 9064 85953 or post to Owen Egan, shannon Holidays, portlick, Glasson, Athlone, Co Westmeath

Arch House Apartments

Athlone Town Centre Nightly & Weekly Lettings Ideal for families & groups Tel: 090 6477222 E.mail: archhousebnb@gmail.com

Lough Ree Haven

Barrymore, Kiltoom, Athlone, Roscommon. Tel: 086 8300367 - Email: ianscouler@eircom.net Uniquely situated directly on the shores of Lough Ree offering fabulous panoramic views of the lake and the River Shannon, close to Athlone Golf Club 4* Board Failte approved and sleeps 7

Cloonliss Lodge
This charming stone faced luxury holiday home in Mount Talbot, Co. Roscommon is blissfully located beside Irelands inland waterways and the SuckValley Nature trails. Ideal base for touring the West of Ireland, only minutes away from Athlone and Roscommon and less than 1 hour from Galway City. This country house welcomes you from the minute you arrive and engulfs you with it's furniture and style.Worth visiting!

Contact margaret@cloonlisslodge.com Web: www.cloonlisslodge.com Tel: +353 (0)90 6622387 Mobile: 087/9435774 83

No.1 Millmount Terrace Mullingar, Co Westmeath T:044 9347800 E: info@laserandskin.ie

No.6 The Left Bank Mall Pearse St, Athlone, Co Westmeath T:090 6498839 E:athlone@laserandskin.ie

HAIR & BEAUTY

Ladies & stom Cuts Gents Salon Cu Opening hours: Tuesday & Friday - 9am to 6pm, Saturday - 8.30am to 5pm
Late Opening: Wednesday & Thursday - 9am to 9pm Specialists in all aspects of Hairdressing
4 Custom Place, Athlone Tel: 090 - 6478478

Medusa Hair Studio Tel: 090 647 9833 9 Church Street Athlone
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SELF CATERING.......

WHERE TO STAY - SELF CATERING & CARAVAN PARKS Feeneys Cottage

Four Star Self-Catering High Class Accommodation at affordable Price. Milltown, Dysart,Ballinasloe, Co Roscommon Tel: 090 66 22875 Mob: 087 6420558 www.stressfreecottage.com Email: ccarty@stressfreecottage.com For a Fun Filled Family Day Out! No matter what the Weather!

Turoe Pet Farm & Leisure Park

Bullaun, Loughrea, Co. Galway Tel: 091 841580 www.turoepetfarm.com Have lots of fun from Feeding the Animals & Playgrounds Outdoors to the Inflatable City & Jungle Town (indoors) Summer Op ening: 7days - Mid May to 31/8/2010.........10am to 7pm Winter Op ening: Weekend....1pm to 6pm (extra opening for Easter, Halloween & Christmas) Admission R ate: Adults............. 6.00 Children............ 12.00 Hot Food & Refreshments Available (Picnics Welcome) No Time Restrictions - Last Admission 5pm

Athlone & District Tourist Guide 2010/2011

Published by Lough Ree Publishing Company Ltd Tel: 090 6472022 Email: loughreepublishing@eircom.net Printed by Temple Printing, Arcadia, Athlone Email: temple_printing@printnet.ie

Sorcha Furling (Orla RTE Fair city) at a recent launch with Carmel Duffy left, Athlone Ecom and Shirley Delahunt, Athlone Town Shopping Centre. 85

086 8358858

TAXIS

Athlone Cabs Ltd 090 6474400 / 086 2537882 A ONE CABS 090 6473000 Cornamagh, Athlone Athlone City Cabs 090 6474888 / 6474884 / 086 1947947 AD Cabs 090 6420902 Tommy Grenham 6492393 / 086 2608571

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SOME IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Emergency Numbers
In an Emergency Dial 999 or 112 and ask for the emergency services you require (e.g. Fire, Police, Ambulance, Lifeboats.)
Garda Station: Pearse Street, Athlone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6492609 Hospitals Athlone District Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6475301 Portiuncula Hospital Ballinasloe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9648200 Roscommon County Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6626200 Mullingar General Hospital, Mulllingar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 044- 40221 Tullamore General Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0506- 21501 Pharmacy McSharrys -Colemans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6472568 Samaritans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6473133 or freephone 1800 60 90 90 Civic Centre Athlone Town Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6442100 Westmeath County Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6478127 Athlone Town Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6442157 Citizens Information Citizens Information Centre, St Marys Sq. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6478851 Transport: Bus Eireann. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6472107 Irish Rail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6472107 Tourist Office: Athlone Tourist Office, Castle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6494630 Passport Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01-6711633

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Eating Out -

Quick Reference Hotels Hotels Restaurants/Cafes/Pubs Restaurants/Cafes/Pubs

Creggan Court Hotel .............................................................6477777 Glasson Hotel and Country Club......................................6485120 Hodson Bay Hotel ...................................................................6442000 Prince of Wales Hotel.............................................................6476666 Radisson Hotel .........................................................................6442600 Shamrock Lodge Hotel .........................................................6492601 Sheraton Hotel.........................................................................6451000 Carlton Shearwater .............................................................. 9630400 A Slice of Life ............................................................................6493970 La Strada.....................................................................................6450433 Four Star Pizza..........................................................................6474909 Glasson Village Restaurant ..................................................6485001 Grogans ......................................................................................6485158 Hatters Lane..............................................................................6473077 Killinure Chalets ......................................................................6485155 Kin Khao Restaurant ..............................................................6498805 Higgins Bar & Bistro ...............................................................6492519 Pizza Mama ...............................................................................6444009 The Bonne Bouche .................................................................6472112 The Olive Grove .......................................................................6476946 Palace Bar...................................................................................6492229 Thyme Restaurant ..................................................................6478850 Top Deck Bistro........................................................................6473263 Yew Tree .....................................................................................6661255 Di Bella ........................................................................................6444830 Saagar ...........................................................................6470011/70022 Al Mezza .......................................................6498765 / 087 2336656 Motte and Bailey .....................................................................6448731 Poppy Fields..............................................................................6479850 Bounty.........................................................................................6477566 Foodies...............................................................................086 1717187 KFC ...............................................................................................6470808 Flynns Banagher.............................................................057 9151312 Mother Indian...........................................................................6498658 Kens Oriental Restaurant .....................................................6491119
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SHEARWATER HOTEL & SPA

Carlton Shearwater Hotel, C Spa & Conference Centre, is an exquisite hotel and spa resort finished to an exceptionally high 4 star standard. Situated beside the Marina with direct access to local shops and amenities, this is the perfect retreat for events and conferences. Dedicated to exceeding your expectations, the Carlton Shearwater Hotel prides itself on offering an unwavering commitment to customer service and attention to detail.

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For details on our exciting new packages to suit all tastes. Call us on 090 9630400 Email: info.shearwater@carlton.ie www.carlton.ie/shearwater

Clonown Road, Athlone, Co. Westmeath. Tel: 090 6492601 Fax: 090 6492737 Email: info@shamrocklodgehotel.ie www.shamrocklodgehotel.ie