During your visit you will discover tales of bitter battles fought, territories won and lost and hear stories of bravery. Prepare to walk in the steps of monks, kings, soldiers and generals.
St Ciarán founded his monastery on the banks of the River Shannon in the 6th Century. The monastery flourished and became a great seat of learning.
No trip to the midlands is complete without a visit to the Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum, which is hidden in south Roscommon in a land of lakes and rivers.
Dún na Sí (pronounced Doon na Shee) translates from Irish as “the fort of the fairies”. It is named after the local folklore that some lone hawthorn bushes (often known as fairy bushes) once marked the presence of a ‘fairy fort’ which previously existed in our Park. Our Heritage Park commemorates the traditions and activities of rural Ireland throughout time, and our Amenity Park provides a beautiful space which celebrates biodiversity and provides a special environment for activity and appreciation of nature.
In the heart of Ireland lies the award-winning Ballinahown Eco-Craft village. This quaint country village on the outskirts of Athlone Town is a creative hub for Irish designers and makers.
The centre of Ireland in so many ways, the Hill of Uisneach is one of the most sacred and historic sanctuaries in the world. Come join us at the heart of the ancient Kingdom of Mide. Walk in the footsteps of High Kings, Gods & Goddesses across the ancient landscape that is the Hill of Uisneach.
Follow the story of one of Ireland’s greatest tragedies at the National Famine Museum in Stokestown. Learn about one of the most poignant moments in Irish history, discover the archive of letters, documents and rare photographs from the 1840’s.
Located in Drum, a short drive from Athlone town, Drum Heritage Centre, invites visitors to learn about the history of the area including a nearby monastic settlement and St Brigid’s Holy Well. The centre is home to one of the largest collections of historic documents and midlands memorabilia.
A showcase for the most interesting artists from the midlands, Ireland and abroad, the building itself is a modern work of art in its own right. There’s always an eclectic and balanced mix of media.
The Rathcroghan experience comprises of a visit to our award-winning interpretive rooms, where visitors explore the rich archaeological and historical past of Connacht’s prehistoric royal capital, Cruachan Aí.
The tour encompasses oral history, folklore, memories, famous residents, landmarks and placenames throughout the history of Athlone.
The group tour, led by an enthusiastic local guide, is guaranteed to be the right mix of educational, fun and memorable!
Strokestown Park, in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, County Roscommon, is a unique property that includes the National Famine Museum, a beautiful Palladian house and stunning gardens.
Serene 19th century parkland including 26 acres of walled gardens, ornamental lakes, children’s trail, woodland walks and plant collections from Asia.
A journey of discovery through the centuries-old tradition of whiskey production in Athlone that encapsulates over 270 years of whiskey heritage and enjoy a few local tipples along the way! You will learn all about the forgotten stories of a once bustling industry in the heart of Ireland and discover some hidden places that locals don’t even know about!
Coal was mined in the Arigna Valley from the 1700s through to 1990, when the mines were closed. With massive community and Government support, the Derreenavoggy Mine reopened as a visitor attraction in 2003. Since then, close to 400,000 people have enjoyed the Arigna Mining Experience, making this community-inspired initiative one of the most popular local attractions in Roscommon.