County Westmeath

County Westmeath is a lake county at Ireland's heart. Athlone guards the Shannon crossing; beautiful lakeshores and the remarkable Seven Wonders of Fore await.

Why Visit Westmeath?

Lakes, heritage, and Ireland's center:

• Athlone - Shannon crossing with castle and character
• Lough Ennell - Beautiful lakeside walks
• Belvedere House - Georgian house with jealous wall
• Fore Abbey - Seven Wonders of Fore
• Lough Ree - Great Shannon lake

Top Attractions

Athlone Castle

The castle guarding the Shannon crossing now houses an excellent visitor center with siege recreations and local history.

Belvedere House & Gardens

A Georgian villa with romantic follies including the Jealous Wall - a fake ruin built to block the view of a brother's house.

Fore Abbey

A medieval monastic site surrounded by the "Seven Wonders" - natural and religious phenomena.

Lough Ennell

A beautiful lake south of Mullingar with Belvedere on its shore. Walking, fishing, and peaceful scenery.

Lough Ree

The great Shannon lake touches Westmeath's western border. Cruising, fishing, and island heritage.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Gardens bloom at Belvedere
• Summer (June-August): Lake activities, longest days
• Autumn (September-October): Golden lakeland colors
• Winter (November-February): Athlone Castle year-round

Getting Around

Athlone and Mullingar both make good bases. The lakes are the highlights - allow time to enjoy them.

Local Tips

• Athlone's Sean's Bar claims to be the world's oldest pub
• Belvedere needs at least two hours for house and gardens
• Fore's Seven Wonders require an explanatory leaflet
• The lake fish (pike, trout, bream) are renowned