Westmeath Lakelands
Westmeath
About This Route
Westmeath is Ireland's lake county - a landscape of drumlins and water where fishing is king and the pace of life slows to match the gentle countryside. This route connects the major lakes and the towns that serve them.
Why This Route?
Westmeath's lakes offer peaceful exploration:
- Lough Ennell - Pike fishing and lakeside walks
- Lough Owel - Clear waters for trout
- Mullingar - Cathedral town with character
- Belvedere House - Gardens with a dark history
- Tullynally Castle - Ireland's largest castellated house
The Route
Starting from Mullingar
The Westmeath capital:
- Cathedral of Christ the King (1936, striking interior)
- Market town character
- Good facilities
Belvedere House & Gardens
The route's highlight - a complex attraction:
The House
A hunting lodge with dark history. The 1st Earl of Belvedere imprisoned his wife here for 31 years, accusing her of adultery.
The Jealous Wall
Ireland's largest folly - built to block the view of his brother's house.
The Gardens
- Victorian walled garden
- Lakeside walks
- Arboretum
- Children's play areas
Lough Ennell Access
The house overlooks the lake.
Kilbeggan
Famous for whiskey:
- Kilbeggan Distillery (Ireland's oldest licensed distillery)
- Tours and tasting
- Traditional town
Moate
Market town with traditional character.
Athlone Approach (Lough Ree)
The great lake on Westmeath's western border - see Athlone route.
Lough Owel
A clear limestone lake famous for:
- Brown trout fishing
- Swimming (Lilliput access point)
- Walking trails
Tullynally Castle
Ireland's largest castellated house - home to the Pakenham family:
- Gardens open seasonally
- House by arrangement
- Extensive grounds
Fore Abbey
Just over the border in Westmeath's north:
- "Seven Wonders" medieval monastery
- Atmospheric ruins
- Anchorite's cell
Castlepollard
A pretty estate village near Lough Lene.
Fishing
Westmeath is angler's paradise:
Lough Ennell
- Pike specialist venue
- Perch and bream
- Boat fishing recommended
Lough Owel
- Brown trout (fly fishing)
- Very clear water
- Strict regulations
Lough Derravaragh
- Coarse fishing
- Legend of the Children of Lir
Walking
Belvedere Lakeside Walk
- Distance: 3km loop
- Time: 1 hour
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Lake views, gardens
Royal Canal Greenway
Long-distance trail passing through the county.
Tullynally Grounds
Woodland walks through the demesne.
The Children of Lir
Lough Derravaragh features in Ireland's most tragic legend. The children of King Lir were transformed into swans and spent 300 years on this lake - the first of three periods of their 900-year enchantment.
Practical Tips
- Belvedere - Allow 2+ hours; extensive grounds
- Kilbeggan Distillery - Book tours in advance
- Fishing permits - Required for some waters
- Fore Abbey - No facilities; atmospheric
- Tullynally - Check opening times (limited)
Recommended fuel stops along this route:
Fuel stations are available in major towns along the route.
