Athlone Castle is situated on the principal fording point on the River Shannon. In 1129 King Turlough O’ Connor recognised its strategic position and built a castle there.

In 1210 King John of England ordered the building of a stone castle and bridge. The castle was built by Sir John de Gray , Bishop of Norwich. Among the artefacts on display in the castle is John McCormacks own gramophone and other items of personal memorabilia.

There is an audiovisual presentation on the archaeology of the Shannon basin as well as its flora and fauna. 

Tel 090-272107