🚣 County Westmeath: Lakeside Leisure, Legends, and Lovely Guesthouses
Welcome to County Westmeath, where tranquil lakes meet ancient legends, and every winding road leads to a warm welcome. Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Westmeath is a county of calm waters, charming towns, and some of the most peaceful bed and breakfasts in Ireland.
Whether you’re boating on Lough Ree, exploring monastic ruins, or enjoying a fireside chat in a lakeside guesthouse, Westmeath is a place to slow down and soak it all in.
🏞️ Must-See Marvels and Hidden Gems
Lough Ree and Athlone: Ireland’s Inland Riviera
Lough Ree is a boater’s paradise, dotted with islands and steeped in myth. Base yourself in Athlone, a lively town straddling the River Shannon, with a castle, great pubs, and river cruises.
Belvedere House and Gardens: Folly and Fancy
This 18th-century estate near Mullingar features a grand house, Victorian gardens, and the Jealous Wall—the largest folly in Ireland.
Fore Abbey: Seven Wonders and Sacred Stones
Explore the ruins of a 7th-century monastery nestled in a quiet valley. Legend says it had seven wonders, including water that won’t boil and a tree that won’t burn.
🧙♂️ Curious Facts and Local Lore
- Athlone is home to Sean’s Bar, officially the oldest pub in Ireland (and possibly the world).
- The Hill of Uisneach, near Loughnavalley, is said to be the mythological centre of Ireland.
- Westmeath is known for its lakes—there are over 20, including Lough Ennell and Lough Owel.
🛏️ Bed and Breakfasts & Guest Houses in Westmeath
Westmeath’s guesthouses and B&Bs are full of charm and calm. Whether you’re staying in a lakeside lodge or a heritage townhouse, you’ll find comfort, character, and a proper Irish breakfast.
🏡 Glasson LakeHouse – Glasson
A luxurious lakeside retreat with spa, golf, and stunning views over Lough Ree.
🏡 Newbury Hotel – Mullingar
A centrally located guesthouse-style hotel with cosy rooms and friendly service.
🏡 Arch House B&B – Athlone
A welcoming B&B near the town centre, perfect for exploring the Shannon and Sean’s Bar.
🏡 Lough Owel Lodge – Mullingar
A peaceful countryside B&B with lake views, homemade treats, and warm hospitality.
🍽️ Where to Eat Like a Local
Westmeath’s food is fresh, local, and full of flavour. Here are a few favourites:
- Thyme Restaurant – Athlone: Award-winning fine dining with a focus on seasonal Irish produce.
- The Fatted Calf – Glasson: A gastropub with creative dishes and a relaxed vibe.
- Red Earth – Mullingar: A stylish café and deli with global flavours and great coffee.
And don’t miss a Westmeath beef sandwich—tender, juicy, and locally sourced.
🍻 Cheapest Pint of Guinness in Westmeath
For a creamy pint at a great price, head to Sean’s Bar in Athlone—locals say you can still get a pint for €4.80, and you’ll be sipping it in the oldest pub in Ireland.
🧳 Whimsical Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Castles and Cruises
- Morning: Explore Athlone Castle and stroll the Shannon banks.
- Afternoon: Take a boat trip on Lough Ree.
- Evening: Dinner at Thyme and a pint at Sean’s Bar.
Day 2: Gardens and Ghosts
- Morning: Visit Belvedere House and the Jealous Wall.
- Afternoon: Explore Fore Abbey and the Seven Wonders.
- Evening: Return to your guesthouse in Westmeath for a peaceful night in.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
- Sunset over Lough Ree.
- The dramatic Jealous Wall at Belvedere.
- The ruins of Fore Abbey in golden light.
- A pint of Guinness in the ancient snug of Sean’s Bar.
🧭 Getting There and Getting Around
Westmeath is about 90 minutes from Dublin by train or car. Athlone and Mullingar are well-connected, and a car is ideal for exploring lakes and rural gems.
💚 Final Thoughts: Why Westmeath is Ireland’s Lakeside Escape
County Westmeath is a place of peace, poetry, and pint-perfect pubs. Whether you’re cruising the Shannon, exploring ancient abbeys, or waking up in a bed and breakfast in Westmeath, this county offers a gentle, genuine Irish experience.
So bring your walking shoes, your camera, and your sense of calm—Westmeath is waiting.
