When in Ireland, the rain shouldn’t stop the fun. Here are the ten best things to do in Athlone on a rainy day.
If you haven’t been to Athlone yet, what are you waiting for? This border town, which straddles both County Westmeath and County Roscommon, has a lot to offer both locals and visitors.
A trip to the midlands is not complete without a stop off here – whether it’s raining or not. If one thing is certain in Ireland, we cannot rely on the weather.
So, if you plan to visit Athlone and it happens to be raining out of the heavens, do not worry because we have some pretty great ideas for you to take on board. Without further ado, let us unveil the ten best things to do in Athlone on a rainy day.
Our top tips before visiting Athlone
- Our weather is unpredictable! Hence then need for an article like this. Always pack for changeable weather.
- There are plenty of great sites to enjoy on foot when it’s dry, so bring walking shoes.
- Athlone is on the border between County Roscommon and County Westmeath, so be prepared to explore both these great counties.
- We highly recommend renting a car to get the most out of your visit.
- Book accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment.
10. Go on a shopping spree – ramble through Golden Island
Who doesn’t love the chance to wander in and out of shops, treating themselves along the way?
If you are looking for something fun to do on a rainy day in Athlone, then head to the Golden Island Shopping Centre for some well-deserved me time and find yourself some unique pieces.
Address: Golden Island, Ankers Bower, Athlone, Co. Westmeath
9. Relax by the pool at Radisson Blu – for leisure or pleasure
Yes, you heard that right. The Radisson Blu Hotel in Athlone is home to a heated pool as well as a sauna, steam room, and gym, which makes for a great day of leisure and pleasure.
With fabulous views across the River Shannon and top-notch facilities, this is a wonderful option when looking for rainy day options.
Address: Northgate St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath
8. Luan Gallery – an afternoon of art
Art lovers rejoice because the Luan Gallery is a publicly owned art gallery right in the heart of the town.
It is an ideal way to discover works of art, meet like-minded people, and marvel at some thought-provoking pieces. This is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Athlone on a rainy day.
Address: Elliot Rd, Athlone, Co. Westmeath
7. Derryglad Folk & Heritage Museum – a fantastic family activity close to Athlone
If you fancy learning about the Irish way of life with some experts, then head fifteen minutes out of Athlone and spend a rainy day at Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum.
At the heritage park, you will learn all about rural life with a memorable glimpse into the past.
READ: The IB4UD guide to the best museums in Ireland.
Address: Derryglad, Curraghboy, Co. Roscommon, N37 X6X8
6. Kilbeggan Distillery – a whiskey experience near Athlone
Just 25 minutes from Athlone, you will find Kilbeggan Distillery. This is an interesting place for whiskey lovers to spend the day learning about the local whiskey production, paired with a few tastings of course.
This is a perfect adult activity and one of the best things to do in Athlone on a rainy day.
LEARN MORE: Ireland Before You Die’s list of Ireland’s best breweries and distilleries.
Address: Lower Main St, Aghamore, Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath
5. Pay a visit to Athlone Castle – a historic day out
This impressive castle, which dates back to the 12th Century, makes for a fun and interesting day out, whether it is rainy or not.
Sometimes known locally as Adamson Castle, this family-friendly attraction is an ideal way to learn about the history of Athlone and the part that the castle played in the city’s heritage. See more of Ireland’s best castles here.
Address: Tourist Information Centre, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 EA32
READ: IB4UD’s guide to visiting Athlone Castle
4. Get adventurous at Baysports – embrace the rain at the waterpark
Why not embrace the rain by getting wet and wild at Baysports adventure centre in Athlone?
Ireland’s largest inflatable waterpark in Athlone is most definitely a fun and exhilarating way to spend a rainy day, with plenty of fun activities and waterslides, perfect for all ages and abilities.
Address: Hodson Bay, Barry More, Kiltoom, Co. Roscommon, N37 KH72
3. Have fun at the Escape Rooms – excitement on a rainy day in Athlone
EXIT ATHLONE is a great place to have some fun and is one of the best things to do in Athlone on a rainy day, especially as a family or a group of friends.
You and your team will have the challenge to escape and complete your mission successfully, which will prove to be a lot of fun and an exciting way to spend the day.
Address: 35 Church St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 X961
2. Get pampered at Hodson Bay Spa – a luxury spa in Athlone
Could there be a better way to spend a rainy day than booking in for a day of pampering? We think not.
Spending the day at the Hodson Bay Hotel Spa has to be one of the best things to do in Athlone on a rainy day. This award-winning spa is a perfect place to rejuvenate and unwind for the days ahead.
Address: Hodson Bay Roscommon Road, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 XR82
1. Have a pint in Sean’s Bar – Ireland’s oldest pub
Ireland’s oldest pub is located in Athlone, and what better way to spend a rainy afternoon/evening than to have a couple of pints at the atmospheric Sean’s Bar?
You could easily spend hours here admiring the memorabilia, mingling with the locals, and getting the inside scoop from the bar staff who have plenty of stories to tell.
READ MORE: Our guide to the best pubs in Athlone.
Address: 13 Main St, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, N37 DW76
Notable mentions
Glendeer Pet Farm: Don your raingear and head off to make friends with a range of animals at this petting farm, a fantastic family activity just a short journey from Athlone.
Viking Tours: Set sail in search of history onboard a Viking tour, which is fun for all ages.
Athlone Regional Sports Centre: A great place to play sports, go for a swim at the indoor swimming pool, or take a fitness class.
Belvedere House and Gardens: If you don’t mind the rain, walk the Narnia trail and be at one with nature at this impressive house and gardens just 40 minutes from Athlone – don’t forget your raincoat.
Athlone Equestrian Centre: Family fun even if you don’t have experience of horse riding.
Birr Castle Demesne: Enjoy an afternoon of history at Birr Castle, a great visit 45 minutes from Athlone.
Your questions answered about rainy day activities in Athlone
Something on our mind that we haven’t already answered? Don’t worry, in this section we’ve compiled some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions and popular questions that have been asked online about rainy day activities in Athlone.
What to do during the day in Athlone when it rains?
The Escape Rooms and Baysports are great daytime options, while you can grab a pint at Sean’s Bar in the evening.
Is Athlone worth visiting?
Yes, this town is overlooked yet, as it is the largest town in the Midlands of Ireland, it has so much on offer to suit everyone.
Will I be bored in Athlone when it’s raining?
No, there are plenty of indoor activities to get involved in. Plus you can always find a music session at the pub.
Is Athlone a nice town?
Athlone is a lovely town, a true hidden gem in the heart of Ireland.
How many pubs are there in Athlone?
In Athlone, you’ll find 24 excellent pubs serving up the best in Irish food and drink.
What does Athlone mean in Irish?
Athlone comes from the Irish ‘Atha Luain’ meaning ‘the town of Luain’. Luain used to guide people across the treacherous River Shannon before there were bridges.
