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Ocotber in Athlone: A Season for Slowing Down
As the evenings grow longer and the air turns crisp, Athlone becomes the perfect place to pause, connect and enjoy the cosier side of life. Whether you’re carving pumpkins with family, catching up with friends over a pint, or finding peace at the spa, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of this time of year. Ready to slow down and savour it all? Let’s explore…
Simple Joys
Sometimes the best memories are made from the simplest of outings — moments filled with laughter, connection and a touch of seasonal magic.
Shannonbridge Pumpkin Patch at Lukers
Back after a sell-out 2024, the Shannonbridge Pumpkin Patch at Lukers is now a staple of the season. Just outside Athlone, this family-friendly experience offers the chance to pick your own pumpkin straight from the field, carve it in the Halloween Hay Barn, and enjoy donkey viewing, face painting and even a magician’s show.
Tickets are €15 and include your pumpkin, with plenty of treats available from The Hatch coffee hatch and restaurant on site. Open every weekend in October from the 11th, it’s a perfect day out — just don’t forget your wellies!
Peddler Mac’s Pub Quiz
For a lively evening, Peddler Mac’s hosts a pub quiz every Thursday at 8pm, led by Quizmaster Jay. Gather your team of four, enjoy a free pint each with entry, and test your knowledge for a chance at €150 worth of prizes. With live music to follow, it’s a cosy night of friendly rivalry, laughter and great craic.
Flavours of Autumn
Autumn in Athlone is all about comforting tastes and warming sips, the kind that make you want to linger a little longer.
Dead Centre Brewing Oktoberfest
Athlone’s very own craft brewery brings Bavarian cheer to the banks of the Shannon with Oktoberfest at Dead Centre Brewing on the 4th of October. Step inside the lively beer hall, where long wooden tables, festive decorations and the aroma of hearty fare set the scene for a truly authentic experience.
Expect a carefully curated selection of seasonal brews, including crisp lagers and rich ales, alongside generous platters of traditional Bavarian favourites. It’s the perfect chance to raise a glass with friends, soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy live music and entertainment as the evenings draw in. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun night out, Oktoberfest at Dead Centre Brewing promises laughter, good cheer and plenty of memorable moments.
Left Bank Bistro
For a more refined autumn dining experience, Left Bank Bistro offers seasonal dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Its cosy interior and thoughtful menu make it ideal for lunch, dinner, or an evening glass of wine. Whether you’re treating yourself or meeting friends, it’s the perfect spot to savour the flavours of the season.
Grogans of Glasson
For a classic countryside pub experience, head to Grogans of Glasson. With hearty Irish dishes, warming pints, and sweeping views of the lake, it’s a place to relax, enjoy the rustic charm, and watch the autumn colours reflect on the water.
Take It Easy
Sometimes the best part of slowing down is giving yourself permission to do nothing at all — to rest, recharge and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
SUPWell Yoga
For a truly unique experience, try SUPWell yoga on paddleboards. It’s as calming as it is refreshing, combining gentle movement, balance and the quiet rhythm of the water. The perfect way to find stillness while staying connected to nature.
Cedarwood Spa at Wineport Lodge
Overlooking the shimmering waters of Lough Ree, Cedarwood Spa at Wineport Lodge offers the ultimate in lakeside relaxation. With indulgent treatments, tranquil views and expert therapists, it’s an experience that soothes both body and mind — a true retreat from the everyday.
The Sauna Society, Lough Ennell
For a one-of-a-kind restorative experience, head to The Sauna Society on the shores of Lough Ennell. Step into an authentic Finnish, wood-fired sauna, let the heat ease your muscles, and then take a refreshing dip in the lake or plunge pool. Alternating between hot and cold, this ritual boosts circulation, clears your mind, and leaves you feeling completely rejuvenated. With scenic views, natural surroundings, and expert facilities, it’s the perfect way to reset and reconnect with yourself.
So what are you waiting for?
Athlone in this season is full of simple joys, comforting flavours and restorative escapes. Whether you’re out carving pumpkins, sipping seasonal beers, or floating into stillness on the water, it’s all about embracing the slower pace and making cosy memories.
Ready to slow down in Athlone? Start planning your visit at Athlone.ie today.
Start planning your visit at Athlone.ie today.
