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1. Shoppers Paradise!
   Athlone is now one of the major centres for retail in the country. With the Athlone town centre complementing the hugely successful and perennially popular Golden Island Shopping Centre, there’s something for everyone. It’s now estimated that in the town centre area itself, there is up to half million square feet of retailing space.
   
2. Visit Glendeer Open Farm
   Take a break at Glendeer six-acre open farm, located in Drum, with over 50 species of animals and birds to see. The farm is also complete with a play area and picnic area, coffee shop, a restored cottage, and nature walk. Glendeer Open Farm is transformed into Ireland’s Lapland for the month of December with Santa, live deer, Dancer and Prancer, live crib, snow scene and lots more.
   
3. Heritage
   County Westmeath is home to two castles that once housed prestigious members of Irish society. Athlone Castle had its beginnings in 1210 and displays items of interest collected over its long history in a modern visitors’ centre. Tullynally Castle and Gardens are located in a more pastoral setting, the castle dating back to the 17th century and filled with art exhibits on the inside, while framed by lush gardens and forest on the outside.
   
4. Activities
   Award winning Glasson and Athlone Golf Courses offers superb views of Lough Ree and challenging golf, while traditional courses such as Mount Temple, Delvin & Moate offer exciting golf in historic settings. As well as great golf courses, you can also go horse riding, walking and cycling. An inland county with lots of water activities to choose from, Westmeath has superb angling facilities on the beautiful lakes and tranquil canals. For the adventurous there is an abundance of activities to sample. There are several walking trails to keep you on your toes! Discover the landscape, heritage and beauty of Westmeath whilst exploring our vibrant towns and countryside…
   
5. Take a trip on the Shannon
   Whether it’s by private cruiser, on the Athlone Viking Boat or Shannon Safari or River Run or simply a walk along its banks, the river Shannon has provided relaxation and entertainment right back to the first days of Athlone as a settlement. The longest river in Ireland and Britain, deserves to be explored and its quaint, secluded islands, well-stocked fisheries, and fine marinas provide all you need.

Athlone Literary Festival
Location: Athlone - Baile Átha Luain
Dates: September 2009 - Dates to be confirmed

Glendeer Open Farm & Ireland's Lapland for Christmas - Lapland at Glendeer Pet Farm
Location: Athlone - Baile Atha Luain
Dates: Sun 29.Nov.2009 to Wed 23.Dec.2009