The rain had stopped and clouds separated as we drove into Athlone, Ireland. Driving into the town, I wished for something I wished for often while driving through Ireland, and that was I wanted to spend more time there.
The reason we drove into Athlone is the reason most tourist visit Athlone, and that is to drink at the oldest pub in Europe and maybe the world.
The Guinness Book of World Records listed Sean’s Bar as the oldest pub in Europe. It is believed that a pub has been at the location for a 1,000 years. A wall made of waddle and wicker was discovered during a renovation in the 70s. Waddle and wicker were used in ancient days to make walls. Parts of the current building were constructed in the 17th century.
Sean’s Bar is listed on just about every list of Best Bars in the World. We had little time to spend in Athlone, but it was well worth the stop. We arrived on a midweek afternoon and the bar was mostly empty. We had a couple of pints and then walked around the town. There is a lovely walkway along the River Shannon and the Athlone Castle, dating back to the 12 century, is near the bar.
Ireland is filled with amazing towns and wonderful people. Every pub seems to tell a story and the patrons of each bar are more than willing to share a tale or two. Next time, I hope to spend a day in Athlone and venture out to the other interesting pubs in the town.
Check out these other stories from my trip to Ireland
Visiting the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher
Visiting the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin
Getting Touched by a Ghost in Leap Castle
2 Days in Dublin
Taking a Black Taxi Tour of Belfast is the Best Way to See and Learn About the City
Irish Cocktails:
Irish Coffee Recipe
Dublin Spider Highball
I’m lucky.
I drink in Sean’s every month!