Editorial Review
Sean's Bar
The Atmosphere
“Dated to around 900 AD and recognised as the oldest bar in Ireland.”
Sean's Bar sits behind Athlone Castle on the Shannon, and sections of its wattle-and-wicker walls have been dated to around the tenth century, which is the basis of its claim to be the oldest bar in Ireland. The floor still slopes towards the river so that floodwater drains out. It is a working pub rather than a museum: turf fire, sawdust, music most evenings, and a good Irish whiskey list. If you are crossing the middle of the country between Dublin and Galway, this is the stop that justifies leaving the motorway.
Rooms Worth Requesting
What it actually feels like.
Ask to see the dated wall section behind glass. Park at Athlone Castle and walk down; the Shannon cruise leaves from the same quay.
Why we recommend it
A space that justifies the journey.
The oldest bar in the country, on a road most itineraries drive straight past. Athlone is the natural halfway break between Dublin and the west.