Suitable for ages 8 - 12
Bring kids to Luan Gallery for a free, guided exhibition tour and a hands-on graphite and charcoal workshop with artist Lelia Henry. Spaces are limited, booking is essential—this quick cultural morning pairs gallery-looking with practical mark-making.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Light — suitable for children ages 8–12; adults should be able to accompany and supervise small children
Wildlife
History
Cruinniú na nÓg is Ireland’s national day of free creative activities for young people, supported locally by Creative Ireland and Westmeath County Council.
Conservation
Use provided bins for used paper and charcoal; the organizers prioritize recyclable materials and low-waste studio practices.
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
Suitable for ages 8 - 12
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre preserves and interprets the history of Athlone and the River Shannon from a fortified medieval site in Athlone, County Westmeath. The centre offers a combination of guided tours, interactive exhibitions, and immersive displays designed to engage families, history enthusiasts, and school groups.
Visitors can explore the castle battlements, view the 360º cinematic experience, and learn about local battles, settlement, and social history through hands-on exhibits. Guided programming includes seasonal and themed experiences such as the Heritage Week 2025 Guided Tour Of Athlone Castle, which traces the site's development from its earliest days to the present, and special workshops tied to local galleries and community events.
The centre supports creative community initiatives by promoting related workshops like the Up in Arms! pumpkin carving workshop and the Pride and Protest banner-making workshop held at Luan Gallery. Admission to Athlone Castle provides access to the exhibitions, interactive games, and panoramic views from the battlements. Practical visitor information including opening hours, ticketing details, accessibility notes, and guidance for groups is available from the centre to help plan visits and school trips throughout the year.
Location
Athlone, Co. Westmeath
On the River Shannon in central Ireland
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Guided tours, admission, workshops
Seasonal Events
Timed programs
Workshops and Heritage Week activities
Visitor Appeal
Interactive exhibits
360º cinematic and battlements views
Book guided tours, purchase castle admission, or reserve a spot in seasonal workshops — experience medieval Athlone and community-led cultural programs.
Arrive Early to Check In
Plan to be at Luan Gallery by 10:50 a.m. for check-in so the exhibition tour can start promptly at 11:00.
Clothes for Charcoal
Charcoal can smudge—dress children in old clothes or bring a smock to keep marks off favorite outfits.
Accessibility & Mobility
The venue is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible; contact organizers ahead of time if you need specific assistance.
Book Ahead — Free but Limited
This event is free but capped at 12 participants; secure your spot through the booking link before it fills.
Old clothes or art smock
Protects clothing from charcoal and graphite smudges.
Wet wipes or hand wipes
Quick cleanup for charcoal residue on hands and surfaces.
Water bottle
Keeps kids hydrated during the morning and between activities.
Small snack
A light snack helps kids stay focused after the gallery tour before the workshop.