Get ready for a spooky creative adventure at Athlone Castle Visitor Centre. Join us on October 26th for a Halloween pumpkin carving workshop that combines Irish history and seasonal fun in a lively art setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Open to all fitness levels, suitable for children and adults alike
Wildlife
History
Athlone Castle dates back to the 12th century and played a strategic role during various Irish conflicts.
Conservation
Efforts in the area focus on maintaining river health and promoting sustainable tourism to protect local wildlife.
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
Get ready for a spooky creative adventure at Athlone Castle Visitor Centre. Join us on October 26th for a Halloween pumpkin carving workshop that combines Irish history and seasonal fun in a lively art setting.
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.
Use sharp knives carefully
Always carve pumpkins with sharp knives and supervise children closely.
Visit early for the best pumpkins
Arrive early to select the freshest pumpkins and avoid the crowds.
Bring your own art supplies
Feel free to bring additional paints or markers to personalize your pumpkin.
Dress for the occasion
Wear old clothes or an apron to keep your clothes clean during carving.
Apron or old clothes
Protect your clothing from pumpkin guts and carving residues.
Carving knife
A sharp carving knife is essential for detailed pumpkin designs.
Markers or paints
Personalize your pumpkin with colors and intricate designs.
fall
Hand sanitizer
Keep your hands clean after handling pumpkins and tools.