Rathowen offers a distinct architectural focus: a Church of Ireland church and a late Georgian former rectory. In County Westmeath, walking and cycling routes, historic sites and the Royal Canal add to the options for travellers interested in culture and active exploration.

Architecture in Rathowen

Saint Thomas's Church (Rathaspick) in Rathowen is a Church of Ireland church built in 1814. It retains its early form, character and fabric; its carved ashlar details have artistic value. It is a prominent local landmark, and the crenellations on its tower contribute to Rathowen’s skyline.

Glebe House in Rathowen is a former rectory dating from 1817. The late Georgian building retains its early form and original character. Its projecting porch has a finely designed Doric door surround. Together, the church and house make a local comparative pair: their functions differ, while both buildings feature a preserved early form and distinctive design details.

Routes and culture in County Westmeath

County Westmeath has more than 100 kilometres of walking and cycling routes. The Old Rail Trail is a 40-kilometre route from Athlone to Mullingar along a converted section of the Midlands Great Western Railway. The Royal Canal Greenway, by contrast, offers a scenic waterside route for cyclists and pedestrians, with no motorised traffic. Different features are relevant when choosing between these options: the Old Rail Trail has a stated length and named endpoints, while the Greenway is defined by its waterside location and non-motorised use. The Royal Canal is also navigable throughout County Westmeath and runs past Mullingar on its way to the River Shannon. Check the navigation status before taking a boat trip.

In County Westmeath, the Hill of Uisneach was the centre, or “Omphalos”, where the five kingdoms met. Guided walking tours there cover myths and legends, the High Kings, an extensive ringfort and historic monuments; check the current booking arrangements before planning. Fore Abbey in County Westmeath is also a historic point of interest: St Feichin founded a Christian monastery here in the seventh century AD. The St Feichin’s Way is a circular route around the abbey. Uisneach combines walking with guided historical topics, while the route at Fore is designed as a circuit around the monastic site. Allow for possible changes in ground conditions at Fore.

The Athlone Castle Visitor Centre in County Westmeath presents the history of Athlone and the castle in eight modern exhibition rooms. Check current accessibility before visiting. In County Westmeath, the Belvedere lakeshore has a network of paths through woodland.

Discover more destinations: Tang, Kilbeggan, Moate, Killachonna, Drumcree, Castlepollard, Kinnegad, Crookedwood

For the broader travel overview: County Westmeath.