Westmeath

Westmeath is a landlocked county in the Midlands region of Ireland, in the province of Leinster. It is bordered by Cavan to the north-east, Meath to the east, Offaly to the south, Longford to the west, and Roscommon to the north-west. The county town is Mullingar, and other notable towns include Athlone, Moate, and Kilbeggan. The landscape features drumlin hills and substantial lakes, with Lough Ennell, Lough Owel, and Lough Ree among the most well known.

Geography and places of interest in Westmeath revolve around its water bodies and historic sites. The River Shannon passes through Athlone, giving the town a key position on the Shannon–Erne waterway system. Westmeath’s lakes and rivers support fishing, boating and other outdoor activities, while the central uplands and rural farmland define the county’s appearance and economy. Notable natural and historic sites include the Hill of Uisneach, Belvedere House and Gardens near Mullingar, and the lakeside scenery around the larger towns.

History in Westmeath follows its origin within the ancient Kingdom of Meath. The area was formed into a separate English-administered county in the 16th century during Tudor reforms. Since then, the county developed as an agricultural and market-oriented region, with towns growing up around transport routes and water access.

Economy and culture: agriculture remains a central component, complemented by tourism focused on lakes, historic estates, and distilleries. Kilbeggan Distillery is a well-known visitor attraction. Westmeath is governed by Westmeath County Council and is part of the Leinster constituency for national elections. In Gaelic games, the county participates through Westmeath GAA, with clubs centered in Mullingar and Athlone.