The Number One Gun Battery is the last remaining example of the eight batteries that were constructed in Athlone c. 1795 to defend against possible French attack during the Napoleonic Wars.
It is located adjacent to the River Shannon and historic Athlone Canal in the heart of the town. The site is visible for walkers using the popular
Shannon Banks Looped Walk and Nature Trail, and lies just a short 1.2km stroll northwards of the
Luan Gallery and
Greenway.
The Battery is currently undergoing conservation works, guided by a Conservation Plan. The current phase of works has revealed the fascinating original structure and some interesting artifacts that tell us about the history of the site. The intention is not to reconstruct the site, but rather to conserve the remaining features, reinstate a canon and present the site as an outdoor visitor attraction that would allow for active exploration.
***While conservation works are ongoing, the site is not accessible to the public for safety reasons.***