Athlone more than justifies its claim to being the culinary capital of the midlands…

Walk through the Left Bank district next to King Johns Castle and you find a place buzzing with life.

The narrow streets on the site of the old medieval town are full of good restaurants and swinging pubs. Sean's is so old it's mentioned in the 9th century Clonmacnoise Annals.

At the Bastion, brothers Vinny and Anthony have turned the house above the family shops into a very special B&B that meanders from level to landing. Their slightly bohemian style is gentle and definately 'green': space to recline, happy plants, an eclectic collection of original art, globetrotters mementoes.

The snug bedrooms, where apprentice tailors once lived, have a clean spartan elegance, crisp white linen, floorboards, oak dressing tables, hangers on hooks, designer lamps and modern art- impeccable.

A healthily natural buffet breakfast, a welcome change from the Irish fry, is served in the colourful communal room over the street. Great fun, delightful easy people. Ask about boat trips to prehistoric Clonmacnoise, bog walks and nearby Lough Ree.

The Bastion is Recommended by the following publications :
Lonely Planet ,The Rough Guide, Routard, Lets Go, Sawdays 'Special Places to Stay'