Live Music and DJ Nights at The Venue, Athlone

The Venue on Church Street in Athlone runs two rooms, a 400-capacity Main Room and a smaller 200-capacity space, and has built a reputation as one of the busiest late bars in the midlands. Weekends mix live bands with a DJ set that runs until 2:30am on Saturday nights, and the venue has hosted touring acts including Paddy Casey and The Riptide Movement alongside up-and-coming Irish bands on its stage.

What to expect

Expect a late bar built for a big weekend crowd. Stunning decor and an improved layout are how the venue describes its own recent refit, with live bands earlier in the night giving way to a DJ as the room fills up. The two-room setup means The Venue can run a gig in one space and a separate late bar or club night in the other, giving it more flexibility than a single-room pub. It has grown quickly into a regular stop for touring Irish musicians as well as the local weekend crowd, and the venue takes private bookings for launches and parties on top of its regular weekend programme. Specific acts and cover charges vary by week, so checking the venue’s Facebook page before heading out is worthwhile, especially for a bigger touring act.

Getting there

The Venue is on Church Street in Athlone town centre, within walking distance of the other late bars around Dublin Gate Street and a short walk from the Shannon.

While you’re in Athlone

Church Street sits in the older part of Athlone town centre, close to the castle and the river. There is more to see in Athlone and across Co. Westmeath.

Good to know

• Live bands and DJ sets at weekends, DJ until 2:30am on Saturdays
• Venue: The Venue, Church Street, Athlone
• Price: not listed, check the venue for any door charge
• Two rooms: a 400-capacity Main Room and a 200-capacity venue space