Banagher

Banagher sits where the N62 meets the R356 along the River Shannon, making it a handy crossing point that's drawn travelers for ages. From Dublin, it's a straightforward 140-kilometer run via the M6 to Athlone, then south on the N62. You're only 20 minutes from Athlone, 30 from Roscrea, and a quick 15-kilometer hop from Birr on the R356. The town serves as a proper hub for midlands traffic, with about 18 fast charging points scattered about for electric cars. The real eye-catcher is Crank House, a Gothic Revival mansion turned guesthouse with elaborate stonework that you can't miss as you cross the Shannon bridge.