Knockcroghery village lies between Roscommon town and Athlone. It's known as Hangman's Hill due to the former existence of an execution site on a mound near the town.

The 14th century Gailey castle lies on the shore of Gailey Bay just outside the village. An island in nearby Lough Ree, Inishcleraun, is of legendary importance as the site on which the ancient Queen Maeve was killed. There are the remains of six 6th century churches on the island.