The government legislation that defines the N61, the Roads Act 1993 (Classification of National Roads) Order 2012, provides the following official description:
N61: Athlone, County Westmeath — Boyle, County Roscommon
Between its junction with N6 at Bogganfin and its junction with N4 at Tawnytaskin via Kiltoom, Lecarrow, Knockcroghery, Ballymurray; Athlone Road and Circular Road in the town of Roscommon; Cloonbrackna, Carrownalassan, Tulsk Cross, Shankill, Ratallen, Greatmeadow; Elphin Street, Carrick Road, Sligo Road (and via Military Road, Main Street and Bridge Street) in the town of Boyle; and Knockashee all in the county of Roscommon.[1]