Archive for the 'Things to do in Galway' Category
Kylemore Abbey
September 25th, 2006Located in Connemara in County Galway, Kylemore Abbey is a stunning location for any visitors exploring the area. The huge Gothic-style Abbey was built by Mitchell Henry as a gift for his wife, and it stands amongst the stunning landscape of the Twelve Ben Mountains. The Henrys planted thousands of trees, as well as orchards and exotic gardens. Today, Kylemore Abbey acts as a Benedictine convent, but visitors can still explore the lovely gardens and streamside walk. The Abbey also boasts a lovely restaurant and craft shop. For a complete list of all restaurants in Galway click now.
Coole Park
September 17th, 2006Anyone taking a relaxing break in the West of Ireland should devote some time to visiting the lovely Coole Park, near Gort in County Galway. This land was once the home of Lady Gregory, although, unfortunately the beautiful estate was demolished in the 1950’s. Thankfully, the beautiful gardens and farm remain untouched, and they are well worth a visit. The charmingly manicured gardens boast some lovely woodland, and a popular attraction is the ‘autograph tree’, a copper beech tree that boasts the initials of Jack Yeats, JM Synge and George Bernard Shaw. There are also two signposted trails, which begin at the fascinating Visitors’ Centre.
Connemara National Park
September 17th, 2006Connemara National Park offers visitors some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. The park is a mixture of mountains, lakes and boglands, and it stretches for more than 5,000 acres. At the heart of the park is the beautiful valley of Glanmore, which is crossed by the Polladrik River. Connemara National Park boasts some impressive examples of megalithic tombs, some of which are 4,000 years old. The park is open throughout the year, while its Visitors’ Centre is open between March and October. Two signposted trails lead from the Visitors Centre. The area is famed for its population of semi-wild Connemara ponies, which, legend has it, are descended from Arab stock, having come ashore from the wrecks of Spanish Armadas.
Inishbofin Island
September 12th, 2006The island of Inishbofin is located off the coast of County Galway. In the 7th century, island was chosen by exiled English Abbot St Colman for its remoteness, and today, the island still feels distanced from the mainland. On the site of St Colman’s original monastery, visitors can find a lovely medieval church, well and graveyard. Resting in the harbour of Inishbofin Island is the impressive ruins of a castle, which, in the 16th century was occupied by Spanish Pirate Don Bosco. The island boasts a number of pretty beaches, and it is surrounded reefs and islets, making it a popular destination for divers.
St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Galway city
September 6th, 2006Visitors to Galway city should take a trip to the heart of the charming old city, to visit the lovely St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church. This impressive Church of Ireland church is the largest medieval church in Ireland to operate as a continuous place of worship. The church was founded in 1320 and was dedicated to the patron saint of Seafarers, Saint Nicholas of Myra. St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church has played an important role in the history of the city, and it was the site of mayoral elections in which members of the Galway families known as the Tribes of Galway voted.
Galway Arts Festival
September 5th, 2006The Galway Arts Festival takes over Galway city in July each year. The festival started in 1978 and has since become one of the country’s most popular attractions. The festival is organised by Galway Arts Festival Ltd, a non-profit organisation and registered charity. Each year the Galway Arts Festival boasts a large number of street performers, comedy acts, musical performers, plays and parades. The festival caters to both adults and children, and offers something to suit all tastes.